Foreigners Work Legally In China

In China, arrests and deportations of foreign teachers are increasing because regulators are cracking down on visa violations and tightening business compliance laws.Cases involving foreign teachers have increased rapidly, and the detention of other minor crimes involving foreigners (including public indecency and minor drug violations) has also increased significantly.

To avoid such a bleak fate, here is all you need to know to work legally in China.

In order to avoid such a bleak fate, here is everything you need to know about legally working in China.

According to the provisions of the relevant Chinese laws and regulations, foreigners who come to China for employment shall meet the following conditions.

1、Be at least 18 years of age and in good health.

2、Possess the professional skills and work experience required for the expected employment.

3、No criminal record

4、Clearly defined employers

5、Holding a valid passport or other international travel document in lieu of a passport.

You can't work legally unless you have a work visa

It's illegal for your employer to ask you to come to China with a tourist visa or business visa for a long time. Before you leave your country of origin, you must apply for a temporary work permit that allows you to enter the country for work. When you arrive in China, your company will change it into a residency permit.

Basic documents required to apply for a work visa

Evidence of two years' experience in a similar field. Therefore, ask your previous employer for a letter of recommendation that includes 1) your job title (try to make it match your new job description), 2) the duration of the job, 3) the employer's signature

Bachelor's degree, notarized by a notary public, and a diploma stamped by a notary public.

Criminal background checks

Medical certificate

Formalities for seeking employment in China

Foreigners seeking employment in China must first apply to a Chinese embassy, consulate or consular office for an employment visa and enter China holding an employment visa. Foreigners applying to work in an ordinary job in China should apply for a Z visa. Foreigners with high skills, specialists and those who are urgently needed should apply for an R visa. After entering China, all foreigners need to apply for a foreign employment permit and foreigner residence permit before starting work.

Employment permits in China

Employment permits for foreigners in China must be processed by the employer in accordance with relevant regulations. The employer shall, within 15 days of the entry of the employed foreigner into the country, fill out the foreigner's employment registration form at the local labour administration department with an employment permit, a labour contract signed with the foreigner and a passport or travel document, and obtain an employment permit. The employment certificate is valid only in the area defined by the labour administration.

Pay special attention to the specific requirements of the industry

In China, if you want to work in a good prestigious educational institution, you also need:

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Professional qualification (PGCE for UK applicants or TEFL)

Two years of work experience

One-year contract

Minimum age requirement is 24 years old or above

Be wary of salary and fee issues

It's normal to ask new employees to pay some or all of their visa agency fees, but you shouldn't be asked to pay a large upfront payment. If the communication is vague and the employer asks you to pay a large fee or provide personal information, it is likely to be a scam. Also, you shouldn't be required to work for months without paying (even if you're on "probation", you have a legal right to compensation). If you are experiencing these problems, it may be time to seek alternative employment opportunities.

Contracts

First, you should see, review and sign a contract. Although this seems to be an obvious detail, if you don't see these details, you can easily be persuaded to start working. In addition, look for clear details in the contract that explain what will happen if you leave your position before the contract ends. If you need to leave quickly, understanding your rights and responsibilities will save you trouble when you encounter unexpected difficulties.

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