Due to the recent resurgence of the new crown epidemic both at home and abroad, it is still difficult for expatriates to enter the country. For companies requiring foreign workers, more preference will be given this year to foreign talent already in the country for recruitment. These expatriates are currently on a work visa and must obtain a new work permit when changing jobs. If a foreigner is hired illegally, the employer will not only face a penalty of 10,000 yuan, but will also affect the work permit process for other foreign employees. For the individual expatriate employee, there are administrative penalties including the risk of deportation.

*What is the transfer of an Foreign Work Permit?
 

The Work Permit for Foreigners is a legal document for foreigners to work in China.

If a foreigner working in China changes employers, a transfer of work permit is required.

*Who needs to apply for a transfer?
 

1.Work permits are valid for the duration of the permit, but if the employer changes, the permit must be transferred

Foreign employees who originally held a work permit and have changed companies but their job (occupation) has not changed, and whose work-type residence permit is still valid, can use a more convenient way to transfer their work permit directly to their new employer.

Documents required and process:

The original employer cooperates in the application for cancellation of the original work permit and obtains a Certificate of Cancellation of Foreigner Work Permit for leaving the company.

The total time for the entire transfer process should be around one month. The foreign employee should cancel the old work permit within 10 days and apply for a new work permit and residence permit within the next 30 days.

2. Work permit cancelled, change of employer during the period of stay, more caution required

Foreign employees whose work class residence permits are not valid and whose work permits have been cancelled need to follow the same process as for the first time and apply for a Work Permit for Foreigners and, in accordance with the actual policy requirements, also need to provide again: proof of no criminal convictions abroad, proof of academic qualifications abroad, etc.

List of information to be provided by individual foreign employees:

Personal passports for expatriate employees

Academic certificates and authentication documents

Proof of work experience

Certificate of No Conviction and certified documents

Medical Examination Report

Notes on transfer of employment

1. The residence permit is valid.

2. The new job title needs to be the same as the previous job title.

3. Need to obtain a certificate of separation from the previous company

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