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.

TIP: To download and view the full-res image, long-press the image and press "Save to Phone."

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.

To schedule a free consultation on how your business can benefit from the latest regulatory changes in South China and other regions, please contact Mr. Fabian Knopf at 186 8248 2506 or email us at [e-mail] OR [e-mail] to receive our monthly South China Newsletter and other adverts. For further information about our firm, please visit: www.dezshira.com.

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