Employee Relocation to China

Are you a foreign businessman who wants to relocate employees to China? You are invited to explore this article and find out the key requirements & steps of the process. Plus, with in-depth legal assistance from our Chinese lawyers, you can benefit from a smooth employee relocation process.

How does the employee relocation process to China start?

With the help of an HR team of specialists.

What are the key steps in employee relocation to China?

• obtain the necessary visas and work permits – to work legally in China, employees will need a Z visa and a work permit;
• get health insurance – healthcare in China can be expensive for foreigners, so it is recommended to have health insurance that covers medical care in China;
• register staff with the Public Security Bureau in China, within 24 hours of arrival;
• implement personal data protection as stated by China’s Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL), etc.
• get approvals from Social Security in China before starting the activities.

IMPORTANT: Here are other considerations to bear in mind for employee relocation to China:

• Find housing,
• Arrange transportation,
• Assist with language and cultural training,
• Manage logistics,
• Coordinate with local HR,
• Provide ongoing support for smooth employee relocation.

NOTE: Our clients interested in employee relocation to China can benefit from immediate legal support for all stages involved – visa, residency, logistics, housing, HR services, etc.

Is short-term foreign work possible in China?

Yes, for 90 days, with a short-term work permit and a Z visa (no residence permit needed); longer assignments need a work permit and a work-type residence permit.

Are qualifications and/or professional certificates needed for employee relocation to China?

Yes.

NOTE: These documents will also be solicited:

• Health examination papers,
• Clear criminal record,
• Work permit application, etc.

Is authentication and/or apostille needed for foreign documents?

Yes. Foreign documents must be apostilled (from Apostille Convention states, since 7 November 2023) or consular-legalized (other states), and translated into Chinese.

Who issues the residence permits in China?

• the exit-entry administration of the local Public Security Bureau (under the National Immigration Administration),
• a residence and work permit should be obtained before starting activities in the company as a foreign employee.

What is the validity of a work permit in China? Can it be prolonged?

Generally, a work permit in China is valid for one year, but it can be renewed on request if the foreign employee will continue to work in the company.

Can foreign employees relocate with family members in China?

Yes. Relatives will have to choose the appropriate relocation route/visa/residence permit in China.

Are there any precautions to consider when relocating employees to China?

• it is highly advisable to pay attention to all immigration formalities and work closely with a specialist in the field, such as our Chinese attorney,
• the employee relocation process to China might take time until all arrangements are done,
• make sure you prepare & present all documents and avoid situations where applications can be rejected.

Are you looking for assistance in getting residency in China? Would you like to apply for citizenship in China? Get your information from our local team, including for employee relocation to China. Contact our law firm in China today.