Ever wondered how long it takes to process a work permit in China? How long to process a work permit depends on a variety of factors — most importantly, how soon after you submit the application you get it processed. Officially, you should get your passport or visa stamped within 3 working days of submitting the paperwork at the Labour Bureau. The average processing time is around three weeks, but approvals can take weeks longer than that. I’ve seen cases when they took more than 3 months to come through. This is why it’s best to get your visa as early as possible so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.
How Long To Process Work Permit In China
Since early 80s, China has launched an open-door policy to attract foreign investment and talent. The current fine print for applying for work permit in China is not so tough and streamlined as the one people had to endure years ago when a western university professor earned the nickname of “professor-killer” for rejecting too many applications back in 1999. Millions of expatriate professionals have broken into the mainland’s labor market since.If you’re moving to China to teach English, getting a Z (work) Visa is the first step in your relocation. No matter if your goal is to work in a smaller town or in a big city, you will have to go through the same process. Your timeline for getting a work permit depends entirely on your visa type – X1 or X2 (it’s discussed further down).
Work Permits
Foreign workers are required to have the proper visas and work permits in China, as established by immigration laws. Work permits must be secured for employees, and sponsored by a locally licensed and incorporated entity, which can be a problem for companies just entering the Chinese market. If you have yet to complete the incorporation process you can use Shield GEO to sponsor the employee for the necessary permits.
Most expatriate workers will require a Z visa / work permit.
Your Options
Use your own company
It is possible for companies that have established a Rep (Representative) Office or WFOE (Wholly Foreign Owned Enterprise) in China to arrange Z Visas. It takes around 6 weeks. It is highly recommended to utilise a Chinese Immigration specialist to assist with the application and processing.
Documentation Required (Employer)
Copy of business license, copy of business registration certificate, copy of code certificate, copy of certificate of approval
Documentation required (Employee):
Passport copy, CV, employment contract and educational degree certificates. Health certificate (can be obtained after arrival in China)
The process for obtaining a Z visa is as follows:
- The Employer and the employee sign a local employment contract (labour contract)
- The Employer applies for an Employment License through the relevant trade authorities (4 days)
- The Employer is issued with an Employment License, valid for 6 months, for the employee
- The Employer submits documentation to the regional office of foreign affairs to get the Letter of Z Visa Notification (5 days).
- The Employee applies for the Employment/Work Visa (Z Visa) at the Chinese Consulate in their country of residence. (4 days)
- Within 30 days the Employee must travel to China on the Z Visa. It is a single entry visa.
- Within 15 days of the employee entering China, the employee and The Employer submit an application at the local Labor & Social Security Bureau to apply for the Employment / Work Permit (3 days).
- Once the Employment / Work Permit is approved, and within 30 days after entering China, the
Use the Shield GEO Employer of Record Solution
It takes around 4 to 6 weeks to secure a work permit. Please contact us for a quote on costs.
Documentation required (Employee):
Passport copy, CV, employment contract and educational degree certificates. Health certificate (can be obtained after arrival in China)
The process for obtaining a Z visa is as follows:
- Shield GEO and the employee sign a local employment contract (labour contract)
- Shield GEO applies for an Employment License through the relevant trade authorities (4 days)
- Shield GEO is issued with an Employment License, valid for 6 months, for the employee
- Shield GEO submits documentation to the regional office of foreign affairs to get the Letter of Z Visa Notification (5 days).
- The Employee applies for the Employment/Work Visa (Z Visa) at the Chinese Consulate in their country of residence. (4 days )
- Within 30 days the Employee must travel to China on the Z Visa. It is a single entry visa.
- Within 15 days of the employee entering China, the employee and Shield GEO submit an application at the local Labor & Social Security Bureau to apply for the Employment / Work Permit (3 days).
- Once the Employment / Work Permit is approved, and within 30 days after entering China, the employee will need to apply for the Residence Permit.
Types of visas in China
| Category | Description of Visa |
|---|---|
| D Category Visa | Issued to those who intend to reside in China permanently |
| F Category Visa | Issued to those who intend to go to China for exchanges, visits, study tours and other activities |
| J1 Category Visa | Issued to resident foreign journalists of foreign news organizations stationed in China. The intended duration of stay in China exceeds 180 days. |
| J2 Category Visa | Issued to foreign journalists who intend to go to China for shortterm news coverage. The intended duration of stay in China is no more than 180 days. |
| M Category Visa | Issued to those who intend to go to China for commercial and trade activities. |
| R Category Visa | Issued to those who are highlevel talents or whose skills are urgently needed in China. |
| Z Category Visa | Issued to those who intend to work in China |