A practical 2026 guide to Chinaâs work permit renewal: points calculation, Tier A/B/C criteria, salary, education, age, Chinese proficiency, and renewal strategiesâplus real examples, policy insights, and mistakes to avoid.
Table of Contents
Key takeaways
- Renewal depends on your points tier: Tier A (86+), Tier B (60â85), Tier C (<60).
- Salary, verified education, and Chinese language weigh most.
- Use a points tool early â it helps plan upgrades. Try the calculator at https://reviewfriendly.com/work-permit-point-calculation-china.
- Start preparing 90 days before expiry to avoid last-minute problems.
Work permit renewal in China: the quick view
Renewal is simple when you break it into parts. Know your tier. Track the main scoring areas. Then fix the weak spots.
This guide shows which items move your score. It also gives a 90-day plan so you can file confidently. Use the china work visa points calculator early to test scenarios like a salary bump or an HSK upgrade.
How the points system works
China scores foreign workers in three tiers. Each tier affects how smooth renewal looks.
Tiers
- Tier A (86+): Top talents. Renewals are usually easy.
- Tier B (60â85): Skilled pros. Renewals are common with good docs.
- Tier C (<60): Entry level or limited cases. Renewals face limits.
If your score drops because of age, role change, or missing docs, act early. Small changes â like HSK or a compliant salary â can add points fast.
Core categories that move points
Salary paid in China
Your China-paid salary is a big factor. It shows contribution.
Tip: Align payroll, tax, and social insurance with what you declare.
Education and qualifications
Verified degrees and certificates add points. Authenticate and translate as needed.
Work experience and hours
Years in the role and consistent hours count. Keep contracts and employer letters ready.
Chinese proficiency
HSK levels win points and show local integration.
Job fit and encouraged roles
Jobs in R&D, advanced manufacturing, or key services can gain extra points. Match your title and duties to filings.
Age bands
Age affects scoring. If youâre near a band change, offset it with salary or achievements.
Achievements and elite background
Patents, top-university degrees, or Fortune Global 500 experience help your case.
Tools and digital checks
The official WeChat points calculators let you model changes. Theyâre handy for the china visa points calculator or a quick china work visa calculator check. If you can, run scenarios for salary increases and HSK gains.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing salary proof or mismatched tax records.
- Unverified degrees or missing notarizations.
- Waiting too long to take HSK exams.
- Job titles that donât match permit filings.
- Rushed submissions.
Fix these early and youâll avoid delays and rejections.
Regional differences (but same backbone)
Cities may add local rules, but the main categories and tier thresholds stay the same. Focus on clean proof: salary, degrees, HSK, and clear role descriptions. A well-documented file travels well between bureaus.
90-day step-by-step plan
Day 90â60 â Audit
- Run a china visa points calculator or china visa days calculator to check your current tier.
- List missing documents and easy upgrades (HSK, payband).
Day 60â30 â Execute
- Lock payroll and collect payslips, tax docs, and social insurance proof.
- Complete notarizations and translations.
- Book HSK or finish evidence for achievements.
Day 30â0 â File
- Submit a clean, labeled pack. Add a one-page cover mapping evidence to points.
- Reply fast to any bureau questions.
FAQs
Does Tier B guarantee renewal? No. But a steady Tier B with solid docs usually renews smoothly.
Can I move from Tier C to B? Yes. Raise salary, build experience, and add HSK.
Are language certificates required? Not always. But HSK often provides decisive points if youâre on the edge.
Do local bureaus calculate differently? Execution can vary. The categories and thresholds are common across China.
Bottom line: treat renewal as a points story
Build a clear story: salary shows contribution, education proves skill, HSK shows integration, and job fit shows national value. Use a china work visa points calculator early. Aim for two upgrades â for example, a salary band raise plus an HSK jump â and file with a complete pack 30 days early.
Action: Audit your points now. Pick two upgrades to target. Start the 90-day plan today.
