Recent article from
ESL Daily, found at
http://blog.esldaily.org/2008/07/02/china-tightens-the-restrictions-on-foreign-teachers.aspxChina Tightens the Restrictions on Foreign Teachers
Posted by ESL Daily at 7/2/2008 It appears that China may be opening its doors wider to foreigners as the Summer Olympic quickly approach. However, this is not entirely true, China has been closing other doors. Earlier this year ESL Daily reported that China has been making it more and more difficult for foreigners to receive visas for more than 30 days (China gets tough on teachers). China now has been denying renewal of teachers work visas.
As the Summer Olympics draw near, foreigners are discovering that the welcome mat they had expected is being abruptly rolled up. Thousands of foreigners have been kicked out before today's deadline as a result of tough new visa policies. Those forced to leave include nondiplomatic support staffers at embassies, migrant workers, freelance writers, artists and students. – LA Times
Over 100 000 foreigners were expected to leave Beijing alone prior to the end of last month. Those wishing to return will only receive 30 day visitor visas. This short visa makes being a foreign worker or even student very difficult and expensive. Many foreigners are departing the country and not returning. The government has been issuing longer stay working visas to teachers, however large restrictions do apply in many situations. The government has been asking teachers to have ‘advanced degrees’ (unclear if this means Masters or just Bachelors), at least two years teaching experience and be over the age of 25. However, you may want to call your local Chinese embassy first before packing your bags, most embassies now only give 30 day visas now regardless of your job and credentials.
More on this story can be found in the LA Times.