Social policy is an indispensable element of rule and China’s current leadership has moved policy to a more inclusive system based on a notion of citizenship.The extension of social welfare provision is examined through a case study of education and health care in the South China village of Yantian.Yantian lies at the core of the Pearl River Delta,which has become a key link in the global reorganization of manufacturing and production.Consequently,the village is home to some 80 000 migrant workers who complement the 3000 registered inhabitants.A study of education and health-care provision reveals that in terms of equity, registered villagers enjoy significant advantages in seeking welfare resources.Although living in the same village,the two groups inhabit “different worlds.” However,provision, while selective,has become more inclusive.The present research suggests that “social citizenship ” will precede “political citizenship.” Social policy is an indispensable element of rule and China’s current leadership has moved policy to a more inclusive system based on a notion of citizenship. The extension of social welfare provision is examined through a case study of education and health care in the South China village of Yantian. Yantian lies at the core of the Pearl River Delta, which has become a key link in the global reorganization of manufacturing and production. Management, the village is home to some 80 000 migrant workers who complement the 3000 registered inhabitants. A study of education and health-care provision reveals that in terms of equity, registered villagers enjoy significant advantages in seeking welfare resources .Although living in the same village, the two groups inhabit “different worlds. ” However, provision, while selective, has become more inclusive.The present research suggests that “social citizenship ” will precede “political citizenship. ”