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Now let’s talk about another set of terms you may often see in the work permit system – one needs to be able to answer this question before they get the whole process rolling:
Am I in Tier A, B or C?
Let me put it in a simple way: in order to apply for a work permit, an expat will first be “graded” by China under a certain set of standards, and it is either Tier A, B or C.
“Tier A talents” (around 16% of all expats) would enjoy more advantages in waiting time, permit validity, and entry requirements while having a higher standard for qualifications: it usually applies to senior-level positions. On the other hand, “Tier C talents” (about 22% of all expats) are for those who work short-term in China and young fresh graduates who are less experienced. The majority (61%) of expats would fall under “Tier B Talents” who are in mid-level positions.
Based on that background, the next question is understanding how one fits into the tiers. Basically, there are two approaches:
- “Shortcut”: If one’s qualification falls into the scope of the standards (full standards are listed after the end of this article), one will be automatically categorized as Tier A, B, or C talent. The standards are not exhaustive (as you may understand it is hard to be exhaustive in every industry and sector), so one has to meet the specific conditions listed in the standards.
- Scoring system: If one can not be immediately categorized via the standards, China will use a scoring system to determine the tier level. Applicants scoring 85 or more points qualify for Tier A; those scoring 60-85 qualify as Tier B; and those scoring below 60 fall under Tier C.
I called the first approach “shortcut” because it is more straightforward: one could place oneself into the category by fulfilling one of the conditions. However, please note that it is never less advantageous if an expat has to go through the scoring system: one could still reach a high score point by meeting the standards and proper justifications, for example:
- Good mandarin and good HSK level can add to the points.
- Expats whose ages are of 26-45 can be very competitive.
- Education background and degree level matter a lot.
- Expertise area and its significance to China’s economic development is a critical factor.
Therefore, one should not be easily discouraged if you find it challenging to fit yourself in the tier standards. The fact that China is a huge country means different regions distinguish from each other in terms of economic and industry priority, so there is never one simple answer. In my past experiences, it is necessary to have adequate consultations with the Chinese authorities before they reject the case applications – sometimes even before case applications. Regrettably, expats are usually unable to do so themselves, and more often their employers do not take it seriously enough at the very beginning. Go for professional advices before you get started, and discuss with professionals the best way to approach your work permit.
We welcome your case sharing and other comments via comments and messages.
Appendix: Full Standards for Tier A, B, and C Talent Qualifications
Tier A
- Employed through one of China’s regional plans for the introduction of foreign talent;
- Recognized internationally for awards of excellence in their field, eg. STEM area, sports, arts, etc.
- Leadership or senior position at a well-known academic institution, international organization, NGO, etc.
- Academics including professors and other renowned experts
- Senior position or role at qualified companies, research centers, hospitals, etc.
- Salary is over six times the average local salary
- Start-up entrepreneurs and employees qualified under the specific conditions.
- Candidates who are post-doctors in universities under age of 40.
Tier B
- Mid-level employees in companies; technical workers; international organization representatives (A bachelor’s degree or above+two years of work experience)
- Technical staff with certification in certain areas
- Foreign language teacher
- Salary is over four times the average local salary
Tier C
- Short term work in China (under 90 days)
- Positions subject to quota restrictions, such as foreign students coming to China for internships based on government agreement, fresh graduate, etc.
Note: The standards above are summarized and shortened from the original long and complicated standards. You are welcome to consult via comments or messages regarding specific qualifications.