Working Legally in China
It is necessary for expats to obtain a work permit to work legally in China. The work permit is also known as the Foreign Employment Permit, and it is required for all foreign nationals who want to work in China for a period of more than 90 days. The work permit must be obtained before arriving in China, and it must be issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security.
Who Must Make the Application?
The application for the work permit must be made by the expat’s employer, who is responsible for submitting all the necessary documents and information to the relevant authorities. The expat cannot make the application on their own, but they may be required to provide some information, such as their passport details, educational qualifications, and work experience
There are a few exemptions to the work permit requirement, such as for foreign diplomats, government officials, and business people on short-term visits. However, it is always best to check with the local authorities to confirm whether a work permit is required for a specific situation.
Types of Work Permits for Expats in China
There are several types of work permits for expats in China, including the Z visa, the R visa, and the S1 visa. The Z visa is the most common type of work permit and is required for foreign nationals who are going to work in China for more than 90 days. The R visa is for high-level talent and is intended for foreign experts who have exceptional skills and experience in their field. The S1 visa is for dependents of foreign workers and is required for spouses and children who are accompanying the expat to China
What is the eligibility for the work permits
The eligibility for the work permit depends on the type of permit, but in general, foreign nationals must meet the following criteria:
- Have a valid passport from their home country
- Have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Have at least two years of work experience in their field
- Have a job offer from a Chinese employer
- Pass a physical examination and a criminal background check
Work Permit Application Process in China
The procedure to apply for a work permit in China can be complex and time-consuming, and it usually involves the following steps:
- Obtain a job offer from a Chinese employer
- Complete the physical examination and criminal background check
- Gather all the required documents, including the passport, educational qualifications, and work experience certificates
- The employer submits the application and all the required documents to the local human resources and social security bureau
- The human resources and social security bureau reviews the application and makes a decision
- If the application is approved, the employer collects the work permit from the human resources and social security bureau
How long does the application process take
The application process for a work permit in China can take several weeks or even months, depending on the local authorities and the complexity of the case. It is important to allow enough time for the process, as it is not possible to start working in China without a valid work permit.
Work Permit Documents in China
Foreigners who intend to work in China need to apply for a work permit. The documents required for a work permit application may vary depending on the type of work permit and the city where the work permit is being applied for. However, some of the common documents required include:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining
- A health certificate issued by an authorized medical institution
- A criminal background check certificate issued by the applicant’s home country or country of residence
- A degree certificate or relevant qualifications
- An invitation letter or work contract from a Chinese employer
- Proof of work experience or professional skills
- A completed application form
Additional documents may be required depending on the individual case, such as proof of financial support, employment references, and a letter of recommendation.
What Costs Are Involved in Applying for a Work Permit in China?
The cost of a work permit in China varies depending on the type of work permit and the city where it is being applied for. Some of the common costs associated with work permit applications include:
- A visa application fee, which ranges from USD 30 to USD 140, depending on the applicant’s nationality and the type of visa
- A work permit application fee, which ranges from RMB 400 to RMB 1,000, depending on the city and the type of work permit
- A residence permit application fee, which ranges from RMB 400 to RMB 800, depending on the city and the duration of stay
- Translation and notarization fees for required documents
- Travel expenses to and from the visa center for document submission and collection
It is important to note that these fees are subject to change and additional fees may apply depending on the individual case.
Where Can Expats Go for Reliable Information on Working Legally in China?
Expats who want to work legally in China can find reliable information and guidance from the following websites:
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China (http://www.fmprc.gov.cn/mfa_eng/wjb_663304/zwjg_665342/2490_665344/) ‘s provides information on the procedures for obtaining a work visa and work permit, including the required documents and fees.
- China Visa Application Service Center (https://bio.visaforchina.org/) ‘s provides information on the application procedures and fees for different types of visas and work permits.
- Chinese Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s home country ‘s provides information on the requirements and procedures for obtaining a work permit or visa, as well as any special requirements for that particular country.
