Still Closed for New Comers
For those potential applicants who are outside of China, the borders remain closed. In the weeks leading up to Chinese New Year (CNY), the numbers of COVID infections started to rise again (in very small numbers compared with Western standards) and the authorities quickly acted by stopping the slight relaxations announced towards the end of last year. As things stand, temperature checks are still the norm for entry into malls, train stations, airports etc., usually having to show a green QR code too. This will be unlikely to change in the near future.
Over CNY the authorities discouraged people from travelling within China by reinforcing the 14+ days rule at stations etc in major cities. This extended to foreigners outside China, who may have been able to enter with a residential visa, not being permitted again. Now, some current residential visa holders may be permitted to enter China, provided they are not on the list of some 20+ countries that are currently excluded. Quarantine rules still apply.
Some cities are allowing PU letters to be sent to overseas applicants to help obtain visas at the relevant embassies/consulates and allow entry. However in Shanghai, PU letters are only permitted for Category A Work Permit positions. Teaching is classed as a Category B profession and so PU letters cannot be granted for this.
For the latest updates on what rules apply, prospective applicants not in China should contact their local embassy. Hopefully as the year progresses, restrictions will become more relaxed, so that new applicants will be welcome again.
