Is a job offer mandatory for a China work visa for Indians?

Yes, a job offer is mandatory for Indians applying for a China work visa. China primarily issues the Z (Work) Visa, which requires a confirmed job offer from a legally registered Chinese employer. The employer must sponsor the application and obtain a Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit on behalf of the applicant. Without a job offer, Indian citizens cannot apply for a China work visa, as self-sponsored or job-search visas are not permitted under Chinese immigration law.

The China Z (Work) Visa requires a valid job offer from a Chinese employer. This visa is issued to foreign nationals, including Indians, who intend to work legally in China. The employer must be authorised to hire foreign workers and must apply for the Work Permit Notice before the visa application can be submitted. Other visa types, such as tourist (L) or business (M) visas, do not allow employment and cannot be converted into work visas within China.

No, Indians cannot apply for a China work visa without a job offer. Chinese immigration rules strictly require foreign workers to have employer sponsorship before entering the country for employment. Unlike some countries, China does not offer job seeker or freelance work visas. Attempting to work on a tourist or business visa is illegal and may result in fines, detention, or deportation. A valid employment contract and Work Permit Notice are compulsory.

Indian applicants need several documents for a China Z work visa, including a valid passport, a completed visa application form, recent photographs, a Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit, an employment contract, a medical examination report, a police clearance certificate, and educational and professional qualifications. Additional documents may be requested by the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in India, depending on the applicant’s role and category (A, B, or C worker classification).

The Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit is an official approval issued by Chinese authorities allowing a foreign national to work in China. It is obtained by the employer and is mandatory for applying for a China Z work visa. This document confirms that the job role, salary, and qualifications meet Chinese labour and immigration standards. Without this permit notice, the Chinese Embassy will not accept or process a work visa application.

The work permit is issued by the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs (SAFEA) or relevant local authorities under China’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security. The Chinese employer is responsible for submitting the application on behalf of the Indian worker. Once approved, the Work Permit Notice is issued electronically and used to apply for the Z visa. After arrival in China, the permit is converted into a physical work permit card.

To be eligible, Indian applicants must have a valid job offer, relevant educational qualifications, professional experience, and meet China’s worker classification criteria (Category A, B, or C). Applicants must also clear medical and background checks. Most professional roles require at least a bachelor’s degree and two years of work experience. Salary thresholds and skill levels vary by city and occupation, especially in major hubs like Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen.

The processing time for a China work visa from India typically ranges from 4 to 8 weeks. This includes time for the employer to obtain the Work Permit Notice (2–4 weeks) and the embassy visa processing (usually 5–7 working days after submission). Delays may occur if additional verification or documents are required. Applicants are advised to begin the process well in advance of their intended travel date.

Yes, Indian professionals can change jobs in China, but the process is regulated. The existing work permit must be cancelled, and the new employer must apply for a fresh Work Permit Notice. A new residence permit may also be required. Working for a new employer without completing this transfer process is illegal. Job changes must be approved by local authorities, and timelines vary by province and city.

The China work visa itself is issued only to the primary worker. However, dependents such as spouses and children can apply for S1 or S2 dependent visas based on the worker’s employment and residence permit. These visas allow dependents to live in China but do not permit employment unless separately authorised. Dependents must provide proof of relationship, such as marriage or birth certificates, during the application process.