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Q: Why is there an age limit for foreigners who want to come to China?
I believe the cutoff point is 55 years old. At least that's what I've heard: that it's impossible to get a working visa as a foreigner passed that age. What's the logic? Age has no bearing on skill and expertise; some of the most amazing university professors and teachers I know are over 55.
And then what happens if a foreigner marries a Chinese and suddenly once they're over 55 they get kicked out?
55 years old is the typical retirement age in China. The main reason most people can not work in China over that age is that it is very difficult and expensive for the hiring company to provide health insurance.
However, if the foreigner provides his own insurance, he can still be hired by most companies. But overcoming the stigma of being over retirement age makes it difficult to find an employer outside of certain industries.
If you aren't working, it is still possible to get a resident visa if you are married to a local for over one year. I have also heard rumors that if you put enough money in a Chinese account, you can get a resident visa as well. But I have not met anyone with that type of visa yet.
The law was imposed a few years back in order to make room for the many unemployed undergraduates China has, it is intended to force retirement and open up the much needed jobs for Chinese youths. As for the age limit 55 years isn't really enforced on foreigners, usually around 62 to 65 is the latest a foreigner can work. If you are married, you can get either a L spousal visa or R resident visa but still doesn't give you the ability to work without the FEC.
If you work at a stable school for a few years, and you are a good teacher I am sure they won't just cut you like that.
If your just working just for the sake of being with your wife and hopping from job to job for more money, then you may have to face a difficulty.
Remember, guanxi in China, so have a good relationship with a school for the long term.
I think restriction is necessary because resources, space in China or other country are limited.
