The Z visa is the precondition for legal work in China. Before applying, your employer must obtain the Foreigner Work Permit Notice for you, usually taking 2-4 weeks.
With the notice, apply for the Z visa at a Chinese embassy/consulate with passport, application form, invitation letter, photo and (for some nationals) a medical check report.
Within 30 days of arrival, apply for a work-type residence permit at the local exit-entry administration and collect the work permit from the labour authority. Both are required.
Notes: the Z visa is usually valid 90 days and only for entry; your real legal status is the residence permit issued after arrival. Changing employers requires a new permit; leaving a job requires cancellation.
FAQs: Is the work permit needed during probation? Yes. What for family members? S1 or Q1 visas. Work permits are classed A/B/C, with a faster track for top talent.
The Z visa is the China work visa for foreigners working long-term in China. With it, you may legally work in China.
Its process differs from other visas: not "apply yourself" but "get the permit first, then the visa".
Step one: the Chinese employer applies to the local foreigner work authority for the Foreigner Work Permit Notice - the key step, effectively pre-approval.
Step two: with the permit notice, apply for the Z visa at the Chinese embassy in your home country. The visa is marked "Z".
Step three: within thirty days of entry, apply with the Z visa and work permit to the exit-entry administration for the Work-Type Residence Permit - the real credential for long-term legal work.
Typical documents: valid passport, application form, photo, permit notice, highest-degree certificate, work experience proof, police clearance, medical examination.
Police clearance: obtained in the country of previous residence, translated and notarised - time-consuming, so start early.
Medical check: China requires one for those working over a year; do it at a designated hospital at home or at the International Travel Healthcare Centre after entry.
Family: your spouse and minor children can apply for S1 visas and later residence permits.
Costs: the Z visa fee slightly exceeds tourist visas; with medical and notarisation, budget ahead.
Timeline: from work permit to visa, 1-3 months if all goes well. Renewing or changing jobs needs early preparation.
Special notes: both the Z visa and residence permit have expiry; the employer helps extend. After resignation, the permit is cancelled, leaving about ten days to exit or convert status.
The Z visa means not just "legal work" but China welcome to international talent. Prepare materials, follow the process, and start your China career.
