Foreign nationals hired for short-term jobs in China must meet specific eligibility requirements, while sponsoring employers are expected to comply with relevant legal, tax, and labor regulations. These provisions apply to work assignments with an intended stay of no more than 90 days.

Employer eligibility

• To apply for a short-term work permit, employers must be legally established in China, maintain a physical office, pay taxes and social insurance in accordance with the law, and hold a clean compliance record. The job offered must be of special necessity, with no suitable domestic candidates available, and must not violate Chinese laws and regulations. The salary must meet or exceed the local minimum wage.
• If the position requires prior approval from a competent industry authority, the employer must secure this approval before submitting the application.

Applicant requirements

• Applicants must be at least 18 years old, in good health, with no criminal record. They must be employed by a confirmed domestic company and possess the necessary professional skills or relevant knowledge.
• The position must align with China's economic and social development priorities and be classified as one of urgent need or talent shortage.
• Where other Chinese laws or regulations provide different provisions for foreign employment, those shall prevail.
• Short-term work refers to foreigners entering China for the following purposes, with a stay of no more than 90 days:

• • • Technical, research, management, or advisory assignments with a Chinese partner;
    • Trials with Chinese sports institutions (as coaches or athletes);
    • Film production, including commercial films and documentaries;
    • Fashion-related activities, such as auto shows or commercial photoshoots;
    • Other scenarios recognized by relevant government authorities.

Document submission standards

All materials must be uploaded digitally to the Service System for Foreigners Working in China. Paper documents must be color copies, and any non-Chinese documents (except passports or international travel documents) must be accompanied by official Chinese translations, stamped by the employer.

Required documents

• Application form: Completed online, printed, signed by the applicant (a scanned or faxed version is acceptable), and stamped by the employer or its authorized department.
• Work or project contract, cooperation agreement, or an invitation letter from the employer.
• Passport or international travel document.
• A bilingual résumé, including personal details, educational background, and employment history and stamped by the employer.
• If technical or professional work is involved, proof of education or qualifications must be submitted.
• Other documents as required by the approving authority.

Notes

• The contract duration, work schedule, and work location must accurately reflect the actual assignment.
• In cases involving dispatch arrangements, a tripartite agreement must be provided, listing the full details of the dispatching agency, applicant, and Chinese employer.
• Contract terms must include: A duration of no more than 90 days; up to five distinct work locations (including Shanghai), specified at the city level with no duplication; job duties that fall strictly within the employer's approved business scope; the applicant's average monthly salary; confirmation that insurance will be purchased prior to entry into China; and a clear statement that short-term workers are not permitted to engage in part-time employment.
• Employers and foreign nationals must ensure the authenticity and accuracy of all application materials and cooperate with government interviews and inspections. Submitting false documents may result in the cancellation of the permit and temporary suspension of future applications for the employer, agent, or individual. Any violations will be handled in accordance with the law.

Source: sh-italent.com