Livida Sport: A Global Guide to Football Transfers - Second Edition - Manual / Resource - Page 84
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Immigration Rules
The most common visa for professional athletes and coaches in China is the Work Visa
(Z), which lasts three months and can then be converted into a residence permit for the
duration of the employment contract, ranging from 90 days to five years. No
endorsement from the Chinese Football Association (CFA) is necessary.
Player Requirements
An employment contract with a Chinese club.
A work permit applied for by the Chinese club and issued by the Local Labour
Bureau.
A physical examination record.
Clean criminal record.
Dependents
Dependents can apply for an S Visa. This includes spouses, children under the age of 18,
parents, and parents-in-law of players with a work visa. An S visa will allow dependents
to reside and study in China but not work. They must secure residence permits within 30
days of arrival. A residence permit will be granted for the same duration as the player’s.
Applications
Applications are made at the Chinese Embassy/Consulate and are typically processed
within five working days, but securing the work permit can take two to four weeks. This
visa pathway can lead to permanent residency after five years, provided the Immigration
Bureau Regulations are met.
Obtaining a Chinese passport is a difficult task, and dual citizenship is not allowed.
However, with close or immediate Chinese heritage, a number of players have been able
to obtain Chinese citizenship and have gone on to represent the Chinese national team.
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