How to get a work visa to teach English in China?

To get a work visa to teach in China, you must follow a specific legal process and meet the eligibility criteria set by the Chinese government. Here are the complete steps:

1. Meet Eligibility Requirements

To teach legally in China, you typically need:

• A bachelor’s degree (in any field)

• Two years of work experience (post-graduation) – sometimes waived for certain TEFL programs

• A TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certificate (minimum 120 hours)

• A clean criminal record

• Good health (medical check required)

2. Secure a Job Offer

You must first get hired by a licensed Chinese employer (school, university, or language institute). The employer must be authorized to hire foreign teachers.

3. Employer Applies for a Work Permit Notice

Your employer will submit your documents to the Chinese authorities to obtain a Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit.

Required documents usually include:

• Passport copy

• Degree and TEFL certificates

• Reference letters

• Criminal background check

• Medical check form

4. Apply for a Z Visa

With the Notification Letter, you apply for a Z visa (the official Chinese work visa) at the Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country.

You will need:

• Passport

• Z visa application form

• Passport photos

• Notification Letter of Work Permit

• Medical exam form (sometimes needed at this stage)

5. Enter China on the Z Visa

Once approved, you can enter China on the Z visa. This is valid for 30 days initially.

6. Apply for Residence Permit

Within 30 days of arrival, your employer must help you convert your Z visa into a residence permit. This becomes your legal status and work authorization for the duration of your contract (typically 1 year).

Summary:

1. Meet qualifications

2. Get a job offer

3. Employer gets your Work Permit Notification

4. Apply for a Z visa

5. Travel to China

6. Apply for a residence permit after arrival

You must not work on a tourist or business visa in China. Only the Z visa and residence permit legally authorize foreign nationals to teach.