👷 Labour disputes · Awareness case
Foreigner Exemption from Chinese Social Insurance Under International Agreements · Yalla China
🤝 Governing law: قانون التأمين الاجتماعي / Social Insurance Law (2010) + Bilateral Agreements
China has signed social insurance agreements with several countries that exempt nationals of those countries from dual social insurance contributions in both countries.
Illustrative, general educational examples — not real specific facts and not legal advice; for awareness only. For an actual situation, consult a licensed lawyer.
Under the Social Insurance Law (2010), both employer and foreign employee are typically required to contribute to China's five social insurance systems (pension, medical, employment, work injury, maternity). Bilateral agreements: China has signed totalization agreements with: Germany (2002), South Korea (2013), Denmark (2014), Finland (2015), Canada (2017), Switzerland (2019), Netherlands (2020), Japan (2022), France (2023). To benefit: a coverage certificate from competent authorities in the home country must be submitted. Citizens of countries without agreements: pay full insurance in China.
🎓 The lesson / takeaway
Check whether China has signed a social security agreement with your country before starting work to determine if you qualify for exemption.
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026