When applying for a Foreigner’s Work Permit in China, a range of documents is required. Regardless of the type of work visa, most applications will involve the following materials. And these documents are often the biggest headache for applicants!
These materials are essential to ensure the applicant meets the qualifications and conditions for working in China. Below is a breakdown of the key documents and related requirements:
1. Complete List of Application Documents
You will typically need to submit the following:
- Application Form for Foreigner’s Work Permit
- Proof of Work Experience
- Highest Degree Certificate or Relevant Approval Documents
- Professional Qualification Certificates
- Certificate of No Criminal Record
- Medical Examination Report
- Employment Contract or Assignment Letter (including letters from multinational companies)
- Passport or International Travel Document Information Page
- Recent ID Photo (front-facing, bareheaded, taken within 6 months)
- Foreign Talent Qualification Materials
- Supporting Documents for Accompanying
2. How to Fill Out the Work Permit Application Form
The Work Permit Application Form is generated online after inputting relevant information into the system. The applicant must sign it and the employer must stamp it. Then the original must be scanned and uploaded. There’s no need to download and fill it out manually.
3. Who Issues the Proof of Work Experience
The applicant’s former employers must issue a certificate detailing relevant work experience related to the current position. It should include job titles, employment dates, and projects handled. The document must bear the company seal or responsible person’s signature and include a valid contact number or email. Only scanned originals are accepted.
4. Degree Certification for Overseas Diplomas
Diplomas obtained in Hague Convention countries can undergo Hague Apostille certification. For non-Hague countries, degrees must be authenticated by Chinese embassies/consulates or by the issuing country’s embassy in China or a recognized Chinese academic credential authority. Alternatively, you can apply for certification through the Ministry of Education’s Service Center for Scholarly Exchange.
Lost on How to Prepare Documents for a Work Permit in China
7. Is a Pre-Arrival Medical Exam Mandatory?
Before entry, applicants can submit a health commitment letter instead. After arrival, a verification or a new medical report must be obtained from a certified inspection and quarantine agency in China.
8. Are Relationship Proofs for Accompanying Family Members Required to Be Certified?
Accompanying family includes spouses, children under 18, parents, and parents-in-law (excluding Chinese citizens). Relationship proofs such as marriage certificates (for spouses), birth/adoption certificates (for children), or birth/marriage/notarial certificates (for parents or in-laws) do not need to be certified. Upload scanned originals with corresponding translations.
These are the standard materials and requirements most applicants will face. But keep in mind that document requirements vary based on individual cases and the type of work visa being applied for—there are nearly nine different categories. If you’re unsure which type applies to your situation or have more questions about specific requirements, feel free to contact Maggie for tailored application planning.
