Working overseas means adapting to new routines and workplace norms, and this is especially true in China. Expats working for Chinese companies often find that their rights and benefits differ from those employed by international firms.

The standard Chinese working week runs from Monday to Friday, totaling 40 hours. Overtime is common, particularly in local companies, and may not always be compensated. Annual leave starts at five days for employees with 1–10 years of service, increasing to ten or fifteen days for those with longer tenure. Employees also receive pay for 11 public holidays, though dates and durations can vary by year and region.

Wages in China are set regionally, not nationally, and can differ significantly between provinces and cities. While salaries have risen in recent years, there remains a gap between pay and the cost of living, especially in major cities like Shanghai and Beijing. These cities rank among the most expensive for expatriates, and expat middle managers can command competitive salary packages, often including housing and other benefits. According to recent surveys, China remains attractive for expats seeking to increase their spending power.

Work culture in China is results-driven, and managers tend to prioritize outcomes over processes. Expats should be aware that contract law for foreign workers supersedes local labor laws, and open-ended contracts are not available to non-Chinese citizens working for Chinese companies.

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4. “Living in China: Visas and Registration,” UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, accessed December 30, 2025, https://www.gov.uk/guidance/living-in-china