Hiring in China

China’s vast workforce and low labor costs makes it an attractive country for hiring, but understanding its labor laws can be difficult. Employment relationships in China are governed by such laws as the Labor Law of the People's Republic of China (1995) and the Labor Contract Law (2008), which serve as legal frameworks for workers' rights, employer obligations, and procedures for labor disputes.  

Additionally, Chinese law places specific regulations on the use of temporary and agency workers. The Labor Contract Law stipulates that labor dispatch is permitted only for temporary, auxiliary, or substitute positions, and the number of dispatched workers must not exceed 10% of the employer's total workforce. Employers must provide written employment contracts detailing terms and conditions and ensure compliance with statutory requirements such as minimum wage standards and working time regulations.  

Because of the complexity of China's labor and tax laws, compliant employment contracts are a critical business requirement. With Safeguard Global as your partner, you can hire employees in China with confidence, knowing that every contract meets legal standards. We also provide guidance on cultural expectations and hiring best practices, while helping you stay current with regulatory changes.

Relying on an employer of record (EOR) in China

An employer of record (EOR) provides an easier way for organizations to hire and pay local talent in China. Because of its in-country presence, the EOR can employ the workers a company needs and lease them to that company, taking care to comply with China’s labor laws. As a result, the organization doesn’t have to establish a legal presence or manage compliance in China.  

The EOR can hire and onboard employees in as little as two weeks and manage ongoing responsibilities such as payroll, benefits, and taxes. A full-service EOR can also manage recruitment. Together, these EOR services significantly reduce the administrative burden for an organization. 

Visit our employer of record services page to learn how we can help you meet your international employment needs in China.