WHAT 试用期 MEANS
What 试用期 means
The maximum probation period depends on the employment-contract term. The same employer and employee generally may agree only one probation period, and a probation-only contract is not treated as a standalone probation arrangement.
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Why the role matters
Employers cannot use probation as an at-will period. Wage floors and lawful termination grounds still apply, and the employer should preserve evidence supporting any probationary assessment.
CONTEXT
Where you see the term
ContextWhat it means there
Offer / contract draftingProbation length must match contract term.
PayrollProbation wage rules apply.
Early terminationEmployer must rely on statutory grounds and explain the reason.
TRANSLATION NOTE
文/A
Translation note
试用期 is “probation period”. It is not equivalent to common-law “at-will employment”.
AUTHORITY
Primary legal basis
ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLE
Example
A two-year employment contract states a six-month probation. The statutory maximum for that contract length must be checked before the clause is used.
SOURCES AND REVIEW
Primary authorities.
18 Sep 2026
OFFICIAL SOURCESUPPORTSCHECKED
PRC Labour Contract Law
PRC Labour Contract Law
MAINTAINED BYChina Legal Portal Editorial
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