• What are the basic needs to teach in a foreign country?
• What are the required qualifications to teach English?
• Is a university degree compulsory for teaching English?
• Are these conditions mandatory or are can exceptions be made?
• Must I speak Chinese to teach English?
• My English is fluent but I’m not a native speaker. Can I still apply?
• Does it pose a problem if I speak with a foreign accent?
• As a Chinese resident, can I still apply?
• When should I apply for a teaching position?
• Can I apply if I have no teaching experience?
• Is it an issue if I’ve never travelled abroad?

What are the basic needs to teach in a foreign country?

The basic needs to teach in a foreign country depends on the country and the subject. To teach English, you should hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline completed by an ESL program (e.g. a TEFL or TESOL certificate). There are two options:

• If you hold a BA or BSc degree and a license to teach English in your home country, you automatically qualify for positions in China as a certified/licensed teacher on specific subjects (from Kindergarten to Grade 12);
• Should you hold a teaching license and a post graduate degree, leadership and administrative positions can be assigned, including certified teacher and/or ESL instructor positions.

What are the required qualifications to each English?

The Chinese government has recently passed a law requiring foreign employees to have at least two years’ professional experience after graduation. As a foreigner, you will be eligible for a Z working visa if you are between the ages of 22 and 55. This holds for all jobs in China.

If you come from an English-speaking country, you will need to comply with specific rules and regulations. In other words, you no longer need a minimum of two years’ experience but must hold a bachelor’s degree and a 100-hour TEFL certification. However, many provincial governments now demand a 120-hour certification and it’s well worth the effort of adding those 20 extra hours if you can.

We have been informed by our client schools, mostly in Beijing and Shanghai, that some local authorities are refusing TEFL certificates with an “on-line” stamp on them. It’s hence in your interest to make sure your certificate does not mention this, either by following extra traditional classes or ensuring your certificate does not hold this “on-line” stamp.

For further details, please visit our webpage: www.english-teachers-china.com/work-permit-criteria

Is a university degree compulsory to teach English?

First-tier cities practically always require English teachers to hold a bachelor’s degree or above. In smaller cities, it’s not always compulsory.

Are these conditions compulsory or can exceptions be made?

In China, it’s the provincial immigration administration that delivers work permits. The conditions requested are compulsory save some rare exceptions.

Must I speak Chinese to teach English?

This is not compulsory, but it can be useful for you to start learning Mandarin, for example. There are many options in China: on-line classes, private tutors and group learning. We can assist you in selecting the best suited language course for you.

My English is fluent but I’m not a native speaker. Can I still apply?

Naturally. If you are fluent in English and meet job requirements, please feel free to apply. Note that most schools require a professional command of the English language. Moreover, for non-native English speakers, a two-year professional experience is required following your graduation. In other words, you should have completed your bachelor’s degree at least two years before applying for a work visa.

Does it pose a problem if I speak with a foreign accent?

Your future employer prefers teachers having a traditional command of the English language with standard pronunciation and diction akin to BBC, CBS or SKY news presenters. Should you have a foreign accent, speak slowly and clearly.

As a Chinese resident, can I still apply?

It all depends which type of visa you currently hold. If it’s a Z visa and your resident permit is valid, the school employing you may resolve the issue. However, should this fail, you will need to leave China and apply for a new Z visa (from Hong-Kong, for instance).

When should I apply for a teaching position?

You may apply whenever you want. We recruit all the year round. Please just indicate when you are available on the application form.

Can I apply if I have no teaching experience?

Of course. Many countries require no prior teaching experience as a TEFL course is meant to prepare you for this. In fact, many English teachers in China have never taught beforehand.

Is it an issue if I’ve never travelled abroad?

No way. We’ll help you every step of the way. So, don’t worry!

• Will English Teachers China charge me for its placement service?
• What type of support and assistance can I expect?
• Can I apply with a friend or partner?
• My cover letter is ready: whom should I address it to?
• How exactly does the overall process work?
• Will English Teachers China apply for jobs on my behalf or do I have to do this separately?
• Should I apply for each job separately?
• Once my application is submitted, is a job interview always assured?
• How long should I wait before I’m contacted?
• What initial steps should I take for an interview?
• What are the interview styles and formats for teaching jobs?
• Will my travel expenses for an interview be covered by English Teachers China or the hiring school?
• How soon can I apply?
• What’s the deadline for applications?

Will English Teachers China charge me for its placement service?

No. We are fully committed to provide a free service to teachers. Hence, you will never be charged as we get our fees from the schools hiring you. You should also know that such fees will not affect your monthly pay. In fact, teachers receive a higher pay going through our services than if they had applied directly to a school.

What type of support and assistance can I expect?

We’ll give you full support and assistance,from the time of your approved application till your first week on the job. There on, a support group will always be of assistance on your request.

Can I apply with a friend or partner?

YES. Bear in mind though that a placement for a couple can never be guaranteed. We recommend you inform our English Teachers China Placement Coordinator that you wish to work as a couple or that you are applying for positions with a friend.

My cover letter is ready: to whom should I address it?

For your first application, you can simply use the standard format on our website. Should we need a more formal letter from you, we’ll let you know.

How exactly does the overall process work?

Simply click on our website’s “Apply” button. Your job application will then be reviewed by one of our Placement Coordinators. The latter will inform you, within ten working days, whether your application has been approved or not. Once approved, you’ll rapidly be invited for a first interview.

Will English Teachers China apply for jobs on my behalf or do I have to do this separately?

For a speedy process, we request that all applications are made via our website. Other application modes will be rejected.

Should I apply for each job separately?

NO. Your application covers all potential teachers’ jobs. After analyzing your profile, English Teachers China will search for the best opportunities in its network of schools in China. Once a match is found, you’ll be contacted for a first interview with your future employer. To put it simply, once you’ve completed your application, we take charge of the job search.

Once my application submitted, am I assured of an interview?

Only after approval are selected applicants invited for an interview.

How long should I wait before I’m contacted?

As we receive numerous applications, it can take from one to two weeks for our Placement Consultants to review your personal data. If your application is approved, they will contact you within four working days.

What initial steps should I take for an interview?

Once a candidate’s application is approved, we hold a pre-screening phone interview with you to obtain further information on your experience, know-how and eventual preferences.

What are the interview styles and formats for teaching jobs?

After completing the pre-screening phase, you’ll be invited for an interview with the school. Such interviews may vary depending on the school’s choice: either via a Skype conversation or an in-person interview within the school’s premises.

Will my travel expenses for an interview be covered by English Teachers China or by the hiring school?

If invited for an interview at the school’s location, you are requested to cover your own travel expenses. Some schools will cover such expenses and will inform you of this in advance. You should, however, know that the chances of being employed following an in-person interview are high.

How soon can I apply?

You can submit your application whenever you wish. Applications are approved by our team and we will then start a search for you following our pre-screening procedure. It also depends on the requests we receive from schools, but this shouldn’t worry you as we will keep you in the loop throughout the application process: interview, placement, visa procedures and welcome on arrival.

What’s the deadline for applications?

There is no time limit for applications as we recruit all year. You can indicate your availability when applying for a first teaching job but must know that it can take up to 4 months to obtain a Z working visa. Hence, you should plan your arrival at least four months in advance.

• Would I work on a full or part-time basis and for how many hours per week?
• In what sort of school would I work in?
• What is the normal duration of a contract?
• Can I teach for less than a year in China?
• Can I break my contract?
• What happens if I want to quit or go back home?
• What and where are the best teaching jobs in China?
• Can I work privately outside my official working hours?
• What other duties will I have besides teaching English?
• When will I know in which city and school I will be working in and following what schedule?
• What’s the average number of students in a class?
• Is there a specific dress code required?
• Do I get some help while teaching and do I need an interpreter?
• How do I prepare Lesson Plans?
• Will I be required to work in different locations?
• Will I receive compensation for sick leave?
• Do I get days of rest over week-ends?
• Can you give me some details on national holidays and vacations?

Would I work on a full or part-time basis and for how many hours per week?

You are normally required to work from 16 to 25 hours per week. Some of your time will also be spent on lesson planning and various administrative duties. This will largely depend on your qualifications and contract. For instance, teachers without degrees spend 25 hours teaching and 15 hours on miscellaneous activities in pre-schools. Hence, depending on the situation, it’s all to be treated on a case-by-case basis.

In what sort of school would I work in?

Our recruitment so far has covered primary and secondary education schools as well universities and private companies. Should you have a specific preference (location, type of school, climate, etc.) let us know when filling-in your application form.

What is the normal duration of a contract?

Contracts to teach English in China are normally for a one-year duration. We can negotiate contracts for a shorter period (6 months) but such requests are rare. Others prefer to stay and teach for several years. Others still, choose short-term teaching jobs during the summer months, normally from late June till early September. More generally, work permits in China are issued for one-year contracts.

Can I teach for less than one year in China?

As work permits in China are normally issued for one-year contracts or more, the schools we work with require a 12 months commitment. In this case, we do not select teachers for less than one year.

Can I break my contract?

All contracts can be broken. However, you must be aware that, on signing a contract with a school, you commit yourself to both its administration and its pupils. Naturally, unplanned circumstances may occur. It is then your responsibility to negotiate end-of-contract clauses to the best of your ability. Certain clauses, such as benefits and reimbursable travel expenses, will have to be negotiated amiably between the school and the teacher.

What happens if I want to quit or go back home?

Most contracts, accepted by the parties concerned, are for a duration of one to two years. Should you find your work environment and personal situation is not what you expected, you may always resign. You should, nonetheless, be aware that most contracts contain a clause where it is stated that there is a minimum notice period you must respect (usually from 30 to 90 days).

Teachers generally adapt very well to their new environment. However, if you’re having serious difficulties with your school, we are here to assist you. Feel free to contact yourPlacement Consultant at English Teachers China who will be happy to help you and discuss matters with your school and/or find you a position in another school.

What and where are the best teaching jobs in China?

It depends on what you are trying to achieve and what your priorities are. Is it to improve your career and get extra pay or to spend your time discovering a new country? We can assist you in finding the most suitable position meeting your needs. Just have an open and sincere conversation with our consultants who will help you as far as they can.

Can I work privately outside of my official working hours?

Yes, it’s possible. You should negotiate such possibilities with the school employing you.

What other duties will I have besides teaching English?

It’s now customary for teachers to do more than just teach English. The isolation of the country in the near past, has created a form of fascination for the foreigner, especially in the provinces. This means that, for a local school, private language institutes or training center, a foreign teacher should engage into some public relations work. To illustrate, take part in local festivities, mingle with the population and share his/her experience as a teacher. It will also entail carrying out English level tests. Such tests are written tests where, through a series of questions, a teacher can evaluate an individual’s knowledge of the English language.Finally, s/he will also be asked to take part in official school promotions where parents of potential school children assist to school “demos” to see what the lessons are like. Such a “demo”, for example, would be a regular class with parents watching how it’s conducted. If they are satisfied by what they see, they often register their child/children at the school.

When will I know in which city and school I will be employed in and following what schedule?

Available positions and their corresponding locationsare discussed during interviews.

What’s the average number of students in a classroom?

This will vary depending on the type of school. Private schools limit the number of students to 12 per class while public schools can have as many as 50 students per class. We suggest you enquire how many students attend classes during interviews and before signing your contract. This is important because controlling 50 students in a classroom requires some experience and can lead to exhaustion. If you are not used to manage such classes, we recommend you select a school where the number of students per class is limited. In any case, most of our clients are private schools.

Is there a specific dress code required?

Teachers are expected to adopt a professional dress code. Tattoos, for example, should not be visibleeven with short-sleeved shirts. Facial piercings are unacceptable and must be removed. This applies for Skype interviews as well.

Do I get some help while teaching and do I need an interpreter?

In most schools, a Teaching Assistant will be present in each class. S/he is not there to be your interpreter but to help you control the class, maintain discipline, manage school and office supplies. S/he may, on rare occasions, act as an interpreter to clarify students’ queries and improve their understanding and learning. All in all, you should keep in mind that a Training Assistant is there to help you in all matters pertaining to the school and to ensure your lessons are conducted as smoothly as possible. So, it’s in your interest to collaborate with an Assistant to the fullest.

How do I prepare Lesson Plans?

You will probably be offered a training schedule on your arrival to the school with details of the curriculum you are expected to follow. This will be the basis for you to prepare your Lesson Plan(s). You should, however, be familiar with Lesson Plans if you followed a CELTA, TEFL or TESOL course. In short, a Lesson Plan is a detailed schedule of the lessons you have prepared for your class. In other words, introducing yourself to the class and presenting the course, reviewinglessons previously conducted, preparing phonic examples to develop phonemic awareness, giving lexical examples to improve vocabulary, preparing simple examples for effective grammar instruction, etc.

Will I be required to work in different locations?

It will depend on your contract. Many schools will expect you to teach in different locations especially in rural areas where English teachers are scarce.

Will I receive compensation for sick leave?

It will depend on your contract and where you are working as cities in China have different rules concerning sick leave. Should you fall sick and are unable to work, you will need to inform your employer with a medical certificate. As for sick leave compensation, you will normally receive from 60 to 100 per cent of your salary (depending on contractual terms).

Do I get days of rest over week-ends?

You will have two consecutive days of rest during the week. However, as Saturdays and Sundays are the busiest days in private English training schools, which is not the case in public schools or pre-schools, you’ll be expected to work on both days of the week-end. You will, however, have the benefit of having two days off during the week.

Can you give me some details on national holidays and vacations?

Here again, the vacation period will depend on your contract but, in general, employers provide from 10 to 20 paid vacation days per year. Additionally, most school employers observe 11 Chinese national holidays:

• New Year’s Day: 1 day
• Chinese New Year: 3 days
• Qing Ming Festival: 1 day
• Labor Day: 1 day
• Dragon Boat Festival: 1 day
• Mid-Autumn Festival: 1 day
• National Day: 3 days

• Will my salary cover living costs?
• What’s the average starting salary in China?
• How soon are salaries paid?
• Is there a paid-time-off policy?
• Are there any bonuses after contract completion?
• What benefits can I receive?
• Are local taxes deducted from salaries?
• Are there any further tax deductions?

Will my salary cover living costs?

Your salary, paid in local currency, is well above the national average. Your living standard will depend on your spending habits. Your salary level will let you save some money after paying off student loans and enjoying a good social life (local travels, dining out several times a week, cultural outings, etc.). Moreover, you can always share an apartment flat with other teachers to save on rent and prefer Chinese restaurants to Western cuisine which is far more expensive. In all cases, it’s worth while checking on the general cost of living in China before your departure to get a better picture.

What’s the average starting salary in China?

Average salaries in China differ depending on the city, living costs and the number of hours worked. The average salary of an ESL teacher ranges from 11,000 to 18,000 renminbi per month in Beijing or Shanghai. In rural areas, salaries are lower ranging from 7,000 to 10,000 renminbi per month.If you work extra hours or earn some money as a part-time tutor, your monthly package could rise to over 25,000 renminbi.

How soon are salaries paid?

Salaries are paid in renminbi on a monthly basis. You will receive your first salary within 4 to 7 weeks after starting your contract. Some schools pay salaries on the 25th of the following month, others in the first week of the following month.

Is there a paid-time-off policy?

ESL teachers receive 10 to 20 paid vacation days per year. Additionally, most schools observe 11 Chinese national holidays:

• New Year’s Day: 1 day
• Chinese New Year: 3 days
• Qing Ming Festival: 1 day
• Labor Day: 1 day
• Dragon Boat Festival: 1 day
• Mid-Autumn Festival: 1 day
• National Day: 3 days

Are there any bonuses after contract completion?

YES. This is usually the case. ESL teachers’ contracts normally include end-of-contract bonuses covering attendance bonuses, retention bonuses and other cash incentives such as the reimbursement of air-tickets.

What benefits can I receive?

You will receive some benefits on top of your monthly salary. Here again, it will depend on your contract. You will generally be entitled to some of the following benefits:

• Reimbursement of a return-trip airfare;
• Paid national holidays;
• An accommodation allowance;
• Paid overtime at an increased rate;
• Health and insurance benefits;
• A relocation and transport allowance;
• Family benefits (flight, accommodation, health insurance)
• End-of-contract bonus.

Are local taxes deducted from salaries?

Yes. Income tax is paid monthly and deducted from your gross monthly earnings by your employer.
Foreign nationals residing in China for over one year must pay income tax for all China-sourced income, received from foreign or national employersand from earnings received during temporary absences out of the country. In the case of ESL teachers, you should not worry as the school employing you will manage all tax matters for you.

Are there any further tax deductions?

Foreign nationals working in China are entitled to a standard tax deduction of 4,800 renminbi. Other allowances can also be deducted, including social security payments for foreigners. However, rules and regulations on matters of social security are in the process of being changed. We will keep you informed if it affects ESL teachers directly.

• Do I have to pay for my air-ticket?
• Will I be met at the airport?
• Is free accommodation offered at schools?
• Do I have to share a flat with other teachers?
• Does English Teachers China provide and/or help finding accommodation?
• What’s the cost of a rental in China?

Do I have to pay for my air-ticket?

Teachers will have to cover the costs of air travel to China. Most schools will, however, reimburse these costs either during or at the end of your contract. You should negotiate this before signing your contract. You should also know that, in case a school does not reimburse air travel costs, it will offer you other benefits to compensate for the expense.

Will I be met at the airport?

A member of the school staff will normally welcome you at your arrival at the airport. If it’s not the case, English Teachers China,or one of your team members, will assist you upon arrival and arrange for your transport to your accommodation.

Is free accommodation offered at schools?

It will depend on the school. Free housing can be arranged in rural areas while this is not the case in larger cities. The school will nonetheless ensure that you find decent accommodation matching your salary scale and within walking distance from the school.

Do I have to share a flat with other teachers?

Shared accommodation is sometimes provided by schools, to be shared with other teachers. You will then share common areas such as the kitchen, living room, bathroom and laundry facilities but have your own private room. Our placement manager will cover accommodation issues with you before proposing an EFL teacher position.

Does English Teachers China provide and/or help finding accommodation?

English Teachers China does not provide housing for teachers because, even if housing is a major concern for new teachers, we have found that they prefer choosing their own living conditions. If you prefer to live alone, you are free to do so and, if you prefer to save some money and share a flat, you are free to do so as well. Another advantage is that you can then choose the part of town or city district that you like. Come what may, during your on-boarding session, you’ll be informed of the housing situation and what to look for. Moreover, we’ll introduce you to English speaking agents who will assist you in your search.

What’s the cost of a rental in China?

Logically, rental costs vary depending on where you choose to live. Nearly 50% of our client schools offer teachers a housing allowance; the other half, either offer or rent a western-style apartment for EFL teachers. Now, if you receive a housing allowance, you may want to stay in a hotel for a short while and search for an apartment. Don’t rush things and make sure you choose the right place, as you need to be comfortable for the overall duration of your stay. In larger cities like Beijing, a small one-bedroomapartment will cost you 4,000 renminbi per month. Outside major cities, you can find an 80 sq. meterrental for half that cost, approximately 2,000 renminbi per month.

Most apartments for rent are modern and fully furnished with air-conditioning. Make sure though that a laundry washing machine is included and that the bed is comfortable as mattresses are often too firm. Moreover, we recommend you carry a minimum of $1,000 US dollars with you to cover expenses before receiving your first pay. If you decide to rent an apartment, you will need more cash as you’re expected to pay three months’ rent in advance with a one-month deposit. Schools hiring ESL teachers can offer you an advance to cover such costs, which will be deducted from your first monthly salary.

• Do I need medicover before I leave?
• Does English Teachers China offer any insurance cover?
• Do I need amedical check-up before leaving?
• Are there mandatory vaccinations before arriving in China?
• Are medical facilities easily accessible?
• How easily can I find prescription drugs?

Do I need medicover before I leave?

When traveling and living abroad, it’s always wiser to arrange for a private health insurance plan. We suggest you arrange for a medicover plan for the duration of your stay. Health benefits are sometimes included in EFL teaching contracts, but we strongly recommend a private plan.

Does English Teachers China offer any insurance cover?

YES. We work with two insurance companies to provide health insurance to all our teachers: (i) the standard package allows you to use public hospitals and health centers, and you will be reimbursed for most treatments; (ii) the premium package requires you to pay a higher premium, but it will cover the costs of most international medical centers. English Teachers China will pay for your contribution each month and deduct it from your salary. Moreover, may we remind you that medical insurance is mandatory for all EFL teachers. You are free to choose your own insurance plan, but it should match the standard package we propose, and we will request some proof of this.

Do I need a medical check-up before leaving?

To obtain a work visa in China, you need to under go two medical examinations: (i) a check-up in your home country, and (ii) a series of medical examinations in China. You will need official forms completed by your family doctor at home confirming the following examinations were made: ECG, chest X-rays, HIV and syphilis tests. At your arrival in China, you will need to complete a medical examination to secure your work and resident permits. For your information, the fee for a medical examination in China is approximately 800 renminbi.

Are there mandatory vaccinations before arriving in China?

There are no mandatory vaccinations in China. We suggest you discuss this with your family doctor before leaving.

Are medical facilities easily accessible?

Medical facilities throughout main land China are professionally staffed and equipped to respond to all healthcare needs. There are three types of facilities: Western-style hospitals and clinics you will find in major cities, regular clinics in local government hospitals and VIP clinics in local government hospitals. The latter provide all the medical care you may need, including dental care centers. Here are further details:

• Local government hospitals: the registration fee for a basic visit is 10 to 20 renminbi;
• VIP clinics: such clinics often take care of expatriates where the consultation fee with a senior doctor, assisted by an English-speaking nurse, varies from 150 to 300 renminbi;
• Vaccinations: hospitals and clinics do not always deal with immunization vaccines. They are carried-out in local government hospitals;
• Dental care: in major cities, dentists employ English speaking staff, catering for the expatriate community. A professional dental cleaning, in Shanghai for instance, will cost you 600 renminbi.

How easily can I find prescription drugs?

Most medicinal products are available in Chinese pharmacies, recognizable by their distinctive green cross signs displayed on the outside of buildings. English speaking pharmacists are few and far between, even in larger cities. Thus, to avoid misunderstandings, jot down the technical name of the drug instead of its brand name; for example, Ibuprofen rather than Advil, Acetaminophen in place of Tylenol. In most cases, you will need a prescription from a licensed Chinese doctor although some anti-biotics are available directly over-the-counter. All in all, if you head to a licensed pharmacy with a prescription in hand, you’ll find that pharmacies in China are very similar to those in your home country.

• Can English Teachers China assist me in obtaining a visa?
• Who covers the costs of my work visa?
• Can I apply for a visa before securing an EFL teacher position?
• What types of visas are issued in China?
• What is the validity period of a visa?
• Is the visa application process complicated?
• What are the documents needed to apply for a visa?
• How do I obtain a Work Visa? What should I do after contract acceptance?
• Can you assist me for visa applications of my spouse and/or dependent(s)?

Can English Teachers China assist me in obtaining a visa?

YES. We will give you full support to ensure you start teaching legally. Specialized agents from our client schools will also assist you during the visa application process.

Who covers the cost of my work visa?

Teachers usually pay all consular fees when applying for a work visa. They also need to cover the costs for the authentication of documents or other certificates required by the consulate. Concerning work permits, schools will manage this for you and cover its costs.

Can I apply for my visa before securing an EFL teacher position?

NO. The school acts as a sponsor for your visa application and you will hence need to have secured a teaching placement before hand.Once you have accepted such a placement, the school will send you a formal invitation to work in China with the official forms you need to fill-in for your visa application. Once completed, you will make a formal request for a Z Working Visa at the Chinese Consulate of your home country. This may take several weeks but, once you have obtained your visa, you are free to leave. However, the Z visa issued is generally valid for 30 days only, from the date of entry in China. Don’t worry, we’ll assist you with further formalities after your arrival.

What types visas are issued in China?

Chinese visas are broken down into several categories as illustrated below:

• L visa – Tourist visa;
• F visa – Study and cultural exchange visa,
• X visa – Student visa;
• Z visa – Teachers’ visa;
• G visa – Transit visa;
• C visa – Crews of various transport modes;
• J visa – Journalist visa;
• D visa – Permanent resident visa.

What is the validity period of a visa?

On entering China, your visa is valid for 30 days. Exceptionally, some visas are issued for a 60 to 90 days stay.

Is the visa application process complicated?

Not really. You must follow the required procedures and plan well ahead before departing. We can guide you through the entire process.

What are the documents needed to apply for a visa?

When applying for a Chinese visa, you will need the following:

• Your passport valid for another 6 to 12 months;
• The completed application form and a recent passport size photograph;
• If you are not entering China on a Z visa, a planned itinerary during your stay will be required, including copies of tickets for your further travels;
• Receipt of payment for the visa application fee.

How do I obtain a Work Visa? What should I do after contract acceptance?

Once you have signed and submitted your teaching contract, the school will request your “Alien Work Permit” from the Chinese authorities. This document and an invitation letter will be sent directly to your home address. You will then need to submit your application, passport, payment receipt and other required documents to the Chinese Consulate of your home country or let a visa agent handle the paperwork for you.Once this completed, you should obtain your Working Z Visa within one to two weeks. It is valid for 30 days.

After your arrival in China, the school employing you will make a request on your behalf for a Foreign Expert CertificationWork Permit and a Residence Permit.This can last from 2 to 6 weeks during which you are left without your passport. It’s hence a good idea to make several copies of it before hand. Moreover, don’t forget that you are also required to undergo several medical examinations, either in China or in your home country.

Can you assist me with visa applications of my spouse and/or dependent(s)?

Your legal spouse and/or children can be included in the invitation letter addressed to you. It will allow them to enter China on a spousal or a dependent visa. However, keep in mind that tuition fees in Chinese private schools are extremely expensive. You should also know that schools will not cover the costs for your spouse’s and/or children’s visas and resident permits. For the latter, you should do the following:

• Entry visa for your spouse: in your application form, you will need to attach a copy of your spouse’s résumé, a passport size photo and your marriage license;
• Entry visa for dependents: attached to your application form, you will need to send a copy of their passport and a birth or adoption certificate;
• Once in China, you will have to apply for their resident permit.

• I have never lived abroad before. Will I adjust?
• What is the cost of living in China?
• What’s the food like?
• What’s the tax rate in China?
• Can a couple work together as English teachers?
• Can I move to China with my family?
• Can I bring my pet?
• Where do I find grocery shops? Can I find foreign goods?
• Where can I buy travel tickets?
• Where can I meet friends and other expatriates?
• Is there a good cell phone service in China?
• Are Internet connections easily accessible?

I have never lived abroad before. Will I adjust?

You will adapt very quickly. To help and assist you, we invite you to join our social network for teachers. We also organize social and cultural events for you to discover Chinese culture and where and when meet other teachers.

What is the cost of living in China?

The cost of living in China is considerably lower than in the USA or the UK. Naturally, it will vary depending on your location in China. It will be much lower in rural areas than in major cities.

What’s the food like?

Chinese food is as varied as its regions offering different specialties: Cantonese, Shandong, Jiangsu and Sichuan specialties amongst others. These styles of cuisine are distinctive from one another as one style may favor the use of garlic over chili and spices, while another may favor preparing seafood over other meats. Moreover, there are some exotic styles of cuisine ranging from chicken feet to snakes.

Whatever your preference, you can still radically change from traditional cuisine and choose some American fast food restaurant – McDonalds, Burger King, TGIF, Outback Steakhouse, etc. – that canbe found throughout China. Be that as it may, it’s worth mentioning that it is considered inappropriate to use knives on the dining table. Chopsticks are the main utensils that are used to cut and pick up food.

What is the taxation rate in China?

As in other countries, the taxation rate will vary depending on your salary and the province of residence. The taxation rate can vary from 5 to 40%.

Can a couple work together as English teachers?

YES. If you want to work in China with your spouse or partner, you should let us know in advance so that we may find a suitable placement for both of you. None the less, we cannot guarantee this as placements depend on the requirements of the school.

Can I Move to China with my family?

YES. Although not all schools are organized to accommodate an EFL teacher and his/her family, our English Teacher China Placement Consultant will help you identify a school that will welcome you and your family. As an EFL teacher, you will be registered as a foreign employee and will have to arrange for family travel, accommodation, children’s’ schooling and the necessary visas, permits, etc. If you finally decide to move to China with your family, we strongly advise you tostart learning Mandarin as it will help you to quickly integrate with the local community.

Can I bring my pet?

We do not provide any assistanceon animal transportation and suggest you avoid bringing your pet with you. Should you still want to be accompanied by your pet abroad, we recommend you refer this issue to the Chinese Consulate in your home country.

Where can I buy some groceries? Can I find foreign goods in China?

Local grocery stores and fruit marketscan be found in every city. You will also find supermarkets with both local and imported goods. International stores like Carrefour and Tesco will have almost everything you need from clothing and electronics to toiletries and beverages. Online grocers are also very popular and are often the best source for imported foodstuffs as well as alcohol.

Where do I buy travel tickets?

The simplest way of booking your travel is to go directly to an English-speaking counter at the airport or train station. You may also ask a local intermediary to book your travel for you thus obviating long waits. Another possibility is booking all your travel needs over the Internet with China’s top on-line provider for travel: Ctrip.com. As for payments, local credit/debit cards as well as international credit cards (mostly Visa and Mastercard) are accepted. You should also make sure to take your passport with you for the purchase of air or train tickets as well as for hotel check-ins. It’s mandatory in China.

Where can I meet friends and other expatriates?

Just as anywhere else in the world, you will have to make the effort of going out to meet new people. Major Chinese cities generally count large expatriate communities, often meeting in the same places: parks, sports and cultural centers, café terraces, etc. You may also use WECHAT, the largest social network in China, to discover what’s on in your area (e.g. exhibitions, evening events, sports activities, etc.). Lastly, just consider your workplace where your colleagues will certainly introduce you to your new environment and where you are bound to meet new friends.

Is there a good cell phone service in China?

After your arrival in China, our staff will guide you to open a local cell-phone account. Naturally, you may bring your own handset with you as Chinese SIM cards are very cheap. Just make sure your carrier does not lock your handset. Even if your phone is locked, you can call your carrier and ask to unlock it. There are three carriers in China: China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom, using TD-SCDMA, WCDMA, and CDMA2000 networks, respectively.

Is the Internet easily accessible?

Internet censorship in China is among the most extensive in the world due to a wide variety of laws and administrative regulations. More than sixty Internet restrictions have been created by the government, which have been implemented by provincial branches of state-owned ISPs, companies, and organizations. Chinese authorities not only block website content but also monitor the Internet access of individuals. Such measures have attracted the derisive nickname “The Great Firewall of China”. Be that as it may,SKYPEis still accessible, so you won’t have any problem communicating with your friends and family. You may also want to use WECHAT for messaging, group chats, calling a taxi, translations, etc. and WECHAT PAY which is a digital wallet service.

• Can I use my credit card in China?
• Can I open a bank account in China?
• How do I open a bank account in China?
• Can I use traveler’s checks in China?
• What is my daily ATM withdrawal limit?
• I have additional questions; can you help me?

Can I use my credit card in China?

YES. Most major credit cards are accepted in China. You should, however, be aware that only cash payments will be accepted in small towns and the more remote areas of the country. In larger cities, WECHAT PAY, a digital wallet service, is also frequently used for payments in restaurants, major stores and for on-line services.

Can I open a bank account in China?

YES. Your school will assist you in opening a bank account. You will need a valid passport and a minimum deposit of 100 renminbi to open an account with one of the four major banks in China; i.e. Agricultural Bank of China, Bank of China, China Construction Bankand Industrial and Commercial Bank of China.

How do I open a bank account in China?

Our staff will guide you to open your bank account on your arrival in China.

Can I use traveler’s checks in China?

Traveler’s checks can be cashed at major banks in China but are not accepted every where. We suggest you do not adopt this medium of exchange in China.

What is my daily ATM limit for withdrawals?

The daily ATM withdrawal limit is 3,000 renminbi with most international debit or credit cards. Depending on your bank’s authorization, you can make several cash withdrawals per day.

I have additional questions; can you help me?

YES, of course. Once you have completed the application form on our website, one of our consultants will contact you for an initial chat. It’s the best time for you to pose any question requiring clarifications.