To work legally in China, regardless of your chosen profession, you need a Z Visa. While there are plenty of schools and recruiters out there reassuring job seekers that it’s ok to teach on a business (M) or tourist (L) visa, doing so is illegal and extremely risky.
Even if you ignore the threat of fines and detention, there is no shortage of horror stories out there about teachers getting caught and deported. Our advice is to be smart, do your homework, and insist on a Z visa from your employer.
Only registered schools are authorized to provide Z visas to their teachers, so if you are speaking with a school that either says they can’t or is giving you excuses, be very wary. After all, if they can’t even guarantee your legal employment, how can they be trusted to live up to the rest of the contract?
Overview of a Chinese Z Visa
The Z visa is the stepping stone to legally working in China. It’s valid for 30 days upon entry to China. Once you have your Z Visa, you will need to register at the local police station, obtain a Work Certificate and finally, be granted a Residence Permit. Once you have your Residence Permit in your hand, you can officially stay and work in China.
Doesn’t sound too bad, right?!
To obtain this work visa from China, you will first need to be offered a job. This will entitle you to a Work Permit, which you need to apply for the Z visa. The Work Permit itself should be arranged by your employer/school in China, who will be licensed to employ foreigners. Like we mentioned above, if your employer isn’t offering a Z visa, they may not be an authorized registered school. It’s worth looking elsewhere to teach if this is the case.
What Are the Requirements for a Z Visa?
To be eligible for a Z visa, you will need to meet the requirements to teach English which are set out by your school in China. While these requirements may differ from school to school, they tend to revolve around three main components:
- A Bachelor’s Degree in any subject
- Two Years Work Experience or TEFL certificate (ideally 120 hours)
- Native English Speaker
- Criminal background check
Applicants are also subject to the same retirement ages as Chinese workers: 60 for men and 55 for women. While these ages are still being revised, it will be more difficult to get a visa if you are older than that. We go into more detail on the requirements teachers need to teach in China here.
Z Visa Timeline
Getting the Z visa itself is not a lengthy process and it normally only takes 3-7 business days for your application to be processed.
However, the length of the whole process, which starts from getting the necessary documents notarized all the way to actually getting your residence permit, depends on several variables and could end up taking a couple of months.
Here’s how long each individual step to becoming a Chinese resident usually takes:
- Getting your documents notarized – around 3-4 weeks (it might be less depending on the service you choose to get it done)
- Getting you Work Permit – it takes up to 30 business days for your permit to be processed
- Getting your Z visa – 3-7 business days
- Finally getting your Residence Permit – approximately 10-15 days
China Work Visa Process Summary
Despite what you may have heard, the visa process for those looking to teach in China is usually pretty straight forward. If we break it down, there are six steps you need to take. Two before you leave for China, the rest within 30 days of arriving there. While this may seem like a lot, rest assured that your school should be doing all the heavy lifting on your behalf. They will tell you what you need to do and assist you with it, guiding you through the process.
Where to Begin
Before you can depart for your new life in China, there are two important boxes to tick. Number one, obtain a Work Permit. Number two, get the Z visa. This then allows you to enter China.
Step One – Work Permit
The first step of the visa process is getting your Work Permit. For this to happen, you will need to have been offered a job. Your employer will ask you to send them a pretty large number of documents so that they can arrange the Work Permit on your behalf.
This is the longest list of documents that you will need to submit throughout the process, so once this step is completed, the rest of the steps are somewhat easier!
These may vary between schools, but typically expect to send the following:
- Scanned Copy of your Passport – a full two-page scan of the information and signature pages. Your passport must have at least one year of validity left
- Resume/CV – this should clearly state your education and working background
- Scanned Document Copies of the following:
-
- Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Bachelor’s degree transcripts
- TEFL certificate
- Photos – these must meet certain criteria regarding size and content and have been taken in the last 6 months.
- Medical Forms
- Physical Examination form
- Reference letter (if applicable)
- Social Security Number (if from the US)
- Background Check – this non-criminal background check (CBC) must be valid within 6 months of applying for your Work Permit. How to obtain one and get it authenticated will vary between countries:
Document Authentication
There are currently two options for having your diploma authenticated:
Paper Authentication in your home county
A three- to four-step process that varies according to country but will normally include the following: notarized copy of the original diploma, authentication at the state level, authentication at a Chinese Embassy/Consulate, translation into Chinese.
Online Authentication in China
Your Diploma can also be authenticated via on online, one-step process with the Chinese Ministry of Education in Beijing. Applicants only need to submit a colour scan of their highest diploma. An authentication document will be issued within 10-15 working days and can be sent directly to your future employer in China.
If you need help navigating the authentication application process we recommend ShortcutZ-China.
Once these documents have been sent over to your employer, they will organize to get your Work Permit processed. Be patient here, as generally it can anywhere up to 30 business days for the permit to be processed. Once it has been approved, you will be sent your Work Permit. You will then need this permit to apply for your Z visa.
Step Two – Z Visa application
One down, five to go! Up next is the Z visa. This requires much less documentation. First, complete the Chinese Working Visa Application Form online, then print it out, gather up the following documents and head to the Chinese Embassy/Consulate in your home country:
- Completed visa application form
- Work Permit
- Passport
- Passport photo
The Z visa should take around 3 – 7 days to process, but it can take longer. If you’ve got this far, you shouldn’t have the visa rejected. You’ll be notified once it has been processed so you can go collect it.
Alternatively, if you don’t live near a Chinese Embassy/Consulate in your home country, then it is also quite common (and safe) to use an agency. For a fee, agencies apply for visas on your behalf and handle everything from submitting the paperwork to picking up the final result and mailing it back to you. I have used VisaHQ in the past with no issues but a simple Google search will yield plenty of options if you’d like to use an agency.
Another option for those already in Asia is applying for your Visa in Hong Kong. Reports vary on this option and it doesn’t seem to always work for applicants, but still, if you are already in China or Hong Kong it’s worth a shot to prevent either having to return to your country or pay for an agency. Make sure to ask your school if this is an option before deciding on it!
Z Visa Fees
The fee for the Z visa is the same as for other types of Chinese visas. Some schools may help with costs, but typically expect to pay the following for a single-entry Z visa:
| US Citizens | Canadian Citizens | UK Citizens | Australian Citizens |
| USD 140 | CAD 142 | GBP 151 | AUD 109.5 |
However you go about this step, once you have your Z visa in your passport you are ready to head off to China and start your ESL adventure!
In China
Congratulations! You’ve made it to China. You now have 30 days to turn your Z Visa into a residency permit (the Visa only gets you into China, the residency permit ensures you can stay). As your Z visa is single-entry, you will not be able to leave China until you get your residency permit, but after that, you are free to exit and enter as often as you like.
Only four more steps to go before you are officially a Chinese resident! Plus, your school should continue to assist you through these next stages, so no need to worry.
Step Three – Registration
The first thing you must do upon landing in China, apart from grabbing some delicious noodles, is register at the local police station where you’ll be staying. This needs to be done within 24 hours of your arrival, so our advice is to get it done ASAP. It’s a pretty straightforward step – just take yourself and the following documents down to your local police station:
- Passport
- Housing contract
- A copy of your Landlord’s ID and their contact number
Step Four – Medical Check
It is highly likely that you will be required to take part in an in-country medical check within 30 days of your arrival in China. It should be organized by your employer and they should accompany you to the hospital. It’s a pretty simple procedure and is nothing to worry about. You will need to bring the following documents with you to the medical check:
- Passport
- Photocopies of passport material pages (picture and information page, visa page, and entry stamp page)
- 5 passport-style photos (your employer may organize for these to be taken)
- Medical check fee, approx 400RMB – in some cases your employer will pay
The follow-up Health Certificate can take a couple of working days to process and all being well, your employer should register this with the authorities.
Step Five – Work Certificate
You’re almost there! Next up is the Work Certificate, which you will need to apply for your Residence Permit. Your employer should assist you with this. Expect to submit the following documents:
- Passport
- One photo
- Medical Check (if applicable)
- Police Registration form (from your arrival in China)
Generally, the Work Certificate will take around 5 days to process but may take longer.
Step Six – Residency Permit
The end is now in sight as you finally complete the last step of the visa journey. Again, your employer should assist you with this.
To apply for your Residence Permit, you must appear in person at your local Public Security Bureau (PBS). Remember, you need to have applied for this Residency Permit within 30 days of your arrival in China. This is important.
Bring yourself and the following to the PBS:
- Passport (this will be kept by the PBS for the processing period)
- Work Certificate
- Police Registration form
- Medical check
- Resident Permit application forms
- One photo
Expect the processing time of the Residence Permit to be approx 10 – 15 days, depending on the city you’re applying in. You don’t need the Residence Permit in your hand before your 30 days is up, but you need to have applied for it.
The End
As soon as you have that Residence Permit in your hands, you can breathe a sigh of relief. Go and get yourself a glass of baijiu and soak up the feeling of officially being a resident of China. This permit allows you to legally teach in China, move around the country and travel in and out of the country as you like. China is now your oyster. Enjoy!
FAQs
How long does the process take?
As we mentioned above, the entire process, from getting your documents notarized to actually getting your Chinese residence permit can take anything between 1 and 3 months.
Although there isn’t much you can do about how quickly your application is processed or how fast your documents are delivered to you, you can help speed up the process by making sure all the paperwork is filled out correctly and there are no missing documents.
Can I change my visa from something else to Z if I’m already in China?
Changing your current visa to a Z visa while in China is technically possible, however, there are several accounts of people who have had no other choice but either go back to their home country and apply from there or fly to Hong Kong and apply for their Z visa through an agency.
At the end of the day, whether you can change to a Z visa while in mainland China or not will depend on your nationality as well as the province and city you’re living in. The safest thing you can do is to check with your local Immigration Department of Public Security Bureau to find out what the best (and legal) way to proceed is.
Can you transfer your visa if you’re changing jobs?
Switching jobs in China can be a pretty delicate matter but, if handled correctly, it can be done.
The trickiest part in the process will probably be getting your old employer to sign a release letter. This step is crucial – in fact, in China, work permits are tied directly to the company that issued them, meaning if you want to work for a new company, you’ll need your old permit to be revoked so you can apply for a new one. However, some schools may be a bit reluctant to help you with this step so arm yourself with patience and get ready to insist.
Once you’ve obtained your letter, the process will basically be the same as when you first arrived in China – so you’ll first need to apply for another work permit with the new school and then get registered again to get your new residence permit.
The whole process might take a few weeks or even a month depending on how quick the new school is in getting you all the documents you need, so there’s a chance during this transition period you’ll have to switch to an L (tourist visa) temporarily, just until you get a new Z visa.
What if I don’t meet one of the requirements?
Some candidates might get discouraged when looking at the list of requirements – maybe they’re not a native speaker or they don’t have two years experience and they are tempted to throw in the towel thinking they don’t stand a chance of teaching in China.
However, there are schools and provinces that aren’t as strict and that are willing to find a way to sponsor the right candidate even if they don’t meet all of the requirements. So, though it’s true that it might take you a little longer to find work and that the jobs you’ll be offered probably won’t probably in first-tier cities, with some work and a bit of perseverance on your part, you can still find companies willing to take you on.
The best thing you can do is inquire directly with the school you would like to work for and see what are the minimum requirements for them to sponsor you.
What if a company offers me a non-Z visa?
Working in China on anything but a Z visa is a big no-no. There are several schools out there preying on less-qualified or non-native teachers that will assure you you can work on a student or tourist visa or that promise they will have your permit changed to a Z visa at a later date. As good as it may sound, you should be very wary of these schools and convince yourself of the fact that the risks you’d be running by working illegally in China just aren’t worth it since, if caught, you might end up getting deported or even fined.
222 Responses
Hello, if someone resides in china with an x1 visa (student)
1. Can he apply for or change to z visa while still schooling?
2. If the person already has an x visa, can the person secure legitimate working documents to work and school at the same time?
Thank you.
Hi Evnie – to be honest, Im not sure about either of these but 2 things stand out: (1) You need to have 2yr of work experience to qualify for a Z visa – Im unsure of what school you’ll be attending in China but it’s worth mentioning in case you’re only completing your bachelors. (2) There is a clear process for transferring Z visas between employers which makes me think it may be possible to move from an X to a Z if you qualify. My advice is to contact employers or visa agencies to check on this as they should have a better understanding – good luck!
How do I prove that I have 2 year experience ?
Most people are asked for references that correspond with their resume or CV, though it’s random whether or not those references are ever contacted.
Hi, I’m Jamaican we are a native English speaking country. I’m currently teaching in Japan, do you think I would be able to successfully land a job in China
Yes, I believe you could find a job.
Hi Quincy.
The school my son is thinking of teaching for in China have told him to get an M visa and they will get him the Z visa when he is in China. In your experience would you trust them? Thanks.
Hi Kim – under normal circumstances that would be a red flag but during COVID things are a bit more fluid and it’s not uncommon to get an M visa instead of a Z (or even have the embassy issue an M when he applied for a Z). It’s also possible to get everything transferred over once in China so if he’s planning on going soon then this could still work. The biggest hang up (during COVID times) will be the PU letter – it’s new and now comes before the visa application – if his school can get the PU letter (essentially additional permission from the local government) then I would be fine getting an M if they recommend it.
i already have a business visa M for 6 month and need to apply for z visa so i need to go my own country and need to apply for z visa or i can stay in china and can apply for it.
Hi Harry – the answer is that it really depends. We’ve read accounts of both people needing to go home & others where they can change the visa in China or Hong Kong. Like so many other things in China, it will depend on your nationality, the province in which you are applying, and the amount of knowledge that your HR person has. If you are doing this on your own you will likely need to return home, but if you have your new job helping you there may be an easier way.
I am master in English…i am from pakistan…can i teach in china if i get z visa..
If you can find a company that can get you a Z visa then yes, you should be able to teach.
Hi there! I have a bachelor’s degree from a Russian university, would it need to be translated into English or Chinese?
It will depend on what the school asks for, but usually English will suffice.
Hi. Is it easy to change student visa to work visa if you want to teach English given that you have the requirements needed?
There is a process in place for most cities and provinces so as long as you have all documents it should be doable.
This all really great and very useful!! Thank you! But I do have a question, what is the process for getting a teaching job in China AFTER you complete your contract at the first job, but will not be renewing and are will be changing cities?
Hi Shannon – there is a general process in place to transfer your work permit from one employer to another and both the old and new job will need to work together to make it happen. The new city may require additional docs (like a background check from your 1st city) but as long as you start the process before your permit (and contract) expires it should be possible. Note: you may have to be persistent with the old and new job as they dont always know the process (or don’t want to help).
Can a Cameroonian obtain a teaching visa in China
It’s going to be very difficult – do you have a 4-year degree?
I am a Cameroonian, I have teacher grade one certificate. I am qualify to teach children both in primary and Nursery schools. Could it be possible that I work visa to travel and teach in China?
Hi Ndi – is a teacher grade one the equivalent of a bachelor’s degree?
I have a question. Is it more difficult for a US military veteran to get a work visa? My husband and I are moving to China to teach English but one recruiter mentioned that it was more difficult to attain a visa for someone who is less than 5 years out of the military (my husband got out 4 years ago). Do you know anything about this? Thank you.
Hi Savannah – Im sorry but Ive never heard of it being more difficult for veterans and couldn’t find any discussion of it on other forums – sorry! Did they say why that makes it harder?
Hi I have a question I am from Pakistan living in Malaysia and working as English teacher , I am holding master degree . I have heard that only native speakers can get a job and visa in schools as English teacher , my husband also holding masters degree and he is from Pakistan too but worked for 12 years and he was holding z visa and foreign expert but In 2012 we moved to Malaysia , but now we want to come back . Any help and proper info if I can get . Thanks
Hi Laila – in order to teach legally in China you will need to be a native speaker. Some schools may promise you a Z visa but Id be very wary of those as they often aren’t legal.
You need to be a native speaker or have an undergraduate or postgraduate degree from a native speaking country. Mr Quincy, please kindly give the correct information.
Thanks for clarifying, Kazi – you’re right in that many cities will accept a native English degree but there are plenty that only care where your passport is from.
Hi I’m a non native speaker and I’d like to know if it’s possible to get a work visa that allows me to work as a teacher. Because I’ve heard that it’s possible if one’s had education in a native country. Is this true?
Am from Cameroon and have a 3-year degree in Sociology and Anthropology, Diploma in Aviation Security Management from Edith Cowan University of Australia and also TESOL Certificate. Is it possible for me to get a teaching job in China?
Hi Gervais – it might be possible – biggest sticking point is your 3 year degree and passport. I suggest contacting a few recruiters and getting their take on it – they will have a better idea if they can place you or not.
hi, I already have a Z visa but I am going to join another place. I have a Z-visa and tranferring. I have HCV (hepatitis C antibodies test)test positive but my PCR is negative. will they reject my visa after medical as they only do antibodies test?
Hi Sapna, I’m sorry but this is beyond the scope of our knowledge.
Can a Ugandan get a work visa
Hi, I’m from Sweden and I have a 5-year degree from Stockholm University in education (English and Swedish as a second language as my main subjects) and a TEFL certificate. Can I obtain a z-visa?
Hi Esmat – it will be very difficult as you are not a native speaker but there are schools out there that will hire you. Please note that it is not without risk as almost every province requires teachers to be native speakers, but schools often use their influence to get visas for non-natives.
Hi, can a non-native speaker get a work permit as a subject teacher(e.g Economics)?
No, it’s unlikely as being a native speaker is one of the core requirements.
I have already got my Z visa, So do I need to take a drug test to start teaching and get my residence permit?
Can you please tell me whether there is a chance for a non native to get a z visa? I’m from morocco, and I have a master’s degree in linguistics and Eng lang teaching. I’v been thinking about applying to teach there but this whole mess surrounding non natives and visas is scaring me.
Hi Sara – yes, there is a chance but it will depend on your school. Legitimate schools will insist on native speakers but there are plenty of dodgy options out there that use back channels and “influence” to get Z visas for non-native speakers. These won’t be the best teaching positions but they are out there.
Hii there, I do not have a bachelors degree however ibest teacher did offer me a teaching job to work in China with regards to my tefl certificate. If they issue me a work permit and letter of invitation to work for them, would I still be able to enter China and get a z visa even if I do t have a bachelors degree. I do have teaching experience of over 2 years as have completed my matric or high school. Is it still possible…please help!
Hi Tim – you’ll get the Z visa before you leave for China and if the school can provide one without your bachelor’s degree you shouldn’t have any issue when arriving in China. Make sure they are giving you a Z visa as many schools will ask you to work on a tourist or business visa and claim they can change it once you arrive – this is illegal and extremely risky.
What if yoυ send all the paperwork (digitally) from the U.S. for a job you’ve already accepted (with not yet having signed a contract), but then receive a better offer?
Are yoυ already bound to that job you’ve sent the digital paperwork to, or can yoυ just resend the paperwork to the other job?
Is it okay as long as yoυ haven’t applied for the Z-visa in your home country?
Nothing is final until both parties sign the paperwork – it might upset the first employer but you should be able to pursue the better offer without issue.
Thanks Quincy. Can yoυ verify which paperwork it is that needed to be signed such that yoυ can’t back out?
Do yoυ mean the invitation letter yoυ receive in the mail from the company/government? Or the contracts yoυ sign after arriving in China?
Im not an expert on this but Id assume the contract would be the most important – you should not be doing any of the other paperwork (like visa processing, etc) without a signed contract by both parties.
Hi. I’m Nigerian residing in Ghana with my work permit, I got a teaching contract for a year and the school is ready to take on the visa process. Do you suggest I apply for the visa in Ghana or apply in my home country? Second where do you suggest I get my documents authenticated and legalized, Ghana or home country? I’m confused pls help!
I believe you can apply anywhere there is a Chinese embassy or consulate but will likely need to get your docs authenticated in your home country – make sure to confirm with the school as they will know best.
Hi Odun, please can I have your direct mail so I can reach you for some information. I am a Nigerian like you
I’m a native English speaking US citizen with a 4-year degree and a TEFL certificate. Sounds perfect, right? The only problem is I got my TEFL certificate in 2012 and haven’t used it since because life issues got in the way that prevented me from committing to a job abroad. Would this gap give me any problems? If they ask me why I haven’t used it for so long, what should I tell them?
Hi Amanda – you should be fine as a TEFL isn’t a hard requirement for China. While Im unsure if a TEFL actually expires, you can always take a short 40hr online class to refresh your skills if needed!
What do I do if my work permit has been cancelled but I want to start the work Z process again with a new school in China? I worked at a school for over a year and family things came up. I decided I wanted to go home to be with my family. I gave my school a four month notice and told them in early October that I was leaving in late January. I had a family issue that I needed to tend to and I gave them a letter from my mother and it was notarized. They then asked me for a copy of my mother’s passport. I gave it to them since I wanted to prove that I had nothing to hide. When I signed my termination letter they said they will prosecute me if I work in China before July 2019 or if they find out if I am “lying.” Now that my mom is feeling okay and things are falling into place at home I would like to return to Asia but really to China. My finacé lives in China and we have been away from each other. There is a school that is interested but they said they NEED a reference letter with a government stamp from my previous employer in order to apply for the new work visa. I have the letter of the cancellation of my work permit. But I highly doubt my previous school will give me a reference letter after the way they treated me when I decided to leave. I did everything legally and by the book. My contract said that all a teacher needs to do to terminate a contract is give a three months’ notice and pay back fees. I did both! Can I reapply for a work Z visa without a reference letter from my previous Chinese employer? The HR woman from this new school says it is requirement to get this letter because I am already in the system as having had a work Z visa. Is this true? So if my previous employer never gives me that reference letter that means I can never work in China again.
Hi Vera, it sounds like the 2nd school might be talking about the release letter which the 1st school is legally required to provide in order to transfer your visa – you can read more here. If they really do need a reference letter and you left the first school on bad terms then Im not sure you have any options, but I would lean on your 2nd school to get involved on your account. They might have more negotiating power than you in this case and it’s in their best interest to make sure the process & paperwork go smoothly. Regardless, I would not be worried about being “prosecuted” as it sounds like you did everything according to your contract.
If I have a Z visa for one school, working full time, can I also work part time for another school? This other school wants me to sign agreement with them, is it legal to just sign it, or do I need to complete other procedures, or should I reject this offer?
Your visa is linked to your employer and it would be illegal to work (part time or full time) for another school. While working on the side isn’t uncommon, I would not count on a signed agreement to protect you as the visa and work permit are the only things that matter.
The diploma of the bachelor’s degree has to be notarized now. To prove that it is authentic.
Thanks for the update Micah!
Quincy, thank you very much for this thorough explanation. I am really frustrated by all of the postings on Dave’s ESL that suggest you can apply in January to start the spring semester in mid-February.
I called a visa expediter this week. I’m an American living in Virginia. She told me that I would have to have my undergraduate degree notarized in Illinois, my master’s degree notarized in Tennessee, AND my TEFL notarized in Prague where I received it in 2009. At that point I realized that this isn’t going to happen for Spring 2020.
Have you heard of this requirement?
Hi Jim – the degree notarizations aren’t new but the TEFL requirement is – we’ve seen this vary by province, city, and even school so it’s best to check with your potential employer on what they require to get the visa, not an agent in the States.
I am currently teaching in China under a one year contract and will renew for another year at the beginning of August. I understand I will need a new Z visa for the coming year. My currently passport (valid until 2022) had three blank pages left. Will I need to renew my passport before applying for another Z visa?
Hi Shelley – it’s not required as you have space, but probably a good idea as you’ll likely need a new residence permit as well, correct? If so, that uses up 2/3 remaining pages leaving you 1 for trips, etc.
Hi, I recently got my notification letter sent to me, however it stated i’ll be allowed to work in china for 3 months. Should’t it have been 12 months? or is this normal?
Hi Patricia – yes, I believe it should be for the duration of your contract. Please confirm with your HR department as there is also a section on there that states the validity of the actual notification letter.
Hi guys,
I’m trying to acquire a few Z visas for native english speaking graduates. Does one send the passport, background check, degree certificate, tefl certificate etc to China directly for the schools to submit the Z visa application – along with their letter of employment?
Or, does one have to do all of this through their home country, and get all of the above documents notarised AND legalised?
I’d be grateful for a link to the complete A-Z process for teaching roles.
Many thanks!
Hey Tim – to the best of our knowledge you will need to get all docs notarized + authenticated in your home country and send copies via email to the school. They will then take these copies and apply for your Z visa. They will then issue you the visa invitation letter and you’ll take that letter + the real docs to the consulate or embassy and they will process the visa. Different cities/provinces have been known to change things slightly and our advice is to always coordinate with the school regarding what they need.
Thanks Quincy, so kind of you! Appreciate it.
Do you have an email address to contact you on regarding a proposal?
Many thanks,
Tim
Hey Tim – you can use our contact form here https://eslauthority.com/contact/
hello there, i’m curious if you guys might have an information, i’m holding non-native passport, but i do have Bachelor degree in Arts ( English Literature and Language) from native country (USA), in addition, i do have TEFL and TESOL 140 hours course, do you think i qualify for TEACHING visa in China. I know there are people getting Teaching visas in Tier 2 or 3 cities, i’m currently in Shanghai which is Tier 1 city, that’s why i’m asking, if anyone had similar experience please let me know!
Hi Damian – with those credentials I think you’d be fine. You might have to search harder in a Tier 1 but with your native degree, I wouldn’t worry too much.
If you are a non native but have a degree from a native country then you are good
Hi Gregory mate, are u 100% sure this is the case? Does that apply to the whole of China or to some of the provinces, I’m asking on behalf of my friend who has a job offer in Yangzhou China, She is Non-native, but has a Masters from the UK, and TEaching experience, Is she required to get a TEFL and what are her chancer of getting a Z visa, Thanks for your help
If the person is not a native speaker, but still he has an invitation letter from school, so can he/she apply for Z visa.?
If the invitation letter is for a Z visa then you should be ok as getting the invitation letter is the hard part.
Hi,
I’m from a non native country but I have a 4 year degree and TEFL certificate. Can I get a teaching job in China?
Yes, it’s likely you will be able to find a job but it might be in a tier 2-3 city or they might ask you to work on a non-Z visa. It’s a risk but there are plenty of non-native speakers working in China.
Good day ! Do I have to legalize and translate to Chinese my BAchelor degree certificate and non criminal record before sending them to my future employer ? I’ve heard that from my friends who are working in China now 🙂
Hi Sarah – usually docs need to be notarized/authenticated but not translated. This could have changed and your school should be able to tell you exactly what they expect to be able to process your visa.
I have an offer to teach in China on an M visa. After three months I’m given a two night holiday out of the country then returned on an M visa for 3 months further. I’m told this is all legit as I’d be working for a UK company while in China. However, I’m worried I might still get busted if I go teaching on an M visa. Could this happen?
Hi Bob – yes, that is risky and you could get caught. The only legal work visa is a Z visa and you should insist that your employer get one of those or look elsewhere if they cannot.
Hi Quincy,
I have a question about teaching English in China. Currently I have a 10 year visa to be in China that expires in 2026. I am an American citizen with a bachelors degree. I do not have TEFL certificate but English is my native language, I also graduated December 2017 so I do not have 2 years work experience. If I complete the 140 hour TEFL course should I be okay to obtain the visa and apply to teach English in China?
Hi Larry – yes, if you get the TEFL then you should be able to find a job. Just to clarify, you will need to apply for a job and then they apply for the visa on your behalf.
Hi,
I was approached by a legitimate recuirter and got a teaching job in China. I followed the process and was given a Z visa. My application took about 2 months to process because of the Chinese trade fair. Now that I have the visa I realised that my notification for foreign work permit is expired (expired a day after receiving the visa). Can I apply for a new one and will it affect my current visa.
I’m from an African country and I’m still in my country.
My human resource contact/ recuirter in China seems not to know what to do
Not sure I understand – if you already have the visa you should be good to go. The permit comes before the visa and is used when you are actually applying for the visa. Am I misunderstanding?
Thank you for your response.Yes the permit was issued before the visa and used to apply for the visa. But it also has a validity period of 3months. My application process took a long while and by the time I was given the visa the validity period of the notification of work permit had expired.
But if you have the visa I dont think it matters, correct? You will use the visa to enter the country and then get a residency permit – the work permit is just to apply for and obtain your Z visa I believe.
Hi, my friend is a non-native, he is in China Since September 1st, 2019 with VISA X1 (CSC Master scholarship), but he decide stop his studies and find a job. According migrations office, is this allowed?change from visa x1 to visa z in less than 1month?
He should speak to his school about this – only they can tell him whether or not they can change his visa.
Hi Jimmie. Please what recruiting agency did you go through, I am also interested in teaching in China but am not a native speaker. Better still, can I have ur direct mail
Hello,
I am a non-native teacher and I reside in Vietnam. Is it possible for me to up a Z visa from Vietnam?
Hi Chi – not entirely sure what you mean by “up a Z visa” but if you can find a company to sponsor your visa you can certainly apply at a Chinese embassy in Vietnam. If you’re wondering if you can even get a job, Id say it’d be difficult but not impossible given your non-native status.
We have done all the steps to apply for a Z visa except submit the final paperwork to the embassy/consulate to get the visa. We live in Nebraska, nowhere near a consulate, can we submit the final paperwork through an agency or do we have to travel to a major city to get the Z visa?
Hi Matt – yes, using an agency shouldn’t be a problem, I’ve used https://visaexpress.com/china/chinaworkvisa.htm before and another big one is https://www.visahq.com/china/#!china-work-visa.
So we absolutely do not need to visit a consulate during this process while we are in the USA? My wife is hearing different information saying after we receive the work permit from the school we are required to go to the consulate in person to do the final step of acquiring the Z Visa.
Hi Matt, we are not visa processing experts but how I understand it to work is exactly how it’s laid out on websites I referenced: you send all the paperwork provided by your school to the agency and they acquire the visa on your behalf. You can also call them to verify the process in case there have been any recent changes which are not uncommon in China – good luck!
Hi,
I have been offered a job in an English training centre in China for around January. I am due to graduate in November and I am currently completing my TEFL certificate. I have been informed by my university that even though we have the graduation ceremony in November, we won’t receive our diplomas until around 6 months later however we will receive an official transcript of all our obtained grades and final mark. If I wait for the diploma I will lose the job as I need to start in January. Can I use the transcript for authentication and then give them the diploma when I receive it in April/May?
I feel really confused and unsure what to do. My university are being really unhelpful and said there’s no special circumstances where they could give me my official diploma early. What do I do?
Hi Bery – you need to confirm what your school actually needs to process your visa. If they need a diploma then you’ll just need to wait as it will need to be authenticated and you obviously can’t do that until you have it.
I have been offered a teaching job and I do qualify for a Z visa and I am busy with the authentications. My onboard date is fast approaching and my school (reputable) has suggested I come into China with an L visa and will switch it to a work visa as soon as I arrive. This is mainly because of time due to my police clearance taking long. How safe, true and possible is this?
It’s possible but risky and not at all legal. If your school is reputable they should know better than to ask this of you.
Also, if you decide to risk it, make sure to amend your contract to ensure any additional fees like traveling to another city or country (and your hotel while you’re there) are covered.
Hi, i am a german citizen but my mother is british. Am I still being considered as a naitive speaker by chinese authorities?
And does part-time work count as valuable work experience?
Do you happen to know if it would be legal to do freelance work on the side while working in china?
Hi Elena – your nationality will be determined by your passport so in this case you would not be considered a native speaker. Yes, part-time work counts as experience but no, you cannot do freelance work legally while working on a Z visa in China.
Hi, I just had my prospective employer send me a blank contract in Chinese/Mandarin, requesting I sign the document, claiming it was part of the visa application process, to send this document. They did not tell me it was a contract, but I got it translated. I kindly refused, telling them I was uncomfortable, and they haven’t come back to me for several days now. Is this a common thing – have you heard of anyone signing a blank contract as part of the process? Could their intentions be dishonest! I don’t think anyone could get me to sign a blank contract whether this is common or not. I suggested it was unprofessional and asked why they did not consider translating it, since they were employing English speakers. I was told the High Commission where it came from had workers who did not speak English. Red flag anyone? Or is it just me?
While you usually sign a contract before the visa process starts, it should not be blank. I think you’re right to treat this a red flag – the contract is what will govern your working over the next year and it should have as much info as possible. It’s also your responsibility to get anything translated as schools have been known to give you one contract in Chinese and the other in English with the Chinese one being the official document and sometimes having additional info in it. If they don’t respond to you it’s probably best if you start looking for another job.
Thank you for your reply. They have filled it today, but only with basic info including the salary. I have asked why the housing and travel allowance are missing, but they have said the “visa contract” does not require the inclusion of these benefits. Apparently the contract I will sign on my arrival, will include these missing perks. They also translated it, as I refused to sign and I had someone on my end translate it as well for comparison. I haven’t signed yet. Still thinking…
I just talked to a friend who signed a ‘Work Agreement’ before the visa processing and then an official contract later on (but before her arrival in China). This is the only case Ive heard of like this but it sounds like it’s more of a Letter of Intent and most importantly should not be blank (but can have fewer details than the contract). Id go with your gut on this – if you’re happy with the communication thus far and get along with the school then it might be ok, if this is just another red flag I might start looking for other opportunities.
I need help, I just found out that the school I’m working at, is not the school on my contract. What steps can I take in order to terminate my contract and get a release letter? Kindly assist
Hi Sophy – what have you done so far? The first thing Id do is talk to your current employer – what did they say? Im betting your school doesn’t have the ability to hire foreigners but you can always ask them to update your contract. If they refuse you can always go to SAFEA and seek their assistance.
Hello! Thank you for the article. It has been benefecial. I am facing a huge problem that I don’t know how to solve. I was interviewed by a center to teach English in their school in Langfang city. However, They failed to apply for Z visa for me and told me to come via business visa and everything will be safe. They sent me the invitation letter and I applied and got it. After searching online, I’ve found that it’s illegal and dangerous to teach English with business visa. I found another center that agreed to apply for Z visa for me. The problem is that when he’d tried to apply online for me, he found out that I’m already registered by another company. I messaged the first one and told them that it’s illegal and I won’t work with you guys with business visa, But they’ve refused to remove my application. Now, I’m stuck. If you guys know ay workaround for this, I would be very grateful. Thank you!
Hi Kaldi – there is no easy workaround here – your best option is to see if you can get the new school (with the Z visa) involved on your behalf. See if they can talk to the other school to try and work something out.
Thank you for such an informative article. I also have a question. I am not from the list of countries given for one to teach english in China but in my country English is the official language and all courses are taught in English. I myself have 17 years teaching experience in my home country Zimbabwe. Do I stand a chance.
Yes, but it will be difficult and you may have to settle for a non-main city.
Thank you for replying. My worry was the fact it was blank; but they sorted it now. I have been happy with the communication so far. I have signed after telling them I no longer wanted to work with them and they panicked reassuring me it was def only for the visa processing (have been waiting for me for a long time). I will see how future communication goes.
Hi. Can someone clarify for me, please. In order to get a Z visa, you need a bachelor’s degree. I only have a 3-year diploma in Sound Engineering. Is there any way around this that doesn’t involve me going to study for 3-4 years to get a degree?
Hi, Cameron. its strictly bachelors degree, however in some exceptions some districts in china that have less or no foreign teacher at all are a little flexible and can grant you a work permit for Z visa application so just give it a try. best of Luck 🙂
Hi Smith, I am a Nigerian, I have completed my 4 years degree program in a Nigerian university. Am I eligible to apply for Z Visa Teaching job in China?
Hi Ezekiel – you are always able to apply for jobs but I believe it will be difficult for you to find one with a Nigerian passport.
Hello. Was hoping you guys could clarify something for me. I’m currently living on an L visa in Shenyang – been here about 13 months living with my gf and just taking a sabbatical. I taught for two years at a university in Jiangsu on a Z visa from 2013-2015, then went back to the States (I’m a native US citizen) and now I’m back in China. I have been offered a nice contract with a school to teach and I’m trying to get all the stuff together that I will need. Got the FBI check done, so what I am really missing is an educational document that proves my Master’s from GWU and then trying to figure out who has to stamp what and what consulate to take it all to (I reallllly don’t want to fly all the way back to DC – so I’m researching agencies). My question is about the education thing: is a notarized transcript from the university acceptable, or does it have to be an original of the actual “sheepskin” that everyone hangs on their brag walls that I have to have stamped by DC and the State Dept? The transcript will be easy (easier) than the diploma as I have to order a replacement diploma and the turn around time for that is loooong (original turned to ash in a house fire years ago). So what do you guys think? Transcript or diploma? My potential school is a bit light (very light) on English and on the process in general, so I’m kind of shooting from the hip with this. Any advice would be most appreciated.
Hey John – looks like it needs to be the original diploma https://www.visarite.com/auth_diploma.htm – sorry!
hi guys, i have gotten an offer from China Zheijing and i am looking to relocate to china in october with my boyfreind who does not hold a degree. before this i was offered a job by Thailand and the recruiter said they will be able to attach him on my visa to be able to find work over there, unfortunately i declined their offer, so what i need to know now is a way around this, if i go can china attach him on my visa or is there an alternative way around this ?
Not entirely sure if I understand this, but if you’re asking if your boyfriend can be attached to your China work visa I dont think so – I believe that’s reserved for family and spouses and it’s likely he will need to arrange a visa on his own.
Hi,
I am interested in attaining a TEFL job. I come from Trinidad and Tobago (whose people speaks English) and therefore I have a passport from there. I have teaching experience, a degree and a TEFL certificate yet I am finding it difficult to get responses to my applications. Do I have any hope of success?
Any advice would be appreciated.
Hi Janeal – yes, there is hope but you might need to look outside of tier 1 cities. Where have you looked so far and how many jobs have you applied for?
Hi Quincy Smith.
Something is not very clear. I just applied for a visa Z yesterday. my company HR is telling me to wait for max 2 months when the immigration agent telling me to wait between 3 to 5 weeks and when here you said 3 to 7 days or longer (also see on others website)
Also
Some website said I could start working as soon as I get the work permit when here you said I need to wait to get the residence permit
Thanks
Hi Jerome – the 3-7 days we refer to is how long it takes the embassy or consulate to process your Z visa paperwork and insert a visa into your passport. It sounds like your HR might be talking about the work permit?
Hi Quincy
I have a 4 year law degree and other postgraduate law related qualifications, all from South Africa (native speaking country), as well as a TEFL certificate, with over 2 years work in South Africa experience. Can I still get a Z visa to be an ESL teacher in China or other countries. I am not from what is considered “native English speaking country”.
What passport do you hold? There are plenty of South Africans teaching legally in China and your qualifications should be fine.
HI Quincy,
I have been offered a job. They said there is 2 ways to get the visa, the first way is the procedure you just listed.
The second way they said was coming to China on tourist visa and bring with me
1) bachelors degree that is notarized and transalated in both English and Chinese.
2) background check that is notarized and translated into English in Chinese
3) Medical check
4) Work experience for the last 2 years
5) They will then apply for z process on my behalf, which they said takes about a month. They said I will start working after a month. I have also not paid them anything.
Hi Josh – all of the forms you listed sound correct but you should definitely get the Z visa before you arrive in China – while it might be possible to arrive on a tourist visa and transfer it to a Z, you’re putting yourself at a huge risk and it will be illegal for you to do any work at all until you have the Z visa.
Hi I have a question
I am in Vietnam on a business visa waiting for the invitation letter from the Chinese university. But it’s looking like the I will have the letter in time to not overrun my vn visa
Will I be able to get my Chinese visa on a vn tourist visa in Hanoi?
Your VN visa should not impact your China visa at all.
Hi, I am Rusik from Uzbekistan. I have been studying in china for 2 years. I am endeavor to work however, I need Z visa according to the regulations of China. In spite of being a student am I able to obtain Z visa? or my university restricted me to get working Visa. Please, could you clarify it elaborately.
Hi Rusik – I don’t believe that you can work on a student visa and I think you need the student visa to continue your studies, correct?
Hi Quincy,
I am holding a Master degree in Business but I have limited teaching experience and no TEFL certificate at this moment. How likely would it be to obtain a Z visa if I am from The Netherlands to teach at a kindergarten? I am currently working for 1.5 years in sales.
Hi Renate – being that you’re not a native speaker it’s going to be hard – there are jobs for non native speakers out there but you will need to look a bit harder.
Hi, I have received a work permit letter and I had some issues to apply for the z visa and the company that issued the permit for me have canceled the job offer because of the delays, So if I apply for the z visa now ( with the work permit that still not expired ), do I still need the company to help me with the rest of the process or I can finish it by my own and apply for another job ?
Are you sure the original job didn’t cancel the permit/visa? You will likely need a new job to move forward as all paperwork is tied to the job so if your first one has been rescinded then I’m unsure how you will get the visa.
Hello, could you please tell us how or where to apply for a teaching job in china?
any trusted recruitment agencies maybe? or if there’s an article on that then the link please.
Thanks in advance
We hear good things about Teaching Nomad – try them first!
Hello,
I got a job offer with a training center that doesn’t have the certificate to hire foreign teachers, they told me they are still in the process of application with the Chinese government ( Can a school be legal but still can’t hire foreign teachers? ).
They sent me a work permit that has a different position (marketer) to apply for z visa. I have applied for the z visa, but now I’m thinking of cancelling the whole process and getting another school. I would like to know the risks of continuing with this and what are the implications are there if I withdraw?
Thank you for reading.
Hi Kay – yes, they can be legal and not be able to hire foreign teachers (for example they could just use Chinese employees). As to your other question – yes, there is some risk of this but it goes down the larger the city is. Still, my main concern here would be working for a company that is willing to cut corners – if they will hire without a permit Id be worried they might doing something suspect later on as well. If you withdraw there are unknown complications as your application has already been started and I really cant answer it – anecdotally Ive heard of other teachers having a hard time getting another visa as their original application is in a sort of processing purgatory and they cannot start a new one nor do they wish to keep the original going. Sorry – wish I had more info here!
Hi, can you tell me what could happen if two schools apply for a visa/work permit the same time accidentally?
One of them will need to cancel the application in the government system.
Hi, I am from Singapore. I have a diploma in Accountancy and I am proficient both in English and Chinese. Do you think there’s a possibility for me to find a job to teach English in China?
Yes, it’s definitely possible!
Hi Quincy,
I have a question about a short teaching stint in China, nanning. If the teaching assignment is to fly to and fro weekly to teach a few days every week for 1 to 2 months, would a work visa be required? i have heard that nanning has policies to attract foreigners to work or invest. Does it apply for work permit too?
thank you
Im unsure about Nanning policies but if you’re going to do any work in China you will need a proper Z working visa.
Hi Quincy,
I am currently in China as a trailing spouse. I have a BA and I will be completing a teacher certification program within the next year. I have been told that the VISA requirements have changed again, requiring 2 years of teaching experience be mandatory and documented proof be provided.
Is this correct?
Hi Tim – that’s news to us, last we heard is 2 years of general work experience. I’m hesitant to believe this is countrywide as it would significantly reduce the number of available teachers.
Hi ESL authority! This is the most informative website about China I have come across, bravo! I have a z visa (teaching) expiring in mid December 2019, but my employer wasn’t allowed to renew my visa as the policy had changed and me being from non-native speaker. I have a Chinese friend who owns a training center offered me a job as an HR manager, but again, I’d have to teach. I have with me, an invitation letter, a copy of the contract, all my educational docs notarized from before and a medical test I am gonna do before I leave China. Does the change in job mean my about to be employer has to apply for a work permit for me from the foreign experts bureau before I travel or the current documents I have are enough to get me entry into China. Lots of thanks, I am lost
Hi Zevans – this is really a question for your new employer, they should know how the process works as they will be the ones navigating it. To the best of our knowledge, you just need to apply to transfer everything before it expires – it doesn’t matter whether you’re in the country or not but as you’ll need a new permit it will be easier if you’re there to receive it. Again, please check with your employer as they should have the final answer here.
I’m from Haiti i would like to visit China but i really dont understand the process. Could you give me more info?
This guide is for work visas, to visit as a tourist you’ll need an L visa – just Google “L visa China” and you should find some good info.
Do you need to get your background check authenticated? or just your diploma?
According to Teaching Nomad the background check needs to be authenticated too.
If I leave a school and my contract is over. And go back to my country. Do I still need a release letter before i can apply for a new job. Because my school said it’s not needed as my contract is over
Hi Peter – yes, I believe that is accurate – if your contract is over and you return home, you will need to redo the entire visa process to get a different job.
Hi Quincy,
What are the odds of not getting a Residence / Work permit once you get there with the Z Visa?
The odds are low but it’s possible – we’ve only heard about it anecdotally and it’s almost always related to something turning up on the health check.
Hi Quincy! I’m currently living outside of my home country and looking to apply for an ESL job in China. The country I’m in now does have a Chinese embassy, so I’m wondering: will I be able to go through it to obtain a visa without having to return to my home country?
Yes, any embassy or consulate should work as long as you have all the docs.
I am confused about age requirements for the Z visa. I am now 63, so above the Chinese retirement age. In an email from a school in Yiwu (Zhejiang province) it was stated that “… foreign teachers can get work visa under age of 65. That means, you may get a visa of one or two years.”
I was told at a job fair in Shanghai in 2016 that I was already too old to continue working in China. Was at the Yiwu school in Dec/Jan last year on a F visa and I was paid by a New Zealand employer, though. I am considering going back to teach ESL. Is the different age requirement a provincial issue?
Hi Mark – yes, it’s often a province by province issue and can even vary depending on the school or recruiter (and type of visa, though you should always insist on a Z visa to stay legal).
Hey. I used to work in China for as an English teacher but now I want to go back but with a different company. However, the new company say they need the cancellation letter from my previous company, which I don’t have. I have a scanned copy, will this be ok, or does the government require originals? For my last company,when I applied, I scanned all my documents then the company applied for the letter of invitation with these, but my new company say they need the original copies for everything.
Hi Ross – if you’re applying for a new visa then you need originals of everything (diploma, etc) but Im not sure this includes a cancellation letter – is that what they need or are they talking about other docs?
Hi Do you know how much it generally costs for Schools to renew a work Z visa? as you will usually need to pay that cost, either all or in part, when you leave a job during the contract period. Do you know how much this usually is? Thank you
Hi Stephen – we arent sure, sorry. However, this is something you should definitely get your employer to pay for – most teachers are only responsible for the initial visa.
Hi Quincy, thanks so much for all the detailed information. I was offered a job in China and have accepted. I am from the USA but currently live in Austria. I have no idea how to get my documents apostilled from my home state while abroad, as well as the FBI background check as our embassy does not provide this service. I’ve done this one before 10 years ago before going to S.Koear, but that wasn’t an issue as I as in the states then. Any info would be GREATLY appreciated.
Hi, it might ask the same question like others before me but just to clarify something about eligibility. I am not native but have been living in the UK for 12 years and have an MA from my native country and BA from the UK, have Master TEFL certificate (180hrs) and TKTs from Cambridge and of course I am a working professional. Am I right to suppose that I can easily qualif for Z visa in China as advertised by some other agencies? Thanks for your respond in advance.
Robert
Hi Robert – what passport do you hold? Everything else sounds fine but your best option is to start contacting recruiters/agencies and see if they can get you a legal visa, then you will know for sure.
Hi. I hope that you’re keeping well.
I have 4 years experience teaching ESL in China using an official Z Visa. However, the agency that I was signed with applied with a non accredited (fake) degree. This was never discovered by the authorities.
I have since gone on to teach in the UK, but wish to return to China, to the same school as I taught previously. Would I need to supply a legitimate degree this application, or would that requirement be exempt since I have 4 years previous work experience in China?
Thanks for your advice.
You’re going to be starting the entire visa process over so you will need to provide all the documents again, including a degree.
I understand.
Thanks for replying Quincy.
What if I wasn’t moving to China from my home country, for example, if I have been teaching in Vietnam and want to move to China, can I organise a visa from here or do I have to return to the UK and sort it all out from there?
I believe you can organize it at any embassy or consulate regardless of location.
Hello Quincy. Do you know of any special dispensations that permit teaching in China without a degree? (eg; a large amount of previous work experience in teaching.)
I appreciate any advice.
Hi Justin – no, China has gotten quite strict and require a degree to even qualify for a Z visa regardless of other qualifications.
Ok. I kind of assumed that would be the case. Thanks for replying.
Hi Quincy,
I hold a valid Z visa and a residence permit. I had a part time teaching experience with a local academy. I am working into foreign trade right now, but a school is interested in me and they want to hire me I am a non-native speaker but I hold a masters degree and 11+ years of non-teaching experience with 2.5 years of part-time teaching experience.
Is it possible to transfer my Z VISA from current company (Foreign trade) to the school. I am sure by current company won’t have any issues in authorising the release letter.
Hi Suraj – under normal circumstances it’s definitely possible to transfer a visa, there is a defined process and everything. The thing Id look out for is being a non-native speaker – there have been reports of non-natives not having their visas renewed and Im unsure if you’ll have issues transferring as well. Id ask your school, they will know for sure!
Hi,
I have been working in Beijing legally for 8 years. My company is closing in July and switching us onto H visas.
If I find another job, are we able to switch those to another work visa from within China? With the borders currently closed I know if we leave it could be some time before we’re allowed to return.
I am married to a Chinese citizen so could instead switch to a Spouse visa if that’s easier.
Yes, you should be able to and Ive seen a few posts on Facebook groups where other teachers have done the same thing.
Hello, my question is , i have a working Z Visa as Foreign Sales Manager,
can i transfer this into the teaching visa
i have work permit card with the same title: foreign sales manager
\what is the procedure to transfer it?
Hi Danny, yes there is a process to transfer everything over to a new employer. You will need a release letter from your current employer and then your new job should handle the rest.
Hello Mr. Quincy Smith
At first Thank you very much for your wise and realistic opinions, suggestions and information.
I will be delighted and grateful too if you do so for me. My asking is about Teaching English with legal Z visa in China . Candidate holds a Bachelor in BBA (4 yrs) and a MA in TESOL. Has substantial teaching experience both in Kindergarten and primary school. She also have a TEFL Certificate. She is 37 years old. But she is from Bangladesh and her mother tongue is not English I mean she is a Non Native candidate. Does she stand a chance in China to teach English.What are the odds in here.
Hi Roshni – her chances are very low given her passport, sorry. She might be able to find work in a tier 3 city but even that would be a difficult search.
To clear up something she holds a Bangladeshi Passport and she completed all her degree from Bangladesh. Does she need to take CELTA?
Hi,I worked at a school in China with a Z Visa valid until end June 2021.I returned to South Africa due to Covid&continued online teaching for the school.I got another teaching position at another school in China for the new academic year.Will my Z Visa still work for the other school&will they use that to arrange my work&resident permits at the new school like they did at the previous school?Can I just go back as soon as we’re allowed back into China with a letter of appointment or what must I do-besides the Covid test?Thank you.
Hi Zagrya – your new school should really answer these but as far as I know you will need a new visa to reenter the country. IF your residence permit is still valid then you should ask your new school to transfer everything to them and then I think you might be eligible for a new visa simply to reenter the country. Again, Im not 100% on this as everything changes so quickly and Id advise you to ask your new employer for specifics.
Thank you👍🙂
Hi,
I worked in Putian City as a English teacher. I was 3 months into my contract when I broke my ankle helping another teacher in the apartment. I had to return home to South Africa for an operation in August 2018.
Since then I’ve healed.
I’m thinking of returning to China. What documents do I have to have redone and authenticated.
I am assuming the police clearance will need to be redone.
Hi Liesel – you will likely need to start the entire process over again and will likely need every doc you had originally prepared for your first job. However, I would recommend you ask your new job first as there may be some things they can reuse that we aren’t aware of. Either way, they should have the answers.
Hello there,
I am US citizen which meets one of the requirements but i am not born in USA. I have Master’s degree from USA as well. Does it affect my chances of getting Z visa?
If you have a US passport then you should be fine.
Do i need a job offer letter from a school to apply for Z visa or i can apply for visa without any job offer letter.
Yes, you need an offer letter.
Hi, I am Polish and I have British citizenship (but no passport). I am working on Z visa in china for two and a half year. My visa expires in December. Will I have a problem with visa renewal due to the new regulations? Thank You for the advice.
Joanna
Hi Joanna – I’m not sure, sorry – this is something you should ask your employer as they will have a better understanding of your situation.
Hello Quincy
I’m from Istanbul. I have read your replies and it has been very helpful and informative.
I have bachelor degree in English language teaching from Turkey with an honor degree. I am Turkish but l look like an American. I have -American-Like Accent.
Do I still need Tefl to work in China or Vietnam?
Do schools in China provide you with V visa without agency even if you were a non-native ?Is it safe this way? I heard they give people another job position as an art teacher and make you work like an english teacher? Is this safe ? School provides you V visa directly and you work there under 12 months contract?
I wanna work there in official way thats why I asked.
In vietnam they give V visa for non-natives I guess.
Thanks in advance…
Hi Stevie – if your passport is Turkish then you will have a hard time getting a Z visa, even for an art teacher, etc. Regardless, it is always a risk to take a non-Z visa or a job that misrepresents what you will actually be doing and I’d advise against it.
Hello Quincy,
Is it possible to land a job in teaching ESL if I have a passport from Australia but i have a 3-year BA from Germany? Must the degree come from an english-speaking university? Is there any disadvantage in having a degree from a non-native-English speaking country (e.g Germany) for landing a teaching job in china?
Thanks in advance
Hi Max – sorry for the belated reply – I don’t think there is any disadvantage here as most of the requirements are focused on your nationality, not where you earned your degree. I can’t be more specific but you can always message a few recruiters to confirm – good luck!
hi Quincy,
if I get my bachelors degree online will that qualify for the z visa to work in china as a ESL teacher?
I believe that should be ok depending on the school – is it fully accredited?
Hi Quincy,
Currently I have a work permit, as an international salesman in China. I have some teaching offers, but I was wondering if it is possible to change the occupation title in work permit or not! Is it possible to change the occupation field after two years working in China?
Hi Maz – the better question is what the teaching offers require – I’d start by asking them if this is necessary as they should be able to tell you quite easily.
Hi Quincy,
Thanks for taking the time and answering these questions, it has been very helpful reading them. I have a Greek passport and a 4 year BA on early childhood education from Greece. I have been working in the U.K for over 6 years with my BA and a U.K QTS number and I am fluent in English. Do you think that I would be able to find a school teaching job in China considering that I have UK teaching experience and now being a permant U.K resident without having a British passport?
Hi Ilda – this is hard to answer as I just don’t know – have you tried contacting some employers to see what they say? It’s a very unique situation and while you’re clearly fluent, I’m not sure how your Greek passport would impact job prospects – sorry!
Hi, I am from the UK and my university did not issue transcripts when I graduated in the late 80s. I have an official letter (notarized and apostilled) from them stating this. Would lack of transcripts stop my application for a Z visa? I am 55 as well, am I too old to get a visa?
You only need a copy of your degree, not transcripts. Also, regarding your age, I believe the retirement age is 60 or 62 so you should be able to get a visa but it might be a bit harder.
Hello. I have been accepted to teach at a school in Beijing. I had my medical today in London, but my ECG result came back as abnormal, much to my shock, as I never knew I had anything wrong at all with my heart. Will this stop me getting a work permit? I am really stressing about it stopping my chances of getting my dream job and career move.
Hi Paul – what does your doctor say? The health form should have space for the doctor to write notes – if he is unconcerned then you can ask him to elaborate on the test results on the form.
Hi, my name is Ayanda Ngcobo from South Africa. My problem is I don’t have a bachelor’s degree(3yrs) but what I have is a Bachelor of Technology(4yrs) which is basically the same thing(equivalent) here in South Africa as they are both at NFQ level 7. However, seems as if only South African are aware of this information. Thus, is it possible for me to get a job in China with such qualification. Oh yah, I also have TEFL Certificate (120 hours). Thanks for your help…
If you meet the other requirements then NFQ 7 should be fine – it’s the equivalent of a bachelor’s degree and plenty of South Africans get hired in China with that – good luck!
If i have Graduate degree from Virginia University and i live in New Jersey then do i need to authenticate the degree in Virginia or in New York?
Also if i have bachelor’s from India do i need to authenticate that also or just degree from USA needs to be authenticated for Chineses Visa.
Our understanding is that the US materials can be authenticated anywhere in the US and you will need to include both the US and Indian degrees.
Should I give up on trying to gain a Z-Visa? I’m working a Bachelor’s degree and a TEFL course but I have a misdemeanor conviction on my record.
If it shows up on your record then it will be difficult but we’d still recommend you ask schools/recruiters as some cities/schools still might be able to hire you.
Hi, Smith. Can you tell me if it is possible to get an ESL job in china
after getting TEFL-certified there on a tourist visa. I have a Nigerian passport and a 2 years Teaching experience.
It might be possible but it won’t be legal unless you have a work permit and residence permit.
Hello Quincy
I was on holidays in Australia when Covid hit. I could not get back to my job in Beijing. The school cancelled everyones working visas, sent us a release letter and packed our belongings in our apartments up and moved into a storage facility which is costing me 4000 Yuan a month so its been so very expensive.
My old school say they would welcome me back, however cannot get a PU Letter due to government restrictions re foreigners?
The problem is – my FEC has been cancelled, all my original certificates and are in China and I only have copies with me here in Australia. The school said the notarised documents were lodged with the FEC.
So I am wanting to return to China asap, I want to work over there however it seems I have to get there first, then they will organize the ZVisa etc once I am inside China.
I would appreciate any help you can give me.
Thank you
Hi Bron – I can’t offer much but it’s not uncommon for people to get M/business visas to enter China now and transfer them to work permits once they arrive. If you need a Z you might have to figure out how to get your original docs from the school?