Graduation season is here—outstanding foreign graduates may be exempt from the usual two-year work experience requirement and apply directly for a Chinese work permit. Below are the specific eligibility criteria and procedures.

I. Who Is Eligible?

Outstanding foreign graduates who have obtained a master's degree or above from a Chinese university, or from a well-known overseas university (generally referencing internationally recognized rankings such as QS World University Rankings), and have a confirmed employer, may apply directly for a work permit upon graduation without the 2-year work experience requirement. The application must be submitted within one year of graduation, and the job should be related to the major studied.

Basic requirements: At least 18 years old, in good health, no criminal record, and have a confirmed employer in China. Academic requirement: Average score of at least 80 (out of 100) or B+/B or above (on a grading scale).

Master's graduates who do not meet the "outstanding graduate" standard generally need to follow the regular Category B route: "bachelor's degree or above + 2 years of relevant work experience." Bachelor's degree holders generally need to meet the same standard. Some regions may offer exceptions for positions in high-demand industries or for innovation and entrepreneurship talent—check local policies for details.

Classification: Category B "Outstanding Graduate" channel — up to 2 years; Category A — for high-level foreign talent (PhD holders, high-salary earners, internationally recognized achievers, etc.) — up to 5 years. Some outstanding graduates may apply directly under Category B; those who do not meet Category B criteria may fall under Category C (subject to quota restrictions).

II. Key Requirements

The employer must be legally established with no serious records of illegal activities or dishonesty; the position must match the graduate's major; the salary must meet the local Category B talent compensation standard (generally no less than 4 times the previous year's local average salary)—check with local authorities for specific requirements.

III. Application Process

Employer registration: Complete registration on the Service System for Foreigners Working in China.

Apply online for the Foreigner's Work Permit Notification: Outstanding graduates apply under Category B; statutory processing time is 15 working days.

Apply for a Z-visa abroad: With the Work Permit Notification, apply at a Chinese embassy or consulate.

Apply for work-type residence permit after entry: Within 30 days of entering China with the Z-visa, apply at the local public security bureau's exit-entry administration.

Special note: Fresh graduates holding a valid study visa/residence permit may apply for conversion within China after receiving a job offer—no need to exit and re-enter. Those who entered on an L tourist visa are generally not permitted to convert within China and must exit and apply for a Z-visa before re-entering.

IV. Required Core Documents

Foreigner's Work Permit Application Form; highest academic degree certificate (overseas degrees must be authenticated by Chinese embassies/consulates); certificate of no criminal record (authenticated by Chinese embassies/consulates, issued within 6 months); medical examination certificate (issued by Chinese inspection and quarantine authorities, within 6 months); employment contract (in Chinese, including work location, position, salary, etc.); valid passport (with at least 6 months' validity).

V. How to Apply in Shaanxi?

Shaanxi has established four comprehensive immigration service centers in Xixian New Area, Xi'an High-tech Zone, Qujiang New District, and Chanba International Port. The Xixian Center focuses on innovation and entrepreneurship services for foreign talent; the High-tech Zone Center serves foreign-invested enterprises and foreign professionals; the Qujiang Center focuses on serving international students; the Chanba International Port Center serves foreign businesspeople and technicians along the "China-Europe Railway Express" industrial chain. Additionally, the Shaanxi Government Service Website has launched online processing channels for foreigner work permit-related services.

Shaanxi Foreigners Service Platform reminds you: Implementation details vary by city—confirm the latest requirements with the local Foreign Experts Bureau or exit-entry administration before applying. Degree and criminal record authentication each take 2–4 weeks—start early. For further inquiries, feel free to DM us.

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