How to Apply and Get a Job in China From Ghana

Do you want to work in China? Do you have what it takes to get a job in China from Ghana? Or, have you been wondering if there are job opportunities in China for Ghanaians? Well, in this article you’ll learn everything there is to know about how to apply and get a job in China from Ghana.

China has a booming economy that offers opportunities to ambitious graduates seeking a new challenge. So, in this guide, you’ll discover what it takes to get a job and work in China.

China has the second largest economy in the world only behind the USA. The prospect of getting a job is good but the competition for graduate roles is fierce. While the country has a population of about 1.4 billion, the standard of living is relatively low, however, depending on location. Major cities such as a Shanghai and the capital Beijing are unsurprisingly more expensive.

When searching for a job in China, you need to be flexible. If you can’t find your ideal job at first, look at what other jobs in China are on offer and consider taking something else to get your grounds.

If you are looking for a job in China from Ghana, here is a guide on what you need to get started on your Chinese job search, including advice on what jobs are available and where to start your Chinese job search from.

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Work in China From Ghana

Available Jobs in China

If you are looking for English-speaking job, then you will mostly consider cities such as Beijing and Shanghai – the business and industrial hub of the country. Many multinational companies have their Asian headquarters in one of these east coast locations as well as in Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Tianjin.

Major industries in China include;

  • Chemicals
  • Consumer products
  • Food processing
  • Machine building
  • Mining
  • Technology
  • Textiles
  • Transport.

How to Search for Jobs in China from Ghana

The best way to find a job in China from Ghana is by using personal contacts who work for a company that might need someone with your skills. If you don’t have personal contact, then the easiest way to find a job is via the internet. So, we’ll be showing you how to get your dream job in China without any connection.

Job websites in China 

Jobs in China are often advertised on Chinese job and recruitment websites with some specializing in certain industries or focused on jobs in China for foreigners.

Some of these sites also operate in English, but the actual job postings are mostly in Chinese so you will need some knowledge of Mandarin to understand them.

If you’re already in China, you can also check out the classifieds in the English speaking magazines. Such listings are targeted at foreigners, but most of them are only for part-time or contract work.

Teaching English in China

They are a lot of opportunities for native English speakers to teach English in China. English teaching jobs are available at high schools, universities and at a growing number of private language schools.

English teaching jobs are normally advertised via e-mail and telephone contacts, either by the school directly or through a placement agency. Some agencies match teachers with Chinese schools, provide pre-departure training and only charge a modest fee for this service. Other organizations only provide jobs with low wages or on a volunteer basis and charge quite hefty fees for insurance, training and ongoing support.

International teaching opportunities can also be found at major job fairs. Candidates need a government-issued public school teaching certificate and should plan on attending the fair to participate in on-site interviews.

English teaching jobs normally require that you are a native speaker and have an English teaching certificate like the TEFL (Teaching English as a foreign language). If you have a master’s degree this will not only increase your chances of finding a position but also your salary.

Teaching Job Websites in China

Embassies and Consulates

Look out for vacancies at the Chinese embassy in Accra, Ghana. Whatever the job you will need some knowledge of Mandarin to understand them.

Speculative Job Applications

It’s totally acceptable to approach Chinese companies with speculative applications but make sure that you do your homework thoroughly and ensure your qualifications and experience are exactly what the company is looking for.

How to Apply for a job in China From Ghana

Once you have found a job in China you are qualified for, apply for it. You will need to prepare your application according to Chinese expectations. You’ll have to send in your application.

  • You’ll need to send in your cover letter stating why you are qualified for the job you’re interested in. In China, long cover letters are not very common.
  • Your resume or CV should be roughly two pages in length. There are no formal rules for cover letters in China, but your CV should contain all the necessary information about yourself.
  • You’ll also need to attach copies of your diplomas and other degrees. Education is very important to Chinese employers, you should attach as many degrees as you have to your application.

If the company you’ve applied to is interested in your profile, the next step is likely to be a phone interview. If it’s a major corporation, you’ll probably have to go through a series of in-person job interviews.

Languages Requirements to Work in China

Many international companies advertise English-speaking jobs in China. In big cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, you should be able to get by if you don’t speak the local language.

However, bear in mind that English fluency rates do vary considerably in China and usually depend on age and location. As a general rule, older generations and people living in rural areas will rarely speak English, whereas the younger generation and those residing in cosmopolitan cities have a more solid grasp of the language.

Mandarin is the main languages of business in Chinese companies and in more rural areas. To work for a Chinese company, you’ll need to demonstrate fluency in Mandarin in order to get by, as without it you’re unlikely to get the job.

In fact, having some knowledge of Mandarin will be an advantage wherever you work, so it’s worth learning the basics while in Ghana. If you’re struggling to get to grips with what can appear to be a complicated language, you can always take lessons upon arrival in China. Those who can speak Mandarin, have a good knowledge of the country and can display an interest in Chinese culture are better placed when it comes to finding jobs.

Chinese Work Visas and Permits

As a Ghana citizen, you will need to apply for a Chinese work visa before you can work in China. Whether or not you are able to get a residence permit will depend on your qualifications and the sector you want to work in.

To work in China, you’ll need a Z visa and an official invitation to the country by an employer. You can apply for a Z visa at your the Chinese embassy in Accra. For stays of any length, you must register with the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) within 24 hours of arrival.

If you plan to stay in the country for more than six months, you’ll also need a residence permit. To acquire a work visa or residence permit, you may need to prove that you haven’t got a criminal record.

Working Conditions in China

China has a five-day working week, typically Monday to Friday. According to Chinese labour law, employees must not work more than 40 hours a week (eight hours per day) – although, in reality, overtime is common and many local companies rarely compensate for this.

Holiday entitlement in the country is relatively low and usually depends on the length of employment. Workers are entitled to either 5, 10 or 15 days paid holiday with an additional 11 paid public holidays. Before taking up a position, make sure your holiday entitlement is clearly stated in your contract.

 

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