It’s no secret that native English speakers have an advantage when it comes to getting jobs in China, even beyond teaching English. However, all is not lost if you come from a country outside the English-speaking world. Here, I present five surprising jobs in China for non-native English speakers.

1. English Teaching

Perhaps most surprising of all, the majority of non-native English speakers in China are still employed in the ESL industry. While the jobs available to this group may not be the best the teaching world has to offer, there’s still plenty to go around.

You may not be chosen as an IELTS oral instructor, but being a non-native English speaker is rarely an issue when it comes to teaching very young children. Many kindergartens in China employ non-native English speakers, especially if they "look the part," which, unfortunately, often means being Caucasian and female. Some schools even encourage non-native teachers who "fit the profile" to misrepresent their nationality to students’ parents, as Chinese parents may struggle to detect foreign accents.

Whatever your skin tone, as a non-native English-speaking teacher in China, you can expect a slightly lower salary than your native-speaking counterparts. However, beware of unscrupulous schools that may take advantage of non-native teachers, particularly those from Africa, India, and the Philippines, who may face additional discrimination due to their darker skin. Some schools may offer insultingly low pay and near-exploitative conditions. If you are employed as a foreign teacher, regardless of your skin color or nationality, you deserve respect and a fair wage. If you don’t get this, seek opportunities elsewhere.

2. Translation

Have you considered that your native language might actually be your best asset? While Chinese-English translators are fairly common in China, it’s harder to find translators proficient in Chinese and another foreign language.

One Vietnamese woman I know in Kunming honed her Chinese skills and built a successful freelance translation business. I’ve also heard of a Danish man who founded a translation company in Shanghai, employing translators from around the world and offering a range of languages to clients.

Speaking a language that is not widely studied in China but isn’t completely obscure—such as Italian or Arabic—can be very lucrative. Of course, strong Chinese skills are essential, but technology can provide a lot of support these days.

3. Consultancy

No matter your nationality or level of English, you may be able to profit from China’s growing economic influence by establishing yourself as a consultant, acting as a go-between for companies from your home country looking to expand in China, and vice-versa.

If you’re already in the country and have good connections both in your home country and in China, you’re off to a great start. Decent Mandarin skills are advantageous, but you could always hire a local assistant if necessary.

I’ve heard of a group of Italian friends who launched a consultancy business in Guangzhou after some initial success importing marble through family connections. Their company went on to collaborate with the Italian Embassy, helping escort Italian businesspeople around the city during trade fairs.

While setting up a consultancy in China is no small feat, those with the drive and the right mix of skills, personality and connections may find it to be a very rewarding venture.

4. Childcare

A degree is required even for kindergarten teaching in China, but there’s no such educational requirement for English-speaking nannies. It’s common for middle-class families in China to employ an ayi, a local woman who helps with the housework and child care. However, families who want their children to learn English often hire English-speaking nannies instead, typically, though not exclusively, Filipina women.

The salaries may be low by developed-world standards, but foreign workers from other parts of Asia, South America and even Eastern Europe may find them satisfactory, especially with room and board included. With intermediate English skills and some experience, foreign nannies can expect to earn at least twice as much as their local counterparts.

5. Superstardom

“Superstardom” might be a bit of a stretch, but if you have any talent, China can be an excellent place to showcase it. Many foreigners, regardless of nationality, have made careers in China as DJs, musicians, artists and even drag performers, refining their craft as they gain experience. Fire dancers, drummers, singers and burlesque performers are also able to make a good living, playing on their skills and their exotic appeal to the Chinese public.

Even if you don’t have a genuine talent, the ability to fake it convincingly might land you a fun side hustle. Foreign-looking women can book gigs as dancers without extensive dance experience, while foreign men can pass themselves off as rappers if they can do a passable Will Smith impression and fit the image. Films and TV shows often seek foreign extras, and advertising agencies are always eager to add attractive foreigners to their rosters. If you have foreign or half-Chinese children who love being on camera, you might even consider introducing them to child modeling; foreign and mixed-race children are considered especially cute by the Chinese public so are always in high demand.

No matter where you’re from—be it the UK or Uganda—you can find a niche for your unique skills in China. While finding a good job and a stable income can be more challenging for non-native English speakers, there are still plenty of surprising opportunities to explore. Best of luck!

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