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Teach English in China as a paid teacher
Take up a paid 12- or 24-month contract at a university or school in China, earning ¥10,000–20,000 a month with housing, return airfares and insurance included. There are no fees to you, and we support you before you go, while you’re there and when you come home.
¥10–20k
a month salary
1–2 yrs
12- or 24-month contracts
12–20
teaching hours a week, usually
Sep/Mar
usual start dates
No fees
to you
Looking for the volunteer programme? This page is about paid teaching jobs. The China Volunteer Programme is a separate, unpaid three-month cultural exchange for 20 to 30-year-olds, with its own application.
What you get
A paid job with the essentials taken care of, so you can focus on your teaching and enjoy life in China.
The role
You’re employed directly by your school, and Eastern Bridge arranges your placement. Applying doesn’t guarantee a place, but we work with you and our partner schools to find the best fit.
- Schools: eligible universities, high schools, middle schools and primary schools
- Locations: all over China
- Hours: these vary, but are usually 12–20 teaching hours a week
- Holidays: time off on public holidays
- Contracts: 12 or 24 months
- Start dates: usually September and March each year
Who can apply
To teach in China you need a work permit and a Z (work) visa. These are the general requirements. Your school and the Chinese authorities make the final decision, and rules can change, so we’ll confirm what applies to you.
From offer to classroom
The paperwork can look daunting. We guide you through each step.
Step 1
Documents
Your degree and criminal record check usually need an apostille from the Department of Internal Affairs.
Step 2
Work permit notice
Your school applies for your work permit approval in China.
Step 3
Z visa
With the notice and invitation, you apply for your Z visa.
Step 4
Arrive and settle in
Collect your work permit and apply for your residence permit, usually within 30 days.
Step 5
Start teaching
You’re ready for the classroom, with our team a message away.
Safety and pastoral care
Moving to a new country is a big step. Here’s how we look after our teachers.
Before you go
Ready to go
The TESOL certificate and China Readiness Course prepare you for the classroom and daily life, and we help you through your documents and visa.
At your school
A school contact
Your school is your employer and has a contact person to help you settle in and with day-to-day questions.
In China
Our team
Our team in China and New Zealand keeps in touch, and Simon Appleton leads pastoral care.
Health
Insured
Your insurance includes health cover, and our team will help you get care if you need it.
For whānau in New Zealand: contact us through the contact form or on WhatsApp +64 22 396 9590. Our office at 140 Dalton Street, Napier is staffed.
What to expect
- Classes can be large, and students are usually keen and respectful.
- Your contract sets out your teaching hours, duties and holidays. Read it carefully before you sign.
- WeChat and Alipay are used for almost everything, and some overseas apps are blocked.
- Big cities and smaller towns feel very different, so tell us what suits you.
- Life is easier with some Chinese. The China Readiness Course gets you started.
Questions people ask
Can’t see yours? Get in touch. We’re happy to help.
Is this the same as the China Volunteer Programme?
No. These are paid teaching jobs with a 12- or 24-month contract. The China Volunteer Programme is a separate, unpaid three-month cultural exchange with its own application.
Who employs me?
Your school employs you directly: an eligible university, high school, middle school or primary school. Eastern Bridge arranges the placement.
How much will I earn?
Usually ¥10,000–20,000 a month (about NZ$2,300–4,600), depending on the school, the city and your experience.
What’s included?
Housing, insurance including health cover, and return airfares for a 12-month contract.
Are there any fees?
No. There are no fees to you.
Do I need a TESOL certificate?
You need a TEFL/TESOL certificate of at least 120 hours. Eastern Bridge Education provides one, free for New Zealand citizens, permanent residents and residents.
Do I need teaching experience?
Usually two years, but a 120-hour TEFL/TESOL, a teaching qualification or a degree in education or languages can often replace this.
How many hours will I teach?
Hours vary, but are usually 12–20 teaching hours a week, with time off on public holidays.
Can I choose where I go?
Tell us your preferences and we’ll work with our partner schools to find the best fit. Applying doesn’t guarantee a place.
When do contracts start?
Usually in September and March each year.
What visa will I need?
A Z (work) visa, followed by a work permit and residence permit after you arrive. We guide you through the process.
Can I bring my family?
Please contact us to talk about your situation.
Register your interest
Tell us about yourself and we’ll be in touch to talk through your qualifications, preferences and next steps.