Teaching in China: What Visa You Need and How to Get It

If you’re considering teaching in China, the most important document you need is the Z-Class Visa. This is the only legal visa that allows foreigners to work as a teacher in China. Any other type of visa (such as tourist, student, or business) does not permit you to work and may lead to serious legal consequences, including fines and deportation.

💼 What is the Z Visa?

The Z Visa is a work visa issued to foreigners who intend to take up paid employment in China. It’s the first step toward receiving a Residency Permit, which ultimately allows you to live and work in China for the duration of your teaching contract.

📋 Basic Requirements to Qualify for a Z Visa

Before applying, you’ll need to meet the following qualifications:

• Be between 18 and 60 years old — 🇨🇳 According to China’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, this is the official working age range for foreigners. Extensions beyond age 60 are rare but may be granted for senior experts or under special circumstances.
• Hold a Bachelor’s degree — 🎓 Any major is typically accepted.
• Possess a 120-hour TEFL certificate or hold a valid teaching license — May waive the 2-year experience requirement depending on your employer and location.
• Have at least 2 years of teaching experience — ✏️ Unless exempted by having a TEFL or teaching credential.
• Have a clean criminal record — 🕵️‍♀️ A background check is required and must be authenticated, as stated in the official Notice on Foreigners Working in China.
• Be from a native English-speaking country — 🌎 Most schools and local governments prefer candidates from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, or Ireland to meet language and curriculum standards.

📝 Required Documents

To apply for your Z Visa, you’ll need to prepare the following:

• A valid passport (with at least 6 months left and blank visa pages)
• Authenticated copies of your degree, TEFL certificate, or teaching license
• A clean criminal background check
• Several passport-sized photos
• A job offer from a school in China
• A Work Permit Notice issued by your employer

Your employer in China will handle most of the internal paperwork, but you must provide the correct and complete documentation on your end.

🛫 The Application Process (in brief)

Get a Job Offer — You must sign a contract first.

Receive a Work Permit Notice — Your school will apply for this using your documents.

Apply for Your Z Visa — Submit your documents at a Chinese embassy or visa center in your country.

Enter China — Once your Z Visa is issued, you’re free to travel.

Convert Your Visa — Within 30 days of arrival, you must convert your Z Visa into a Residency Permit.

🎯 Final Tips

Never agree to teach on a tourist or business visa 🚫

Use reputable recruiters or licensed schools, and we can connect you with one that’ll assist you through the process.

Double-check visa rules with your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate, as policies change.

A TEFL/TESOL certificate or a valid teaching license can often substitute for experience.

Most employers strongly prefer candidates from approved English-speaking countries.

Age limits are enforced, but there’s some flexibility with proper documentation and employer support.

✅ Pro Tip: Keep scanned and physical copies of all documents throughout the process.

With the right visa and documentation, you’ll be ready to start an exciting teaching journey in China 🇨🇳!