Work Visa
China
Last updated: December 22, 2025
1 year (renewable)
$140
4-6 weeks
Medium
About this Visa
The Z visa lets you work in China legally. Your Chinese employer sponsors you, and you get permission to work for them. It's the main visa for foreign workers in China. You get to work, live in China, and bring your family. After working for 4 years, you can apply for permanent residence (China's green card). This visa is different from tourist visas because it gives you legal work rights and social security benefits.
Key Benefits
- Work legally in China
- Access to healthcare via social security
- Bring spouse and unmarried children
- Travel in and out of China freely
- Build toward permanent residence
- Access to housing and retirement benefits
- Family can visit on separate visas
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Age: 18-60 years old
- Education: Bachelor's degree minimum (master's preferred)
- Work experience: 2+ years in your field
- Clean background: No serious crimes
- Health: No infectious diseases
- Job match: Qualifications fit the job
- Employer: Must be registered company authorized to hire foreigners
- Salary: Must meet city minimum
- No visa violations: Cannot have overstayed visas in other countries
Financial Requirement
Minimum monthly salary varies by city, typically around 6 times the city's average salary. Example: $7,000-$10,000 USD per month depending on job category and location. Employer will know exact amount for your city.
Documents
- Bachelor's degree or higherOfficial diploma, must be certified and translated to Chinese
- PassportValid for at least 6 months
- Work experience proof2+ years in your field with official letters from employers
- Medical examHealth certificate from authorized hospital (approximately $70-$100)
- Criminal background checkCertificate from your country, must be certified by your embassy
- Recent photoColor, 6 months old, plain white background
- Employment contractSigned with your Chinese employer
- Employer documentsBusiness license and registration papers
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.