This is your personal planning centre, (or PPC) to support you as you work through your application process.

You can interact with it on an individualised level, ticking things off as you go in the checklist form (see top menus).

You should try to make it a kind of 'China Friend', as it will help you keep on top of the process and keep us informed of where you're at and what support you might need (and you will almost inevitably need support)

PLEASE don't be fazed by the number of 'to-dos' in the Planning Centre, or if you see things on there that you've not seen before.... it's all part of the learning curve, and we'll help you through don't worry! We have a vast amount of experience in helping people through the processes, and we have tried to put as much detail into the checklist as possible in order to avoid you having to continually phone or email us. That said, we will be available for you if you need the personal touch.

Finance information

Click here to view a guide to what is reimbursed to you and what you will need to cover yourself. For example, you cover vaccinations yourself - because they're yours - they'e portable and can be relevant to other countries. However, a Visa is specific to China - and that cost is given back to you once you've been in China for 15 days.

This process may seem like a lot to get your head around - but - it is the reality of working abroad, and once you've gone through it once you'll have an amazing portfolio of documentation and experience.

What you need to work in China....

TEFL Certificate (Compulsory for visa application)

120 / 60 hour certificate is compulsory. The choice is dependent on a few variables. Please go to the TEFL section to find out more

Safeguarding Certificate (Compulsory but flexible timing)

This proves you have a sound understanding of the necessities of supporting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults.

Medical Form (Compulsory for visa application)

This includes an ECG and Chest X-Ray, plus all the usual basic checks such as blood pressure, heart rate and self-evaluation. More and more job roles are asking for medical examinations, and many believe that this is a good thing to do anyway.

Two references / testimonials

These should be from people who can vouch for your character as well as your professional, or potential professional qualities. You can either provide us with a testimonial (i.e. you get your contact to draw up a recommendation following a specific format, then send it to us with the contact details of the referee). Or, you can enter the contact details and we will request references.

Legalised Police Check: ACRO (Police Check) Certificate (Compulsory for visa application) or ICPC (International Child Protection Certificate), OR Enhanced DBS (if already in your possession, and dated within six months of visa application - no new applications for DBS certificates are accepted)

Must be within six months of the Visa application ALL roles involving children require this check to be carried out.

Legalised Bachelor's, Masters or PhD from a Native English speaking Country (Compulsory for visa application)

This is another essential document for the Z (working) visa. You can be from a non-native English speaking country, but you MUST have a Degree / Masters / PhD from a native English speaking country to qualify for a Z visa to teach English in China.