Can You Work on a China Student Visa in 2025? | Updated Rules & Guidelines

China, with its rapidly growing economy and globally recognized universities, has become an increasingly popular destination for international students. However, for many, the question remains: Can you work while studying in China on a student visa, and what are the precise rules for 2025? Understanding the latest policies is essential for those hoping to supplement their studies with part-time work, gain professional experience, or simply cover living costs. In this in-depth article, we explore the official regulations, the step-by-step process to obtain work permission, restrictions, and practical advice for working as a foreign student in China.

China issues two main types of student visas: the X1 and X2.

• X1 Visa: For students planning to study in China for more than 180 days (long-term students).
• X2 Visa: For students enrolling in short-term courses (less than 180 days).

For 2025, only X1 visa holders are generally permitted to apply for work authorization while studying. X2 visa holders are not allowed to engage in employment or internships during their stay.

Yes, but with strict conditions and procedures.
China has gradually opened up its rules, but working on a student visa is not an automatic right. Students must follow official channels to get approval and work only under permitted circumstances.

Recent Policy Updates for 2025

The Chinese Ministry of Education (MOE) and the National Immigration Administration continue to refine student employment rules to attract more international talent. For 2025, key highlights include:

• Universities have more autonomy to approve work permission for eligible students.
• Streamlined approval process, but strict reporting and compliance requirements.
• Work permission is tied to your residence permit (not the visa itself).

Eligibility Criteria:

• Must hold a valid X1 visa and a Residence Permit for Study Purposes.
• Must be enrolled as a full-time degree student (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD) at an accredited Chinese university.
• Must have completed at least one semester (some universities require two).
• Must maintain good academic standing and comply with university rules.
• Must obtain both university approval and local immigration authority approval.

Permissible Work:

• On-campus jobs: University library, administrative office, research assistantships, or campus facilities.
• Off-campus internships: Directly related to your field of study, arranged or endorsed by your university.
• Part-time employment: Some cities allow off-campus part-time jobs, but these are tightly regulated.

Prohibited Work:

• Jobs not related to your field of study (for off-campus roles).
• Self-employment, entrepreneurship, or running a business.
• Full-time jobs that interfere with study commitments.
• Jobs in locations or industries not approved by the university or immigration authorities.

Step-by-Step Guide for 2025:

1. Secure a Job Offer or Internship Placement

• On-campus: Apply through university departments.
• Off-campus: Obtain a formal offer letter from the employer, detailing position, duration, hours, and responsibilities.

2. Apply for University Permission

• Submit the job/internship details to your international student office.
• Provide academic transcripts, proof of good standing, and your study plan.

3. Obtain University Endorsement

• The university will assess your application. If approved, they issue a written permission letter.

4. Apply to the Local Exit-Entry Administration Bureau

• Present the following documents:
  • Passport and residence permit
  • University permission letter
  • Employer offer letter (for off-campus work)
  • Application form (available at the local bureau)
  • Student ID and academic records
• The authorities will mark your residence permit with “work-study” or “internship”, specifying the approved employer, job type, and allowed hours.

5. Comply With All Conditions

• Work only for the approved employer and within the permitted hours.
• Regularly report work status to the university and authorities.

For 2025, the following guidelines apply:

• On-campus jobs: Maximum of 8 hours per week, not exceeding 40 hours per month.
• Off-campus internships: Varies by city, but generally not more than 16 hours per week (64 hours per month).
• No work during exam periods unless explicitly permitted by the university.
• Violations can lead to cancellation of your residence permit, academic penalties, or even deportation.

Regulations may differ by city and university.
For example, universities in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen have more established procedures for international student work approval. Smaller cities may be stricter or less experienced with the process.

• Beijing: Proactive in supporting student internships tied to STEM and innovation sectors.
• Shanghai: Allows broader part-time opportunities for master’s and doctoral students.
• Guangzhou/Shenzhen: Emphasis on high-tech, finance, and international business sectors for internships.

Always check your university’s international office and the local immigration bureau for the latest details.

Serious consequences include:

• Immediate revocation of your student status and residence permit.
• Fines, detention, or deportation.
• Ban on re-entering China for several years.
• Academic consequences, including expulsion or transcript notation.

The government uses spot checks and employer reporting to enforce these rules. Do not risk unauthorized work.

Plan Early:
Start networking and building connections as soon as you arrive. Many universities have partnerships with local companies for internships.

Prioritize Studies:
Academic success is your primary purpose. Too many work hours can negatively impact your performance and future visa applications.

Understand Taxation:
Income from legal employment is subject to Chinese taxation. Ensure you register and file taxes as required.

Document Everything:
Keep copies of all permissions, contracts, and approval letters. You may need to show them at any time.

Language Barriers:
Most part-time roles require at least basic Mandarin. Invest time in language courses to increase your job opportunities.

Competition:
Top internships, especially with multinational companies, are competitive. Leverage your university’s career center and alumni network.

Changing Policies:
China’s immigration and student work policies can change year-to-year. Stay updated through your university and official government announcements.

Graduating international students with a degree from a Chinese university may apply to transition from a student (X1) visa to a work (Z) visa. Requirements include a job offer in your field, a work permit from your employer, and meeting local salary and qualification standards. This process is distinct and separate from student work permission.

Conclusion

In summary, working on a China student visa in 2025 is possible but comes with strict regulations, approval processes, and limitations. Only X1 visa holders with a valid residence permit, university endorsement, and official approval can legally work or intern. Unauthorized work can lead to severe penalties. If you plan to work while studying, start early, follow all official channels, and always prioritize your academic commitments.

For international students, China offers unique opportunities for professional growth, but only for those who respect the rules and maintain good academic and legal standing.