Work Permit and Z Visa Guide
Published: April 29, 2026
Short Answer
To work legally in China, you need a Z visa (work visa) and a work permit. China classifies foreign workers into three categories: A (high-level talent), B (professional talent), and C (temporary/seasonal workers). The application process involves your employer obtaining a work permit notification, you applying for a Z visa at a Chinese embassy, and then converting it to a work permit and residence permit after arrival. The process typically takes 2-4 months and requires several documents including a degree, background check, and health examination.
Business professionals in modern Chinese office
Deep Dive
Work Permit Categories
China uses a points-based system to classify foreign workers:
Category A (High-level talent):
- Scientists, technology leaders, senior management
- Typically 85+ points on the scoring system
- Annual salary usually above 600,000 RMB
- Benefits: Faster processing, longer validity, easier renewal
- Examples: Senior executives, professors, researchers, recognized experts
Category B (Professional talent):
- Skilled professionals with relevant qualifications
- Typically 60-85 points on the scoring system
- Bachelor's degree or higher with 2+ years of experience
- Most common category for English teachers, engineers, and mid-level professionals
- Benefits: Standard processing, 1-2 year validity
Category C (Temporary/seasonal workers):
- Temporary or seasonal workers
- Typically under 60 points
- Limited to specific industries and time periods
- More restricted in terms of employment options
Points System
Points are calculated based on:
- Salary: Higher salary = more points (up to 20 points)
- Education: PhD (20), Master's (15), Bachelor's (10)
- Work experience: More years = more points (up to 15)
- Chinese language ability: HSK certificates earn extra points
- Age: 26-45 years old gets the most points
- Special achievements: Awards, patents, publications
Required Documents
For the employer to submit:
- Work permit application form
- Company business license
- Employment contract or intention letter
- Job description and requirements
For the employee to provide:
- Passport (valid for 6+ months with blank pages)
- Degree certificate (authenticated/apostilled)
- Criminal background check (from your home country, authenticated)
- Health examination form (Chinese format, can be done in China)
- Resume/CV
- Reference letters from previous employers
- Passport-sized photos (white background)
Authentication process:
- Degree and background check must be authenticated by your home country's authorities
- Some countries require apostille, others require Chinese embassy authentication
- This process can take 2-8 weeks depending on your country
Application Process
Step 1: Employer applies for Work Permit Notification
- Employer submits documents to the local labor bureau
- Processing time: 10-15 working days
- If approved, a Work Permit Notification Letter is issued
Step 2: Apply for Z visa at Chinese embassy/consulate
- Bring the Work Permit Notification Letter and other documents
- Processing time: 4-7 working days
- Z visa is valid for 30 days and allows single entry
Step 3: Enter China and apply for Work Permit
- Apply at the local labor bureau within 15 days of arrival
- Submit health examination results (done at designated Chinese hospital)
- Processing time: 10-15 working days
- Work Permit card is issued
Step 4: Apply for Residence Permit
- Apply at the local police bureau within 30 days of arrival
- Submit Work Permit, passport, and registration form
- Processing time: 10-15 working days
- Residence Permit is valid for 1-2 years
Health Examination
The health examination must be done at a designated hospital in China (or sometimes at a Chinese embassy-approved hospital abroad):
Includes:
- Blood tests (HIV, hepatitis, syphilis)
- Chest X-ray
- ECG
- Vision test
- General physical examination
- Ultrasound
Tips:
- Fast before the blood test
- Bring your passport and photos
- Results are usually available in 3-5 working days
- Cost: 300-600 RMB
Common Requirements for English Teachers
English teaching is one of the most common jobs for foreigners in China:
Standard requirements:
- Bachelor's degree (any field, but education preferred)
- TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certificate (120+ hours)
- 2+ years of teaching experience (some cities require this)
- Native English speaker from US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, or South Africa
- Clean criminal background check
Note: Requirements vary by city and have become stricter in recent years. Some cities require a degree in education or English.
Renewal and Changes
Renewing your work permit:
- Start the renewal process 30-60 days before expiration
- Similar documentation to initial application
- Usually simpler if staying with the same employer
Changing employers:
- Your new employer must apply for a new work permit
- You may need to leave China and re-enter on a new Z visa
- Some cities allow direct transfer without leaving
Changing cities:
- Different cities have different requirements
- You will likely need to apply for a new work permit
- Check specific requirements for your new city
Costs
- Work permit application: Usually paid by employer (2,000-5,000 RMB)
- Z visa: 500-1,500 RMB depending on your nationality
- Health examination: 300-600 RMB
- Residence permit: 400-1,000 RMB
- Document authentication: Varies by country ($50-300 USD)