If you’re teaching English in China, you might consider picking up a part-time job to boost your income. While extra cash sounds tempting, it’s important to understand the rules. Is it even legal? How many hours are you allowed to work? What do you need to do to stay within the law? Let’s break it all down so you can make informed decisions about taking a part-time job as a foreign teacher in China.
Is it Legal to Take a Part-Time Job While Teaching in China?
If you’re a foreign teacher in China on a Z-visa, you’re only allowed to work for the employer who sponsored your visa. Taking a part-time job with another employer is illegal and can lead to serious consequences, like fines, deportation, or even being banned from re-entering China. While some expats take on side jobs quietly, it’s a high risk.
How to Take a Part-Time Job Legally in China?
Regulations about part-time jobs in China for foreign workers
To work a part-time job legally in China, you need a work permit for each job. Your primary employer must give permission and help with the process, which can be a hassle for them. Because of this, many employers might not want to deal with it.
How Many Hours Is Part-Time in China?
An additional clause in the draft Labor Contract Law clarifies the wage standard for part-time employment.（translated by YouDao)
In China, part-time workers can only work up to four hours a day on averageand 24 hours a week for the same employer. If you work more than this, you’ll be classified as a full-time worker, which means different rules apply. Both you and your employer could face legal issues if you exceed these limits.
Extra Tips for Part-Time Work
- Pay Timing: Part-time workers should get paid within 15 days of doing the work, which is faster than the full-time job period. Ensure your employer sticks to this rule to avoid long waits for your money.
- No Probation Periods for Part-Time Work: According to Chinese labor laws, part-time jobs cannot have a probation period, so you should not agree to any trial period with reduced pay.
- Limited Social Security: You won’t get full social insurance benefits as a part-time worker. However, your employer must cover medical costs for any work-related injuries.
Taking on a part-time job while teaching English in China can be a great way to earn some extra income. But it’s important to follow the rules and stay within the allowed hours.
If you have any questions about teaching jobs in China and the Apostille, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at support@eslnest.com. We’re here to assist you every step of the way!
