If you’re considering teaching in China, one of the first things you might wonder is, “Is teaching in China safe?” The short answer is YES! In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about safety as a foreign teacher in China. From the right visa to teach in China to avoiding common scam, we’ll cover it all to make sure your journey is not only exciting but also safe and enriching.
Is China a Safe Place to Live and Teach?
Yes, teaching in China is safe! Violent crime rates are low in most cities. You’ll feel comfortable even at night. The culture is rich, and you can enjoy the vibrant nightlife once you’re here. However, like any country, safety can vary depending on where you live. Major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou are safe, while smaller, rural areas might differ. It’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and follow local rules to ensure your safety while preparing in China.
How are Teachers Treated in China?
Teacher leading a classroom in China
Teaching in China is a highly respected profession. Education is highly valued, and teachers are often treated with respect. As a foreign teacher, your students will likely be curious about you and eager to learn from your unique background. They’re usually excited to practice their English with you, seeing you not just as a teacher but as a bridge to new perspectives and a wider world.
Getting the Right Visa for a Safe Teaching Experience in China
Legal Work Visa for Teaching in China-Z visa
Staying out of trouble and making sure your teaching trip in China goes well comes down to one big thing: starting with the proper visa. A Z visa is the visa you need to teach in China legally.
The basic requirements for obtaining a Z visa are:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree.
- Clean background check.
- Teaching certificate (TEFL, TESOL, Delta, US teacher credentials…)
- From “native English-speaking” countries. (If you plan to teach English in China)
You may hear stories of someone teaching in China on an L (Tourist) or M (Business) visa. While it might seem like a shortcut, it’s a risky move with serious consequences, which include getting kicked out of the country, maybe even with a ban on returning, and you might have to pay fines.
A reliable school or educational institution in China will help you secure a proper Z visa, which is essential for teaching legally. If a school suggests working on a tourist (L) or business (M) visa, it’s a red flag—they likely don’t have the qualifications to hire foreign teachers. It’s best to reconsider such offers to avoid potential legal trouble.
Rules About Part-time Job
Foreign teachers typically come to China on a work (Z) visa arranged and sponsored by their school or agency. Your work (Z) visa in China is tied to the employer who sponsors it, giving you the legal right to work. Taking on side jobs without their approval can violate your visa and contract terms. If caught, you could face serious consequences like fines, deportation, or even losing your job. If you’re considering part-time opportunities, it’s good to understand the rules—check out Is Part-Time Work Legal for Foreign Teachers in China? for more details.
Common Scams to Watch Out for While Teaching in China
China is a safe place to live, and you’ll often feel comfortable walking around at night without worrying about serious crimes like robbery or violence. However, scams do exist. Common scams include telecom fraud, romance scams, and online schemes like nude chat scams. Staying cautious with unfamiliar contacts or too-good-to-be-true offers will help you avoid most of the trouble.
Here’s a scam that’s been going around—Tinder scams. A friend of mine lost 8,000 RMB after meeting a girl on Tinder. They hit it off, and she picked the bar. She pressured my friend to drink, and the next morning, he woke up with an 8,000 RMB bill. Just a heads-up—be cautious when meeting people online!
Scammers often use dating apps with fake profiles to trick people. They’ll try to manipulate your emotions, get personal info, or even ask for money. Always double-check profiles, and don’t rush into trusting anyone.
Is Food Safety a Concern for Teachers in China?
Restaurants in China are usually safe, so you don’t have to worry about every meal. But street food and delivery-only spots can be a bit hit or miss. For street food, pick vendors who keep things clean and wear gloves. When ordering takeout, check the restaurant’s page on apps like Meituan or Ele.me. Places that follow good hygiene often post pictures of their space and offer dine-in options.
Tips for Finding Clean Take-out on Meituan
To sum up
Teaching in China can be a great experience as long as you follow the rules. Make sure you have the proper visa, stay connected with your school, and avoid anything illegal. Stick to that, and you’ll have a safe and memorable time teaching here!
