Finding a Job in China for International Students
Based on Chinese regulations, international students holding a valid Residence Permit for Study may engage in part-time work-study or internships off-campus, provided they obtain prior approval from both their university and the local Exit-Entry Administration Bureau.
6 Steps to Work in China While Studying
To work part-time as a student, you do not get a new visa. Instead, you must apply to add an “Internship Annotation” (加注) to your existing Residence Permit.
Eligibility Note: generally, you must have been studying in China for at least one year and hold a Residence Permit with at least 6 months of validity remaining.
- Get University Approval: Contact your university’s International Student Office (ISO). You must obtain their official consent letter. Without this, the police will not process your application.
- Secure Company Documents: The company hiring you must provide an Internship Agreement (contract) and copies of their Business License. These documents must be signed and stamped (official red seal).
- Apply at the Bureau: Take your passport, university consent letter, company documents, and valid Residence Registration Form to the local Exit-Entry Administration Bureau (Public Security Bureau).
- Pay the Fee: The fee is typically 400 RMB (approx. US $56) to update your Residence Permit.
- Wait for Processing: It usually takes 5 to 7 working days to process.
- Receive Your Updated Permit: You will receive your passport back. Your Residence Permit will look the same but will now have a special annotation listed on it (usually on the remarks page), specifying the company name and duration of your work.
Important Rules:
- One Company Only: You are strictly limited to working only for the company listed on your Residence Permit annotation.
- Time Limits: According to 2022 regulations, work-study is generally limited to 8 hours per week during the semester and 16 hours per week during holidays (though specific local rules may vary).
- Payment: You are allowed to receive legitimate payment (stipends/salary) if you hold this internship annotation. Ensure your company pays taxes on your income to keep your record clean.
Where to find jobs: You can find opportunities on websites such as The Beijinger Classifieds, SmartShanghai, LinkedIn, and Wellfound
If you are interested in an internship in China, make sure to read the guide here.