GUIDE: How to Change Your Work Visa When Switching Jobs in China?
As the hiring season picks up, many foreign professionals are receiving new offers and preparing to start the next chapter in their careers. But with new job opportunities comes a key question: what happens to your current work visa? Don’t worry—this guide provides a detailed explanation of how foreigners can handle work visa changes in China.
Once you’ve received your resignation certificate, your first task is to cancel your existing work permit.
After obtaining your resignation certificate, you must cancel your current work residence permit within 10 calendar days. Upon successful cancellation, you’ll receive a new 30-day (approximately) stay visa.
With the cancellation certificate of your previous work permit in hand, you can apply for a new work permit.
Apply for a New Residence Permit:
Once your new work permit is approved, you must visit the entry-exit bureau to apply for a new work-type residence permit.
Ensure you obtain your resignation certificate after confirming your departure. It’s required for both the cancellation of your old work permit and the application for a new one. Keep the original document properly.
This step must be completed within 10 calendar days of receiving the resignation certificate. Failure to do so may result in a negative immigration record, such as the dreaded “303” note.
If you’re the first foreign hire at your new company, the employer must complete Foreign Expert Bureau registration. This process usually takes 10–15 business days. Companies with ongoing plans to hire foreign professionals should consider completing this step in advance to avoid delays.
You typically have about one month between cancellation and reapplication. Due to the tight timeline, proper planning is crucial. The specifics vary by individual case, so feel free to contact Maggie from our team for tailored support.
