Ask Headmaster Ken

Hello,

I have just signed a contract with a university in Jiangsu, but major complications have arisen. What would be the possibility, if necessary, of quitting this offer and taking up another, even in the same province?

The Z-visa has so far not been fully applied for as not all the necessary documents have been supplied; only the contract has been signed. But as we have signed, are we legally bound to completing the application process now?

Many thanks.

Before exploring the possibility of work within the same province, it would be useful to know what "major complications" have arisen.

Without any context, it is difficult to advise.

Sorry I was not more detailed.

When I signed I was naively not aware that it would take 4-6 weeks to get my medical form completed as they had not forwarded this document on. It was a bit stupid of me not to know about this, but my GP is adamant he will not complete the form unless everything is completed - X-rays etc - and this was all estimated as taking this time. So the chances of obtaining a Z visa in time before my departure are now very slim.

I'm aware that all employers require this form, but another in the same province has raised the possibility that I could cross out the X-ray etc sections so my doctor would not have to complete these, and therefore make the medical a much faster process. I'm waiting to hear from my contracted University as to whether anything can be done, but if they cannot help, I would prefer to withdraw than enter on an F-visa (a possible solution they may offer).

Do you know of anyone who has been in a similar situation?

Many thanks.

Given that you are unable to meet the obligation to your school due to unforeseen circumstances, (4-6 weeks for a medical exam result is an extraordinarily long time) it puts you back into play.

You should let your employer know you will not be able to arrive at the school so they can shift focus to hiring another.

Under these circumstances, I know of no reason why you would not be able to accept employment within the same province.

Thank you so much for your help. My doctor is quite unreasonably unhelpful and stubborn, but it's good to know that I still have options.