Job Discussion Forums

[Andee]

Alright so i have been excepted for employment within a school, but yet have not signed the contract. I asked them when we were going to sign it. and they said "Usually we sign the contract after you arrive. I'm wondering if this is the way you want?" I did email her saying id rather sign it before i got on the plane.. The question is it unsual for the employee to sign a contract after they get on a plane?

[Super Mario]

Contracts need to be signed face to face in ink, then stamped. Have you got your letter of invitation and done your medical? There won't be a z visa or a contract until these are in place.
BTW, sorry about being pedantic, but as I assume you're coming to teach English, it's accepted

[Andee]

the invintation is on its way. i literally just got the job..and there hasnt been any mention of a medical?

[Super Mario]

Contact your nearest Chinese consulate for a medical form. There may still be a download link: look at the sticky above.
With the completed form and invitation you can get a Z visa.
The contract gets done
Keep [print] all email dealings you've done with the school re conditions. in country.

[Keath]

You should have the school sign the contract first, then fax or email a scanned version of it so that you can sign it. Dont sign a contract that a school has not already signed, its just bad policy.

Although its always best to get the medical done before you go to China it seems that since SARS almost every school we cooperate with performs a supplemental non-invasive medical exam in the provincial capital after the teacher arrives. If you want to save money, you could probably wait until after you arrive in China to get your medical (Should be paid by the school)

There are two invitation letters that you should receive, 1) is local government authorization to reside in the town, and 2) SAFEA invitation letter to work as a Foreign Expert. (BOTH NEED TO BE ORIGINALS)

In order to obtain the SAFEA document you will need to provide your school with a signed contract before you depart. SAFEA requires a signed copy of the contract before they will issue the invitation letter. Keep in mind that the contract is technically non-binding unless both parties have received and signed original copies in both English and Chinese, which you should obtain once you arrive (Simply resign after you arrive )

[Super Mario]