Injured at work in China? As a foreign employee, you have the same work injury protection rights as Chinese workers. Here's what you need to know about claiming compensation.
Work Injury Insurance Coverage
Employers must provide work injury insurance for all employees, including foreigners with valid work permits.
What's Covered
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Disability benefits
- Death benefits for dependents
- Lost wages during recovery
What Qualifies as Work Injury
- Injuries during work hours at workplace
- Injuries while performing work duties
- Commuting accidents (certain conditions)
- Business travel injuries
- Occupational diseases
Important: Injuries caused by intoxication, self-harm, or criminal activity are not covered.
Steps After Workplace Injury
1. Seek Medical Treatment
- Go to designated hospital if possible
- Keep all medical records
- Document the injury thoroughly
2. Report to Employer
- Notify employer immediately
- Get written acknowledgment
- Employer should report to authorities
3. Work Injury Recognition
- Employer files application within 30 days
- If employer fails, you can file within 1 year
- Submit to local labor bureau
4. Disability Assessment
- After treatment stabilizes
- Labor ability appraisal committee
- 10 disability grades (1 = most severe)
Compensation Categories
Medical Period Benefits
- Full wages during treatment (up to 12 months)
- Medical expenses covered
- Nursing care if needed
Disability Benefits
- One-time disability allowance
- Monthly disability pension (grades 1-6)
- Medical subsidy upon leaving job
- Employment subsidy
Death Benefits
- Funeral subsidy
- Dependent pension
- One-time death allowance
If Employer Didn't Pay Insurance
Employer is directly liable for all compensation:
- Same benefits as insurance would provide
- Can sue employer for payment
- Labor arbitration available
Common Problems
- Employer denies work relationship
- Employer refuses to file claim
- Disputes over disability grade
- Delayed or insufficient payment
Your Rights
- Cannot be fired during medical period
- Right to return to suitable position
- Right to appeal disability assessment
- Right to sue for additional damages in some cases
Workplace Injury Help
I help foreign employees claim work injury compensation and resolve disputes with employers.
Contact MeDisclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice on your specific situation, please contact me directly.
Contact for Personalized Advice →