Working as a Student in China 2026
Work as a student in China 2026: restricted part-time (university + employer approval), internships during breaks, English teaching, and work endorsement rules.
Working as a student in China is more restricted than in most Western countries. You need written approval from your university and a work endorsement on your residence permit from the Public Security Bureau (PSB). Part-time work is limited to on-campus positions and approved off-campus internships. Formal part-time employment off campus requires employer sponsorship. The most common student jobs include English teaching, translation, and campus assistance. This guide covers the legal framework, approval process, and practical job-finding strategies.
Legal Framework
Chinese law restricts student workers. The Regulations on the Administration of Employment of Foreigners state that student visa holders cannot engage in employment without specific authorization.
| Work Type | Allowed? | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| On-campus work | Yes | University approval |
| Internship (curriculum-related) | Yes | University + employer letter + PSB endorsement |
| Part-time off campus | Limited | University + employer + PSB work endorsement |
| Full-time work | No | Requires Z visa (work visa) |
| Freelancing | No | Not permitted on student visa |
Getting Work Approval
Step 1: Get written permission from your university’s international student office. Submit a request explaining the job type, employer, and schedule.
Step 2: The employer provides an official letter confirming the position, duties, and working hours.
Step 3: Take both letters to the PSB Entry-Exit Administration. They add a work endorsement to your residence permit. Processing: 7–15 days.
Step 4: Work only within the approved scope. Any change in employer or job type requires a new endorsement.
Common Student Jobs
| Job | Monthly Pay (CNY) | Hours/Week | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| English teaching (private) | 3,000–8,000 | 5–15 | Native English speaker |
| University language assistant | 2,000–4,000 | 5–10 | University approval |
| Translation | 2,000–6,000 | Flexible | Bilingual proficiency |
| Campus assistant | 1,000–2,000 | 5–10 | Student status |
| Internship (company) | 2,000–5,000 | 20–40 (breaks) | Full approval chain |
| Modelling/acting | 500–2,000/day | Occasional | Work endorsement |
English teaching is the most common and best-paid student job. Private tutoring pays CNY 150–300 per hour. However, formal teaching at language schools requires proper work authorization.
Internships
Internships during semester breaks are increasingly common. Companies in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou offer structured internship programmes for international students.
- Summer internships (July–August): Most common. Apply 2–3 months in advance through LinkedIn China, Lagou, or Boss Zhipin.
- Winter internships (January–February): Shorter but available, especially at tech companies.
- Year-round part-time internships: Some companies offer 2–3 days/week positions during the semester.
Risks of Unauthorized Work
Working without proper authorization carries serious consequences:
- Fines of CNY 5,000–20,000
- Detention of 5–15 days
- Residence permit cancellation
- Deportation and re-entry ban (1–5 years)
The employer also faces fines of CNY 10,000–100,000 per unauthorized worker. Do not take this risk.
CSC Scholarship Holders
CSC scholarship terms generally discourage paid employment. Focus on studies. Limited on-campus work and research assistantships may be possible with supervisor approval. Always check your scholarship agreement before accepting any paid position.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I teach English privately without a work permit?
Technically no. All paid work requires university approval and PSB endorsement. Many students tutor informally, but this carries legal risk. Get proper authorization.
How much can I earn part-time?
English teaching: CNY 3,000–8,000/month for 5–15 hours/week. Translation: CNY 2,000–6,000/month. Campus jobs: CNY 1,000–2,000/month.
Can I do a full-time internship during summer?
Yes, with university approval and PSB work endorsement. Summer break internships are the most common form of student work in China.
Are online jobs for foreign companies allowed?
Remote work for foreign companies while residing in China falls into a grey area. Strictly speaking, any work performed in China requires authorization. Consult your university’s international office.
Do I need a work permit for modelling or acting?
Yes. Modelling, acting, and similar gigs require PSB work endorsement. These are common short-term jobs for international students in Beijing and Shanghai.
Can I work after graduation?
Not on a student visa. After graduation, apply for a Z visa (work visa) through an employer. See our China graduate career guide.
What job platforms work in China?
LinkedIn China, Boss Zhipin (BOSS直聘), Lagou (拉勾), and university career centres. For English teaching: eChinacities, The Beijinger classifieds.
Is working during the semester possible?
Limited. On-campus positions and approved part-time work are possible. Most students work primarily during summer and winter breaks.
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