IMPORTANT NOTICE
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The United Kingdom Foreign and Commonwealth Office have issued the following warning. The Canadian and US governments have also issued similar warnings: "An increasing number British nationals are becoming attracted to opportunities to teach English in China. The vast majority of those who do so have an extremely positive and enjoyable experience, however some have experienced difficulties. The most common problems encountered arise from being faced with living/working conditions that do not meet expectations and complications over obtaining the correct visas and residence permits. There have also been complaints of breach of contract, confiscation of passports and of payment being withheld. Those wishing to take up teaching appointments in China should be aware that it is illegal to work on a tourist visa and are advised to contact the nearest Chinese Diplomatic Mission for information on obtaining the appropriate documentation. In addition they should research the educational establishment and the area in which they intend to work as thoroughly as possible." The US Government website adds the following: "Prospective teachers should never come to China without first receiving the proper "Z" or work visa from the Chinese Embassy. Prospective teachers should not accept a promise by a school or organization to obtain the correct visa after their arrival." We wish to reassure potential teachers that most problems are with unlicensed schools. All situations advertised on this website are with government authorised schools and colleges which we have fully researched. We assist all teachers in obtaining the correct visas prior to coming to China. Where possible, we also arrange for applicants to contact previous employees of the establishments concerned. If you have any doubts about the safety etc. of working in China please contact us. We also recommend that you read our Living in China pages, especially the section on visas.
24th January 2003 |