Chapter 6: China Work Visas

Teaching and professional opportunities in the world's most dynamic economy

Working in China

China offers exciting opportunities for English teachers and professionals seeking to experience one of the world's most dynamic economies. With a high demand for English education and a rich cultural heritage, China provides a unique living and working experience.

The Chinese work visa system is structured and requires proper documentation, but offers competitive salaries, housing benefits, and the chance to immerse yourself in an ancient culture while contributing to its modern development.

Why Work in China?

Competitive Salaries

$1,500-4,000/month plus housing and benefits

Housing Provided

Free accommodation or housing allowance included

Flight Allowance

Annual round-trip airfare reimbursement

Manageable Hours

20-25 teaching hours per week typically

Cultural Experience

Immerse in 5,000 years of history

Low Living Costs

Affordable food, transport, and entertainment

Popular Job Opportunities

English Teacher (K-12)

Teach English in public or private schools. Most common opportunity for foreign workers.

$1,800-3,500/month Bachelor's Degree Required TEFL/TESOL Preferred

University Lecturer

Teach at Chinese universities with better pay and working conditions.

$2,500-4,500/month Master's Degree Preferred Teaching Experience

Corporate Trainer

Train business professionals in English communication and presentation skills.

$2,000-4,000/month Business Experience

IT & Tech Professionals

Software engineers, data scientists for tech companies and startups.

$3,000-8,000/month Technical Skills

China Work Visa Categories

A

Category A

High-level foreign talents (rare, exceptional professionals)

B

Category B

Professionals with bachelor's degree + 2 years experience

C

Category C

Workers filling temporary shortages (short-term)

Basic Requirements for Teaching Jobs

Bachelor's Degree

Any field acceptable (Education preferred)

Native English Speaker or TEFL/TESOL Certified

120-hour certification course

2 Years Work Experience

Any professional experience (teaching experience is a plus)

Clean Criminal Record

Police clearance certificate required

Good Health

Medical examination upon arrival

Application Process

01

Secure Job Offer

Apply through WATECH and receive job offer from Chinese school/company

⏱ 2-4 weeks
02

Document Preparation & Authentication

Gather documents, get them notarized and authenticated by Chinese embassy

⏱ 4-8 weeks
03

Work Permit Application

Employer applies for your work permit notification letter from local government

⏱ 2-4 weeks
04

Z Visa Application

Apply for Z (work) visa at Chinese embassy in your country

⏱ 1 week
05

Arrival & Residence Permit

Enter China, complete medical check, convert Z visa to residence permit

✅ Total: 3-4 months

Living Costs in China (Monthly)

Rent (if not provided) $300-800
Food & Groceries $200-400
Transportation $30-80
Entertainment $100-300

Tier 1 cities (Beijing, Shanghai) are more expensive. Tier 2/3 cities offer lower costs and easier lifestyle.

Tips for Living in China

  • Learn basic Mandarin - extremely helpful
  • Download VPN before arriving (for Gmail, Google, etc.)
  • Set up WeChat and Alipay for payments
  • Join expat communities for support
  • Be open to cultural differences
  • Travel extensively - China is huge and beautiful!

Ready to Teach in China?

WATECH connects qualified teachers with reputable schools across China