China · Skilled Worker Visa
Z Visa — Work (Foreigner Work Permit System / Z-Visa + Residence Permit)
Z visa under EELA Art 16 + Implementing Regs 2013 Art 6. Mandatory for any foreigner taking up paid employment with a Ch…
Z visa under EELA Art 16 + Implementing Regs 2013 Art 6. Mandatory for any foreigner taking up paid employment with a Chinese employer (EELA Art 41: 'Foreigners who work in China shall obtain work permits and work-type residence permits in accordance with relevant regulations. No entities or individuals shall employ foreigners who have no work permits or work-type residence permits.'). Two-step process: (1) Chinese employer obtains Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit via the integrated Foreigner Work Permit System (FWPS, 'Foreigner's Work Permit in China' — administered by State…
At a Glance
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Range | 18+ |
| Education Required | bachelor |
| Job Offer Required | Yes |
| Sponsorship Required | Yes |
| Health Insurance Required | No |
Family & Rights
| Right | Details |
|---|---|
| Family Allowed | Yes |
| Spouse Can Work | No |
| Path to Permanent Residency | Yes |
Related Pathways
Cost of Living
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Z Visa — Work (Foreigner Work Permit System / Z-Visa + Residence Permit)?
Z visa under EELA Art 16 + Implementing Regs 2013 Art 6. Mandatory for any foreigner taking up paid employment with a Chinese employer (EELA Art 41: 'Foreigners who work in China shall obtain work permits and work-type residence permits in accordance with relevant regulations. No entities or individuals shall employ foreigners who have no work permits or work-type residence permits.'). Two-step process: (1) Chinese employer obtains Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit via the integrated Foreigner Work Permit System (FWPS, 'Foreigner's Work Permit in China' — administered by State…
Can I bring my family on the Z Visa — Work (Foreigner Work Permit System / Z-Visa + Residence Permit)?
Yes, this pathway allows family members including dependents.
Can the Z Visa — Work (Foreigner Work Permit System / Z-Visa + Residence Permit) lead to permanent residency?
Yes — this pathway can lead to permanent residence, subject to meeting the residence and other conditions. We do not publish a qualifying timeline for this route because we have no official source stating one; check with the relevant authority for the current residence requirement.
Are there alternative pathways to China?
Yes. China offers 11 other immigration pathways. Compare all options on our China country page.
What is the cost of living in China?
Monthly costs for a single person in city center: Beijing: €1,440/mo; Shanghai: €1,550/mo; Shenzhen: €1,271/mo. These include rent, groceries, transport, and utilities.
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Official source
Requirements on this page are based on this official/primary source:
Data last verified: 2026-06-24 · See our methodology
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