Working Visa

What do I need to know about obtaining a visa?

Volunteers:

If you are participating in a volunteer placement you should obtain a tourist visa.

Paid teaching in China :

Your visa type for teaching will depend upon the school that you are placed at and the length of time that you work. After you get your placement, our coordinator will tell you what kind of visa that you will need to apply for. Please note that different schools have varied types of authority to change visas. There is a very complex set of regulations by which the Chinese government grants different authorizations to different schools. We will advise you about what kind of visa to get.

Some teachers will be asked to get a "Z" type (work) visa. In this case the school will provide all necessary official paperwork that you will need to take with you to apply for the visa.

Other teachers will be asked to get a "F" type (business) visa. This is usually used for shorter term assignments. In this case the school will provide all necessary official paperwork that you will need to take with you to apply for the visa.

In a few cases, teachers will be asked to get an “L” type (tourist) visa. In this case the school will arrange to change your tourist visa for the proper visa once you arrive at your placement. If you are asked to get a tourist visa, simply explain that you will be visiting China . You will be asked to show your round trip ticket proving that you will be leaving the country.

In order to arrange for your placement and your visa documentation we will need the following documents from you:

1) a full resume
2) scanned passport page with photo
3) certificate/degree/diploma or transcript showing your highest level of education attained.

You will need to apply for a visa from the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate. Most Chinese consulates will not allow you to send your paperwork for a visa by mail. You, yourself or an agent on your behalf must apply in person for the visa. We recommend that you research in advance where you will need to go and how you will arrange for your visa. One good site to go to is www.embassiesabroad.com for information about your local consulate and the visa requirements.

Important note: China does NOT issue visas at an international airport. Remember that it is the responsibility of volunteers to arrange for their own tickets and visa before leaving the country.