How to Do an Internship in China? Our Advice!
China's current economic situation and the opportunities for internships and jobs in China make it one of the most attractive countries for students and young graduates today.
Whether in Beijing or Shanghai or in other lesser-known but equally exciting cities, large national groups and companies are growing exponentially.
Getting experience through an internship in China will then open up many opportunities for you in the Asian market and even in Europe, and the USA where your flexibility and open-mindedness will be rewarded!
Why go to China for an internship?
China is home to thousands of western graduates eager to discover a new culture and a booming market full of opportunities.
Many young graduates stay or return to China after completing their studies to continue their careers and benefit from positions of responsibility within exporting SMEs or large international groups wishing to establish themselves in Asia.
Integrating into the Chinese market through an internship is, therefore, a rewarding entry point to all these future opportunities for your professional career.
Also, the country is becoming a real cultural mix thanks to expatriates from all over the world and can offer you an opening to the world like few other destinations.
It is also an excellent way to develop your professional network by meeting young people from all over the world.
Legislation in China for internships:
As in most countries in Asia, there is no minimum wage in China for an intern. If you are leaving within a large group, a scale is generally applied that allows you to obtain a correct remuneration for the country or even more than comfortable.
If you leave for an SME, "arrangements" are often made regarding your remuneration.
Accommodation is usually offered with an allowance sufficient to cover local costs rather than a full salary. In some cases, your flight ticket can even be covered by the organization!
It all depends on your company, the city where it is located, and the internship offer in question.
It is up to you to do everything you can to find the right internship opportunity for you!
Advice on finding an internship in China:
Many interns decide to stay in China after graduation to find a real job.
Companies are looking for young people who are ready to continue their experience with them after their internship and who want to start their careers in Asia.
You will find many internship opportunities for China within large groups, and SMEs focused on Asia. It is advisable to show them a particular interest in China, and a willingness to work together for years to come to secure excellent employment opportunities!
The steps to obtain an internship visa in China:
Once your internship has been, and the contract signed, you will need to start the process of applying for an internship visa. It must be done at the Chinese Embassy in your country, at least 3 weeks to 1 month before the scheduled departure date.
Several documents are required to start the formalities:
- The agreement/internship contract signed by the company with its contact details, and the start and end dates.
- Your passport
- Application fees for visa procedures (about 80 dollars)
- Proof of international health insurance
Any future student trainee in China must take out health insurance to obtain an internship visa. Indeed, outside your country, your health expenses are entirely at your, and it is necessary to benefit from health coverage.