Applying For a China Work Visa Just Got Easier

There are basically four steps that must be taken in order to obtain a China work visa. Getting all of the important paperwork done may not be as easy as it once was due to the aftermath of the Olympic games in Beijing and the impending anniversaries of the flight of the Dalai Lama to India and the massacre in Tiananmen Square. However, even with heightened security and stricter limits on the types of people being allowed to work in China, it is not impossible if one takes the steps in the proper order.

Before an employment (Z) visa will be issued, one must first obtain an Alien Employment License. In order to obtain this, a person must file an Application for Employment Permit for Foreigners, possess a valid passport, have copies of the health certificate issued by the Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Authority, provide copies of a government instrument of ratification, explain the reasons for the employment and provide proof of proper credentials to perform the job.

The second item needed is a Notification of Application for Employment Visa and Residence Permit. In order to get this item, certain pieces of information must be provided by the employer seeking to hire you. These include an employment license, your valid passport with a valid business visa, Application for Residence Qualifications for Working Foreigners in China, duplicate copies of the employer's Industrial and Commercial Business License, a temporary accommodation, Registration of the applicant with police station or hotel where staying.

Third is an Alien Employment Permit. To obtain this document, it is necessary for the employer to provide their Employment License, the Notification of Application for Employment Visa and Residence Permit, Copies of the Labor Contract or certificate of appointment. The Alien Employment Permit is generally good for one year and must be renewed.

The fourth piece of paperwork needed is the Residence Permit. In order to gain this, one must provide a valid passport, an Alien Employment Permit, Certificate of Verification for Physical Examination record for foreigner or overseas Chinese, the Notification of Application for Employment Visa and Residence permit, an interview record of Resident Qualification Application for Foreigners, a Chinese visa or Residence Application Form.

Meeting all of these requirements will allow a person to obtain a valid work and residence permit and make them eligible to work and live in China. The normal period is one year, however, there are other time periods for which a person can be approved. Both of these permits can be renewed before their expiration dates.

The process of obtaining a class z visa to work in China is complicated and requires a great deal of paperwork by both the person seeking permission to work and live in China and the company seeking to employ the person. Failure to complete any step along the way properly can prevent a person getting the needed approval from the Chinese consulate, so care is required at each step to ensure that all information provided is accurate and truthful.