China, with its rich history, diverse culture, and rapid modernization, is a fascinating destination for travelers from around the world. However, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, it’s essential to prepare adequately before your journey. Here are all the work in China tips to help you get ready for your business in China.
1. Secure the Right Visa and Work Permit
- Z Visa (Work Visa): Start by applying for a Z Visa at your nearest Chinese embassy/consulate. You’ll need:
- An original invitation letter from your Chinese employer (with official company stamp).
- A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity, 2 blank pages).
- A completed visa application form and recent passport-sized photo.
- A Foreigner’s Work Permit Notification Letter issued by China’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security (MOHRSS). Your employer must obtain this before you apply.
- Work Permit Conversion: After arriving in China, you have 30 days to convert your Z Visa into a Residence Permit for Work in China at the local Public Security Bureau (PSB). This requires:
- A health certificate from a Chinese-designated hospital (e.g., blood tests, chest X-ray).
- Your employment contract and work permit notification letter.
- Proof of legal housing registration (your landlord or employer must assist).
Read more for short-term business trip and other important information…
Pro Tip: Double-check the latest requirements on the National Immigration Administration (NIA) website (https://en.nia.gov.cn), as policies can shift.
2. Understand Tax and Banking Obligations
- Tax Registration: Foreign workers in China must pay income tax. Your employer will typically handle this, but confirm:
- Whether you qualify as a tax resident (if staying over 183 days/year).
- Required documents for tax filing (passport, work permit, housing rental receipts).
- Bank Account Setup: Open a local bank account (e.g., Bank of China, ICBC) to receive salary and pay bills. Bring:
- Passport, work permit, and employer’s proof of employment.
- A Chinese phone number (get a SIM card first—China Mobile/Unicom stores are everywhere).
- Currency Exchange: China maintains strict currency regulations to manage cross-border financial flows. Individuals and businesses cannot freely transfer foreign funds into or out of the country without proper documentation. All transactions require approval from authorized banks or financial institutions, supported by proof of legitimate purposes such as trade, education, or approved investments. Unauthorized transfers could lead to frozen accounts or legal penalties. Consult your bank or a licensed forex agency before initiating large transfers.
Read more: Handbook For China Tax Policy
3. Prepare Health and Legal Documents
- Medical Check: China mandates a health exam for work permits. Tests include HIV, syphilis, and tuberculosis screening. Book an appointment at a CIHC (China International Travel Healthcare Center) in your home country or immediately after arrival.
- Legalize Your Documents:
- Degree/Professional Certificates: These must be notarized and authenticated by the Chinese embassy in your country.
- Criminal Background Check: Obtain a police clearance certificate (not older than 6 months) and legalize it.
- Vaccinations: While COVID-19 vaccination is no longer mandatory, check if your employer or city requires specific immunizations (e.g., Hepatitis B).
4. Set Up Practical Living Arrangements
- Housing: Most employers assist with housing for those going to work in China, but if you’re on your own:
- Use apps like Lianjia (链家) or Ziroom (自如) to rent apartments. Avoid long-term leases until you’ve seen the property.
- Ensure your rental contract is stamped and includes the landlord’s ID/passport copy for housing registration.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Install a reliable VPN before arriving. VPN helps bypass China’s firewall to access Google, Gmail, and Western social media.
- Learn Basic Mandarin: Apps like HelloChinese or Pleco (for translation) are lifesavers. Focus on phrases for taxis, directions, and emergencies (e.g., “Wǒ yào qù yīyuàn” – “I need to go to the hospital”).
- Payment: Use apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay for daily transactions, but keep some cash for emergencies. Note: Foreign credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are rarely accepted outside major hotels and shopping malls.
5. Navigate Workplace Culture
- Business Etiquette:
- Exchange business cards with both hands and take time to read them.
- Avoid direct confrontation; Chinese colleagues may prefer indirect communication to maintain harmony.
- Work Contracts: Scrutinize your contract for:
- Salary breakdown (pre-tax vs. post-tax).
- Termination clauses and probation periods (max 6 months under Chinese labor law).
- Benefits (housing allowance, flight reimbursements, health insurance).
- Social Insurance: Foreign employees must contribute to China’s social security system (pension, medical, unemployment). Confirm deductions with your HR.
If you are going to work in China, you definitely have to build relationships with the local colleagues. Read more fore more tips: Navigating China’s Workplace Culture: What Foreigners Need to Know (and Avoid)
6. Respect Local Laws
When you work in China, you are expected to adhere to local laws and regulations like other foreigners. This includes avoiding public discussions or actions that could be deemed politically sensitive. Examples of topics to approach with caution include:
- Criticizing Chinese political leaders or government policies.
- Openly debating topics like democracy, freedom of speech, or LGBTQ+ rights, which may conflict with local norms.
Why this matters:
- Public remarks on such issues, even if unintentional, could lead to legal consequences, fines, or deportation.
- Social media posts are subject to Chinese internet laws—what’s acceptable elsewhere may violate local rules.
Practical advice:
- Familiarize yourself with China’s Cybersecurity Law and Public Security Regulations before arrival.
- If unsure whether a topic is appropriate, err on the side of discretion.
Respecting these guidelines ensures a trouble-free experience while engaging with China’s rich culture and society.
7. Connect Locals with Social Media
If you’re going to work in China long-term, diving into local social media platforms isn’t just helpful—it’s practically essential for daily life and connecting with locals. Here’s a no-frills guide to the apps you’ll want on your phone:
(1) 微信 (WeChat) – Your Swiss Army Knife
- What it does: Messaging, payments, ride-hailing, food delivery, and even filing taxes.
- Why you need it:
- Pay for everything from street food to rent via WeChat Pay (link a Chinese bank card or a Mastercard/VISA card which is recently supported).
- Scan QR codes everywhere—menus, posters, even business cards.
(2)抖音 (Douyin) – China’s TikTok
- What it’s for: Short viral videos (dances, cooking hacks, travel vlogs).
- Why try it:
- Use the “Translate Captions” feature to learn trending slang.
- Follow hashtags like #老外在中国 (#ForeignersInChina) for expat-friendly content.
- Watch out: Avoid political or “sensitive” topics in comments or posts.
(3)小红书 (Xiaohongshu) – Instagram Meets Yelp
- What it’s for: Lifestyle tips, restaurant reviews, and shopping guides.
- Why it’s useful:
- Search “外国人在北京” (Foreigners in Beijing) for tailored advice on clinics, grocery stores, or expat-friendly bars.
- Post questions (in English or Chinese) – locals often reply quickly.
- Heads up: Ads blend seamlessly with real posts—look for “Sponsored” tags.
(4)微博 (Weibo) – China’s Twitter
- What it’s for: News, celebrity gossip, and trending topics.
- Why browse it:
- Follow official accounts like @CGTNOfficial for English-language updates.
- Use the “Hot Search” (热搜) tab to see what’s buzzing nationally.
Practical Steps to Get Started:
- Download via Chinese app stores: Apple’s China App Store or Huawei’s AppGallery.
- Real-name verification: Have your passport ready to verify accounts (required for payments).