What qualifications are needed to teach English in China?

09 September 2025 China

Thinking about teaching English in China? It's a fantastic choice for a new adventure. As a first-time teacher, it's normal to have questions about the requirements. The good news is that while the Chinese government has specific regulations, they are straightforward. We’re here to help you understand exactly what you need to get your journey started.

The Big Three: Essential Qualifications

To teach English legally in China, you'll need to meet three main requirements. These aren't just preferences from schools; they are legal necessities for obtaining a Z Visa, which is the only legitimate visa for foreign teachers.

1. A Bachelor's Degree

A bachelor's degree is the most important requirement for teaching legally in China. This degree can be in any subject—it doesn't have to be in education or English. The degree simply needs to be from an accredited university. You'll need to get your degree authenticated and notarized as part of the visa application process.

2. A TEFL/TESOL Certificate

A TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teach English to Speakers of a Second Language) certificate is required for most teaching jobs in China. A minimum of 120 hours is typically required for your certificate. This certification not only makes you eligible for a Z Visa but also prepares you for the classroom, especially if you have no prior teaching experience. A CELTA certificate can also be a great alternative, as it is a widely recognized and respected qualification in the field.

3. A Passport from an Approved Country

You must have a passport from one of the following countries:

• United States

• Canada

• United Kingdom

• Ireland

• Australia

• New Zealand

• South Africa

These are the nationalities preferred by the Chinese government for English teaching roles. While there can be some exceptions for non-native English speakers with a high level of fluency and a teaching license from their home country, having a passport from one of the seven countries listed above is the standard requirement.

Other Important Requirements

In addition to the "big three," you'll also need to meet a few other criteria to secure your teaching position and Z Visa.

• A Clean Criminal Record: China requires a clean criminal background check from your home country. Any criminal record could jeopardize your application.

• Health Check: You will need to pass a medical examination to ensure you are fit to work in China.

• Age and Passport: Generally, teachers must be under the age of 55 and have a passport with at least six months of validity remaining.

Do I Need Prior Teaching Experience?

For many entry-level teaching jobs in China, especially in private language centers, prior teaching experience is not strictly required. The 120-hour TEFL course is designed to provide you with the necessary training to be effective in the classroom. However, having some experience—even from things like tutoring, coaching, or volunteering—can help your application stand out. Some schools, particularly international schools, may require a teaching license from your home country and a few years of experience.

We're here to help you every step of the way

Navigating the requirements can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. As specialists in ESL job placements, we're here to guide you through the entire process, from preparing your documents to landing your dream job.

Ready to start your journey? Apply today and let us help you find the perfect teaching role in China.