Much was written before the Beijing Olympics on China" s visa restrictions for foreigners doing business in the country. With the Olympics now a thing of the past, the restrictions are likely to remain in place for 2009. China has to deal with several anniversaries, such as the 50th anniversary of the Dalai Lama's departure for India, and the 20th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square demonstrations. These will result in increased security measures during the year and will have an impact on the type of involvement in China and foreign country during that time. Visa issuance will be affected. The applications for employment visas and residence permits are more stringent. In this article, we look at how to apply for a certificate of employment and residence in China, the current documentation required, and the new requirements being implemented in the whole country.
Alien Employment License
The Foreign Employment License is a document that basically states that an alien is authorized to work in China. It is necessary to apply for a job (Z) Visa invitation letter from the Ministry of Commerce. An invitation letter is required to apply for an entry visa which can be converted into a work and residence. While in the past it was common for F visas to be converted into work and residence permits, most cities now require an applicant to obtain their Z Visa in their country of residence (their national origin or the country have legal residence). The following documents must be submitted:
* Request for Approval for Foreign Employment
* Valid passport
* Copy of the health certificate issued by the Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Authority *
* Copies of the Industrial and Commercial Business License (duplicate) / Registration or other governmental instrument of ratification
* Reasons for employment
* Powers for the job
* Curriculum vitae of the foreigner to be employed Letter of intent for employment
* Criminal record check **
* This can vary from city to city and even nationality to nationality, some countries do not need this certificate before you get your entry visa.
** This is a relatively new requirement that is not yet implemented in all cities in China. We suspect that in the near future will become a standard requirement in each city. For more information, see box on page 7 in the full version of the magazine.
Notice of Application for Employment Visa and Residence
Entry-Exit Administration of the Public Security Bureau in the city where you want a foreigner to work and live must send this notification before an Alien Employment permits are issued. The following documents must be submitted by the employer:
* Employment License
* Valid passport of the applicant (copies of key pages and valid visa must be attached)
* Request for Qualifications for Residence Foreigners Working in China (with pictures)
* Two copies of the Industrial and Commercial Business License (duplicate)
* Interim Housing
* Subscriptions outside the applicant (from the local police or hotel where applicant is resident)
Alien Employment Permit
The Alien Employment Permit allows foreigners to work legally in China. It is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. The following documents must be submitted by the employer:
* Employment License
* Notification of Application for Employment Visa and Residence
* Copy of the employment contract or certificate of appointment (those who have a clearly defined position specified in the Business License / Registration or other governmental instrument of ratification may be exempted)
Residence
The residence permit allows foreigners to reside legally within China. It is valid for one year and allows the holder to enter and leave China, if you choose. The following documents must be submitted:
* Valid passport
* Alien Employment Permit
* Certificate of Verification of Physical Examination Record for foreigners or overseas Chinese
* Notification of Application for Employment Visa and Residence
Interview Record * Implementation of Status of Residence of Aliens
* Chinese or Residence Visa Application form
When these four steps were completed, the validity of a work and residence permit will be issued and the alien is legally able to work and reside in the People's Republic of China for the period of validity of your license (usually but not always, a year). Both permits can be renewed before its expiration.