As reported by China Briefing, the Beijing Public Security Bureau (BPSB) recently began a three-month campaign designed to cut back the number of foreigners living and working illegally in China. Among other planned actions, BPSB will check key neighborhoods and subject visa applications to closer scrutiny. This campaign stresses the importance for foreign nationals working in China to ensure they have proper approval to work in the country and double check that their necessary documentation is current. Also, employers are urged to seek legal advice when hiring foreign nationals to work in China, to ensure that all necessary steps are taken.

Below is a brief overview of the process for obtaining authorization to work and live in China:

1. An employer desiring to hire a foreign national obtains an Employment License of the People’s Republic of China from the respective Administrative Center for Employment of Foreigners.
2. The potential employee visits the Chinese Embassy in his or hertheir home country to obtain a Z visa.
3. Upon entering China, the employee obtains a health certificate after inspection at the Enter and Exit Inspection and Quarantine Center.
4. Employer applies for a work permit at the respective Administrative Center for Employment of Foreigners.
5. Employee applies for a residence permit at the Exit-Entry Administration Bureau.
6. After review, Entry-Exit Administration Bureau delivers passport with affixed residence permit to employee.