Do Taiwanese, Hong Kong, and Macau citizens need a work visa to work in Mainland China?

If you're considering hiring talent from Taiwan, Hong Kong, or Macau to work in mainland China, it's important to understand how their employment eligibility differs from that of foreign nationals. The process is simplified for these individuals under special administrative policies.


Do They Need a Work Visa?

No, citizens of Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau do not require a traditional work visa (Z visa) to work in mainland China.

Instead, they are eligible for a special permit issued by the Chinese government known as the “Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents” (台胞证 / Táibāo zhèng) or “Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macau Residents” (港澳居民来往内地通行证 / Gǎng’ào jūmín láiwǎng nèidì tōngxíngzhèng)—commonly referred to as the Tongxingzheng (通行证).


What Is the Tongxingzheng?

The Tongxingzheng is not a visa, but rather a residency and travel permit that allows holders to:

  • Live, work, and travel in mainland China

  • Stay for extended periods without additional visa applications

  • Access public services, depending on local policy

Key details:

  • Typically issued with a validity period of 5 years

  • Can be renewed personally by the holder

  • Serves as an official identity document in the mainland


Employment Considerations

Because Tongxingzheng holders are not considered foreign nationals, they:

  • Do not require sponsorship or a work permit

  • Are exempt from the foreigner work visa process

  • Can be onboarded more quickly and cost-effectively


Horizons' Support

If you're hiring through Horizons in mainland China, we can support the employment of Taiwanese, Hong Kong, and Macau citizens by:

  • Verifying their documentation

  • Facilitating onboarding with the appropriate ID

  • Ensuring compliance with mainland Chinese labor regulations

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