INFOGRAPHIC: How to Apply For a China Work Visa (Z) Step by Step
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Stuck in the complicated mess of the Z-visa application process? Have no fear - the good folks at Dezan Shira & Associates have compiled a straghtforward, step-by-step guide to obtaining your documentation for working legally in China.
The infographic includes timelines, materials needed, and the authorities in charge of different parts of the process. A must-have guide for the reference of new job seekers and seasoned expats alike.
The Red denotes a step your employer completes on your behalf, and the Orange denotes a step you're responsible for.
Check out the full-resolution infographic and text below.
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Step 1 - Apply for Alien Employment License
Authority in Charge
Human Resources and Social Security Bureau
Employee Qualifications
Is of Working Age
Is in Good Health
Has no criminal record
Has the required professional skills and work experience to fulfill the role
Validity
6 months from date of issue
Materials
Company:
Business license, organization code, Articles of Association
Official letter explaining why the company must hire a foreinger
Official letter stating the intention to hire the person in question
Application form
Employee:
Passport
Health certificate
CV in Chinese
Credentials (e.g. copy of academic degree)
Criminal record check
Passport-size photo
Step 2 – Apply for a Work Visa Invitation Letter
Authority In Charge
Municipal Commission of Commerce
Validity
3 months from date of issue
Materials
Application form
Copy of employee passport
Copy of company business license
Alien employment license
Step 3 – Health Check
Validity
6 months from date of issue
The health check mainly tests for mental illness and epidemic diseases such as leprosy, AIDS, venereal disease and tuberculosis; or diseases that may render the employee unable to perform his/her duties.
If the Public Security Bureau cannot ascertain whether a foreign certificate is valid or not, then the employee might be required to repeat the process at an authorized medical institution in China.
A health check form can be obtained from Chinese embassy websites.
Step 4 – Apply For Work Visa
Authority in Charge
Chinese embassy (or MFA office in Hong Kong)
Validity
3 months from date of issue - single entry
Materials
Passport
Application form
Invitation letter (Step 2)
Work license (Step 1)
Step 5 - Apply for Alien Employment Permit
Authority in Charge
Human Resources and Social Security Bureau
Validity
5 years from date of issue, can be extended
Employee Qualifications
Holds an employment license (Step 1)
Has entered China on a Z-visa (Step 4)
Holds a health certificate (Step 3)
Has signed a labor contract
Materials
Application form
Alien employment license (Step 1)
Labor contract
Passport
Health certificate (Step 3)
Passport photos
Step 6 – Apply for Alien Residence Permit
Authority in Charge
Exit-Entry Administration of Local Public Security Bureau
Validity
Generally, 1 year from date of issue
Materials
Application form
Copy of alien employment permit (Step 1)
Company business license
Passport
Health certificate (Step 3)
Passport photos
Accommodation registration form (The employee should register at the police station nearest to his/her residence.)
China Briefing is a subsidiary of Dezan Shira & Associates. Since its establishment in 1992, Dezan Shira & Associates has been guiding foreign clients through South China and the rest of Asia’s complex regulatory environment and assisting them with all aspects of legal, accounting, tax, internal control, HR, payroll and audit matters. As one of the most experienced and longest established practices in South China with over 70 professionals well versed in practical China knowledge, we are your reliable partner for business expansion in this region and beyond.
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