Refer China: China's 2026 Work Permits ： Stricter Digital Checks Cause High Rejections

Summary: New 2026 rules enforce strict digital background checks for foreign workers. Criminal or drug records cause automatic rejection and visa bans. Individuals and employers can perform pre-checks to avoid application failures.

A significant shift is underway for foreigners seeking to work in China. New regulations that took effect in January 2026 have introduced a rigorous digital verification system, leading to a sharp increase in work permit rejections. Understanding these changes is crucial to avoid critical application errors.

Stricter Scrutiny, Higher Rejection Rates
At the end of 2025, Chinese authorities issued a joint notice to optimize the management of foreign workers. The core change is the implementation of a comprehensive digital cross-verification system to conduct thorough operational checks on employing entities and applicants.

The impact is clear from official data: in the first quarter following implementation, the rejection rate for work permits due to documentation or qualification issues rose by 42% year-on-year. The leading cause for refusal is now the discovery of criminal or drug-related records, with authorities applying a strict, zero-tolerance policy.

The Unforgiving Criteria: Criminal and Drug Records
The system leaves no room for negotiation. Public security bureaus verify applicant backgrounds through a national platform. The discovery of any criminal offense or drug-related history results in an automatic and irreversible rejection of the work permit application.

Key Points:

There is no official channel to appeal this decision.
The applicant is simultaneously placed on an entry-exit management watchlist, severely complicating or preventing the acquisition of any future Chinese visa or residence permit.
Records of drug use—including administrative detention, community rehabilitation, or compulsory isolation—all lead to immediate disqualification, regardless of severity.

Proactive Steps: Self-Checks and Employer Verification
Applicants and employers can take proactive steps to avoid last-minute surprises.

For Individuals (Self-Check):
Foreign nationals who have resided in China for over 180 days can apply for a personal background check at the local Exit-Entry Administration. Required documents include the original passport, a foreign certificate of no criminal record (if applicable), and the original residence permit. Results are typically issued within three working days.
For Employers (Pre-employment Verification):
Companies can apply for a background check on a potential foreign employee through local Foreigner Work Management Service Centers before finalizing employment. This helps mitigate the risk of a later work permit rejection. The process can often be completed with just the company's business license, a scanned copy of the candidate's passport, and a letter of intent to hire.

Critical Guidelines to Avoid Pitfalls

Document Authentication: Any foreign "No Criminal Record" certificate must be authenticated by both the issuing country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the corresponding Chinese embassy/consulate. Uncertified documents are invalid.
Juvenile Records: Contrary to common belief, criminal records from age 16 onwards are verified and can affect the application.
No Shortcuts: Attempting to alter or erase records through unofficial third parties is illegal and will result in a lifetime ban from working in China.