Key practical points:
• A written contract is mandatory; failing to sign within a month can force the employer to pay double wages.
• Probation length is capped by contract term and carries a minimum wage floor.
• After two fixed-term contracts (or 10 years' service) an employee may earn an open-ended contract.
• Dismissal needs a lawful ground and procedure; wrongful dismissal triggers double compensation.
• Severance is generally one month's pay per year of service in defined cases.
• Most of it applies to foreigners working under contracts in China.
👷 Labour law
Labor Contract Law · Yalla China
中华人民共和国劳动合同法 / Labor Contract Law
Enacted: 2007-06-29 ✅ Effective: 2008-01-01
📝 Overview
The law governing employment contracts: mandatory written form, probation, termination and severance; strongly protective of employees.
This is general information only, not legal advice. For your specific case, consult a licensed lawyer.
📜 The law text / key provisions
💬 Practical reading
💬 This is a general reading/opinion for orientation — not the official legal text nor legal advice.
This is the law that protects you as an employee. Most important: get a written contract from day one and keep your copy. If you are dismissed, know you have compensation rights and the employer must follow procedure. Keep records of your hours and communications. General orientation, not legal advice.
📎 Official source
npc.gov.cn / mohrss.gov.cn
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026