China work visa

From Dream to Reality: China Work Visas Simplified

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Your Six-Step Work Visa Journey

Navigate the China work visa process with confidence through our comprehensive, guided approach.

1. Work Visa Pre-Qualification
VisaHQ’s first step is a thorough pre-qualification assessment to determine your eligibility for a China work visa. Our platform then generates a customized document detailing your qualifications, which you can attach to your resume when applying for jobs. This document demonstrates to potential employers that you have already taken important steps toward obtaining a visa, making you a more attractive candidate.
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2. Free Consultation with an Immigration Specialist
As part of our commitment to guiding you every step of the way, VisaHQ offers a free consultation with a dedicated immigration specialist. During this session, you can discuss your unique circumstances, clarify any questions about visa requirements, and gain a solid understanding of the overall application process. This personalized advice helps you make informed decisions and feel confident about your path forward.
3. Expert-Led Application & Document Preparation
VisaHQ helps you navigate China’s rigorous documentation standards with ease. Our team assists in compiling all necessary documents—including your employment contract, passport, academic degree (with authentication), police clearance certificate, and professional experience verification. We handle authentication and legalization through your country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Chinese Embassy, as well as certified translations where required. With VisaHQ, every document is accurate, complete, and ready for submission.
4. Employer Coordination & Government Submission
Your Chinese employer plays a crucial role in obtaining your Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit, issued by the Chinese government. VisaHQ works directly with your sponsor to ensure their part of the application is filed correctly with the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs (SAFEA) or the appropriate provincial authority. We align your timeline with your employer’s, monitor progress, and ensure your Notification Letter is issued promptly and without delays.
5. Visa Approval & Work Permit Authorization
Once your Notification Letter is approved, VisaHQ helps you apply for the Z visa at the nearest Chinese consulate. We review your full application package, assist with scheduling your appointment, and ensure you are fully prepared for submission. With VisaHQ managing the process, you’ll avoid common mistakes and move confidently toward visa issuance.
6. Arrival Support & Residency Completion
After arriving in China, VisaHQ continues to support you through the final steps. We guide you through the medical exam, police registration, and Work Permit card issuance, and help you convert your Z visa into a Residence Permit, which officially authorizes your long-term stay and employment. Our local knowledge ensures nothing is overlooked, and your transition into life and work in China is smooth and compliant.

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Get personalized assistance throughout your entire visa application process

End-to-End Immigration Support

From strategy to submission—your application, expertly managed.
Our full-service immigration plan offers structured, consultant-guided support for every step of your journey. From the initial strategy session to delivering a complete, signature-ready application, VisaHQ ensures every detail is covered with care and precision.

What’s Included:

Pre-qualification report in PDF format for all work visa types you may be eligible for. You may attach this report to your resume when applying for jobs.
Kickoff consultation with a dedicated Immigration Consultant
Signature-ready application package, fully reviewed by our Immigration Department
Certified document translation, if needed
Comprehensive review of all supporting materials
Application walkthrough and submission prep with your Consultant
All required immigration forms completed on your behalf
Packet printing and secure shipping to the appropriate authority
Real-time support via online chat throughout your process
Guidance and support from our Immigration Department if additional evidence is requested by authorities

Benefits of the Pre-Qualification Document

Attach pre-qualification document to your CV / Resume: Boost your application by providing employers with immediate clarity on your visa eligibility, improving your chances of standing out from the competition.
Pre-qualification report in PDF format for all work visa types you may be eligible for. You may attach this report to your resume when applying for jobs.
Family Visa Options: Discover which visa pathways are available for your family members, ensuring they can accompany you if necessary.
Credited Assessment Fee: If you later decide to apply for your work visa through VisaHQ, the fee you paid for the assessment will be credited towards your case.
Employer Confidence: Provide assurance to potential employers by answering their key questions about your visa process upfront.

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VisaHQ vs. Immigration Lawyer

VisaHQ	Immigration Lawyer
35+ countries with work visa programs are available for pre-qualification	An Immigration attorney would normally specialize in 1 country
Compare your chances of getting all available work visa types to multiple countries and select the easiest path	Immigration attorney would only assist with 1 possible country
Up to 70 different visa types, scenarios, and special programs for each country are analyzed for possible matches	Immigration lawyers would usually specialize in 2-3 most profitable and streamlined schemes they choose to focus on
VisaHQ will present you with a clear path forward, list of specific requirements, filing fees, and processing times	Immigration lawyers would normally avoid the full transparency and bring you along one step at a time after you commit to the process
VisaHQ is fully transparent with all filing fees and service fees upfront	An immigration lawyer would normally charge by the hour and would add various fees along the way
24/7 Support available via chat, phone, or email, regardless of what country you live in	Very few immigration lawyers provide continuing on demand support. Getting in touch may be challenging

Why Choose VisaHQ's Pre-Qualification?

Including this assessment with your resume when applying for international jobs greatly boosts your employability. It shows employers you are proactive and well-informed, easing concerns about the challenges of hiring a foreign candidate. Additionally, it helps employers plan ahead for both costs and timelines.

Visa Types We Support

Tourism & Business

Tourist visa
Business visa

Work & Immigration

Work visa pre-qualification
Immigration pre-qualification
Dependant visa for skilled workers
Family visa
Work visa

Frequently Asked Questions about Work Visa

What type of work permit do I need to work in China as a UK citizen?

As a UK citizen, you will most likely need to apply for a Z visa, which is a work visa for foreigners intending to work in China.
What are the basic requirements for obtaining a work permit for China?

To obtain a work permit, you typically need a valid passport, a job offer from a Chinese employer, and a health certificate. Educational qualifications and a criminal background check may also be required.
How long does it take to process a work permit application for China?

The processing time can vary, but generally, it takes around 3 to 4 weeks to process a work permit application after all required documents have been submitted.
What documents are required for the work permit application?

Required documents usually include a completed application form, your passport, a recent photo, a copy of the employment contract, and any relevant qualifications or credentials.
Do I need a health check before applying for a work permit?

Yes, applicants are typically required to undergo a health check at an authorized medical institution to ensure they are fit for work in China.
Can my family accompany me on a work visa to China?

Yes, your family can accompany you. They may need to apply for a family reunion visa (Q visa) once you have established your residence in China.
What is the role of my employer in the work permit application process?

Your employer in China must provide a job offer, sponsor your application, and may also need to submit additional documents on your behalf to the relevant authorities.
Is it possible to convert a tourist visa to a work permit in China?

No, it is not possible to convert a tourist visa to a work permit while in China. You must leave the country and apply for the work permit from outside China.
How long is a work permit valid for in China?

A work permit is usually valid for 1 to 5 years, depending on the employment contract duration, and may be renewable upon its expiration.
What should I do if my work permit application is denied?

If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision or address the reasons for denial and reapply. It’s advisable to seek assistance from your employer or legal advice for guidance.