China is an enticing destination for many British expats due to its rich culture, diverse landscapes, and bustling cities. With an estimated 30,000 UK citizens currently residing in China, moving there can be a rewarding experience despite the potential culture shock. This guide provides an overview of the key aspects to consider when moving to China from the UK, including visa requirements, work, living arrangements, and more.
All UK citizens planning to move to mainland China need to apply for a visa. Various types of visas are available depending on the purpose of your stay:
C Visa: For foreign crew members of international transportation.
D Visa: For those intending to reside in China permanently.
F Visa: For exchanges, visits, study tours, and other activities.
G Visa: For transit through China.
J1/J2 Visas: For foreign journalists (J1 for stays over 180 days, J2 for short-term stays).
L Visa: For tourists.
M Visa: For commercial and trade activities.
Q1/Q2 Visas: For family members of Chinese citizens or residents (Q1 for long-term stays, Q2 for short-term visits).
R Visa: For high-level talents or those with skills urgently needed in China.
S1/S2 Visas: For visiting family members working or studying in China (S1 for long-term stays, S2 for short-term visits).
X1/X2 Visas: For students (X1 for long-term study, X2 for short-term study).
Z Visa: For those intending to work in China.
To apply for a Chinese visa, follow these steps:
Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the form on the visa application centre’s website.
Book an Appointment: Schedule an appointment at one of the visa application centres in London, Manchester, or Edinburgh.
Submit Documents: At your appointment, provide your application form, passport, and other required documents.
Payment and Collection: Pay the visa fee and receive a pick-up form to collect your passport and visa.
You may be required to attend an interview as part of the application process.
Upon arrival in China, you must register your temporary residence with the Public Security Bureau (PSB) within 24 hours. If you are staying at a hotel, they may handle this for you. Otherwise, you will need to register at the nearest police station and obtain a ‘Registration Form of Temporary Residence for Visitors’. For stays longer than 180 days, you will need a Residence Permit, which must be re-registered each time you return to China from abroad.
China’s rapidly growing economy offers numerous career opportunities, particularly in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai. To work in China, you will need a Z Visa, initially valid for 30 days. During this period, you and your employer must obtain a Temporary Residence Permit valid for the duration of your contract (minimum of 90 days, maximum of 5 years).
Ages 18-60
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity and one blank page
Completed application form
Recent passport-sized photo
Valid work permit from your company in China
Additional documents such as a medical form or criminal history check may be required
Teaching, especially English, is a popular career choice for British citizens in China. To teach, you will need a Z Visa and must meet specific requirements:
Age range of 18-60 (other ages may be considered)
Valid UK passport with at least 6 months validity
Completed China Work Visa Application Form
Bachelor’s Degree verified by the Chinese Embassy or Consulate
Criminal History Check
120-hour Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Certificate
Recent medical check documentation
Once in China, you must apply for a residency permit, also known as the ‘Green Book’, within your first 30 days.
China has become an increasingly popular destination for British students. To study in China, you will need an X1 or X2 Visa (X1 for long-term study, X2 for short-term study).
Valid passport
Completed application form
Passport-style photo
Original Admission Notice from a Chinese university or school
For X1 Visa: Original Foreign Student Visa Application Form
After entry, X1 visa holders must apply for a Temporary Residence Permit valid for up to five years. X2 visa holders can extend their visa up to 180 days if necessary.
Obtaining permanent residency in China is challenging but has become somewhat easier in recent years. Eligibility criteria include significant contributions to China’s science, technology, education, culture, or other important fields, or being married to a Chinese citizen for at least five years. Permanent residency allows unlimited stay, but the Certificates of Permanent Residence must be renewed every 5-10 years.
Prepared on the information from iasservices.org.uk