This did not happen to me. My contract offer was to start as Cruise CAPT, then transition to CAPT after 3 months / 150 hours of line flying. This was simply due to the fact that the last time I operated the B744 was 10 years ago at CX as Cruise CAPT. This is acceptable to me and is still being honored.
Regarding the CAAC ATP written exam, this is true. If you take the exam at one company in China, the 'host' airline holds the original document, thus rights to your employment. The CAAC frowns upon guys 'jumping' around from place to place, so they require the original document before issuing an ATPL. I interviewed at Jade where I took the ATP written test. Jade paid the fee for the test and hold the original. If I were under contractual obligation to Jade, they would keep the original, thus preventing me from jumping ship to another carrier. Since I am not, Yangtze is entitled to get it...all under CAAC scrutiny. With this being said, once you go to an interview and take the test, be sure this is the airline you are comfortable with. After you sign a contract, you cannot go to another carrier without lots of 'red-tape' unraveling.
Not true with the medical. You will take a screening medical at each airline in china. Now (the other gentleman has a point), for the CAAC to actually 'issue' the medical certificate may be treated much like the ATPL itself, where they literally control who you can actually work for.
So far days off are honored (9 days per month) and I have taken annual leave with my days off (30 per year = 2-3 days ea month). Pay is 'as advertised.'
Shanghai apartments are not cheap for western style accommodation. Add to that the year long lease requirement, deposits, etc and it is expensive. After more pilots from Europe and US are hired, LAX and LUX basing will be available. Irregardless, with 9-12 days off at home and 2-3 day LAX or LUX layovers, you will 'acutally' be in Shanghai less than 15 days each month...not really worth getting an apartment alone (better as a group). I am in hotel at corporate rate, daily maid service, check-out for days off, trips, etc, and can leave bags in storage....cheaper in the long run.
In summary, so-far, so-good. I have no complaints so far.
Patrick...hows things in the MIA? I miss the weather...its cold here now..brrrr