Foreigners' Work Permit and Residence Permit Summary

Overall Process Flow

Employer applies for the Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit → Employee applies for Z - visa overseas → Obtain the Work Permit after entering China → Apply for the Residence Permit.

Application Criteria

1. Employer Eligibility

• Chinese enterprises must be legally registered and have no serious illegal  records.

• Job  positions should comply with the Classification Criteria for Foreigners  Working in China (Categories A, B, C):

• Category  A (High - end Talents)- Includes scientists, senior executives of  international enterprises, etc., with a green - channel service

• Category   B (Professional Talents) -Requires a bachelor's degree plus 2 years of work experience or special skills (e.g., foreign language teachers).

• Category   C (Ordinary Labor) - Involves restricted positions (such as domestic workers and general laborers, usually not approved).

2. Requirements for Foreign Employees

• Age  Between 18 and 60 years old (can be relaxed for high - end talents).

• Health  Certificate  Must undergo a medical examination at a designated  Chinese hospital.

• Criminal  Record Provide a notarized and authenticated criminal record certificate issued overseas.

Application Procedures

Step 1: Apply for the Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit

Step 2: Foreign Employees Apply for Z - visa with the Notification Letter

Step 3: Obtain the Foreigner's Work Permit after Entering China

Step 4: Apply for the Residence Permit

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can foreign employees directly convert a tourist visa (L Visa) into a work visa?

A: No. They must leave the country and re - apply for a Z - visa

Q: How to renew the work permit?

A:Submit a renewal application 30 days in advance, providing:

• The  latest labor contract.

• Company  tax records (to prove continuous operation)

Q: What should be done after a foreign employee leaves the job?

A:The company must cancel the work permit within 10 days, and the employee must leave the country or change to another visa type within 30 days.