"On the day I received my Chinese 'green card', I was in the middle of discussing my graduate thesis with my adviser when I suddenly got a call from Hainan," recalled Romantsova Kseniia, still visibly excited about the life-changing moment that happened just last month.

The 29-year-old, originally from the Russian Far East, spent eight years on a journey that took her from Blagoveshchensk to Beijing. Along the way, she married her Chinese actor husband, earned a master's degree in international Chinese education, and eventually obtained the Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card issued by the People's Republic of China.

The process — from preparing the application materials to receiving the card — took only about a year. According to Kseniia, it was thanks to the Chinese government's support for cross-national family reunification.

When the card finally arrived, she snapped a joyful selfie with it and shared the moment on social media. "Everyone was incredibly excited — my Chinese friends, Russian friends, Chinese family, and Russian family were all genuinely happy for me," Kseniia said. "They're looking forward to seeing my next steps."

Now, the convenience of the card has become part of her daily life. "Previously, I had to have staff scan my passport to board a high-speed train, but now I can just swipe the card to enter the station," Kseniia said.

What makes her even happier is the professional freedom it provides. "With the card, I can pursue any job I like. My husband has worked hard for so many years, and now I can earn money to 'support him'," she said with a laugh.

For Kseniia, China's decision to grant permanent residency to foreigners is a sign of the country's growing openness. "I can see that China is offering more and more opportunities for cooperation and development with other countries," she said.

As a student of international Chinese education, Kseniia has participated in several research programs organized for foreign residents by local institutions. These programs not only cover accommodation and meals but also include immersive experiences — exploring intangible cultural heritage, visiting local landmarks, and engaging with regional traditions.

"I, along with other international students, have never seen such large-scale activities in other countries," she said.

Connecting cultures

Since China introduced its 144-hour visa-free transit policy in 2023, Kseniia has become the go-to person in her social circle for advice on traveling to China. "Many friends, even those I haven't been in touch with for a long time, have reached out to me saying they want to visit," she said.

The policy, designed to ease the entry and exit of foreigners while promoting international exchanges and cooperation, reflects China's growing openness to the world.

But Kseniia's travel recommendations go far beyond major cities like Beijing and Shanghai or famous Chinese dishes like Peking roast duck and hotpot. Having explored dozens of cities across China — including Kunming in Yunnan, Changsha in Hunan, Haikou in Hainan, Anyang in Henan, and even the border town of Dongxing in Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region — she offers a much broader and more personal perspective.

"I think China is a very diverse country, and each province has its own unique characteristics," Kseniia said. "So, I believe one shouldn't just stick to the big cities but also explore some smaller towns, enjoy local cuisine, and experience different lifestyles."

Like many international visitors, Kseniia has developed a love for Chinese food — especially Hunan cuisine — and proudly says she has "learned to eat spicy food".

"I eat Chinese food for almost every meal, except breakfast. I also enjoy exploring local eateries," she said.

Kseniia is also a fan of hanfu, traditional Chinese clothing, and often mixes it with modern styles. One of her favorite pieces is the mamianqun, or horse-face skirt.

From watching Chinese TV dramas to participating in hanfu festivals, Kseniia has found common ground with Chinese young people and quickly integrated into local culture.

When asked about her advice for young foreigners living in China, her first tip is simple: "maintain curiosity".

"Foreign and Chinese Gen Zers should interact more. They can find common interests and make friends quickly," Kseniia said. "If you want to understand a country's culture, you should start by understanding its people."