Undergraduate Degree Policies Shift in Shenzhen Sparks Change for Government Job Recruitment

Undergraduate Degree Age Limit Changes in Shenzhen

Three districts in China’s southern metropolis of Shenzhen have quietly extended the maximum age limits for some of its government job openings. This change comes after a landmark decision to delay national retirement ages. The Longgang, Pingshan, and Guangming districts last week set the maximum age for applicants with an undergraduate degree to 40 for 189 openings, five years older than the general standard for government jobs.

The age limit for 56 out of 82 roles—from urban planning to epidemic control—in Longgang district has been extended to 45 for doctoral degree holders or those with a professional title, according to an official announcement.

Adapting to National Policies

Though reasons for the changes were not provided, they reflect local governments adjusting policies following a decision by China’s top legislature to endorse raising retirement ages by up to five years by 2040. For men, the retirement age will increase from 60 to 63, while female office workers will see their working life extended from 55 to 58. This arrangement could prompt other areas to follow suit if results prove favorable.

Impacts on Female Workers

Female blue-collar workers, who previously retired at 50, will now wait until 55 under the new rules. As Peng Peng, executive chairman of the Guangdong Society of Reform, noted, these adjustments signal an effort to attract experienced talent in a challenging job market affected by economic slowdowns.

Encouraging a Larger Workforce

Amidst a rapidly aging population, China seeks to maintain a larger workforce. The new regulations aim to bring in a broader talent pool while adjusting to the economic climate. Notably, urban unemployment rates stood at 5.3% in August, underscoring the need for such policy adjustments.

• ShiChuan and XinJiang have similarly adjusted age limits.
• Shenzhen continues to be a testing ground for new labor policies.