Teach English in China
China has the world's largest ESL market with over 400 million English learners. Monthly salaries range from ¥12,000 to ¥35,000 with housing, flights, and visa support included.
Apply Now¥12–35K
Monthly Salary Range
400M+
English Learners
Included
Housing & Flights
Year-Round
Start Dates
China offers ESL teachers some of the most competitive packages in Asia. A typical position includes a monthly salary of ¥15,000-20,000 ($2,100-2,800 USD), furnished housing or a housing allowance, round-trip airfare, Z Work Visa sponsorship, and health insurance. Positions are available in first-tier cities like Shenzhen and Shanghai as well as smaller cities where the cost of living is significantly lower. No Chinese language skills are required for most positions.
Why Do Teachers Choose China?
Competitive Salary with Low Cost of Living
Based on Korvia's placement data, ESL teachers in China save an average of $800-1,500 USD per month after all expenses. In second-tier cities like Chengdu or Xi'an, where rent averages ¥2,000-3,000/month for a one-bedroom apartment, savings potential increases to $1,200-2,000/month.
Rich Cultural Immersion
China's 5,000-year civilization offers experiences that no other country can match. From the Great Wall and Terracotta Warriors to Sichuan cuisine and traditional tea ceremonies, teachers gain a deep understanding of Chinese culture that enriches both their personal and professional lives.
High Demand for Native English Teachers
With over 400 million people studying English — more than the entire population of the United States — China has the world's largest ESL market. This translates to a consistently high demand for qualified native English teachers across all school types and regions.
Modern Infrastructure
China's high-speed rail network (over 40,000 km — the world's longest) connects major cities in hours rather than days. Mobile payments via WeChat and Alipay are universal, and urban metro systems are clean, efficient, and affordable.
What Types of Teaching Positions Are Available in China?
Public Schools
Government-sponsored programs placing teachers in public elementary, middle, and high schools. Standardized contracts with reliable benefits. Positions in both major cities and smaller towns.
International Schools
Accredited schools following Western curricula (IB, AP, British). Highest salaries but typically require a teaching license from your home country plus 2+ years of experience.
Language Training Centers
Private academies teaching English to students of all ages. Flexible schedules with evening and weekend classes. Range from small local schools to large chains with standardized curricula.
Kindergartens & Pre-schools
English immersion programs for young learners aged 2-6. High demand across China. Teachers focus on songs, games, and basic language through play-based learning.
Where Can I Teach in China?
Shenzhen
Tech capital bordering Hong Kong. Highest salaries.
Learn more ›Shanghai
China's largest city. Finance and international hub.
Beijing
Capital city. Rich history and cultural immersion.
Guangzhou
Southern trade hub. Cantonese culture.
Chengdu
Gateway to western China. Famous for food and pandas.
Hangzhou
West Lake city. Growing tech scene with Alibaba HQ.
What Are the Requirements to Teach English in China?
Bachelor's Degree
Any major. Required by Chinese immigration law for Z Visa eligibility.
TEFL/TESOL Certificate
120-hour minimum. Some provinces require in-class hours.
Native English Speaker
Citizens of USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, NZ, South Africa.
Clean Background Check
Authenticated/apostilled. Must be issued within 6 months.
2 Years Experience
Post-degree work experience. Some positions accept fresh graduates with strong TEFL.
Health Check
Physical exam required after arrival. Includes blood test, chest X-ray, ECG.
China Teaching Programs Through Korvia
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I teach English in China without a degree?
No. Chinese immigration regulations require all foreign teachers to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited university. This is a non-negotiable requirement for Z Work Visa eligibility, regardless of teaching experience or TEFL certification.
How much can I save teaching in China?
Savings depend heavily on your city. In first-tier cities (Shenzhen, Shanghai), teachers earning ¥18,000-25,000 with provided housing typically save ¥8,000-15,000/month ($1,100-2,100 USD). In second-tier cities with lower living costs, savings of ¥10,000-18,000/month are achievable.
Is China safe for foreign English teachers?
China has low violent crime rates compared to most Western countries. Major cities have extensive public surveillance and well-lit streets. The main safety considerations are traffic (cross carefully), air quality (varies by city and season), and food hygiene (stick to established restaurants when adjusting).
Do I need to speak Chinese to teach in China?
No. Most schools use English as the medium of instruction and provide bilingual administrative staff. However, learning basic Mandarin significantly improves daily life — ordering food, taking taxis, and building relationships with local colleagues and neighbors.
What visa do I need to teach in China?
You need a Z Work Visa, which your employer sponsors. The process involves obtaining a work notification letter from your local Chinese labor bureau, applying for the Z Visa at a Chinese embassy/consulate in your home country, and converting it to a residence permit after arrival. The entire process takes 4-8 weeks.
Ready to Teach in China?
Korvia has been placing ESL teachers in China since 2006. Apply today to get matched with positions across the country.
Apply Now