Finding a TEFL Job in China: Frequently Asked Questions

William Davies
Apr 17
4 min read

With so many different locations and TEFL jobs, it’s only natural that you’ll have so many questions about teaching abroad in China. Whether you’re concerned about the requirements, salary, or the best places to teach, we’ve answered the most frequently asked questions about teaching English in China!

Teaching in China Qualifications & Requirements

A student standing by the blackboard in China

Do I need a degree to teach in China?

Yes, you need a degree to teach in China legally. In order to obtain the Z-visa which is required to work in China, you’ll need to have a degree. While there may be programs or TEFL jobs catering to non-degree holders in China, they will fall under a different visa category and may offer low paying positions.

What certifications (TEFL, TESOL, CELTA) are required?

At the minimum, a 120 hour TEFL course is often required to teach English in China. This can be an online TEFL course or an in-person certification. A TESOL or CELTA, however, will likely lead to higher paid positions when it comes to TEFL jobs in China.

Do I need prior teaching experience?

No! You don’t need prior teaching experience to teach English in China. There are many entry-level TEFL jobs available in China. However, prior teaching experience will grant you access to higher paying TEFL jobs.

Can non-native English speakers teach in China?

Legally, your citizenship will need to be from the US, UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or South Africa to be an English teacher in China. The TEFL market in China is getting increasingly competitive, and schools often opt for native teachers. However, non-native teachers can still find teaching jobs in China that aren’t exclusive to teaching English.

Can I teach English in China without a degree?

No, it is not possible to teach English in China legally without a bachelor's degree; the Chinese government requires a degree to obtain a Z visa, which is necessary to work legally as a teacher in the country.

Work Visa & Legal Requirements for TEFL jobs in China

What visa do I need to teach in China?

To teach English in China, you’ll need to obtain a Z visa. This visa will enable you to open a bank account, apply for a residence permit, and to live and work in China as a legal worker.

How do I get a work permit (Z visa)?

In order to get the Z visa and work permit, you’ll first need to secure a TEFL job in China. Once you’ve interviewed and successfully found a job, your school will provide supporting documents for you to apply for the Z visa. You’ll submit your documents to the Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country and wait for your visa to be processed.

Can I work on a tourist or business visa?

No, you cannot work legally on a tourist visa in China. A business visa is not appropriate for someone who is working in China as a teacher.

What documents are required for the visa application?

In order to apply for and obtain your Z visa, you’ll need the following documents:

Authenticated bachelor’s degree
Authenticated TEFL certificate
Authenticated criminal background check
Z visa application form
Medical form

Finding a Teaching Job in China

Where is the best place to teach English in China?

While there isn’t a “best” place to teach in China, there are many locations which would be more suited to you than others. Depending on whether you value salary, the number of opportunities, city facilities, culture, or natural landscape, different cities excel at different qualities.

Generally, some of best considered locations to teach in China include:

Beijing
Shanghai
Shenzhen
Chengdu
Hangzhou

What types of schools hire foreign teachers?

There are many different types of schools and TEFL jobs for English teachers in China. While there isn’t one that is necessarily “better” than another, each offers pros and cons.

Public schools: Public schools are convenient and viable options for entry-level teachers looking to gain experience. While the salary is often lower, the workload is typically less than in other schools.
Private schools: Private schools will vary in quality, but generally, since tuition is paid for, the curriculum will be different, and classroom facilities and the standard of English will be higher than in public schools.
International schools: International schools will offer the highest salary and benefits for TEFL teachers. However, the requirements are also far higher in these schools. International schools in China often require that teachers have a teaching license from home, or a CELTA.
Universities: Teachers who have a master’s of education can find work at universities in China. While the requirements are still high, the contact hours and salary is lower than in international schools.

Read more: Your Guide to TEFL Jobs in China

What is the best way to find teaching jobs in China?

You can find TEFL jobs in China by going with a recruiter, just like us! You can express your skills, job preferences, and we will do our best to find your dream job in China!

Are recruiters a good option?

Yes, recruiters are a great option for finding TEFL jobs in China. This is because many TEFL jobs in China work with recruiters rather than hiring teachers directly. Going with a recruiter will offer you a greater range of options when it comes to TEFL jobs in China.

What should I look for in a job contract?

It’s important that your work contract matches what was promised in your interview with your employer. When analysing your job contract, you’ll need to ensure you’re well-informed regarding these details:

Salary per month
Contract start date and end date
Penalties and fines
Sponsored Z visa
Unpaid hours or overtime.

How much do English teachers in China get paid?

The answer will vary according to your experience, qualifications, job type, and of course your negotiating skills. Entry-level teachers in China can expect to earn a salary of around $1,200–$2,000 USD per month. More experienced teachers who work at private or international schools can earn from $2,000-$4,000 USD per month.