Should I work in China if I don’t qualify?
In recent decades, teaching abroad has become more popular. More people than ever want to exploit any opportunity to see the world and explore. So, what better way than to do it and get paid at the same time?
But, should everyone do it? the short answer is no, it’s not for everyone. But what about someone that would like to do it but would not be able to do it legally?, for them, there are too many risks and we would definitely advise against it!
What are the requirements for getting a work visa to teach in China?
In recent years (post 2016), the government of China passed a law to regulate the kinds of people allowed to legally teach English in China. Unfortunately, if you don’t meet this criteria then it would be next to impossible for you to legally obtain a valid work visa.
The eligibility criteria to obtain a legal Z visa
- Must be between 21 and 55 years old
- Must have a 120 hour TEFL (OR have at least 2 years experience teaching)
- Have at least a bachelors degree
- Hold a valid passport from either, the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or South Africa
- Be able to obtain a clean criminal record
However, some schools and training centres do attempt to get around this regulation by hiring illegally and many recruiters are willing to hire illegally too. But you will be vulnerable to deportation, imprisonment and fines. There still are thousands of foreigners in China that do take the risk and you may even encounter them during your stay.
“Many recruiters are happily willing to scam non-native teachers into thinking they can get a legal visa in China, this is not the case”
Often, these same recruiters are famous for docking a portion of the teachers salary per month as an “agency fee”. Illegal teachers are often given either a business or a tourist visa to get around the law.
Why would a training center or school hire me if I am illegal?
Sadly, many schools are still willing to take the risk as there is more demand than supply. Normally, it is easier to get away with it in tier 2 and 3 cities than 1 but by hiring illegally they can cut costs. They would pay lower taxes, not have to sponsor your visa or abide by the laws dictating employee care, many of these employers may even try to shift the blame onto you. You will normally be hired on illegal visas such as a student visa (X visa), tourist visa (L visa) or a business visa (M visa).
Any schools caught and held accountable for your employment would be required to pay 10,000 RMB (1,500 USD).
If I meet all the criteria, should I work in China?
Yes, assuming you work with an ethical recruiter and a school or institution that requires the mandated documents then you will be safe and likely have an incredible experience to remember.
Don’t take the risk!
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According to SAFEA, the Chinese government regulations dictate that only native passport holders may obtain the legal Z Visa permitting them to teach in China. This includes the UK, USA, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.