The first thing to tell you is that China has laws...but does it abide by them? -not at all.
Anyway, most employers are becoming more strict about their employees having a minimum of a B.A. degree and they also like it if you have some sort of TEFL certificate. The latter is not mandatory.
I do know a couple of people who are working without having obtained their B.A. but I don't know how much longer they can continue.
Your situation also depends on your employers "guanxi" or connections. Especially with the authorities. An employer with guanxi can take on the 3 Stooges as employees.
There is a new Z visa now, it doesn't say "Z" it's better. It is your visa and resident permit together in one sticker in your passport. No more little red book. And it's multiple entry so you can go anywhere you please in and out of China everyday if you like! Or maybe live in Shenzhen and want to go to Hong Kong often...
It's very convenient!
Good luck to you!

> Hello, I have to ask, everyone usually does, especially if they are
> in my situation, Do you need a BA degree to teach in China or not?
> One tells me no, then I read you need one, a school says not a
> problem, then some gal with a chip on her shoulder says its the law
> to have one if you want to teach in China. I really dont know who to
> believe.

> I have the TESOL Certificates, and a year of teaching ESL in Korea,
> (I do know you need a BA in Korea, was a risk I was happy taking, but
> dont want to risk it twice, especially in China). The schools I have
> talked to in China, have told me there is no problem if I dont have a
> BA, and that I will still have an invitation letter sent to me, so I
> can obtain my Z Visa here at home. So I dont know why some say this,
> and others say that. Someone please, once and for all do you need a
> BA degree to teach legally in China?

> Now if I get to China, on a Z Visa, once I arrive, what do I need to
> apply for? Ive been hearing Expert Certificate, Alien registration
> card, or some green or red booklet, some help on this too would be
> greatly appreciated. Thank you kindly.