Career Opportunities in China
Visa rules for working, internship programs, and where international graduates find jobs across China's booming economy.
Can you work in China as a graduate?
Work (Z) Visa
To work full-time after graduation you need a Z visa sponsored by an employer, plus a Work Residence Permit. A bachelor degree + 2 years relevant experience is typically required.
Internship on X1
Holders of an X1 residence permit may do paid internships or part-time work with permission from the university and entry-exit bureau — up to the hours permitted.
Fresh Graduate Permit
Some cities (Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen) allow outstanding graduates to stay up to 2 years on a job-seeking residence permit without a work visa.
Top sectors hiring international talent
Tech & AI
Shenzhen, Hangzhou and Beijing hire English-speaking engineers, PMs and data scientists.
Trade & Export
Guangzhou, Yiwu and Shanghai recruit graduates for cross-border e-commerce and sourcing.
Education
English teaching and university lecturer roles across all cities for native-level speakers.
Tourism & Hospitality
International hotels and tourism boards hire multilingual graduates in coastal and tier-1 cities.
Internship programs for students
University-arranged internships
Most universities offer credited internships in your 3rd or 4th year, arranged with partner companies.
China-software-park placements
Tech hubs like Zhongguancun (Beijing) and Zhangjiang (Shanghai) run placement programs for international students.
Confucius Institute internships
Cultural and education internships at Confucius Institutes worldwide for Chinese-language graduates.
Plan your career in China with an advisor
From internships to your first job offer — we help graduates navigate visas and the job market.