Foreigner's Work Permit: Different applicant categories
Securing legal employment is a critical first step for many foreign nationals seeking to build their careers in China. Under current regulations, the Foreigner's Work Permit in China is an administrative license issued by the competent authorities in accordance with the law.
To address different work scenarios in China, Shanghai has issued a set of detailed, category-specific guides that provide policy guidance and procedural instructions for different applicant groups.
The following guides cover a wide range of applicants, including short-term workers, high-level foreign talent, startup founders and team members, international interns, and university graduates. Applicants and employers can choose the appropriate pathway based on their specific circumstances.
Click the links below the titles for detailed application guides.
Guide to applying for a Foreigner's Work Permit (≤ 90 days)
This guide covers short-term work assignments with an intended stay of no more than 90 days. It outlines eligibility requirements for employers and applicants, as well as required documentation such as work contracts, cooperation agreements, or invitation letters.
Guide for foreign high-level talent (R visa holders) applying for a Foreigner's Work Permit in China
This guide applies to foreign high-level talent who have already obtained a Confirmation Letter for High-Level Foreign Talents and entered China on an R visa. It outlines employer and applicant requirements and the documentation needed for in-country applications.
Guide for foreign talent and team members (Category A/B) applying for a Foreigner's Work Permit during the startup phase
This guide is designed for foreign nationals or startup team members (in principle, no more than five people) who are in the entrepreneurial stage, have not yet established a company, and are based in a recognized park or incubator. It covers eligibility criteria for parks and incubators, applicant requirements, and required documents, with no minimum duration of work experience required for applicants.
Guide to applying for a Foreigner's Work Permit (Category C) for foreign university graduates
This guide covers two main groups: (1) international students studying in China; and (2) foreign graduates of overseas universities. Specific eligibility requirements vary depending on academic qualifications and intended place of employment.
Guide to applying for a Foreigner's Work Permit under youth interns exchange scheme (Category C)
This guide is tailored for interns participating in youth exchange programs with France, Germany, and Singapore. It outlines the specific requirements for French, German, and Singaporean interns.
How to apply for a work permit in China for foreign STEM graduates
This guide applies to foreign graduates with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) degrees. Eligibility varies by degree level: PhD, master's, and bachelor's graduates are all covered.
Updated Aug 14, 2026