How to find work in China as a foreigner

As an internationally recognized business and manufacturing hub, China continues to attract foreigners from all over the world. Many of the biggest international companies have operations and offices in the country, providing substantial opportunities to foreigners from all over the world.

Whether you’re looking for a new job with a competitive salary or a fresh start, working in China could be the change you’re looking for. In this Pacific Prime article, we discuss how to find work in China as a foreigner.

Finding Expat Jobs in China

China has an abundance of opportunities for foreigners looking to work in the country. While many expats are looking for teaching jobs in China, there are also management, media, IT, and technology jobs in China for foreigners and much more.

There are typically two options when it comes to finding a job in China. The first option involves working for a company from your home country that has a China-based office. The other option is to find a job once you’ve already arrived in China.

Regardless of whether you’re looking for a part-time job or hoping to start on a new long-term career path, here are some things you should know about finding work in China. These suggestions hopefully will help boost your chances of successfully finding a job soon.

Looking for a Job in China from Abroad

Internet job searches are an efficient way to find job opportunities in China. The internet has many job boards focused on overseas and local employment. You can narrow down your search even further by searching for job opportunities in the city of your choice.

Another option is to contact your home country’s embassy or recruitment agencies to inquire about job vacancies in China. There are a number of recruitment agencies in China that specialize in providing foreign job seekers with employment opportunities.

Start by creating a list of companies with a China-based office as well as foreign companies in China. Then send out your CV to the ones you’re interested in. Working for a foreign company based in China can be advantageous since you’ll likely receive what is known as an expatriate package.

Expatriate packages are specially designed to cater to expats who are moving to China for work. They come with numerous advantages such as health insurance, relocation assistance, housing allowance, and salary payment in foreign currency. With that said, being employed by a Chinese company has its perks as well.

You’ll quickly become immersed in the local environment, practice the language regularly, and experience local office life. As an increasing number of foreigners work in China, many local companies have adjusted to foreign requirements and started to offer expat-friendly contracts.

Looking for a Job in China When You’re Already in the Country

Browse through more websites: Those who are already in China can search for work locally. Looking for work via the Internet is just as efficient from within the country. However, you may want to browse local job search websites as well as English websites that cater to expats to see what positions are available in wider markets.

Consider various locations: If you’re willing to move cities, be sure to check out opportunities in other areas as well. While there may be more job opportunities in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and other big cities, there is also more competition.

Consequently, smaller towns are usually on the lookout for expat professionals and offer lower living costs as an incentive. The slower rhythm in small towns promotes better physical and psychological balance by offsetting stressful work with more serene daily routines.

Write a good CV: When applying to jobs locally, make sure your CV meets Chinese standards by focusing on your education, qualifications, and language skills. While applications are accepted in English, you can stand out from the other applicants by submitting your CV in Mandarin if you’re confident.

Develop your social network: Networking is one of the best ways to develop connections and find out about job opportunities, no matter where you are in the world. In China, ‘guanxi’ is essentially a personalized social network that helps with all things business. Take advantage of your situation by attending networking events, conferences, and exhibitions. It’s recommended to carry business cards in both English and Mandarin so potential employers are aware of your area of expertise.

Increase your exposure: Thanks to the partnership of WeChat and LinkedIn in China, you can display your LinkedIn profile on your WeChat profile to increase your exposure. Reach out to your social connections to find out if they know of any job opportunities, or have a 2nd-degree connection who might.

Working as a Foreigner in China

Be aware that you must obtain a Z Visa, or Chinese work visa, to legally work in China. Employment on tourist or business visas is punishable by law and can result in deportation.

Once you’re legally working in China, you’ll be eligible for Chinese social security. Your employer should apply for social security for you within the first month of employment.

Speak to Our Team of Professionals

If you have any questions about your benefits, speak to your employer or consult a professional such as Pacific Prime.

Whether you’re looking to obtain health insurance as an expat in China or for insurance-related advice, we’re here to help. We compare health insurance in China to help you find a suitable plan for your requirements and budget. Contact us today for professional advice or a quote free of charge.

Disclaimer: Pacific Prime solely represents, operates, and manages locally regulated insurance products and services in the territory of PR China. Any references to Pacific Prime Global Company or Group, the international services, insurance products, or otherwise stated written or verbally, is for introduction purposes about our overseas network only as each entity is fully independent.