In a significant stride toward international collaboration, Longyou County recently hosted the 2024 “Thousand Schools” signing ceremony, solidifying partnerships with several esteemed schools from New Zealand. Held at Sunshine Primary School on June 14, this event marked the beginning of a promising exchange between the two regions, focusing on enhancing educational practices and fostering global citizenship.
A Bridge Across Cultures
The ceremony was graced by prominent figures, including Wu Xiujun, Director of Longyou County Education Bureau, who highlighted the county’s commitment to educational development. Wu emphasized the importance of learning from New Zealand’s advanced educational methodologies, aiming to cultivate students with global perspectives and cross-cultural communication skills. This partnership, Wu noted, will open a new chapter in educational cooperation, driving progress on both sides.
New Zealand’s Enthusiasm for Collaboration
Representatives from the New Zealand delegation, including Mrs. Mary Leigh Curran, Principal of Waikato Diocesan School for Girls, and Ms. Julie Radice, Head of the International Department at Morrinsville College, expressed their excitement about the collaboration. They shared a vision of using this partnership to create seamless transitions for students between cultures, helping them grow in a globalized learning environment. The delegation looked forward to deepening cultural understanding and nurturing talents with international outlooks.
A Day of Cultural Exchange
Following the formalities, the New Zealand delegation visited various schools in Longyou County, including Huamao Junior High School. The visits were filled with vibrant cultural exchanges, from traditional Chinese opera and bilingual singing performances to interactive activities like bamboo dancing and calligraphy. These interactions not only showcased the rich cultural heritage of Longyou but also strengthened the bonds of friendship between the educators and students from both regions.
Looking Ahead
The “Thousand Schools” initiative is more than just a response to the challenges of an evolving global educational landscape; it is a bold step toward integrating high-quality educational resources and fostering international cooperation. As Longyou County continues to build these global bridges, the future looks bright for the students and educators who will benefit from this groundbreaking collaboration.
China stands out as a premier destination for teachers worldwide for several reasons, making it not just a worthwhile choice for teaching abroad but also a transformative professional and personal journey. Here are compelling reasons addressing why China is the best country to teach in, its worthiness, the benefits of working there, and why one might be drawn to teach in this vibrant country:
Why China is the Best Country to Teach
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Dynamic Educational Landscape: China’s commitment to educational excellence and innovation makes it an exciting place for teachers. The diverse teaching environments, from cutting-edge international schools to prestigious universities, offer unparalleled opportunities for career growth and development.
Cultural Richness: The chance to immerse oneself in one of the world’s oldest civilizations, with its unique traditions, languages, and festivals, provides a deeply enriching cultural experience that is both educational and personal.
The Worthiness of Teaching in China
Professional and Personal Growth: The experience of teaching in China not only enhances your resume but also broadens your perspectives, making you more adaptable, culturally aware, and versatile in your professional capabilities.
Financial and Lifestyle Benefits: Competitive compensation packages, including housing, health insurance, and travel allowances, alongside the relatively low cost of living, enable a comfortable lifestyle with opportunities for savings and travel.
Benefits of Working in China
Extensive Support Systems: Organizations like China Youth International (CYI) offer comprehensive support, from visa processing and housing assistance to integration services, ensuring a smooth transition into Chinese society and the educational system.
Professional Networking: Engaging with a community of international and local educators provides valuable connections, fostering professional development and opportunities for collaboration.
Cultural Exchange and Language Acquisition: Living and working in China is an immersive language learning experience, enhancing one’s ability to engage with the culture and community deeply.
Why I Want to Teach in China
To Make an Impact: Teaching in China allows you to contribute significantly to the lives of your students, influencing their global outlook and understanding.
Adventure and Exploration: The allure of exploring China’s vast and varied landscapes, from bustling metropolises to serene countryside, offers a sense of adventure and discovery.
Personal Development: The challenge of adapting to a new cultural and educational environment fosters personal growth, resilience, and a deeper understanding of global interconnectivity.
Choosing to teach in China, especially with the support of an organization like CYI, combines the pursuit of professional ambitions with the fulfillment of personal aspirations. It is a commitment to not just educating others but also continually learning and growing oneself. The benefits of working in China, from professional development to cultural immersion, make it a uniquely rewarding experience. Whether driven by a desire for adventure, a passion for teaching, or the aim to impact global education, China offers a rich and fulfilling journey.
China Youth International (CYI) is your entrance to a unique academic adventure in China – Zhejiang province. We’re not just another agency; we’re your direct link to reputable universities in Zhejiang, ensuring a seamless application and adaptation process from your home country to the vibrant city of Hangzhou. Our partnership with universities eliminates the middleman, guaranteeing a straightforward path to your academic ambitions in China.
Zhejiang Universities: A League of Their Own
Zhejiang’s educational institutions are climbing the global ranks, offering affordable tuition, a high employment rate post-graduation, and a chance to immerse yourself in one of China’s most modern and rapidly growing cities. The blend of tradition and modernity in Hangzhou provides a nurturing environment for your academic and personal growth.
The CYI Advantage: More Than Just Admissions
Our assistance goes beyond admissions. We’re here to support you throughout your academic journey. From choosing the right program and university to handling visa procedures, and even finding employment opportunities post-graduation through our partner schools, CYI is your steadfast companion.
Tailored Programs: Language to Degree
Whether you’re looking for a short-term Chinese language program starting this February or aiming for a degree commencing in September, we have you covered. Our extensive range of programs caters to diverse academic aspirations. And with English-taught programs, language is no barrier.
Chinese universities, particularly in Zhejiang, are an epitome of value for money. With tuition fees significantly lower than Western counterparts, you’re not only investing in education but also in a life-enriching experience in a culture-rich setting. They are also randked in top universities in the world
Seamless Transition: From A to Z with CYI
We at CYI understand the anxiety tied to moving abroad for education. Our dedicated support English speaking team is ready to assist you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth transition into your new academic life in China.
Ready to Embark?
Take the first step towards an enriching academic venture in China. today or contact us now to seize the opportunity of joining our February intake. With CYI, you’re not just pursuing education; you’re unlocking a world of possibilities in the heartland of China.
The venture of crossing borders to teach English in China is more than just a career move; it’s an expedition into a realm of cultural exchange and self-discovery. The opportunity to teach in China presents a unique platform for individuals to immerse themselves in a culture steeped in tradition while imparting knowledge to eager learners. This journey often becomes a two-way street of learning, where the exchange extends beyond just language.
The Culture in China
China, with its rich historical tapestry and diverse cultural landscape, provides a stimulating backdrop for educators from around the globe. The country’s ancient traditions, coupled with its modern-day vibrancy, creates a unique blend of old and new. As a teacher, exploring the bustling streets of Beijing, witnessing the age-old tea ceremonies, or wandering amidst the towering skyscrapers of Shanghai can be an enriching experience. Each city, with its distinct character, contributes to the broader narrative of China’s cultural mosaic.
Classroom Interactions: A Window into Chinese Culture
The classroom in China becomes a microcosm of its larger societal ethos. Through interactions with students, teachers often gain insights into the Chinese way of life, values, and traditions. The respect for education and educators, the collective spirit, and the drive for excellence are all mirrored in the classroom dynamics. These interactions often challenge and expand the cultural understanding of educators, leading to a deeper appreciation of the diversity that exists.
Personal Growth and Self-Discovery
The challenges that come with adapting to a new teaching environment, coupled with navigating the nuances of a different culture, foster personal growth. Teachers find themselves developing not just professionally, but personally as well. The experience hones their adaptability, problem-solving skills, and cultural sensitivity—attributes that are invaluable in today’s globalized world.
Building Lifelong Connections
The bonds formed during this journey often extend beyond the classroom. The camaraderie shared with fellow educators, the connections made within the community, and the relationships built with students often evolve into lifelong friendships. These connections enrich the teaching experience, making it memorable and rewarding.
The Linguistic Exchange
Teaching English in China is not just about the linguistic exchange but also the cultural exchange that occurs simultaneously. The sharing of idioms, expressions, and stories from different parts of the world brings about a fusion of ideas, broadening the horizons of both teachers and students.
The Path Ahead
The experience of teaching in China often leaves an indelible mark, influencing the personal and professional trajectories of educators. The skills acquired, the relationships formed, and the memories created pave the way for a heightened sense of global awareness and a broader perspective on life.
Embarking on the journey of teaching English in China is an adventure filled with learning, growth, and cultural enlightenment. The narrative of every educator who takes this path is a testament to the transformative power of cross-cultural interactions and the profound impact it can have on individuals and communities alike. Through CYI, you have the avenue to dive into this enriching venture, contributing to the global educational tapestry while experiencing the richness of Chinese culture firsthand.
Start your application today! Apply here or on our website directly!
This is a comprehensive guide to a great journey teaching in China. In recent years, China has opened its doors wider for international educators, creating a flourishing environment for aspiring teachers from around the globe. With a blend of ancient traditions and modern cities, China offers a unique teaching and living experience. If you’re contemplating embarking on a teaching journey in China, this guide aims to answer some pressing questions you might have.
Can Foreigners Still Teach in China?
Yes, foreigners are still welcomed to teach in China, provided they meet the necessary qualifications and visa requirements. The demand for international teachers continues to grow as China emphasizes global education. Explore the visa guidelines to ensure you’re eligible.
Earning Potential: How Much Do You Earn Teaching in China?
The salary range for teachers in China varies based on factors like the city, school, and your qualifications. On average, teachers earn between $2,500 to $4,000 per month. Some institutions also provide housing allowances, flight reimbursements, and other perks, making teaching in China an attractive option financially. Dive into salary insights to get a clearer picture.
Demand for Teachers: Are Teachers Needed in China?
Absolutely! The growing emphasis on bilingual education has spurred a significant demand for English teachers, as well as educators in other subjects. The China Youth International platform has numerous listings for teaching positions across various cities in China.
Is There an Age Limit for Teaching in China?
The age limit for foreign teachers in China typically ranges between 18 to 60 years old. However, some institutions might have different age requirements. More information can be found on Chinese governmental portals.
Qualifications: Do I Need a PGCE to Teach in China?
While having a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) is beneficial, it’s not mandatory. A Bachelor’s degree and a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification are often sufficient. Explore TEFL certification courses to get started.
Ease of Employment: Is It Hard to Get a Teaching Job in China?
The ease of securing a teaching job in China largely depends on your qualifications and the demand for teachers in your subject area. With the right credentials, many find it relatively straightforward to secure a position. Browse through job listings to gauge the current market.
In conclusion, teaching in China presents a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a rich cultural tapestry while contributing to the global educational landscape. Explore the available teaching positions through China Youth International and take the first step towards an enriching teaching experience in China.
On March 15th, the Guangzhou Science and Technologu bureau announced “Several Measures on Further Streamlining the Handling of Permits for Foreigners Seeking to Work in China”, which aims to simplify the handling of foreigner work permits.
Compared to the previous standard, there are plenty of changes! Such as applying online, part-time work and more!
Let’s take a look.
Changes for Foreigner Work Permit Applications
Online Work Permit Applications
Previously: All talents must have their application materials checked onsite.
Now: Work permits can be handled online without face-to-face examination and approval. Paper applications are not needed. Category A talents can pick up materials without any extra paperwork. Category B and C talents need to submit required documents and then pick up their work permit cards.
Applying for Work Permits in China Without Leaving the Country
Previously: Only foreigners who satisify one of the nine circumstances can apply for a work permit without leaving China.
Now: All foreigners holding a valid visa in China, after being hired by an employer, can apply for a Work Permit without leaving China!
Part-Time Work Is Allowed
Previously: Part-Time Work was not allowed in any circumstance.
Now: Foreign scientific and technological talents can work part-time with the approval of their employer, after filing with the Guangzhou Foreign Specialized Bureau.
Mutual Recognition of Work Permits
Previously: Applicants who received work permit don’t need to submit their education certificates.
Now: Foreigners with work permits from other Chinese cities no longer need to submit work experience, or education certificates in Guangzhou.
Age & Work Experience Restrictions for Work Permit Holders
Before: Category A talents were free from age and work restrictions. Category B should be under 60-years old, unless they’re under certain categories of applicants. Category 60 needs to be under 60.
Now: Age requirement relaxed to 65-years old, and the two-year work requirement has been exempted for urgent young foreign talents. Those who meet the requirements will be granted a work permit for 2 years. This also applies to foreign high-skilled talents.
10 Year Visa for Special Talents
Before: None.
Now: For foreigners belonging to the scientific and technological talent, and participate in key projects, they can apply for a 10-year R visa.
Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center, the main site of the 2022 Asian Games, features a stunning butterfly-shaped venue which incorporates a natatorium and a gymnasium to host swimming, diving and basketball. Pictured behind the giant silver-white structure is the center’s main stadium – aka the ‘Big Lotus’ – which will host the opening and closing ceremonies, and track and field events. [Photo provided to China Daily]
Asian Games venues completed as state-of-the-art facilities promise to deliver exceptional event
With less than six months to go, preparations for the Hangzhou Asian Games are in full swing.
Organizers delivered the latest update on Thursday, confirming that all competition venues have been completed.
The 56 venues for the 19th Asian Games Hangzhou 2022 (Sept 10-25) and the fourth Asian Para Games (Oct 9-15) have been finished on schedule, according to the organizing committee. They comprise 12 new, 26 renovated, nine rebuilt and nine temporary venues.
In addition, a total of 31 training venues, one Asian Games village and four Asian Games sub-villages will be ready in the coming months to provide accommodation, catering and medical services for athletes and other participants.
Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang province, will host the largest number of events during the Games.
The city’s Huanglong Sports Center, which comprises a main stadium, a gymnasium and a natatorium, will host soccer, gymnastics and water polo at the Asian Games, and track and field events for the Asian Para Games.u;ppp
Huanglong Stadium’s soccer pitch is composed of both natural and artificial grass, making it more durable than a standard surface and helping it recover faster amid a busy schedule of matches during the Games.
According to Song Haiqiang, a senior engineer at Huanglong Sports Center, the stadium features a world-class plastic track which boasts superior performance and is ecologically friendly.
“The stadium can accommodate up to 60,000 people. All the seats have also been upgraded with more striking colors, such as purple, orange and blue,” said Song.
The main stadium at Huanglong Sports Center will host soccer at the Asian Games. [Photo provided to China Daily]
“Additionally, there will be two 360-degree circular screen strips, at 590 meters and 490 meters in length respectively inside the stadium. These will offer an enjoyable and unique viewing experience for the audience.”
Two 85-meter-high towers stand at either side of the stadium with two large screens at their centers to display scores and action replays during the Games in real time.
On the east and west sides of each tower, laser projections can present live images of events in real time, and can be seen by the naked eye up to 3 kilometers away.
As the venue which will host the most competitions during the Hangzhou Asian Games, the Huanglong center will stage six test competitions－five of which are national level－from April through June to ensure preparations are conducted as thoroughly as possible.
The Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center is arguably the most visually stunning of all the Games’ new venues. A main stadium, dubbed the “Giant Lotus” thanks to its lotus flower design, will host the opening and closing ceremonies, and the track and field competitions.
The center’s most eye-catching venue is a butterfly-shaped building that combines a natatorium and a gymnasium, and features a silver-white metal roof.
The design is inspired by the Chinese folktale of Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai－sometimes referred to as “The Butterfly Lovers” and dubbed the “oriental Romeo and Juliet”.
Meng Fangli, a staff member of the Asian Games’ operating company, said that the main gymnasium spans a total construction area of 76,107 square meters.
“There are 18,000 seats, of which 15,000 are fixed. Forty seats for persons with disability have been added, and each barrier-free seat is equipped with a corresponding chair for a guide or carer,” said Meng.
Fuyang Yinhu Sports Center in Hangzhou’s Fuyang district will host shooting, archery and modern pentathlon. [Photo provided to China Daily]
The natatorium, which features a swimming pool and a diving pool, has a construction area of 53,959 square meters and can seat about 6,000 spectators.
Set above the main gymnasium and natatorium are 210 light tubes, which diffuse natural light indoors, according to Guo Jingyang, a PR officer for the Asian Games operating company.
After the Games, the main gymnasium will host large-scale events and performing arts activities, while the swimming area will be open to the public and as a training venue for athletes.
Meanwhile, the Fuyang Yinhu Sports Center in Fuyang district will host shooting, archery and modern pentathlon during the Games.
The design of the building, which comprises 34,000 louvers (angled slats), is inspired by the outline of the famous Chinese landscape painting Fuchun Mountain Residence.
The construction of Fuyang Yinhu Sports Center takes full advantage of being surrounded by mountains and water to create a Chinese garden-style effect.
Wu Xiao, the project leader of the construction department, said more than 34,000 rotating louvers are installed on the curtain walls to form a picture of Fuchun Mountains.
With a special design behind each louver, the picture of Fuchun Mountains presents an artistic impression of the Fuchun landscape with a 200-meter-long light belt on the ceiling of the museum when night falls.
After the Games, the Hangzhou Shooting Management Center will take over the main venue to host shooting sports training, competitions and exhibitions.
Fuyang district will host competitions such as rowing, canoeing, kayaking, shooting, archery, and modern pentathlon. A total of 77 gold medals will be up for grabs in Fuyang during the Games.
Fang Xiaoying in Hangzhou contributed to this story
2022 is the year of the Tiger. It is the year of the water tiger. Year of the tiger 2022 begins on the Chinese New Year.
The recent tiger years are … 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022… If you were born in one of the years, then your Chinese Zodiac sign is a tiger.
Tiger Years 2022, 2010, 1998, 1986…
The Chinese zodiac tiger years come every 12 years as a cycle.
In Chinese element theory, each zodiac sign is associated with one of the five elements: Gold (Metal), Wood, Water, Fire, or Earth. 2022 is the Year of the water tiger. Water tigers come every 60 years.
How to Get Lucky in 2022 for Tiger People
Chinese New Year of the Tiger Lucky Numbers and Colors
Tiger’s Lucky Numbers and Colors 2022
Lucky Numbers: 1, 2, 3
Lucky Colors: blue, orange
Lucky Direction: east
Tiger’s Unlucky Things
Unlucky Numbers: 6,7,8
Unlucky Colors: gold, silver
Unlucky Direction: west
Chinese Zodiac Predictions in Year of the Tiger 2022
The Year of the Tiger is supposed to be a year of possibilities and prosperity. Entering Year of the Tiger 2022, every zodiac sign’s horoscope will change.
Tiger’s 2022 Predictions
Tiger’s Career in 2022: Tigers’ careers will move steadily upwards in 2022. They can expect to be promoted if they keep a proactive attitude at work. It’s not a good year for them to make a big career change. Any plans for job-hopping or adventure should wait until next year.
Tiger’s Finance in 2022:
This year the Tigers’ wealth mainly comes from their careers. So concentrating on their jobs and trying to make breakthroughs at work can be the best strategy. Business people should not be too aggressive or anxious to broaden their business scope. Any risky investment should be avoided.
Tiger’s Relationships in 2022:
Single Tigers will devote most of their energy to their careers. Finding the right partner this year may be difficult. Tigers are advised to pay attention to the Mid-Autumn Festival in 2022, it is a good time to meet the one.
Tiger’s Health in 2022:
Under the pressure of work, tigers will indulge in flights of fancy, affecting their sleep. It will help if they travel on trips with their families and listen to some light music. The major issue they need to pay attention to is transportation.
New Year’s Eve, which falls on the last day of the year according to the Chinese lunar calendar, has special meaning in the hearts of Chinese people.
除夕，通常被称为大年三十，是中国农历年的最后一天，在中国人心中具有特殊的意义。
On the most important day at the end of each lunar year, Chinese people leaving home will go back to their hometowns and reunite with their families. They will gather to enjoy a family reunion dinner on the New Year’s Eve and sit together to watch the annual Spring Festival Gala. They will spend a wonderful and warm night together and welcome the Chinese New Year.
New Year’s Eve, a day for family reunion, is also a great time to bid farewell to the passing year and cheer for the coming of a new one. On this day, every family pastes auspicious Spring Festival couplets and festive paper-cuts and New Year pictures, reflecting Chinese people’s simple customs and beliefs and expressing their hopes for the future.
Lucky Money in the Spring Festival is one of the traditional customs of Chinese New Year, and it is the biggest thing that children look forward to every year. It is full of care, respect and love among family members.
The lunar New Year’s Day is the beginning of a new lunar year which is the traditional Chinese New Year. In 2022, we welcome the Year of the Tiger.
To Pay a New Year Call (bainian), a China folk traditional custom, is a way for people to express good wishes to each other. As an important activity in the Spring Festival, people often go to their relatives and friends’ homes to send the New Year’s gifts and congratulate the New Year, or send New Year’s greetings through telephone, video and other forms.
The sound of firecrackers and fireworks on the morning of the Spring Festival heralds a prosperous new year. Everywhere is full of festive and joyful atmosphere, showing the good blessing of Chinese people.
1. Mistakes in the visa application form When applying for a visa, the application form is the most important document because it is the basis for the consular officer to decide whether to grant you a visa. Inaccurate information such as spelling mistakes, incorrect passport numbers or invalid addresses can cause your visa to be rejected.
2. Apply for the wrong visa category Well, this is one of the most common mistakes people make when filling out visa application forms. It is very important to select the appropriate visa category in the application form and submit the appropriate documents. Different visa categories have different requirements. Read carefully and understand clearly the scope of application of each visa, and then fill in the visa category. Submit appropriate documents by category. 3. The submitted photos do not meet the specifications Improper size, background color, texture of the photo paper, etc. will cause the photo to be unqualified.
4. Missing application documents
Before submitting your application, please carefully check the latest application requirements for your visa type and collect all the required documents. If any of these documents are missing, your application may be rejected. If you are not sure about the requirements of these documents, please feel free to contact me. We have professional visa consultants to answer any questions about your visa. 5. From a sensitive country
Applicants from countries where wars, terrorist attacks, political turmoil frequently occur, or countries whose nationality often overruns their visas, or countries with strained relations with China will increase the probability of visa rejection. 6. The applicant has a criminal record
Having a criminal record does not mean that all applications will be rejected. However, if the applicant commits a very serious crime, the possibility of refusal will greatly increase. A misdemeanor usually has no effect, especially when you are only applying for a tourist visa.
7. Poor past visa records
The applicant has overstayed his visa or was blacklisted in any country. 8. Applicant is in poor health
The applicant has some kind of infectious disease. In most cases, short-term visa applications such as tourist visas and business visas are not a big deal. However, for work visas or student visas, this may be a problem, even though Chinese law does not clearly stipulate it. 9. Engaging in sensitive occupations
Applicants working in religious or military industries may have a higher rate of visa refusal because these industries are considered sensitive by the Chinese government. 10. Insufficient capital reserves
Another reason for rejection is that the applicant does not meet the financial requirements, that is, you need to have enough funds to pay for your travel expenses, living expenses and accompanying family members during your stay in China.
In addition to the above reasons, there are various reasons for the unsuccessful visa application. The most important thing is to prove that you will abide by Chinese laws and be able to bear the costs of your planned trip to China. If you prove this through the documents and information you provide, your visa is likely to be approved.
The northern part of Hangzhou Metro Line 9 started operations on Sept 17.
The northern part stretches about 6.2 kilometers and is linked by four stations, namely Qiushan Avenue, Heyu Road, Wuzhou Road, and Long’an. The first train departs from Long’an Station at 6:02 am, with a maximum speed of 80 km per hour.
Operations of the new stations will greatly benefit residents living north of Linping Mountain. It will take only one hour to reach West Lake from Long’an Station, said Ge Guan’ao, a staff member of Long’an Station.
Passengers can also transfer to Metro Line 1 at Coach Center Station or transfer to the Hangzhou-Haining Inter-city Railway at Yuhang Railway Station, he added.
Civic Center Station on the intersection of Hangzhou Metro Lines 7 and 4 was also launched on the same day, giving passengers a shortcut to Hangzhou International Airport.
In addition, Hangzhou Metro has announced that all metro lines will run for another 30 minutes on Sept 18 and 21 to serve tourists from other cities. There will also be extra trains running on Sept 19 and 20 depending on the number of tourists in stations.
PU Letter and the way to go back to China in 2021.China’s immigration rules during the COVID-19 pandemic have been strictly enforced. A population of 1.4 billion, coupled with increased urbanization over the past twenty years have made the specter of mass transmission a real possibility, hence the protocols. Foreign travel to China has been discouraged at this time specifically to prevent the spread of any imported covid strains entering the country while the authorities race to develop new vaccines and build a safe social environment.
China Entry Visa Protocols During COVID-19
That said, they are available protocols to go through should foreign nationals need to visit China during the current China travel restrictions. A China travel ban effective from March 28. 2020 stated that:
“In view of the rapid spread of COVID-19 across the world, China has decided to temporarily suspend the entry into China by foreign nationals holding visas or residence permits still valid to the time of this announcement, effective from midnight, 28 March 2020. Entry by foreign nationals with APEC Business Travel Cards are also suspended. Policies including port visas, 24/72/144-hour visa-free transit policy, the Hainan 30-day visa-free policy, the 15-day visa-free policy specified for foreign cruise-group-tour through Shanghai Port, the Guangdong 144-hour visa-free policy specified for foreign tour groups from Hong Kong or Macao SAR, and the Guangxi 15-day visa-free policy specified for foreign tour groups of ASEAN countries are also temporarily suspended. Entry with diplomatic, service, courtesy or C visas will not be affected. Foreign nationals coming to China for necessary economic, trade, scientific or technological activities or emergency humanitarian needs may apply for visas at Chinese embassies or consulates. Entry by foreign nationals with visas issued after this announcement will not be affected.”
A teaching career in China is definitely worthwhile and a rewarding life experience that only those who have tried it can appreciate it
There is a special visa application channel open for the invitee to deal with necessary economic, trade, scientific or technological activities, or out of emergency humanitarian needs. These require additional special visa application procedures, including the need for an invitation letter (PU, TE, or Invitation Verification Notice) issued by the Chinese government. Among the three type invitation letters, the PU letter is the one used for M-visa, Z-visa, or Q1/Q2-visa.
Sample of PU letter to go back to China in 2021
The PU Invitation Letter
The PU letter should be applied via a China based entity. The standard procedures are as follows:
The Chinese entity (company) must liaise with the Foreign Affairs Office of the district where company is registered for the PU letter application
The Foreign Affairs Office of the district will send a list of required documents to the company
The company prepares the required documents and submits these to the Foreign Affairs Office of the relevant district for a first round review
The Foreign Affairs District Office submits the application documents to the Foreign Affairs Office of the local Municipal Government (Shanghai, Guangzhou, Beijing etc.) for PU letter approval
The Foreign Affairs Office of the Municipal Government issues the PU letter for the foreign invitation.
There are additional stipulations. The invitee should be an employee of the China-based company, and documentary proof, such as a copy of the existing China work permit, or the Notification Letter of Foreigner’s Work Permit for a new contract.
Alternatively, for the purpose of urgent business activities, the government will consider whether foreigners are eligible for entry if there are important projects to be implemented – typically including MNCs cooperating in China government projects.
Foreigners with Valid Residence Permits
Foreigners Residence Permits
On September 23, 2020, the MOFA released the Announcement on Entry by Foreign Nationals Holding Valid Chinese Residence Permits of Three Categories, announcing that foreigners with valid residence permits for work, personal matters, and reunion, would be allowed to enter the country without needing to re-apply for new visas starting from 0 a.m., September 28, 2020.
Under the policy, if the above residence permits had expired – after March 28, 2020 – the holders could re-apply for relevant visas by presenting the expired residence permits and relevant materials to the Chinese embassies or consulates. But no invitation letter would be required. The re-application had to be on the condition that the purpose of the holders’ visit to China remained unchanged.
This policy doesn’t apply to foreign nationals from the UK, France, Italy, Belgium, Russia, Ukraine, Philippines, Bangladesh, India, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Uzbekistan, and South Africa, after several Chinese embassies released the Notice on the Temporary Suspension of Entry into China by Non-Chinese Nationals in the (Country) Holding Valid Chinese Visas or Residence Permits in early November 2020.
First of all, let’s understand what is a Q1 visa and what is a Q2 visa
1. Objects of Family Reunion Visa (Q1 and Q2 Visas) Q1 visa: family members of Chinese citizens (spouse, parents, children, children’s spouses, siblings, grandparents, maternal grandparents, grandchildren, grandchildren, and parents of spouses) who apply for residence in China due to family reunion and have permanent residence in China Family members (spouses, parents, children, children’s spouses, brothers and sisters, grandparents, maternal grandparents, grandchildren, grandchildren, and parents of spouses) of foreigners with residence status, and those who apply for entry and residence due to foster care and other reasons. Q2 visa: a short-term entry (not more than 180 days) to visit relatives of Chinese citizens residing in China and relatives of foreigners with permanent residence in China.
2. Documents required to apply for Q1 and Q2 visas 1. Passport: The original passport with a valid period of more than 6 months and a blank visa page and a photocopy of the passport photo data page; 2. Visa application form and photos: 1 copy of 《Visa Application Form of the People’s Republic of China》 and 1 recent frontal passport photo without headgear and light background pasted on the application form; 3. Proof of legal stay or residence (applicable to those who are not applying for a visa in the country of nationality): If you are not applying for a visa in the country of your nationality, you need to provide a valid certificate of legal stay, residence, work, and study in the country where you live, or the original and photocopy of a valid visa Pieces 4. Original Chinese passport or original Chinese visa (applicable to those who once had Chinese nationality and later became a foreign national): If you are applying for a Chinese visa for the first time, you must provide the original Chinese passport and a copy of the passport photo data page; if you have been granted For a Chinese visa and applying for a visa with a newly-issued foreign passport, the photo data page of the original foreign passport and a copy of the previous Chinese visa must be provided (if the name recorded in the new passport is different from the original passport, the relevant official change must also be provided Proof of name).
3. Q1 and Q2 cannot replace each other So, here comes the point. Can a Q2 short-term visa be changed to a Q1 visa? The answer is no. Q2 is a short-term stay visa. No other documents are required after entry. The maximum stay period is 180 days, but you can apply to the local immigration authority for an extension within 7 days before the expiration date, as long as the reasons for the application are reasonable. However, it can be replaced with a reunite residence permit, but a notarized kinship certificate must be submitted when applying. The period of time from the date of issuance of the visa to the period after which the holder is allowed to enter the country, beyond this period, the visa is invalid. Generally, countries issue entry visas valid for 3 months, and some countries issue entry visas valid for 1 month.
