Job Discussion Forums

[real2104]

Hello,

I'm interested in working in china LEGALLY on the appropriate visa however I don't feel comfortable securing an employer online.

The last time I did that I ended up being misled by my employer.

Therefore, I'd like to arrive in China on a tourist visa and check out a few of the schools I'm in interested in and then securing employment and going through all the appropriate stages (ie. police check, health check etc etc).

Thoughts?

[wangdaning]

Unless said employer has sway with the provincial education bureau you will need to return home to get the proper visa. This is also very dependent on province and location within the province.

Maybe scout a few and tell them your plan. Accept the one who understands, agrees, and will help you out.

That is unlikely in the game though, they will fall short on one of those.

I came on an L five years ago. I did not have the planning you have, and it did work out with another employer in another province. However, getting the initial docs (invite letter, z visa, residence permit) is what is important.

[Kysorb]

You may also be able to go to HK.


Many legal employers through guanxi may also be able to get the PSB to convert an tourist visa to a work permit correctly. The rules say this can't happen but trust me it does happen.

[roadwalker]

I don't see how being here will prevent you from being misled by your potential employer. Some people are very good at lying to your face. Others look good on paper, perhaps. If that is the reason, I'd recommend taking your chances meeting online and coming over with the proper visa.

Now if it is a case where you want to see the physical environment and try to gauge your satisfaction with the area, the accommodations, the food, the people etc., I can see an argument for flying over as a tourist and comparing. But even that is limited to the time you are here. A great area might end up being your climate hell another part of the year. You really get a snapshot, albeit a much better one than the pristine photos the job ad shows.

Also it could get expensive to come over twice if necessary. Sometimes employers can get you a z-visa in Hong Kong and some will even pay for your trip if they really want you. In my province (Guangdong) I'm told it is impossible and foreign teachers must return to their home country to apply for the z-visa. Best advice is to find employers online and insist on communicating with current or recent teachers. If school can't or won't accommodate that request, try another.

[mwaltman]

[choudoufu]

[Denim-Maniac]

[Non Sequitur]

Will there be anyone available to show you the campus?
I'm talking uni jobs here.

[U99A]

I say go over on a L-visa and check things out!

There are many employers/schools/companies that can convert your tourist visa to a working visa. Of course there are many that can't.
I am going to Shanghai next week on a tourist visa at the suggestion of a well known English conversation school who will then convert my visa.

[Javelin of Radiance]

[choudoufu]

[U99A]