Major FAQ-China English teaching
Visa Information (please read carefully)
All applicants are required to have a valid visa to teach English in China . The process will normally take about 1-2 weeks depending on method of application.
In case your visa expires while you are in China , it can be extended by the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) with the help of your local Chinese school. It is strongly advised that you are constantly aware of the expiration date on your visa. The fine for overstaying is very high - normally RMB500 Yuan/day.
A valid passport is required to enter China . China does not allow entrance if the holder's passport expires in less than six months; returning home with an expired passport is illegal, and may result in a fine as well.
It is a suggested that you have a photo-copy of your passport containing your photo, passport number, along-with your international travel insurance, air-tickets, and traveler's checks' serial numbers to help you recover lost or stolen information.
What kind of visa do I need to volunteer/paid teaching program in China ?
Type of visa depends on your length of stay in China . Normally, there are three types of visa that are applicable to suit your specific condition:
- Tourist "L" visas (If you stay China for 1-3 months)
- Visitor/business "F" visa ( If you stay China for 3-6 months)
- Working "Z" visa (single entry) If you stay China for more than 6 months
Short Term (Less than 3 months): L visa
Teachers/Volunteers intent on staying short term (less than 3 months) in China are advised to apply for a visitor's visa (categorized as L-type): Please download the visa application from the Chinese consulate home page online, apply in person or use some visa agents.
Medium Term (3-6 months): F visa (also known as Business Visa)
If you apply for long term commitment visas (3 - 6 months), we encourage you to apply for the "F"-type visa (business or working visa). This application process may require an invitation letter from the appropriate school in China (IFRE's in-country coordinator will send these documents to you).
Long Term (6-12 months): Z visa (also known as resident visa):
If you are planning to teach for more than 6 months, please apply for Z visa. Our China coordinator will send you an official invitation letter and documents needed for Z visa. When to submit for visa?
Once you get your official invitation letter and visa documents from our coordinator in China , Please submit your visa application form with the letter of invitation for F and Z visa to your nearest Chinese embassy. This visa will usually be valid for ONE month after issue. Once you are in China , do remember to submit your passport to the school authorities for the local residency certificate, which is mandatory for all foreigners.
IFRE DOES NOT guarantee your VISA. In some cases Chinese schools may ask teachers to come into China with a visitor's visa and then they will switch the visa status.
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