If you’re a foreigner looking to work in Shenzhen, China’s tech and innovation hub, you will need to obtain the proper work authorization. According to Chinese labor and immigration laws, foreigners must acquire both:

A Work Permit
A Work-Related Residence Permit (commonly referred to as a “work visa”)

Without these permits, no company or individual is legally allowed to hire a foreign worker, unless the individual falls under special exemptions.

The term “work visa” is a common way to describe the Foreigner’s Residence Permit for Work, which is issued once a work permit is granted. The visa is affixed to your passport and allows legal employment in China.

Eligibility for a Chinese Work Visa

Not everyone can apply for a work visa in China. Foreign workers must meet certain criteria, as outlined in Article 7 of Chapter 2 of the Regulations on the Administration of Employment of Foreigners in China:

Be at least 18 years old and in good health ✅
Possess the necessary professional skills and work experience required for the job 💼
Have no criminal record 🚫
Have a confirmed job offer from a legally registered employer in China 🏢
Hold a valid passport or equivalent international travel document ✈️

If you meet these conditions, you can begin the process of obtaining a Z Visa (work visa) to legally work in Shenzhen.

Documents Required for a Work Visa Application

When applying for a Chinese work visa, both you and your employer must submit various documents. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Documents Required from the Employer

✅ Employment Application Report: A document explaining the company’s background, reasons for hiring a foreigner, and job details. ✅ Business License Copy: A scanned or physical copy of the company’s business registration license. ✅ Official Employment Application Form: Approved by the Shenzhen Public Security Bureau (Exit & Entry Administration Office). ✅ Employment Intent Letter: Proof that the company intends to hire the foreign applicant.

2. Documents Required from the Foreign Worker

✅ Valid Passport Copy ✅ Resume and Work Experience Proof ✅ Relevant Qualification Certificates (Degree, certifications, etc.) ✅ Non-Criminal Record Certificate (Authenticated by the Chinese embassy in the applicant’s home country) ✅ Medical Examination Report (Issued by an authorized health center in China) ✅ Additional Documents (As required by Chinese laws and regulations)

All these documents must be translated into Chinese and notarized before submission.

Steps to Apply for a Work Visa in Shenzhen

The process of securing a work visa in Shenzhen involves several steps:

Step 1: Apply for a Work Permit Notification Letter

Your employer in Shenzhen must apply for a Work Permit Notification Letter from the State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs (SAFEA). This document proves that your employer is authorized to hire a foreign worker.

Processing Time: ~2–4 weeks

Step 2: Apply for a Z Visa from the Chinese Embassy

Once you receive the Work Permit Notification Letter, you must apply for a Z Visa (the official Chinese work visa) at the Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country.

Required Documents:

Work Permit Notification Letter
Passport
Visa Application Form
Passport-sized photos
Health check certificate

Processing Time: ~5–7 business days

Step 3: Enter China and Apply for a Work Permit

Once you arrive in Shenzhen, your employer will apply for the Foreigner Work Permit from the Human Resources and Social Security Bureau.

Processing Time: ~2–4 weeks

Step 4: Apply for a Residence Permit for Work

After obtaining the Work Permit, visit the Shenzhen Public Security Bureau (Exit & Entry Administration Office) to apply for a Work-Related Residence Permit, which serves as your legal work visa.

Processing Time: ~2–3 weeks

Step 5: Register with the Local Police

Within 24 hours of arrival, you must register your address at the nearest police station in Shenzhen.

Renewing or Changing a Work Visa in Shenzhen

Your Chinese work visa is not permanent and must be renewed before it expires. If you change jobs, you will need to apply for a new work permit with your new employer.

Key Considerations:

Work visas typically last 1 year but can be extended.
Renewal applications must be submitted at least 30 days before expiry.
Changing employers requires a new work permit and residence permit application.

Can Foreigners Work in Shenzhen Without a Work Visa?

🚫 No! It is illegal for foreigners to work in Shenzhen without the proper permits. Employers who hire foreigners without a work visa may face:

Heavy fines 🏦
Business restrictions 🚧
Legal penalties ⚖️

Additionally, foreign workers caught working illegally can be deported and banned from re-entering China for years.

Conclusion: Your Shenzhen Work Visa Guide in a Nutshell

Working in Shenzhen is an exciting opportunity, but you must follow legal procedures to stay compliant. Here’s a quick summary: ✅ Secure a job offer from a registered employer ✅ Meet the eligibility requirements ✅ Submit required documents ✅ Obtain a Z Visa and enter China ✅ Get a Work Permit and Residence Permit ✅ Register with the local police

Once these steps are complete, you’re officially ready to work in Shenzhen! 🎉