Hiring Employees in China

Working Hours and Overtime

The standard working hours in China are 40 hours per week, typically 8 hours per day over a 5-day workweek.

Overtime Payment:

• Overtime on working day: 150%
  • Standard working hours
  • Comprehensive working hours
• OT on weekend: arrange compensative leave or 200%
  • Standard working hours

• OT on Public holiday: 300%
  • Standard working hours
  • Comprehensive working hours
  • Flexible working hours

*OT Maximum 36 hours per month.

*Flexible working hours & Comprehensive working hours NEED government pre-approval.

Dispute Resolution

Labour disputes can arise from various issues such as contract terms, working conditions, or termination procedures. These disputes are resolved through:

• Mediation: An informal process to reach a mutually agreeable solution.
• Arbitration: A formal process where an arbitrator makes a binding decision.
• Legal Proceedings: Involves court intervention if mediation and arbitration fail.

Employers should establish clear grievance procedures to handle disputes effectively and maintain a positive work environment.

Additional Provisions

China’s labour law also includes provisions for:

• Non-Compete Clauses: Agreements that restrict employees from working with competitors for a specified period after leaving the company.
• Confidentiality Agreements: Protecting sensitive business information from being disclosed.
• Training Agreements: Requiring employees to reimburse training costs if they leave the company within a certain period.

Compliance and Enforcement

Compliance with China’s labour laws is enforced by local labour bureaus. Employers must:

• Conduct Regular Audits: Ensure that employment practices comply with current laws and regulations.
• Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with changes in labour laws and adjust policies accordingly.
• Provide Training: Educate HR personnel and managers on labour law compliance and best practices.

Please note that all the information listed below are to be used as a general guideline. For more detailed accounts of China employment laws and regulations, please visit the official governmental websites.

Updated on: June 2026