China Work Permit?

is it normal to go to China and be offered a job while you are on a tourist visa as a teacher? Then get a work permit? How do I know that the employer will really get me the work permit?
I have had other teachers tell me that I should just go over there without the work permit ahead of time and that I will be offered a job. Erm this makes me feel a bit uneasy.

To save yourself some pain, worry, and possible problems I would make sure you stay home until you have all the paperwork you need before you venture into any foreign country. You would not want to have to deal with another countries legal system because in most cases it is far worse than anything in the USA.

I have known several people who were offered jobs as science teachers in countries like Korea and other South Eastern Asian countries. The benefits and pay are extremely high and borderline shady. If you can get in get paid and get out within 5 years it is not a bad deal.

I don't know, but I wouldn't go near that communist country for any reason.

No, it's not normal. Something doesn't sound right. Do not trust the Chinese, especially with verbal promises. Even if you get things in writing, they will still have the upper hand. Remember, China is a communist country. I don't mean to stereotype but I was there 2 years ago (Shanghai) and they tried to rip me off every chance they had. Honestly, be careful! Do NOT trust them. Try to get in contact with the U.S. embassy and ask them questions. DO NOT AGREE TO ANYTHING with the Chinese or else you may be bound (under their law) for some job you didn't mean to sign up for.

That doesn't sound right - don't trust it.