Submit an application for a work visa in China (Z-visa)

If you are planning long-term employment in a company or organization in China, you will need a work visa. It is also the right choice for commercial performances and events, such as concerts or theatrical productions. The visa for work purposes is divided into two aforementioned travel purposes in the visa application and is called visa Z. When working in China for a long period, it does not matter whether the company is national or foreign and whether it has an office in China.

A work visa can only be issued for a single entry for a period of 30 days. Upon arrival in China, you are required to register with the local police within 30 days and convert the visa into a residence permit. Then you are allowed to enter and exit multiple times. In many cases, the validity of Z visa is 6 months or a whole year and can be extended on site. Information in the invitation from the employer and the work situation are key factors for the approved duration of stay.

To work in China, besides the invitation, you need to obtain an official work permit from Chinese authorities. Also, an official permit is required for public performances. Documents must be provided when applying for the visa.

If you are going to China for a limited period of time for business activities, for example, to personally negotiate with a Chinese company on behalf of your employer, then, as a rule, it is sufficient to have a Business Visa (M-Visum). Also, for installation work or training with a total duration of up to 180 days, a business visa may be sufficient if your compensation comes from a sending company in your country. However, please note that Chinese authorities usually issue the M visa for a maximum period of 60 days. Apparently, they are trying to prevent the use of a business visa as a substitute for the Z visa. For long-term work contracts in China (from 180 days), a work visa is mandatory. The same applies when a traveler enters into a private work contract with a Chinese company.