BEIJING, Aug. 16 (Xinhua) -- A new regulation will allow residents of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan to apply for residential permits in the Chinese mainland.

A document issued at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office Thursday said the regulation, to be promulgated by the State Council General Office later, will take effect from September 1.

With a residential permit, residents from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan will enjoy more rights, basic public services and other conveniences in the mainland, relating to their study, work, business operation and living, the document said.