Is HIV test required to obtain temporary residence and work permit in Shanghai? Thanks in advance.

Yes, a Physical Examination Record for Foreigner is needed when applying for the residence and work permit and HIV serodiagnosis item is covered in the record.

Thank you, Deboragh, for replying.
So I could assume that people with HIV won't be able to obtain a work permit and a temporary residence permit in China?

It is not explicitly stated in the rules that aliens with HIV cannot obtain a work permit or residence permit. However, there is a great chance that will happen.

Hi Kyle, thanks for replying.

From everything online it looks like someone HIV+ will get turned away (deported?) once they take the medical exam and the results are revealed? If this is true, why doesn't China let people know before they travel all the way to China? Why wait to turn them down once they're local? Are they trying to portray an image to the world that is different than what they really do? My company is sending me to our affiliate office in China for 14 weeks and has set me up with vendors to get a Z Visa, work/resident permits so they can do the proper taxes, etc. As we don't disclose this type of info to our employers in the US, I'm in an awkward position. I'm amazed that I can't find stories of POZ individuals who've either taken the test and gotten through or who have been deported, etc?

I have not heard of anyone being deported but of course you are likely to be refused the entry permit.
This is fairly common practise in many countries.

Thanks for the reply. OK well I'm glad to hear it probably would not be deportation...just have to leave before the corresponding entry permit expires I guess. yes many countries but fewer every year. both PRC and the US supposedly removed restrictions in 2010...but the US removed the test from its medical exam whereas PRC did not. to me they are trying to get credit with the UN but not actually following through; removing the medical exam requirement to get the entry permit gives a false sense of security...and probably costs some thousands of needless travel dollars, etc. however this all assumes that they are actually denying permits. i don't know where people go for the truth...maybe an immigration lawyer. BTW sorry to carry on on this thread; I couldn't get the "ask" button to work for me on this site. happy holidays!

as a follow-up, I had no problem passing the medical exam and getting the necessary permits to work in China...all despite being HIV+. It was not easy because it was often uncertain and stressful but China lived up to their words to the UN to not discriminate...at least for me. Those staying longer than me or maybe students, etc. might have a different experience. I filled out the forms truthfully and was questioned about it. I felt the questions were a little inappropriate but that's it.

It's good to know that! Thank you, David.

Hi David, they gave you residence for work even though you're hiv+? which city was that?

I just took test in shenzhen. I declared my status, and an officer came to me said that I will not get the visa if my status is positive. So I ask them for a refund. So sad. David, could you please tell where did you take the test?

Many people may love to talk to you about this concern.

I got really sick in May this year. I took a test in June and my test was positive. The problem is I'm actually in China. I'm seeking medical treatment here initially, but my visa expires in September. My employer has restricted me to online duties and stated they won't renew my visa. I'm looking into setting up an Enterprise and then sponsoring my own visa. Would this approach even work?

You will not be able to obtain any kind of residence permit as a positive.