Eligibility Criteria For China Work Permit Category A,B & C

As an experienced specialist who specialises in Chinese work permits, I’m here to walk you through the qualifying requirements for the several types of China work permits – A, B, and C. Navigating the Chinese work visa procedure can be difficult and confusing, but with the correct knowledge and assistance, you can confidently decide which category best suits your qualifications and expertise.

Understanding China’s Work Permit System

In 2017, China implemented a new work permit system that divides foreign workers into three categories: A, B, and C. This categorization is based on a points system that considers pay, education, work experience, Chinese language competency, and age.

The primary goals of this system are:

Recruit top-tier foreign talent to boost China’s economic growth and development.
Streamline the work permit application process.
Ensure the fair treatment and management of international personnel.
Now let’s look at the exact eligibility requirements for each group.

Category A: High-level Talent.

Category A is allocated for high-level experts and professionals who are deemed critical to China’s growth. To be eligible for this category, you must meet one of the following requirements:

High Incoming Earners: If you earn more than 600,000 RMB per year and pay income tax on it, you immediately qualify for Category A.
Internationally Recognised Achievements: If you’ve received renowned international prizes in science, architecture, arts, sports, music, literature, or industrial design, you could be eligible for Category A.
Entrepreneurial Talent: Established entrepreneurs with a proven track record of success and innovation may be eligible for this category.
Governmentally Encouraged Roles: If you have been chosen for a position that the Chinese government has designated as scarce or essential, you may be qualified for Category A.
Individuals selected by China’s Youth Talent Project may qualify for this category.
National Talent Plan: If you were recognised through China’s National Talent Plan, you may be qualified for Category A.

It is vital to highlight that Category A applicants are not restricted by age, education level, or work experience.

Category B: Professional Talent.

Category B includes competent individuals who have met stringent educational and work experience requirements. To be eligible for this category, you must meet one of the following requirements:

Bachelor’s Degree plus Work Experience: If you have a bachelor’s degree and at least two years of full-time job experience in your profession, you may qualify for Category B.
Master’s Degree: If you have a master’s degree from a Chinese university or one of the top 100 universities worldwide, you may be eligible for Category B.
Foreign Language Teachers: If you are a native speaker of the language you teach, have a bachelor’s degree or higher, and have at least two years of full-time teaching experience, you may qualify for Category B. If you major in education, language, or teaching, or if you hold a recognised TEFL certificate, the two-year teaching experience requirement may be removed.
Point-Based System: If you get 60 to 85 points on the work permit scoring system, you may be eligible for Category B. Salary, education, work experience, Chinese language proficiency, and age are all variables considered while calculating points.
In-Demand talents: If you have talents that are urgently required in specialised fields such as integrated circuits, biomedicine, artificial intelligence, or finance, you may be eligible for Category B.

Category C: Other Talent.

Category C is for foreign workers who fit the needs of the domestic labour market while adhering to relevant Chinese legislation and regulations. You may be eligible for Category C if you match any of the following criteria:

Seasonal Employment: If you are entering China for seasonal employment that will last no more than 90 days, you may be qualified for Category C.
Internships: If you are entering China for an internship through a government agreement, you may be eligible for Category C.
Domestic helpers: If you work as a domestic helper for a Category A foreign talent, you may qualify for Category C.
Navigating The Application Process

Now that you’ve learned about the eligibility requirements for each work permit type, you should familiarise yourself with the application process. Here’s a step-by-step instructions:

Obtain a Work Permit Notice: Your employer in China must apply for a Work Permit Notice on your behalf with the local labour department. This process normally takes three to four week

Apply for a Z Visa: Using the Work Permit Notice, you can apply for a Z visa at the Chinese embassy or consulate in your native country.

Enter China: Once your Z visa has been approved, you can enter China.

Medical Exam and Police Registration: Upon arrival in China, you must get a medical examination and register your household with the local police station.

Obtain a Work Permit and Residence Permit: The next step is to apply for your formal work permit and residence permit, which will replace your Z visa and allow you to legally work and live in China for the term of your employment.

Throughout the application process, it is critical that all essential documents are correct, full, and authenticated as needed. These documents can include:

Passport with at least six months’ validity
Completed visa application form and a recent passport.-sized photograph
Official offer letter from your Chinese employer.
Work Permit Notice
Health certificate, if applicable.
No criminal record certificate.
Educational diplomas and work experience certifications.

Key Takeaways

Navigating the China work visa system can be difficult, but knowing the qualifying requirements for each category is the first step towards a successful application. Remember:

Category A is reserved for top-tier experts and professionals who have achieved international recognition or command substantial pay.

Category B includes skilled individuals who meet specified educational and work experience standards or have in-demand talents.

Category C includes foreign workers who suit domestic labour market demands, such as seasonal labourers, interns, and domestic carers.

By identifying which category best fits your skills and expertise, you can shorten your application process and improve your chances of success.

If you have any further questions or concerns concerning the Chinese work permit system or your individual situation, please contact a professional visa agency or your prospective employer in China. With the proper counsel and preparation, you may confidently begin your adventure to work and live in China.