Working in China: Work Permit and Z Visa

The two-step process

Employment in China generally requires a work permit notice from the foreign expert administration, then a Z visa abroad, then a work permit/residence permit after arrival. The employer sponsors you; you cannot simply arrive and start working on a tourist visa.

Eligibility

Foreign workers are classified (A/B/C) based on salary, education, experience, age and sector. A bachelor’s degree plus two years’ relevant experience is a common baseline, but rules vary by category and city. Some roles require professional licences or a labour market test.

Documents and timing

Passport, degree, criminal record check, medical exam, employment contract, company documents and photos. Documents issued abroad may need authentication/translation. Start early; processing can take weeks to months. Keep your permit and residence permit valid.

Reality check

The employer sponsors the permit; a job offer alone is not permission to work.

Local tip: Check your category and document authentication before quitting your current job.

Step by step

1. Secure a job offer from a licensed employer.
2. Check your category/eligibility.
3. Prepare authenticated degree/police check.
4. Employer applies for work permit notice.
5. Apply for Z visa abroad.
6. Enter and convert to work/residence permit.

Typical costs

Item	Cost / note
Visa	Varies
Medical	US$50–150
Authentication	US$50–200
Agency	Optional; use reputable

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

Documents to prepare

• Passport
• Degree/experience letters
• Police clearance
• Medical report
• Employment contract
• Company documents

Common mistakes

• Working on a tourist/business visa
• Fake qualifications
• Letting the permit expire
• Changing employers without a new permit

If things go wrong

• If the employer asks you to start before the permit, refuse in writing.
• If the permit is denied, ask for the reason and appeal through the employer.

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.