Staying on to work in China after graduation: permits, routes and reality

Working in China after graduation requires a Z visa and a work permit, obtained by the employer. The work permit system uses a points-based classification — A, B and C categories — scoring qualifications, salary, age, work experience and Chinese language ability. A degree from a Chinese university, and higher degree level, both improve the score.

Where graduates actually find work is concentrated in four areas: Chinese companies expanding overseas (Huawei, ZTE, BYD, CATL, Xiaomi, Alibaba, the construction and engineering contractors); multinationals operating in China in supply chain, operations and government relations; international schools and universities as teachers or researchers; and cross-border trade and logistics firms.

One structural constraint worth understanding early: the work permit generally requires two years of relevant post-graduation experience, unless you hold a higher degree or meet other exemption criteria. Many international graduates therefore work for a Chinese company in their home country first and transfer into China, often within a year.