US citizens have so far made up the majority of foreign residents in Guangzhou to receive "talent green cards".

The city government has issued 68 cards to people from the United States since June 1, 2016, accounting for 5.88 percent of the total.

The cards give residents from abroad and other parts of China the same rights and services as locals, meaning they can buy property and cars, while their children can attend public school.

The program is aimed at attracting outside talent to support the southern city's economic development.

Along with the US citizens, residents from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan (37 each), Canada (15), Australia (11) also received talent green cards.

In total, the city has issued 1,560 cards, including 165 to people from 11 countries and regions, and 368 to residents from Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin and Shenzhen.