Teaching English in China: Qualifications, Salaries and Red Flags

Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree, a TEFL/CELTA (or equivalent) and a clean criminal record are common requirements. Some cities/schools require a teaching licence or two years’ experience. Native-level English is not enough by itself; immigration rules focus on qualifications and the employer’s sponsorship.

Salary and contract

Salaries vary widely: public schools pay less but offer holidays; private training centres pay more but may involve evening/weekend hours. Check whether housing, flights, insurance and visa costs are included. Read the contract for probation, hours, overtime, pay dates and termination.

Red flags

Avoid employers who ask you to enter on a tourist visa, work without a permit, pay cash under the table, or sign a contract in Chinese you cannot read. Check the school’s licence and ask current/former teachers. Keep copies of your contract and pay slips.

Reality check

The best-paying job is not always the legal one; a tourist visa teaching job is a trap.

Local tip: Ask for the school’s licence and talk to current teachers.

Step by step

1. Check your eligibility and documents.
2. Apply to licensed schools.
3. Interview and ask for a contract draft.
4. Verify the school/licence.
5. Apply for a Z visa/work permit.
6. Keep copies and monitor pay/hours.

Typical costs

Item	Cost / note
TEFL	US$200–1,500
Authentication	US$50–200
Flight	Varies

Prices are indicative and change. Confirm with the official provider before paying.

Documents to prepare

• Degree
• TEFL/CELTA
• Police clearance
• Medical
• Passport
• Contract

Common mistakes

• Working on a tourist visa
• Paying for a “guaranteed” job
• Signing an unread Chinese contract
• Accepting cash without a permit

If things go wrong

• If the school withholds your passport, contact your embassy and police.
• If you are paid cash without a permit, regularize or leave.

FAQ

Category field guide

Study and work: the field guide

Studying or working in China is a sponsored status, not a DIY visa. The institution or employer controls most of the process, so start early and keep originals.

Applications and scholarships

Apply to 3–5 programmes and check the language of instruction, accreditation and scholarship coverage. The CSC and university scholarships often cover tuition and a stipend, but not always flights, insurance or housing. Deadlines are usually December–April for a September start.

Visa and arrival

X1 is for study over 180 days; X2 for shorter courses. X1 leads to a residence permit within 30 days of arrival. Bring originals of your admission letter, JW202, medical form and language scores. For work, the employer must obtain a work-permit notice before you apply for a Z visa.

Working while studying

Part-time work may be allowed with permission, but the rules are limited and local. Do not assume a student visa allows freelance or full-time work. If you take a job after graduation, your employer must sponsor a work permit; do not start before it is approved.

Quick checks

• Admission letter and JW202 originals
• Language/medical documents ready
• X1/X2 visa correct
• Residence permit within 30 days
• Work permission checked before any job

Last verified 2026-10-29. China Handbook is independent and not affiliated with any government. Information is provided for general guidance only.