lrai
American expat in China
Forum posts
212
Contacts
13
About me
American
Lives in Changchun
Speaks English, some Chinese and some Russian and some Yiddish
Registration: 29 October 2008
Going Abroad to Work, Be Well Informed by lrai
To all of you who are thinking that working abroad is the answer to your life, please consider the following before you embark on that journey. Laws are not the same everywhere you go. You need to be informed and you need to do your ...
@alevixIn what they call Tier 1 cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou etc) you will easily find people who speak English so you knowing Chinese is not that critical. In Tier 2 cities this same rule applies, Tier 3 cities (like Changchun where I ... Read More
BEWARE OF FRAUD - CELTA AND/OR DELTA CERTIFICATIONS by lrai
To ALL Teachers: If you are thinking of pursuing a higher certification in TESL and want a CELTA or DELTA, here is a word of caution. Go on the official Cambridge website and check out the list of authentic schools and instructors before agreeing ...
Fred:How long have you lived in China? Just curious. Read More
BEWARE OF FRAUD - CELTA AND/OR DELTA CERTIFICATIONS by lrai
To ALL Teachers: If you are thinking of pursuing a higher certification in TESL and want a CELTA or DELTA, here is a word of caution. Go on the official Cambridge website and check out the list of authentic schools and instructors before agreeing ...
Dear Alnaz:The rules changing are just a fact of life here and so it goes. It is harder now to get work visas for hiring new teachers but then training schools are in a difficult time due to new government regulations. We are being forced out and ... Read More
BEWARE OF FRAUD - CELTA AND/OR DELTA CERTIFICATIONS by lrai
To ALL Teachers: If you are thinking of pursuing a higher certification in TESL and want a CELTA or DELTA, here is a word of caution. Go on the official Cambridge website and check out the list of authentic schools and instructors before agreeing ...
CELTA and DELTA are (if real) good to have to prove you are a qualified teacher of English and especially for someone whose BA or MA was not in English or Education. In China both are good to have now if you don't possess a BA or MA in English or ... Read More
work English teacher by Sofiia808
hello. i want find work eanglish teacher. i have certificates toefl. and chienese visa in 3 year. im ready starting work now!
Natalia:Did you have a question for me? I don't see your post. Read More
Getting Chinese work visa with no degree, and starting my own company by Valachio
Hi,I am wondering how difficult it will be for me to obtain the Chinese work visa. My goal in China is to build a Chinese startup. Here are some facts about me.Ethnic Chinese born in China and used to have Chinese citizenship. Immigrated to Canada ...
Valachio:Yours is sort of a unique situation and my recommendation is get a lawyer to help you. You will be investing money here in China and your business will employ you, so to be on the safe side, have an attorney help you with this so you do it ... Read More
work English teacher by Sofiia808
hello. i want find work eanglish teacher. i have certificates toefl. and chienese visa in 3 year. im ready starting work now!
2005saad:who do you want to quick post? also what is your question? Read More
Apartment rent deposit by guestposter991
Hi,possibly moving to Shenzhen within the next few months. Can I confirm how much rent/ deposit is required for an apartment upfront? I have heard that up to 3 months rent, 3 x service charge and a deposit is required! But, I would prefer to pay ...
I can't speak on cities in Guangdong Province or Shenzhen, but typically where I live in the NE of China the deposit is one month of rent and 50% of that amount is paid to an agency if you used one to help you find a place. So 1 1/2 months of rent ... Read More
Going Abroad to Work, Be Well Informed
To all of you who are thinking that working abroad is the answer to your life, please consider the following before you embark on that journey. Laws are not the same everywhere you go. You need to be informed and you need to do your ... Read More
Health Care in Northeast China 2023 by lrai
This is just some general info based on my own recent experience with the health care system in China.In January 2023 I was diagnosed with walking pneumonia and it was very serious. The doctor wanted me to go into the hospital but as a foreigner ...
ok you make a very good point. I have tried to learn and I have some Chinese ability but thankfully I have a great boss and wonderful Chinese staff who consider me "family" so they took very good care of me. If you can't learn the language you ... Read More
Work Visa with no degree by Mngedo
Dear all, I am sure this question has been commonly asked and i have probably read everything that is on the Internet. However mystery is still not solved. Basically my current company would like to send me to the office in Shanghai. I was in the ...
yep, total agree with all you have said. I got really sick in Jan. 2023 and so I am on the mend and I will be partially retired starting this year. However I am on another 3 yr visa and planning to stay as long as I can. Life here has it's quirks ... Read More
Health Care in Northeast China 2023
This is just some general info based on my own recent experience with the health care system in China.In January 2023 I was diagnosed with walking pneumonia and it was very serious. The doctor wanted me to go into the hospital but as a foreigner ... Read More
Work Visa with no degree by Mngedo
Dear all, I am sure this question has been commonly asked and i have probably read everything that is on the Internet. However mystery is still not solved. Basically my current company would like to send me to the office in Shanghai. I was in the ...
@VANNROX Nice to be back here, the last year was really tough, but our company has survived and so did I. 2023 had a rough start for personal reasons but I am on the mend and doing fairly well. We hope we can stay working in classrooms and not ... Read More
Work Visa with no degree by Mngedo
Dear all, I am sure this question has been commonly asked and i have probably read everything that is on the Internet. However mystery is still not solved. Basically my current company would like to send me to the office in Shanghai. I was in the ...
General reply to this thread:If you want a z visa for China now (2023) it will require a BA degree. If you are considering a teaching job then that degree must be in the subject you plan to teach. Not all provinces have the same rules some are ... Read More
The cost of Living in China in 2023 by Mickael
Hello everyone, As every year, we invite you to share your experience on the evolution of the cost of living in the region or city where you live in order to answer future requests for information from new members of the site who would like to ...
Matte:The care I got was 1st rate and equal to anything I would get in the US and really not expensive. Yes, I could use western docs here but why? I am not sure where you are located in China but where I live in the NE of China medical care is ... Read More
The cost of Living in China in 2023 by Mickael
Hello everyone, As every year, we invite you to share your experience on the evolution of the cost of living in the region or city where you live in order to answer future requests for information from new members of the site who would like to ...
Matte:Health care here in NE China at least for me has been very affordable and good. Two weeks in a hospital back in the US would have set me back a lot. I do not have health insurance for many reasons but mainly b/c I don't live in the US so ... Read More
The cost of Living in China in 2023 by Mickael
Hello everyone, As every year, we invite you to share your experience on the evolution of the cost of living in the region or city where you live in order to answer future requests for information from new members of the site who would like to ...
@Mickael I have often posted to this thread about costs, this time I only want to post about medical costs in China. I just spent two weeks in the hospital and the total cost came to 4500 RMB (about $750) try doing that in the US. The care was ... Read More
Work Visa with no degree by Mngedo
Dear all, I am sure this question has been commonly asked and i have probably read everything that is on the Internet. However mystery is still not solved. Basically my current company would like to send me to the office in Shanghai. I was in the ...
yoginee:I guess I have been away...LOL After so many lock-downs this past year time has lost all meaning to me. Always happy to help.LRai Read More
Work Visa with no degree by Mngedo
Dear all, I am sure this question has been commonly asked and i have probably read everything that is on the Internet. However mystery is still not solved. Basically my current company would like to send me to the office in Shanghai. I was in the ...
Dillionb and mrangry:I have sent you both a PM, in general you must now have a BA to get a visa for teaching in China. The points that dillion is speaking about refer to a system where the foreign expert office and the visa granting (PSB) award so ... Read More
Work Visa with no degree by Mngedo
Dear all, I am sure this question has been commonly asked and i have probably read everything that is on the Internet. However mystery is still not solved. Basically my current company would like to send me to the office in Shanghai. I was in the ...
Cheryl:Yes I have been away from the forum for a bit, however I will respond to both of these questions via a PM as it would be best that way. Read More
Teaching English in China with other diplomas than a bachelor's? by EnglishteacherBE
Hello everyone, I'm a 24 year old student from Belgium, Westearn Europe. Currently, I'm finishing my associate's degree in paralegal studies and my postgraduate diploma in strategic management and leadership. I do not hold a ...
Indeed a BA is mandatory now if you want to teach anything in China Read More
Disease outbreak in China by Anne-Lise Mty
Hi all, I hope you're all doing well despite the recent news. I am writing to let you know we, at Expat.com, have written a little guide on [url=https://www.expat.com/en/expat-mag/3004-how-to-survive-an-epidemic-abroad.html]what to do when ...
Fred: You are so right, the official reports are nothing like what people like to post here. LOL Here in Jilin Province as of today May 18, 2021, we are finally making some progress on getting a date when our foreign teachers can get vaccinated. ... Read More
Switching from student visa to work visa by Lao3wai4
Hi folks, I'm a British expat living in Beijing, I'm studying Chinese online through a university so I have a student resident permission until September. Instead of continuing my study I'd prefer to start working for an international ...
Dear Mrangry: Here is what I can tell you about traveling back to home because I currently have a teacher who must go home to deal with some family issues. 1. You will need to do a COVID test 72 hours before you board the plane and the paperwork ... Read More
Switching from student visa to work visa by Lao3wai4
Hi folks, I'm a British expat living in Beijing, I'm studying Chinese online through a university so I have a student resident permission until September. Instead of continuing my study I'd prefer to start working for an international ...
Dear Laowai: Okay, I am not an expert at this but I do have some experience because I hire foreign teachers to work for our company. Here is what I can tell you as of today May 18, 2021 You might (and I stress might) be able to switch your ... Read More
Vaccines required in China by Diksha
Hello everybody, When living or moving abroad, and in particular in China, vaccination against certain diseases is often required to enter the country or to avoid risks. We would like to ask you a few questions to help future expats ...
Dear Diksha: This is a very timely question but it's also one with no clear answers as what may be the rule in one part of China may not be the rule in another part. When I came to China 14 years ago you didn't really need any shots for ... Read More
Dealing with loneliness in China by Priscilla
Hello, Expatriation can be a fun and exciting adventure, but it can also be a bit lonely at times. Please share with us some tips for dealing with loneliness. What are some potential factors that lead to loneliness when moving to China? How ...
Dear Fajin: WOW your experience is so similar to what I did when I first came to China in 2007. My first 3 years in China were in a very small town and I was the ONLY foreign teacher in the town of 1 million. I didn't go to bars, I'm not ... Read More
Expatriation to China: border updates by Cheryl
Hello everyone, in China as elsewhere, the current pandemic has changed our way of life but also our mobility, due to the state of borders of nearby countries or countries we wanted to visit. Today we would like to take stock of the current ...
Here is the Chinese embassy link about the new travel restrictions and health checks: http://www.china-embassy.org/eng/visas/zyxx/t1828184.htm Read More
Expatriation to China: border updates by Cheryl
Hello everyone, in China as elsewhere, the current pandemic has changed our way of life but also our mobility, due to the state of borders of nearby countries or countries we wanted to visit. Today we would like to take stock of the current ...
Dear San Diego: Make sure you check the latest info on the American Embassy site regarding flights to China from the US. As of Nov. 6th the rules changed and while you can book a flight you have to jump the hoops. The first hoop is you must do a ... Read More
Expatriation to China: border updates by Cheryl
Hello everyone, in China as elsewhere, the current pandemic has changed our way of life but also our mobility, due to the state of borders of nearby countries or countries we wanted to visit. Today we would like to take stock of the current ...
To be honest in good times it can take 6 months...right now it's anyone's guess. Where in the Northwest are you going that too will make an impact on time. Feel free to PM me and I will be happy to tell you more. Read More
Expatriation to China: border updates by Cheryl
Hello everyone, in China as elsewhere, the current pandemic has changed our way of life but also our mobility, due to the state of borders of nearby countries or countries we wanted to visit. Today we would like to take stock of the current ...
Vlad: Well stated on your last sentence. :) Update as of October 22, 2020, for Northeast China. The American Embassy came to Changchun to give us all an update. As of Friday Oct. 23 the Embassy was able to bring in three new employees from the ... Read More
Expatriation to China: border updates by Cheryl
Hello everyone, in China as elsewhere, the current pandemic has changed our way of life but also our mobility, due to the state of borders of nearby countries or countries we wanted to visit. Today we would like to take stock of the current ...
McMitch: As someone who has been here in China since Feb 2020 and has lived in this situation, I would like to say that personally I feel China has done a good job, better than what was done in my home country (USA). They have done what was needed ... Read More
Expatriation to China: border updates by Cheryl
Hello everyone, in China as elsewhere, the current pandemic has changed our way of life but also our mobility, due to the state of borders of nearby countries or countries we wanted to visit. Today we would like to take stock of the current ...
no problem...this is a place where we need to share what we know so others can benefit. Read More
Expatriation to China: border updates by Cheryl
Hello everyone, in China as elsewhere, the current pandemic has changed our way of life but also our mobility, due to the state of borders of nearby countries or countries we wanted to visit. Today we would like to take stock of the current ...
This is an interesting topic because the information can be different depending on where you are located in China. I can ONLY speak for the Northeast and Jilin Province where I'm located. As a foreign teacher manager I have been on top of this ... Read More
First impressions after moving to China by Diksha
Hello everyone, You probably have vivid memories of your first weeks as an expat in China. Indeed, moving to a new country is a milestone in someone’s life. Today, we invite you to share with the community how you experienced your first ...
Thank you for the kind words and that happened over 13 years ago and I am still here so I think I'm over it. LOL It was not the best introduction to China but it did help me to be ready for the journey I've been on. I do like China which ... Read More
Lost my job because of Covid, now I think I might be blacklisted? by Guest8092
I'll try make this as brief as possible. I lost my job in China in late March after our school told us to return home during the winter holiday period, duringwhich time coronavirus happened, China banned foreigners from reentering, the UK went ...
The rules have not changed because of COVID. If you have a Z visa then you can switch to another Z visa (if you switch employers) but if you have any other type visa and you want to make that into a Z visa you can't inside of China. So, if you ... Read More
First impressions after moving to China by Diksha
Hello everyone, You probably have vivid memories of your first weeks as an expat in China. Indeed, moving to a new country is a milestone in someone’s life. Today, we invite you to share with the community how you experienced your first ...
thanks...I have found you either love it or not...LOL Read More
First impressions after moving to China by Diksha
Hello everyone, You probably have vivid memories of your first weeks as an expat in China. Indeed, moving to a new country is a milestone in someone’s life. Today, we invite you to share with the community how you experienced your first ...
I could actually write a book...but I will keep it short. I came to China in 2007 and was overwhelmed by it. It was not at all what I expected. I had only seen China on travel shows or movies and then only Beijing or Shanghai. I however ended up ... Read More
Lost my job because of Covid, now I think I might be blacklisted? by Guest8092
I'll try make this as brief as possible. I lost my job in China in late March after our school told us to return home during the winter holiday period, duringwhich time coronavirus happened, China banned foreigners from reentering, the UK went ...
Thanks for the perspective...well stated. The situation in Dalian even affected us here in Changchun for a while. It has calmed but for several days we were not sure what would happen. However, Dalian and Harbin have made it so my teachers ... Read More
BEWARE OF FRAUD - CELTA AND/OR DELTA CERTIFICATIONS by lrai
To ALL Teachers: If you are thinking of pursuing a higher certification in TESL and want a CELTA or DELTA, here is a word of caution. Go on the official Cambridge website and check out the list of authentic schools and instructors before agreeing ...
However Cambridge could go after them instead of doing nothing...just my 2 cents. Read More
BEWARE OF FRAUD - CELTA AND/OR DELTA CERTIFICATIONS by lrai
To ALL Teachers: If you are thinking of pursuing a higher certification in TESL and want a CELTA or DELTA, here is a word of caution. Go on the official Cambridge website and check out the list of authentic schools and instructors before agreeing ...
Won't help to try to do this in China, the only hope is to find him in SA and proceed. Long shot but who knows. Read More
BEWARE OF FRAUD - CELTA AND/OR DELTA CERTIFICATIONS by lrai
To ALL Teachers: If you are thinking of pursuing a higher certification in TESL and want a CELTA or DELTA, here is a word of caution. Go on the official Cambridge website and check out the list of authentic schools and instructors before agreeing ...
Fred: We are compensating the teachers involved. I feel bad because we all trusted this person based on past experience. Lesson learned. Thank you for your additional comments. BTW we are seeking others who may have been damaged by this person ... Read More
BEWARE OF FRAUD - CELTA AND/OR DELTA CERTIFICATIONS
To ALL Teachers: If you are thinking of pursuing a higher certification in TESL and want a CELTA or DELTA, here is a word of caution. Go on the official Cambridge website and check out the list of authentic schools and instructors before agreeing ... Read More
First group of teachers return to China
so far because we have recently had an outbreak in Siping and from Dalian, not in the process here in Changchun yet. I am eagerly awaiting the news when we can send teachers home and get them back again without any problems let alone get new ... Read More
COVID-19 and expatriation in China by Loïc
Hello everybody, The COVID-19 crisis inevitably impacts China, between closed airports or periods of containment in some cities or even the entire country . We would like to hear from you during this unusual period, to find out what the ...
Adidas: Thank you...some times I question my sanity for staying here...LOL Over a decade ago I decided that how English was being taught in public schools in China wasn't effective. I took 3 years and did research on using American Sign ... Read More
Termination of teaching contract due to covid by Deviatorz
I'll keep this as short as possible. I am currently the Head Department at an international school in China. I have been working there for many years. However, this year a new American principal came in and he's trying to literally take over ...
Dear Bforest: While giving us the article # and telling us this is Chinese Employment Law it really doesn't help much. Most of the time the Chinese Laws are in Chinese and the translations you can find are not that good. They can be very ... Read More
Lost my job because of Covid, now I think I might be blacklisted? by Guest8092
I'll try make this as brief as possible. I lost my job in China in late March after our school told us to return home during the winter holiday period, duringwhich time coronavirus happened, China banned foreigners from reentering, the UK went ...
Dear Jean: The short answer...no one knows. That is the ONLY truth at this time. If they tell you anything else I wouldn't trust it. We have been living with daily changes for the last 7 months and it isn't getting better. One day we ... Read More
Lost my job because of Covid, now I think I might be blacklisted? by Guest8092
I'll try make this as brief as possible. I lost my job in China in late March after our school told us to return home during the winter holiday period, duringwhich time coronavirus happened, China banned foreigners from reentering, the UK went ...
Thank you Fred, not planning on doing that Read More
Lost my job because of Covid, now I think I might be blacklisted? by Guest8092
I'll try make this as brief as possible. I lost my job in China in late March after our school told us to return home during the winter holiday period, duringwhich time coronavirus happened, China banned foreigners from reentering, the UK went ...
Dear John: Right now unless you are already in China on a Z visa I can't hire you. It's making life really hard for us. No one who is NOT Chinese can get here at the moment. I do hire teachers but to get a Z visa for China you will need ... Read More
Employment and new work practices in China by Cheryl
Hello everyone, In diverse sectors, employment in China has been tremendously affected by the current crisis. We invite you to share your experience on these changes in the professional world in China. Did new work practices emerge over the ...
WOW this is an interesting topic and I could probably write a book. We have been closed as a company to having in-house classes since Feb. 2020. The government rules keep changing as often as a fickle woman changes her mind. (sorry if anyone is ... Read More
Lost my job because of Covid, now I think I might be blacklisted? by Guest8092
I'll try make this as brief as possible. I lost my job in China in late March after our school told us to return home during the winter holiday period, duringwhich time coronavirus happened, China banned foreigners from reentering, the UK went ...
Dear Everybody Loves... Okay there are details that would need to be known and a public forum isn't the place. If you wish to PM me then I can tell you more once I have some other details. I am a foreign teacher manager for a large private ... Read More
COVID-19 and expatriation in China by Loïc
Hello everybody, The COVID-19 crisis inevitably impacts China, between closed airports or periods of containment in some cities or even the entire country . We would like to hear from you during this unusual period, to find out what the ...
Adidas4501: It has not been easy this year and thanks back. We opened July 20 and this week July 27 Jr. Hi kids are taking their Zhong Kao exams, it's probably the only reason we can stay open because now there is talk we may be shut down ... Read More
COVID-19 and expatriation in China by Loïc
Hello everybody, The COVID-19 crisis inevitably impacts China, between closed airports or periods of containment in some cities or even the entire country . We would like to hear from you during this unusual period, to find out what the ...
Update as of July 20 from Changchun...we have been given permission to re-open and have classes again at our branches. We have been working hard to do this since we were told on July 3rd that we could open by July 20. We had to ready each location ... Read More
Termination of teaching contract due to covid by Deviatorz
I'll keep this as short as possible. I am currently the Head Department at an international school in China. I have been working there for many years. However, this year a new American principal came in and he's trying to literally take over ...
Deviatorz: Many International Schools in China are facing government restrictions and I do believe many will not re-open after COVID. Several of the schools in my city Changchun that were run by foreign entities have been shut down or will end ... Read More
COVID-19 and expatriation in China by Loïc
Hello everybody, The COVID-19 crisis inevitably impacts China, between closed airports or periods of containment in some cities or even the entire country . We would like to hear from you during this unusual period, to find out what the ...
Actually the rules in regards to Chinese citizens and foreigners have NOT changed it's just a reminder to all what rules are in place. The bottom-line is if you're NOT Chinese you need to remember you're in China therefore Chinese Law ... Read More
COVID-19 and expatriation in China by Loïc
Hello everybody, The COVID-19 crisis inevitably impacts China, between closed airports or periods of containment in some cities or even the entire country . We would like to hear from you during this unusual period, to find out what the ...
Cbonon: If you are currently holding a Z visa and you have a current contract then you may have problems finding a new employer unless your current employer is willing to let you go. If you are not holding a Z visa (work visa) then you can't ... Read More
Expats in China: Take part in our survey on the COVID-19!
do you realize the last part of this survey is in French? Read More
COVID-19 and expatriation in China by Loïc
Hello everybody, The COVID-19 crisis inevitably impacts China, between closed airports or periods of containment in some cities or even the entire country . We would like to hear from you during this unusual period, to find out what the ...
This is an interesting topic because I am sure each of us can tell a different story. I was contacted by my college to write an article for their on-line magazine. They wanted to hear a first hand account of what it was like to return to China ... Read More
Medication in China by Loïc
Good morning everyone, Whether it's a simple cold or a chronic illness, medication and medicine use vary from country to country and culture to culture. When you are used to certain brands or types of drugs, being in a country like China with ...
This is an interesting topic and especially now. Medications in China have improved since I first arrived in 2007. Today you can find most drugs here and some are even name brand and from outside of China and not "knock-off" ... Read More
How to find a job in Kazakhstan by expat.com
Hi, Are you an expat living in Kazakhstan? Let's share your experience! [b]What is the best way to find a job in Kazakhstan?[/b] [u]The Internet?[/u] Please tell us which are the most useful / effective websites for job seekers in ...
I don't work in Almaty anymore, I now live and work in China (for 12 years) and I hire teachers to teach English here. You can go to our website to learn more *** on that site I have a section of schools that certify teachers in TEFL, 120 is ... Read More
How to find a job in Kazakhstan by expat.com
Hi, Are you an expat living in Kazakhstan? Let's share your experience! [b]What is the best way to find a job in Kazakhstan?[/b] [u]The Internet?[/u] Please tell us which are the most useful / effective websites for job seekers in ...
I am not a local and it's been many years since I lived in Almaty but it was not easy to find work. You will need to have at least a TEFL to teach and you should have your BA in English to be qualified and it helps if you are a native speaker. ... Read More
Homeschooling in China by Bhavna
Hello everyone, Homeschooling your children as an expat in China will definitely come with its load of challenges. Here is a special call to parents who are already homeschooling their children or who plan on doing so to share any information ...
If you can get your hands on the following DVD do it. You might even be able to just view it on-line. I believe BBC did this program and I think it was around 2015, "Are Our Kids Tough Enough?" It's a three part series (about 3 ... Read More
Home decoration ideas for expats in China by Bhavna
Hello, After moving to China, setting up home and turning your accommodation into your personal abode can be a great way to start off your new life and feel at home. We would like to know whether expats are keen on decorating and furnishing to ...
Renting in China is different from renting in the US, here you pay for a full year up front and usually the places come furnished. The furnishing can be rather tacky so if you plan to stay you will most likely start asking the landlord to take ... Read More
Homeschooling in China by Bhavna
Hello everyone, Homeschooling your children as an expat in China will definitely come with its load of challenges. Here is a special call to parents who are already homeschooling their children or who plan on doing so to share any information ...
Homeschooling in China for NON-Chinese is perfectly legal. The Chinese government could care less what you do with your kid as long as they are NOT Chinese. However, homeschooling in China is illegal and getting very difficult to do. You can read ... Read More
Expat interest in politics in China by Bhavna
Hello everyone, As an expat, your day-to-day life in China is impacted by decision-making at the political level in your host country as well as in your country of origin. We would like to know how involved you think expats should be in the ...
1900gemini: Yep, totally agree. I stopped voting about 15 years ago, when I learned that trying to vote when you are overseas is pain to do and very limited. I also stopped because I really don't live in the US except for one month each year ... Read More
Expat interest in politics in China by Bhavna
Hello everyone, As an expat, your day-to-day life in China is impacted by decision-making at the political level in your host country as well as in your country of origin. We would like to know how involved you think expats should be in the ...
I will answer this question very simply, don't get involved in what is not your country or business. I tell all my foreign teachers to avoid politics and religion. Stick to the weather and just enjoy life here. China is NOT your country of ... Read More
Just for fun: History of China by Diksha
Hello everyone, Whether youre a history buff or not, heres a chance to learn about the history of China. Below are a few trivia questions to test whether you have the correct facts. 1. Name 3 iconic monuments/structures in China 2. What is ...
Read the book "The Opium War" by Julia Lovell it's one of the best books on this topic and written from a very neutral POV Read More
Just for fun: History of China by Diksha
Hello everyone, Whether youre a history buff or not, heres a chance to learn about the history of China. Below are a few trivia questions to test whether you have the correct facts. 1. Name 3 iconic monuments/structures in China 2. What is ...
I would agree with all of the above except for #5, Here's why: If we are talking about Modern China then 1911 and 1949 are correct...but if we look at what began those two iconic moments in Chinese history you need to go back to the 1st and ... Read More
Negotiating salary and benefits in China by Bhavna
Hello everyone, Better job prospects in China can most certainly be an incentive to leave your country of origin. Securing a contract with the right salary and benefits for you can be crucial to make your move successful. Is salary and ...
One note about health care in China....make sure if you get an expat policy it will work in the city where you work. I had an expat policy my first year in China and it was useless for the city where I lived. I have yet to ever replace it as I ... Read More
Negotiating salary and benefits in China by Bhavna
Hello everyone, Better job prospects in China can most certainly be an incentive to leave your country of origin. Securing a contract with the right salary and benefits for you can be crucial to make your move successful. Is salary and ...
Everyone above has stated some very good points and if you work in a large city (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou) you can do these things easily...however if you are coming to work as a teacher be prepared to accept less. I hire foreign teachers for ... Read More
Surfing safely on the net while in China by blueoceanviews
Hello. So as many as you know, China has strict laws on social media and other popular websites. Since I was living in China for a half year I can tell you my personal experience and how I dealt with it. Of course the first thing what I did I got a ...
Just to tag what Vannrox has said...if you follow the rules for the internet in China and don't go where you shouldn't you won't have issues. That said, you may need a VPN at times when the government decides to slow things down to less ... Read More
Qualified High School Teacher by ligitoleafoa
My name is Pauline and I am a current secondary school teacher in New Zealand. I am looking at moving to China - my only requirements is that I would like to work at an international school but I am open to anything. I am single with no dependents ...
Just FYI to anyone reading this...I am not an agent and while I do know some agents I can recommend I can not do that on a public forum. I work for an After-school English program company in Changchun. I am their foreign teacher manager and I do ... Read More
Work in China - You need to be wise!
I have just spent the last 6 months attempting to hire teachers for our fall semester. It's been the most frustrating process in all my years of hiring new staff. There are many reasons for this but suffice it to say some are China issues and ... Read More
Qualified High School Teacher by ligitoleafoa
My name is Pauline and I am a current secondary school teacher in New Zealand. I am looking at moving to China - my only requirements is that I would like to work at an international school but I am open to anything. I am single with no dependents ...
Can you tell me a little more...you can PM me if you don't wish to post here. To PM click on my flower icon and then you can send me a private message..PM. Read More
Qualified High School Teacher by ligitoleafoa
My name is Pauline and I am a current secondary school teacher in New Zealand. I am looking at moving to China - my only requirements is that I would like to work at an international school but I am open to anything. I am single with no dependents ...
Dear Eje: NOOOO I am not an agent...I do work with several however...but I am just a Foreign Teacher Manager and College Director for an English Training School in Changchun. It's called Perfect English. Check our website (listed previously). ... Read More
Qualified High School Teacher by ligitoleafoa
My name is Pauline and I am a current secondary school teacher in New Zealand. I am looking at moving to China - my only requirements is that I would like to work at an international school but I am open to anything. I am single with no dependents ...
Eje: Yes colleges and universities will pay less but there are other perks...they often will pay a year salary even though you only work 10 months, they often provide housing and pay utilities and sometimes will bonus at the end of each ... Read More
Qualified High School Teacher by ligitoleafoa
My name is Pauline and I am a current secondary school teacher in New Zealand. I am looking at moving to China - my only requirements is that I would like to work at an international school but I am open to anything. I am single with no dependents ...
Dear Eje: Vannrox is right, don't give up but at the moment it's very hard to hire (in Northeast China and several other places in China) foreign teachers. A few recent events have had a major impact on this, I won't elaborate here. ... Read More
Qualified High School Teacher by ligitoleafoa
My name is Pauline and I am a current secondary school teacher in New Zealand. I am looking at moving to China - my only requirements is that I would like to work at an international school but I am open to anything. I am single with no dependents ...
Dear Eje: Since I last posted 6 months ago about this much has changed...it's actually become very hard to hire non-Native speakers. You hold a degree in English so that will help but it will still be difficult. I suggest you do two things, ... Read More
work English teacher by Sofiia808
hello. i want find work eanglish teacher. i have certificates toefl. and chienese visa in 3 year. im ready starting work now!
Fred: LOL, you would be surprised...I have seen it all. There is a school here in the city where I work that has hired non-native speakers from former soviet countries...let's just say that it's a scam foisted on the parents who are told ... Read More
16 Years in China by dlbarnard
Hi Everyone Actually I am here as I have a dire need. I am all but forced to retire due to new laws restricting the age one can work to in China, and have to return to the UK by the end of August 2019. I am hoping to find a decent rental property ...
dlbarnard: Listen to Vannrox, he has some good advice. I am over the limit so to speak but I work for an amazing company and they have kept me on and we are working to get my green card..who knows may happen. Meantime, if you can find a company ... Read More
What does “excellent” graduate mean in context of a Chinese visa? by rsewfwrgwrg
I intend to work in China, but have recently found out that their work visa, Z-Visa requires you to have graduated 2 years prior to the visa application. There is an exemption for Class B work permit that states: "Excellent" graduate with ...
rsew... To answer your question as best as I can...I hire teachers to work in China and lately it's been a crap shot at best getting them here. Excellent? Ignore the term no one cares or knows. All you need to do and must do is have your ... Read More
Sense of humour in China by Bhavna
Hello everyone, Should we set out to explore Chineses culture through its sense of humour? Indeed, if one is planning to settle in the country, it is best to understand the cultural codes governing humour in order to avoid any faux-pas. What ...
Okay not sure if the humor will translate as I re-tell this story but I will try... I am an English teacher in the far NORTH of China and I teach a rather large class in a public high school. I was not given an official roll sheet so I had to ... Read More
Mature age Expats by CK4069
Hi I'm Carolyn, I'm from Brisbane, Australia and my husband and I are in our 50's. We fly into Shanghai Friday week!! Its getting very real and a little bit scary. I love meeting people of all ages, nationalities and learning about their ...
Dear Piet: I am not able to PM you at this time, sorry. BTW, you do not have to friend anyone first to PM. LRai Read More
Work Visa with no degree by Mngedo
Dear all, I am sure this question has been commonly asked and i have probably read everything that is on the Internet. However mystery is still not solved. Basically my current company would like to send me to the office in Shanghai. I was in the ...
Here is a link (it's a little old but may still help) http://www.visainchina.com/fvisa.htm This link gives info on M type visas. They are for business commerce only and are very temporary. You can work with one but YOU CAN NOT TEACH ON THIS ... Read More
Work Visa with no degree by Mngedo
Dear all, I am sure this question has been commonly asked and i have probably read everything that is on the Internet. However mystery is still not solved. Basically my current company would like to send me to the office in Shanghai. I was in the ...
Dear Mngedo: Please PM me and I will explain more. Since it is applicable to you directly I don't feel I should post that info here. I am not familiar with the M visa but I caution you on coming with anything other than a Z visa. I think you ... Read More
Mature age Expats by CK4069
Hi I'm Carolyn, I'm from Brisbane, Australia and my husband and I are in our 50's. We fly into Shanghai Friday week!! Its getting very real and a little bit scary. I love meeting people of all ages, nationalities and learning about their ...
look for a PM from me Read More
Mature age Expats by CK4069
Hi I'm Carolyn, I'm from Brisbane, Australia and my husband and I are in our 50's. We fly into Shanghai Friday week!! Its getting very real and a little bit scary. I love meeting people of all ages, nationalities and learning about their ...
CK4069: You need a TEFL or TESOL minimum 120 hr certification. If you teach for any after-school program then you will teach evenings and weekends as that is when kids are free. However, if you have degrees (minimum BA) like an MA or PhD most of ... Read More
Mature age Expats by CK4069
Hi I'm Carolyn, I'm from Brisbane, Australia and my husband and I are in our 50's. We fly into Shanghai Friday week!! Its getting very real and a little bit scary. I love meeting people of all ages, nationalities and learning about their ...
To ALL: Vannrox is right, it's the attitude you choose to take not the place or surroundings. If you are positive and upbeat you can make it work. China will test you at times but then you are a test for the "Chinese" as well. Be ... Read More
Seeking a Teaching Job...please don't do the following by lrai
To All Teachers Seeking Work in China... Please do not do the following to a prospective employer...drag your feet. Let me explain, as someone who hires teachers to work in the northeast of China I find it rather upsetting when I've spent ...
Ollie: Thanks...I just had another one fall off the track...so to speak. In General to anyone else.... For anyone who wants to work here in China...please think long and hard and then do it only if you are very sure. It's not something you ... Read More
Work Visa with no degree by Mngedo
Dear all, I am sure this question has been commonly asked and i have probably read everything that is on the Internet. However mystery is still not solved. Basically my current company would like to send me to the office in Shanghai. I was in the ...
Dear Mngedo: The short answer is YES you can get a visa without a BA but it will not be easy. In some cases it's impossible now. Shanghai will NOT hire without a BA so you will need to figure it out. My suggestion to you is get your BA, find ... Read More
Seeking a Teaching Job...please don't do the following by lrai
To All Teachers Seeking Work in China... Please do not do the following to a prospective employer...drag your feet. Let me explain, as someone who hires teachers to work in the northeast of China I find it rather upsetting when I've spent ...
Vannrox: You sound like you could be my twin...well brother twin...LOL Only I think I am much older than you. I am doing this and I'm in my early 60's now. I have been in China 12 years and took on this lovely role nearly 4 years ago ... Read More
Seeking a Teaching Job...please don't do the following by lrai
To All Teachers Seeking Work in China... Please do not do the following to a prospective employer...drag your feet. Let me explain, as someone who hires teachers to work in the northeast of China I find it rather upsetting when I've spent ...
Vannrox: You do get it...LOL I am fine but I just needed to vent. People (foreign teachers) have no clue how hard it is for the people (foreign managers) to hire them and then to have them lie or be unreliable it's just icing on the cake for ... Read More
Seeking a Teaching Job...please don't do the following by lrai
To All Teachers Seeking Work in China... Please do not do the following to a prospective employer...drag your feet. Let me explain, as someone who hires teachers to work in the northeast of China I find it rather upsetting when I've spent ...
Dear Fred: Appreciate your views...truly. We are NOT EF and our ad budget is very small. I follow up on leads and we have recruiters who help. However, it's while we are in the process that some candidates get cold feet and are not even bold ... Read More
Seeking a Teaching Job...please don't do the following
To All Teachers Seeking Work in China... Please do not do the following to a prospective employer...drag your feet. Let me explain, as someone who hires teachers to work in the northeast of China I find it rather upsetting when I've spent ... Read More
Work Permit and Z visa by tracy2294
Hi guys, Im applying for Z visa to work in CHina now however I feel lost some time . My company require me to provide . Income Tax Certificate from my old company however I can not have it . Is it compulsory for it? I read some topic related to it ...
Dear LilyBell: It will depend...you just need to be patient. If he has good relations with his government people then he can push on his end and it can be pretty quick. However, if not he will need to wait. If he has put all documents into the ... Read More
Driving in China by GuestPoster5968
Hello everyone, I am aware that as a foreigner, you can provide your original driver's licence and (after some bureaucracy) get a Chinese driver's licence. However, in my case, I do not have a driver's licence in my home country. Is it ...
I have done the written exam..it took three tries but I did pass it and I had to study. I think this link may still work: http://www.chinese-driving-test.com/test/ It is the ONLY site I found that had practice tests....there is NO BOOK to study ... Read More
Work Permit and Z visa by tracy2294
Hi guys, Im applying for Z visa to work in CHina now however I feel lost some time . My company require me to provide . Income Tax Certificate from my old company however I can not have it . Is it compulsory for it? I read some topic related to it ...
WOW that is impressive...I'd love for someone to jump in and offer to do that for ALL the folks I try to hire...LOL Good luck. Read More
Work Permit and Z visa by tracy2294
Hi guys, Im applying for Z visa to work in CHina now however I feel lost some time . My company require me to provide . Income Tax Certificate from my old company however I can not have it . Is it compulsory for it? I read some topic related to it ...
Dear Martjjn: It has been our experience that it can now take 4 to 6 months depending on the applicant and/or the employer and/or the local government people. There is no rule now. Here is what I can tell you...if you give your prospective ... Read More
Work Permit and Z visa by tracy2294
Hi guys, Im applying for Z visa to work in CHina now however I feel lost some time . My company require me to provide . Income Tax Certificate from my old company however I can not have it . Is it compulsory for it? I read some topic related to it ...
Flex 14: I have sent you a PM...feel free to respond. LRai Read More