Here's Everything You Need (and Need to Know) to Work Legally in China

Arrests and deportation of foreign teachers in China are reportedly on the rise as regulators are cracking down on visa violations and tightening business compliance laws. Law firms report that cases involving foreign teachers have increased rapidly, as much as ten-fold according to some reports, over the past six months. Accompanying this increase in scrutiny are significant upticks in detention for other petty crimes involving foreigners (including public indecency and minor drug violations). 

In order to avoid such a bleak fate, here is everything you need to know about legally working in China.

You can not legally work unless you are on a work visa

It is illegal for your employer to ask you to come to China on a tourist visa or business visa for long-term work. Before you leave your country of origin, you must apply for a temporary work permit that allows you to enter the country for employment. This will then be transitioned into a residency permit by your company once you are in China.

Basic required documents for applying for a work visa

• Proof of two years of work experience in a similar given field. Therefore, ask for reference letters from former employers with 1) your job title (try to match it and the description as closely as possible to your new position); 2) duration of employment; 3) employer signature
• Authenticated Bachelor's degree, meaning that it was stamped by a public notary
• Criminal background check
• Medical clearance

READ: How to Get a Visa and Residency Permit Health Check in Beijing

Be aware of industry-specific requirements

Most reputable teaching jobs in China will additionally require:

1. Bachelor's degree in a relevant field
2. Professional qualification (PGCE for UK applicants or TEFL)
3. Two years of work experience
4. A one year contract
5. Minimum age requirement of 24 or older

Be wary of salary/fee issues

While it may be normal to ask new hires to pay part or all of a visa agent's fee, you should not be asked to make large, upfront payments. If communication is vague, your employer asks for large amounts of money or personal information, it may be a scam. In addition, you should not be asked to work for months without payment (even if you are in a "probation" period, you are legally entitled to compensation). If you see any of these red flags, it may be time to seek other employment opportunities.

Contracts

First off, you should see, review, and sign a contract. While this may seem like an obvious detail, it can be easy to be convinced to start work without seeing these details on paper. In addition, look for clear details in your contract about what happens should you leave your position prior to the end of your contract. Understanding your rights and responsibilities should you need to make a quick exit will save you trouble in the event of unexpected difficulties.

Good luck and happy job hunting!

READ: Government Streamlines Visa Applications for Foreign Talent in China

Image: stuff.co.nz