The main procedures for an overseas application are as follows:
Online Application: Log in to the "Service System for Foreigners Working in China" (https://fwp.safea.gov.cn/lhgzweb/) to fill out an application online.

Preliminary Examination: The receiving authority will conduct a preliminary review of the materials submitted online within five working days from the date of submission (the day of submission is not included in this period). If the materials are incomplete or do not meet the required standards, the authority will notify the applicant online of all supplementary materials required at one time. If the materials are complete and meet the requirements, the authority will notify the applicant online or make an appointment for on-site document submission.

Acceptance: The receiving authority will decide whether to accept the application after examination. If the application falls within the jurisdiction of this administrative organ, and the materials are complete and meet the requirements, it shall be accepted on the spot. The receiving authority will issue an Acceptance Receipt for the Foreigner's Work Permit bearing the special seal of the administrative organ and the date of issuance. If the materials are incomplete or do not conform to the statutory form, the applicant will be informed on the spot of the required corrections, and a one-time notification will be issued; the application will be accepted after the corrections are made. If the matter does not fall within the jurisdiction of this administrative organ, the authority shall state the reasons and legal basis for non-acceptance, issue a Notice of Non-Acceptance affixed with the special seal for administrative licensing, and deliver it to the applicant or the employer within five days from the date of receipt of the paper materials.

Examination: After passing the examination, a Notification Letter of Foreigner's Work Permit will be generated online. The applicant shall submit the materials on-site for verification within 15 days after entry into China. The decision-making authority shall conduct a review and make a decision within 10 working days (the day of material submission for verification is not included in this period). For on-site material verification, the applicant must provide the originals of the following: employment contract or appointment certificate, work qualification certificate, certificate of no criminal record, certificate of physical examination, highest degree certificate, passport, and visa.

Decision: If the application meets the required conditions and standards, the decision-making authority will make a decision to grant the administrative license. For those applying for long-term work in China, they shall go to the decision-making authority to obtain and sign the Letter of Decision on Work Permit within 10 days from the date the decision is made. If the conditions and standards are not met, a written decision of non-approval will be issued, specifying the reasons. The applicant or the employer will also be informed of their right to apply for administrative reconsideration or file an administrative lawsuit in accordance with the law.

Obtaining the Social Security Card: After the application is approved, the employer shall consult the local human resources and social security department for specific handling procedures.

Chinese source: xiangtan.gov.cn