The demand for foreigners among Beijing's consultancy companies is expected to rise in 2011, with some experts predicting the level could eventually top the levels before the financial crisis hit in 2008.

Consultancy work has been a traditional industry for expats in China, with opportunities mainly in human resources management and public relations.

British recruitment firm Antal International plans to substantially increase its foreign staff in Beijing this year. In 2009, roughly 70 percent of its expat workforce was laid off due to the financial downturn, with only two or three kept on.