China is a major global hub for business, technology, education, and manufacturing. Foreigners who plan to work in China need an employment visa (Z visa) and a residence permit to live and work legally.
This guide explains the requirements, step-by-step process, and important tips for a smooth application.
1. Understanding the Z Visa & Work Permit
To work in China, you need two key approvals:
- Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit – issued by China’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security (via your employer).
- Z Visa – issued by a Chinese embassy/consulate, allowing entry to start work.
- Residence Permit – obtained after you arrive in China; this replaces the Z visa and allows long-term stay and multiple re-entries.
⚠️ You cannot work on a tourist or business visa — only a Z visa + residence permit is legal for employment.
2. Basic Eligibility
To qualify for a work visa, you usually need:
- A job offer from a registered Chinese employer authorised to hire foreigners.
- At least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent).
- Two or more years of professional work experience (sometimes waived for highly skilled/shortage jobs).
- Clean criminal record certificate from your home country.
- Medical fitness confirmed by a health check.
Some industries (teaching, tech, R&D) have slightly different requirements; China uses a points-based classification system for foreign workers.
3. Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1 — Secure a Job Offer
- Your employer must be a licensed entity approved to hire foreign staff.
- Sign an employment contract.
Step 2 — Employer Applies for Your Work Permit
- Your employer submits documents to the local Foreign Experts Bureau or Ministry of Human Resources.
- Required from you:
- Passport copy
- Diploma and work experience proof (notarised & sometimes authenticated/apostilled)
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical exam report
- Resume/CV
- Passport photos
- Once approved, you will receive a Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit electronically.
Processing time: 2–6 weeks.
Step 3 — Apply for the Z Visa at a Chinese Embassy or Consulate
Submit:
- Original passport (valid 6+ months with blank pages)
- Completed Visa Application Form (Form V.2013)
- Recent passport photo
- Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit
- Employment contract copy
- Police clearance certificate (if required by local embassy)
- Medical certificate (if required)
- Visa fee payment (varies by country — see below)
Processing time: 4–10 business days (expedited service available in some countries).
Step 4 — Enter China on Your Z Visa
- The Z visa is usually single-entry valid for 30 days.
- Within 30 days of arrival, you must convert it into a Residence Permit.
Step 5 — Apply for a Work-Type Residence Permit
- Apply at the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) Exit and Entry Administration Office.
- Submit:
- Passport with Z visa
- Work permit card
- Photos
- Temporary residence registration (from your local police station or landlord)
- Medical check results (if not already done)
Processing: about 7–15 working days.
Residence permit validity: usually 1 year, renewable with your contract.
4. Typical Costs (2025)
| Item | Approx. Fee |
|---|---|
| Z Visa (Embassy fee) | USD $50–180 (varies by nationality) |
| Work Permit Application | Usually paid by employer |
| Authentication of Documents | USD $20–100 per document |
| Medical Check in China | ~USD $70–120 |
| Residence Permit | ~CNY 400–800 (USD $55–110) |
Many employers cover visa and permit costs, but confirm this in your contract.
5. Key Documents to Prepare
- ✅ Valid passport (6+ months, blank pages)
- ✅ Passport photos (white background)
- ✅ Signed employment contract
- ✅ University degree (notarised + authenticated/apostilled)
- ✅ Proof of work experience (letters from previous employers)
- ✅ Criminal background check (authenticated)
- ✅ Medical exam certificate (if required)
- ✅ Resume/CV
🔑 Document authentication: Most Chinese consulates require notarisation + legalisation of your degree and police check. Start this early.
6. Tips for a Smooth Process
- Start early: Work permits can take 1–2 months; visa and residence permit add time.
- Authenticate your documents: Degrees and police checks often need notarisation, apostille/legalisation before submission.
- Medical check: Some embassies require it before issuing the visa; otherwise, it’s done in China.
- Register your address: Within 24 hours of arrival, register at the local police station (or your hotel will do this if you stay there).
- Avoid overstaying: Your Z visa is only valid 30 days after entry — apply for the residence permit on time.
- Negotiate with your employer: Many reputable companies pay for visa, medical, and permit costs.
Quick Pre-Departure Checklist
- Signed work contract with a registered Chinese employer
- Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit
- Passport valid 6+ months beyond entry
- Degree and police check notarised & authenticated
- Medical check done (if required)
- Z visa approved and stamped in passport
- Plan to register residence & apply for residence permit within 30 days of arrival