A Foreigner's Work Permit is a critical document that allows foreign nationals to work legally in China. All foreign employees working in Shanghai, regardless of nationality, visa type, or employment duration, are required to obtain a work permit in accordance with the law.

The following is an overview of the key steps, including application requirements, procedures, progress tracking, business locations, and integrating work permits with social security cards.

1. How to get a work permit

This guide covers key questions, including what a foreigner's work permit is, basic qualifications, the Z visa application, the Notification of Foreigner's Work Permit application, required materials, and application channels.

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2. Application guides by category

For different groups of employees applying for a Foreigner's Work Permit, the requirements may differ. Here are the respective application guides for various applicants.

• Guide to applying for a Foreigner's Work Permit (≤ 90 days)
• Guide for foreign high-level talent (R visa holders) applying for a Foreigner's Work Permit in China
• Guide for foreign high-level talent (R visa holders) applying for a Foreigner's Work Permit in China
• Guide to applying for a Foreigner's Work Permit (Category C) for foreign university graduates
• Guide to applying for a Foreigner's Work Permit under youth interns exchange scheme (Category C)
•  How to apply for a work permit in China for foreign STEM graduates

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3. Progress tracking

This guide covers eligibility for employers and applicants, the required information for an inquiry, and the online channel for checking the status of a work permit application.

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4. Locations and business hours

This guide lists the addresses and operating hours of municipal service windows in various districts throughout Shanghai.

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5. Transition period

This guide covers application procedures for in-progress work permit applications and for holders of physical work permits, required materials, and the verification of original documents.

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Updated Sept 21, 2026