Foreigners with reunion passports (Q visas) are not allowed to work in China.
Foreigners working in China must apply for a work visa. The purpose of the reunion type residence permit is to allow foreign family members to reunite with Chinese citizens or foreigners permanently residing in China, rather than for work purposes.
If foreign personnel holding a cluster visa have already been employed by domestic companies, they can try to apply for a work permit within the country. The specific process and requirements may vary depending on the region and policies.
It should be noted that foreigners working in China without obtaining work permits and work-related residence permits are considered illegal employment and will face corresponding legal consequences. The usual punishments include fines and detention, and in severe cases, deportation may be imposed. At the same time, those who introduce illegal employment of foreigners will face fines, and units that engage in illegal employment will also be held legally responsible.
According to the Exit and Entry Administration Law of the People’s Republic of China and relevant regulations, foreigners who meet the relevant conditions can apply for permanent residency in China. The applicable objects mainly include foreigners who meet certain conditions for employment, direct investment in China, foreigners who have made significant outstanding contributions to China or have special needs for the country, as well as foreigners who meet certain conditions for family reunion reasons such as spousal reunion, minors seeking refuge with their parents, and elderly seeking refuge with relatives. Obtaining permanent residency in China is not the only way for foreigners to legally reside in China for a long time. Foreigners can also hold passports and valid residence permits to work and live legally in China, enjoy relevant rights and obligations in accordance with the law. Foreign family members of Chinese citizens can apply for family visit and reunion visas to legally suspend their residence in China.
If they work or work in China, they need to apply for a work permit and work residence permit.
If foreign nationals plan to work in China, they should apply for work permits and work-related residence permits in accordance with regulations to ensure that their work in China is legal and compliant.
