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The Ox year Spring Festival has passed. Whether you were the "stay for holiday" or go home for reunion, the memory of the new year celebritation seems to be yesterday. But in a twinkling of an eye, the first quarter of 2021 is about to pass. We find that from the third quarter of 2020 to this year, there have been many noteworthy changes in the rental market in Shanghai. iReloChina has also sorted out some issues of concern and would like to share them with you one by one.
Q: Many people feel that from last year to this year, renting houses in Shanghai has become a scramble. What is the reason for the booming rental market in Shanghai?
A: In the first quarter of 2020, the rental market in Shanghai was once in a downturn. Under the impact of the epidemic, the global economy was in a state of stagnation, which greatly affected the consumer confidence of tenants. Multinational enterprises also began to reduce or stop sending employees to China, resulting in the increase of vacancy rate and the decrease of rent in Shanghai in the first quarter. However, with a series of effective control by the government, the domestic epidemic situation quickly improved, and at the same time, with the outbreak of the epidemic situation globally, many overseas Chinese including Chinese students who work or study abroad have begun to choose to return home. Beijing, Shanghai and other first tier cities have become the mainstream target cities. I believe many people have heard the saying of "studying abroad in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou". This part of the demand has also led to a sharp rise in the demand for whole apartment rental housing. Meanwhile, the high-end rental market, due to the rapid growth of the housing market at the beginning of the year, has become the mainstream target cities After the outbreak of the epidemic, the backlog of house purchase demand was released, and the transaction volume of stock houses rose to the highest level in recent four years. The rise in the price of sales also further promoted the rise of rents. We can see from the following statistics What we know.
In 2020, the second-hand housing market in Shanghai will be more active and the turnover will increase year on year. According to the statistics of the city's real estate trading center, the online signature area of the city's stock houses is 24.9543 million square meters, an increase of 19.9% over the previous year. Among them, the online signature area of stock housing was 22.4623 million square meters, an increase of 24.4%. (source: Shanghai Bureau of Statistics)
Taking a closer look at the rental market in Shanghai, with the current housing ownership rate of 63.2% (data source: Shanghai Blue Book - Shanghai social development report in 2019), there are nearly 8.8 million rental people in the 24 million population, of which, as of the end of February 2021 There are about 270000 foreigners working in Shanghai, of which about 50000 are Category A work permit talents. The number of foreigners in Shanghai ranks the first in China (source: Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Commission). At the same time, in order to attract more talents, Shanghai has relaxed a series of talent settlement policies. To sum up, the promotion of policies, the heating up of the market and the return of talents have promoted the booming of the rental market step by step, and it has become a common phenomenon that one house is hard to find.
Q: In view of the current rental market, what good suggestions can help tenants rent their favorite house?
A: Here are some suggestions for your reference:
The time of house inspection should be flexible. Don't wait for concentrated house inspection.
The way of house viewing is not limited to on-the-spot house viewing, and video house viewing is also an effective way. A gentle reminder: Video house viewing and reservation is more recommended to be a service apartment project managed by company, and the actual house supply of individual owners may deviate from the video (it is necessary to be cautious when booking).
It's also necessary to make a down payment. Of course, you must sign an agreement to protect your own interests before you deliver the down payment.
Q: With the bankruptcy of Danke Apartment and the negative news of long term renting apartment managed by asset management comapanies, how should tenants choose?
A: On September 1, 2020, Shanghai Real Estate Brokers Association issued the "housing rental market risk tips". This policy gives a hint to the operation and risk of the housing rental market in the near future, especially focuses on the problems such as the burst of long-term rental apartments. The document points out that we should choose the apartment brand with good reputation. In view of the long-term rental apartment burst event, in fact, it shows that some small brand long-term rental apartment business risk. The policy is clear that companies operating without a license, operating beyond the scope of business, listed in abnormal business, failing to submit business information, bad credit, and having illegal records need to be carefully selected. At the same time, for landlords and individual tenants, we need to be alert to the problems of "high in and low out, long collection and short payment", that is, to guard against the risks under this kind of business model. In addition, the policy also suggests a risk, that is, "the longer the payment cycle, the greater the risk.". This is also a new situation in the past two years. In order to speed up financing, some long-term rental apartment enterprises often have such payment cycle constraints, which need to be vigilant. Subsequent tenants should also pay enough attention to and understand the payment cycle. In conclusion, when choosing long-term rental apartments, the following two points need to be noted
Understanding of apartment brand and background, especially financial strength and operation mode.
Contract and payment term, avoid contract risk, and try to take the form of monthly payment.
Of course, choosing a credible realtor will also effectively avoid these risks. For example, before recommending a house, consultant from iReloChina will check the landlord's qualification and relevant compliance documents, and will continue to pay attention to the operation of the brand side. When necessary, we will issue early warning notice for the tenant or the tenant company to effectively avoid risks and guard the tenant's financial security.
Generally speaking, in the beginning of 2021, we can always notice that Hot Rent, In-Demand,Already Taken as hottest words on marketing, iReloChina hopes to help those who have such needs to rent the house they like through our professional help!
It is undeniable that the cost of living in China is relatively manageable compared to many other countries such as USA and many European countries.
The cost of living in Shanghai is very flexible - It depends on the area in which you live or on your spending habits. Expats can afford a comfortable lifestyle and do many activities in Shanghai such as daily meals at restaurants, shopping, bars and tea houses, gym membership, massages, visit the best places of the city but also exploring areas of China.
It is important to know that, the more you adapt to the local culture, the more affordable you can live.
The rent represents the largest part of the budget for a person living in the city center of Shanghai unlike other small cities in China.
Examples:
Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 Sqft) furnished accommodation in expensive area: 15,021 yuan.
Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 Sqft) furnished accommodation in normal area: 8,477 yuan.
For instance, housing in New York is 105% more expensive than in Shanghai. Moreover, basic monthly utilities such as water, heating, gas, electricity and internet cost for 2 persons in 85 m2 flat around 400-500 yuan per month in Shanghai, where as in London it can cost around 250 yuan per month.
The cost of living in Shanghai when it comes to technology is fairly reasonable. In fact, a new card sim costs around 100 yuan and around 150 yuan per month for unlimited internet, unlimited messages and around 600 free minutes.
In fact, using public means of transport does not generate very large expenses whatever the budget of the expat.
For short distances, taking the bus is a good option because a one way ticket costs only 2 yuan. The subway is also convenient because it is fast, there is no need to wait a long time and it is also cheap since one way ticket costs only 3 yuan whereas in Stockholm, it costs around 30 yuan. The taxi is slightly more expensive but it is very affordable compared to many western countries. For example, you can spend 35 yuan for a trip of 20 minutes. In France, taxis are much more expensive as it can cost around 230 yuan for the same travel time.
Also, many other people choose to cycle or ride scooters, because it’s economical and really practical for short distances in Shanghai. However, driving in Shanghai can be expensive because petrol is not cheap.
Imported, Western-style brands and goods often be quite expensive than local made clothes, which are very affordable. Electronics items, however, are often cheaper than in most Western countries.
Shanghai has many local supermarkets but also foreign ones, for example Carrefour, the French hypermarket chain. If you eat in a Chinese style, your weekly groceries will be very cheap (around 300 yuan per person). On the other hand, if you need to purchase a lot of imported Western foods, it is obvious that your shopping is going to be considerably more expensive than back home.
For those expats who miss their countries and who want some occidental foods time to time, Shanghai offers a big choice of occidental restaurants with different prices for a medium budget (between 60 yuan and 200 yuan if it is a luxury restaurant for one person).
Eating out in local restaurants is generally affordable, although some establishments are cheaper than others. The thrifty will spend around 45 yuan per day if he eats outside at lunch and dinner. We can notice that there is a big difference between France’s prices. In fact, one meal in a normal local restaurant cost between 110 yuan and 170 yuan in France.
On November 8, 2020, 2020 Hangzhou International Talent Exchange and Project Cooperation Conference announced the results of the “Amazing China - the Most Attractive Chinese Cities for Foreigners". Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Hefei, Nanjing, Chengdu, Qingdao and Suzhou topped the list in the eyes of foreigner talents in 2019.
This is the only "China city list" in which foreign talents participate in the selection. According to the overall situation of each city in attracting, serving and motivating foreign talents, the activity were launched in accordance with the "policy environment", "government environment", "working environment" and "living environment" of foreign talents and "science and technology innovation environment" as well as other 23 indicators. For 39 candidate cities in China, foreign experts and judges as well as foreign talents in China signed and voted through the online system, and ranked according to the score to get the list of "top 10 cities". Since 2010, Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen and Hangzhou have been on the list for ten consecutive years, while Shanghai has won the first place for eight consecutive years.
According to statistics, the number of foreigners working in Shanghai is 215,000, accounting for 23.7% of the country's total, ranking first in the country. 58 foreign experts have won the "Friendship Award" of the Chinese government. Since the full implementation of the new work permit system for foreigners in China in April 2017, more than 250,000 foreign work permits have been issued by the end of October 2020, including 50,000 foreign high-end talents (category A), accounting for about 18%. The number and quality of foreign talents introduced by Shanghai ranks first in the country. A total of 744 foreign talents have received the "Confirmation Letter of Foreign High-end Talents". As for the breakthrough in foreign talents, Shanghai has issued a series of leading policy measures, mainly including:
1. Establish a mutual recognition mechanism for foreign high-end talents and a single window for foreigners' work and residence permits in the Yangtze River Delta Integration Demonstration Zone.
2. The Lingang New Area will be delegated the authority to approve the work permit for foreigners, and shall be given the management and autonomy to introduce foreign talents, and continuously increase the introduction and services of foreign talents.
3.Support foreign talents to come to Shanghai to innovate and entrepreneurship. For foreign talents who invest or innovate and start businesses in Shanghai, the restrictions on age, education background and work experience can be appropriately relaxed.
4.Improvement of Online Approval for Foreigners' Work Permit in China (Version 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0) during the epidemic period - Support foreign talents and employers to resume work and production.
5.Taken the lead in delegating the power of examination and approval of work permits for foreigners to work in China to municipal districts.
6.Create the "single window" for work and residence permits application for foreigners.
7.Support Pudong New Area to explore the innovation of foreign talent management system.
Beijing has launched various entry-exit facilitation policies in order to attract more foreign talents, outstanding foreign youth and overseas Chinese to start their own businesses, invest and study in Beijing, including measures such as part-time innovation and entrepreneurship for foreign high-level talents working in domestic scientific research institutions.
Beijing has continously provided policy support for the majority of foreign-related enterprises to introduce foreign technology & management talents and attract foreigners to China for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Since 2016, Beijing has issued more than 20,000 visa and residence permits for foreign entrepreneurs, investors and technical managers, and has accepted more than 1,000 permanent residents application in China.
As innovation city, Shenzhen is becoming more attractive and cohesive for foreign talents. More statistics show that Shenzhen's workplace globalization index is the third in China, only after Beijing and Shanghai. What's more, Shenzhen has surpassed Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, becoming the only city in the top three of "overseas returnees attraction index". Shenzhen has been rated as the most livable city in China with a good environment and one of the global innovation centers of hardware and software.
Hangzhou has been selected as "the most attractive Chinese city in the eyes of foreign talents" for 10 consecutive years. In recent years, Hangzhou has focused on the construction of a beautiful China Pioneer Area, solidly promoted the strategy of strengthening the city with talents and innovation driven strategy, and recruiting talents from all over the world. Since 2012, Hangzhou has vigorously implemented the "115" plan to introduce foreign intelligence. It has established a total of 1,891 projects and introduced more than 5,000 high-end experts, employed more than 60,000 foreign experts of various types, and provided financial support of more than 100 million yuan. It has established 5 national, 8 provincial and 37 municipal demonstration bases for introducing foreign intellectual achievements. 11 foreign experts with outstanding contributions won the "Friendship Award", 62 foreign experts won the "West Lake Friendship Award" of Zhejiang provincial government, and 61 foreign experts were awarded as "Qianjiang friendship ambassador" of Hangzhou government.
Guangzhou has won this award for the sixth time since 2011. Starting from 2017, Guangzhou has been exploring and increasing the implementation of foreign intelligence projects, promote the gathering of high-end foreign talents, implement the national work permit system for foreigners, develop national talent introduction projects. There are 2 foreign experts were selected into the seventh batch of foreign experts projects of " Thousand Talents program ", 3 foreign experts were selected as the leading talents of "Pearl River talent plan", and 13 National Overseas Talent projects were approved; 12 experts were selected as overseas experts' short-term work funding plan in Guangdong of "Pearl River talent plan”, and 6 provincial-level overseas talent projects were approved, and 15 were selected into Guangzhou high-end foreign expert projects.
The "Guangzhou green card system for talents" implemented in Guangzhou with a total of 3300 cards issued has solved the worries of high-end foreign talents working in Guangzhou；Fully implement the measures on the work permit system for foreigners in China. And it has accepted 14,410 applications for work permit from 7,299 employers, involving 147 countries, providing green channel services for nearly 1,000 foreign high-end talents (category A).
In recent years, the number of foreign talents in Hefei has increased steadily, and the proportion of high-level talents remains high. Hefei has been on the list for three consecutive years since it became the biggest winner last year. Hefei international talent city, National Offshore innovation and entrepreneurship base for overseas talents have been established, Hefei has become one of the most attractive Chinese cities in the eyes of foreign talents.
According to the plan of introducing foreign talents intelligence proposed by Hefei in 2018, Hefei will gather 200 foreign high-end talents in five years, introduce 500 foreign intelligence projects, and bring in 20000 person times of foreign talents in five years.
In 2019, the number of foreign personnel in Hefei has reached 65,000 person times, a year-on-year increase of 12.68%. The number of foreigners staying and staying for a long time has reached 4,923 person times.
In this selection, the evaluation of Nanjing by foreign talents is "a model of social public civilized city".
According to the introduction of Nanjing Science and Technology Bureau, Nanjing has made great efforts to build a "famous innovation City" with global influence since 2017. Nanjing actively creates an open and inclusive environment for foreign, show to foreign the diverse urban culture, code of conduct and values. According to statistics, there were 43,000 returned students (including foreign green cards and foreign personnel) in Nanjing for innovation and entrepreneurship, and more than 20,000 permanent residents (staying for more than half a year) by the end of 2019.
Compared with Shanghai and Guangzhou, Chengdu has the third largest number of consulates in China. Today, there are 1800 foreigners working in Chengdu, and 9 foreign experts who have made outstanding contributions to Chengdu's economic and social development have been awarded the title of "JinSha Friendship Award". As a national central city, Chengdu is striving to build a "Western Center for foreign exchanges" which is gradually becoming a world-class talent gathering, career development and value realization place.
Chengdu will further optimize the talent management mechanism for foreign countries; Aiming at the shortage of high-quality talents, will further strengthen the introduction of foreign talents; Focus on improving quality and efficiency, and further enhance the international quality of local talents.
In recent years, Qingdao has deeply implemented the innovation driven development strategy, seize the opportunity of a new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, launch the offensive of science and technology leading city construction, continuously enhance the supporting and leading role of scientific and technological innovation, take the lead in introducing "new policies" of foreign talents, top talents and leading talents, implement the work permit system for foreigners, and build a national talent introduction demonstration base, offshore innovation and entrepreneurship base for overseas talents, and It is a multi-level and wide range of scientific and technological innovation platforms such as the high-speed train technology innovation center.
Qingdao has successively been approved by the Ministry of Science and Technology to facilitate the foreign exchange facilitation pilot program. It has multiple advantages such as decentralization of R visa approval power for high-end foreign talents. The processing time limit of foreigners' work permit in China has been shortened from 20 working days to 5 working days, which is the fastest in China.
At present, there are 5,056 foreign talents working in Qingdao with valid work permits, accounting for 52% of the province. Among them, 14 people have won the Friendship Award, 45 have won the Qilu Friendship Award of the Shandong provincial government, 3 have won the international science and technology Cooperation Award, and 20 have been appointed as the special experts of Qingdao government.
Suzhou has won the favor of the majority of foreign talents by virtue of its profound cultural heritage, solid economic foundation, excellent investment environment, livable living environment, and gradually in line with the international standards of the executive entrepreneurship environment.
According to statistics, the number of foreigners working is 12,000 in Suzhou, accounting for 50% of Jiangsu Province. Among them, there are 4,725 high-end foreign talents, 5 foreign academician workstations, 285 provincial and municipal foreign expert studios, accounting for 63% of Jiangsu Province. The number and quality of foreign talents introduced are the first in Jiangsu Province.
With the continuous improvement of business and living environment in Chinese cities, more and more foreign experts and talents come to work and start their own businesses in China. In recent years, the implementation of the work permit system for foreigners in China and the visa system for foreign talents have greatly promoted, it has greatly promoted the continuous improvement of government affairs, policies, work and living environment in various cities, so as to attract more high-level overseas talents to come to China for innovation and entrepreneurship, and let more foreign talents "come, stay, use well and flow easily". Among the factors that attract foreign talents to China, the strength of scientific and technological innovation, especially the level of basic scientific research, is becoming more and more important.
iReloChina will continue to provide more efficient relocation services for foreign talents in all those cities in China.
Xi'an, the capital of Shaanxi province, called Chang'an in ancient times, during Xi'an’s 3,100 year development, 13 dynasties placed their capitals here, so far, Xi'an enjoys equal fame with Athens, Cairo, and Rome as one of the four major ancient civilization capitals.
In 2020, the permanent resident population of Xi'an exceeds 10.2 million, covering an area of 10096 square kilometers. In 2019, Xi'an's GDP is 932.1 billion yuan.
In recent years, with the internationalization of Xi'an, more and more foreign employees of multinational enterprises choose to work and live in Xi'an Today, we will introduce Qujiang Area in Xi’an, the most convenient area for living in Xi'an. As a new urban development zone established by Xi'an City, it is dominated by cultural and tourism industry. We will help you understand how Qujiang Area has become the first choice for expatriate families.
The residential areas of Qujiang are mainly distributed in an orderly manner, mainly focusing on Qujiang pool and Jindi Plaza. We can feel the distribution of the whole residential area of Qujiang from the following figure. There are more than 30 well-known residential compounds, which form mature residential areas, many super mall, parks, green spaces, kindergartens and supermarkets around this area.
Among them, Jindi's many residential compound constitute the first-line residential district around the lake. Today, we will introduce three of them:
LakeCity Phase 8
It is welcomed for its superior geographical location and complete supporting facilities.
LakeCity Phase One
The green rate is very high, and the housing type is mostly 3-4 room large-size aparement, which can easily meet the needs of family customers.
Qujiang Mansion
It covers a large area, with villas as the main part and peripheral high-rise apartments buildings, compound has its own kindergarten and other related facilities, which makes life super convenient.
Overview of Apartment Rental in Qujiang Area
Layout: 2-4 Bedrooms
Size：80-210 sq.m
Rental: 6,000-20,000 yuan/month
Qujiang District is rich in kindergarten resources. Almost every Compound has one or two kindergartens within walking distance. Among them, Detai International kindergarten and Eaton House are the most popular with their own professional international kindergarten background, and Kid Castle bilingual kindergarten is also a choice for many families.
Detai International Kindergarten
Eton house international kindergarten
It is concentrated in ruisan residential area in Qujiang, but you don't have to worry about the overcrowding of nearby mallas and supermarkets. There are all kinds of shopping centers in Qujiang. There is a shopping center with complete functions within 10 minutes' drive. In addition, the cafes and bars along the lake also provide you with a good place for leisure.
JinDi Plaza
One stop for all life experience super mall.
Joy City
Fashion trend gathering mall
Golden Eagle
High end lifestyle mall
Furong New World
Night life in Qujiang starts here.
We will introduce Xi'an International School and service apartment brand in the next article. We believe Xi'an will attract more expatriate families to live and work with its special geographical location and mature international supporting facilities. We will provide you with one-stop residential and relocation service and welcome to call for consultation.
The Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card of the People's Republic of China, commonly known as the "China Green Card", is a "legal identity document for foreigners who have obtained permanent residence status in China to stay in China." The certificate is valid for up to 10 years and can be renewed.
Starting from March 28th 2020, China has released entry ban for foreign nationals, but China Permanent Residence ID card holders are not affected. We have received quite a lot of inquiries about China Green Card application. Today, let’s see how to apply for China Green Card?
Permanent Residence for Special Talents
Terms for Application
1. World-class talents, special skilled professionals or celebrities who have made significant and outstanding contributions to national economic development and social progress or who have great value to the country;
2. Foreigners who meet the criteria of high-level talent as set by Shanghai Zhangjiang National Innovation Demonstration Zone or China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone (call "Double Zones") and are recommended by the Administration Committee of Double Zones;
3. Core members of research teams recommended and guaranteed by foreign leading experts or pioneering researchers who have been introduced by double zones and recognized by the Administration Committee of Double Zones.
Foreign people who meet one of the above conditions can apply for permanent residence in China.
The foreign spouse and unmarried children under 18 years old of the above foreign applicants can apply for permanent residence together.
Permanent Residence for Couples Reunion
Terms for Application
1. Those people who are married to a Chinese citizen (having registered Chinese permanent citizenship), or to a foreigner who has the qualification for permanently staying in China can apply for permanent residence in China, if they meet all of the following four requirements;
2. They have been married for 5 years;
3. They have lived in China for 5 consecutive years and staying in mainland China for no less than 9 months every year and have stable life security and accommodations in China.
Proof of financial security is applicant's or their spouse's Certification of Deposit in domestic banks of no less than RMB 200,000 (The freezing period must be more than 6 months after the application date), and this should be verified by a notary office. If the deposit is under the name of applicant's spouse, the declaration that the spouse is willing to guarantee security should be notarized and submitted as well.
The proof of financial sources is the proof of pension of the applicant or the applicant's spouse. If it was issued abroad, verification by the Embassy/Consulate General of China is required. If such proof is owned by the applicant's spouse, the declaration that the spouse is willing to guarantee security should be notarized and submitted. The proof and the notarization should both be issued within 6 months before the application date.
Foreigners who meet the above three conditions can apply for permanent residence in China.
Permanent Residence for Foreign Investors
Terms for Application
1. Investors who invest in China and have actually submitted a registered capital of more than 2 million U.S. dollars (shall not be lower than this standard for 3 consecutive years);
2. Investors who invest in Central China and have actually submitted a registered capital of more than 1 million U.S. dollars (shall not be lower than this standard for 3 consecutive years);
3. Investors who invest in China's western regions and key national poverty alleviation and development counties, and have actually submitted a registered capital of more than 500,000 U.S. dollars (shall not be lower than this standard for 3 consecutive years);
4. Investors who invest in “Foreign Investment Industry Guidance Project” encouraged by the State, and have actually submitted a registered capital of more than 500,000 U.S. dollars (shall not be lower than this standard for 3 consecutive years);
5. Investors who submit direct investment in Shanghai consistently as an individual or through the company as a controlling shareholder with individual status for three consecutive years, and whose total amount of investment reaches more than 1 million U.S. dollars (or 500,000 U.S. dollars for the “Foreign Investment Guideline Project” encouraged by the State.
Foreigners who meet one of the above conditions and have good tax records can apply for permanent residence in China.
Permanent Residence for Working Staffs
Terms for Application
3. Those who have worked in Shanghai continuously for 4 years;
2. With an annual salary income (before tax) exceeding RMB600,000, and have paid annual individual income tax exceeding RMB120,000, and stay in mainland China for no less than 6 months every year in these 4 years;
3. With the present employer's recommendation.
4. Foreigners who meet the above three conditions can apply for permanent residence in China.
The foreign spouse and unmarried children under 18 years old of the above foreign applicants can apply for permanent residence together.
Permanent Residence for Overseas Chinese with Ph. Degrees
Terms for Application
Those overseas Chinese who have Ph. degrees and currently work in Shanghai can apply for permanent residence in China.
The foreign spouse and their unmarried children under 18 years old of the above applicants can apply for permanent residence together.
Permanent Residence for Excellent Foreign Graduates
Terms for Application
1. Foreign graduates from key domestic universities (on the List of World-Class Universities and First-Class Disciplines ("Double First-Class" initiative) released by the Ministry of Education) or well-known overseas universities [top 300 universities on Shanghai Ranking's Academic Ranking of World Universities (originally compiled and issued by Shanghai Jiao Tong University)]
2. Who were engaged in innovative entrepreneurship in Shanghai with a residence permit for private affairs (marked "entrepreneurship") within 2 years after graduation,
3. Became employed by eligible Shanghai organizations [① organizations in "Double Zones" or "Double Innovation" Areas; or ② organizations on the list of Shanghai scientific & technological innovative occupations formulated by the Shanghai scientific and technological innovation authorities; or ③ universities or scientific research institutes in Shanghai] during those 2 years and worked there for three consecutive years；
4. Have good records of work performance, tax payment, and social credit may apply for permanent residence in China；
5. With the recommendation of the organizations.
Excellent foreign graduates who meet the above five conditions can apply for permanent residence in China.
What Benefits the Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card Will Bring to You?
In principle, same rights and same obligations as Chinese citizen except political rights and those specified right not permitted by law.
1. There are no restrictions on the duration of stay in China as long as the permit is valid.
2. Children will be eligible for relevant education policies if they meet the requirements.
3. The Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card holders can apply for the social insurance as China citizens.
4. The Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card could be used to book air ticket, boarding, buying railway ticket or check in a hotel.
Interested in applying for China Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card? Feel free to contact with us for support.
In order to better introduce the process and matters related to foreigners entering Hefei China, iReloChina takes "foreigners entering Hefei from Germany" as an example to introduce the whole process.
Frist Step：Prepare for Visa
Situation1: who have been inoculated with COVID-19 vaccines produced in China.
Foreigners visiting the mainland of China for resuming work and production in various fields need only to provide the documents required before the COVID-19 when applying for a visa. The Invitation Letter issued by the foreign affairs offices or the departments of commerce of the provincial (including autonomous regions and municipalities) governments or the headquarters of central state-owned enterprises are no longer required.
The scope of applicants eligible for applying for a visa out of emergency humanitarian needs will be expanded as appropriate. Foreign family members of Chinese citizens or permanent residents of China, including spouse, parents, children and other close relatives living together (referring to siblings, grandparents and grandchildren), may submit visa applications for the purposes of reuniting withfamily, taking care of the elderly, visiting relatives, attending funerals orvisiting critically ill relatives.
Holders of valid APEC business travel cards may apply for the M visa by presenting the original valid APEC business travel card and the invitation letter issued by the inviting party inthe mainland of China.
Situation 2: who haven’t been inoculated with COVID-19 vaccines produced in China.
Holders of valid Chinese residence permits (work, personal affairs, and group residence permits) can apply for a visa to China at the Chinese Embassy and Consulate in Germany freeand no need to provide the invitation letter.
Foreigners who go to China to engage in economic and trade, science & technology, culture, education, sports and other activities must still provide an invitation letter issued bythe provincial competent authority of China to apply for a visa at the Chinese embassy in Germany.
Step 2：Preparation for Boarding/ Nucleic acid test and Serology IgManti-body test
Starting from November 6, 2020, all passengers bound for China from Germany will be required to take nucleic acid test and Serology IgM anti-body test and apply for a green health code with the "HS" mark or a certified Health Declaration Form (HDF) before boarding. In order to minimize the risk of cross infection during the journey, the Chinese Embassy and Consulate in Germany remind passengers in Germany to take direct flights to China.
Test Time
Passengers must take nucleic acid and IgM anti-body tests at a testing institution in the Germany within 48 hours before boarding.
Institutions for the tests
At present, the Chinese Embassy and Consulates in Germany have not designated any labor institutions for the tests. Nucleic acid testing and IgM antibody testing can be carried out in different testing institutions, but the two testing institutions should be in the same consular area, otherwise the application will not be submitted.
Test Requirements
Nucleic acid test:
1. The nucleic acid test must be PCR test, and TMA test is not accepted;
2. Sampling: Rachenabstrich or Nasenabstrich.
Ig Mantibody test:
1. Samplingwas done by venous blood;
2. Thetest certificates shall contain the following information, such as the status of IgM antibodies, Venous blood collection and test method. The nucleic acidtest report and serum antibody test report should be clearly marked with the name of the tested person, the name and address of the doctor or testing institution, testing items, sampling time, sampling method, testing method,etc.
Version of the test certificate:
The resultcan be paper version or electronic version. The key information such as personal name, birthday, collection date and test result on the certificate isinvalid by handwritten.
Obtain the certified Health DeclarationForm (HDF)
All foreign passengers who are flying from Germany to China will be required to present the Electronic Health Declaration Form for boarding. Foreign passengers can apply for the Electronic Health Declaration Form by logging on the website of http://hrhk.cs.mfa.gov.cn/H5/via computer or smart phone. Foreign passengers can fill in the information, declare the health status and upload the testing certificates online, which will then be examined and verified by the Chinese Embassy.
Necessary documents for Electronic Health Declaration Form:
1. Passport
2. Airticket
3. Valid Chinese Visa or Valid Chinese Residence Permit
4. German visa or German residence permit or registration certificate (travelers fromnon-EU countries)
5. Negative test results from nucleic acid and IgM antibody tests within 48 hours prior to departure for China.
6. The vaccinated must also present the vaccination certificate or upload it with the following information. These must contain the following information: name, gender, date of birth, name of the vaccine, date and place of the first andsecond vaccination, signature and address of the vaccination agency.
Upon approval, they will receive the Electronic Health Declaration Form, which willbe displayed in QR code with the “HDC” mark. Foreign passengers must presentthe electronic or printed code, and follow the procedures for inspection byrelevant airlines during boarding.
Reminders:
1. Passengers going to China must take nucleic acid and IgM anti-body tests within 48 hours before boarding.
2. Please make the reservation for IgM antibody test as soon as possible.
3. According to Frankfurt Airport the test facilities in the transit area (Test Center,non-Schengen area, Terminal 1/ Consourse Z /Gate Z12) are currently available for passengers bound for China Mainland on Lufthansa only. Please check your testing affairs with Lufthansa.
4. There be a direct flight connection between the country of departure and China. The Chinese Embassy and consulate in the originating country will not issue green codes for their transfer from a third country.
| Test Center | Location | Offered Covid-19 Tests | Suitable crowd |
| Test Center Medical Center |
Terminal 1 Consourse A/ Arrivals |
PCR and IgM antibody | For passengers taking direct flights to China |
| Test Center Centogene |
Terminal 1/ Next to Train Station |
PCR | For passengers taking direct flights to China |
5. Please make sure that people living in Germany fly to China by direct flights. The Chinese Embassy and Consulate in Germany will not issue a green code for passengers from Germany to a third country.
6. The travelers from acountry without a direct flight connection with China only fly to China via Germany (such transit passengers must have the green QR codes issued by Chinese diplomatic missions in the country of departure and prove this QR code with the required documents.
7. In principle, the Embassy and Consulate in Germany only issue "green codes" to transit passengers to China through Germany. If the passenger has transferred before coming to Germany, the embassy and consulate in Germany will not issue the "green code" for transfer.
The example of green QR-Code with HDC
Airport entry process diagram
Arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport
Inspection
Submit health application form, do the second inspection and body temperature test at frontier inspection office.
Go to the temporary transfer area for the firstnucleic acid test (free)
Assign the hotel and take the shuttle bus to the hotel
Quarantine Policy
Forinbound passengers whose destination is Shanghai：
After arival in Shanghai, passengers should have 14 days centralized qurantine in Shanghai. After the quarantine is lifted, please obtain the quarantine lift certificate, which will be an important certificate for your travel in China.
For inbound passengers who plan their trip to Hefei:
After 14 days of centralized qurantine in Shanghai, foreigners can buy train tickets to Hefei and take the high-speed railway to Hefei, which generally takes only 2-3 hours.
Before they depart from Shanghai, they will also need to report their itinerary to residential community center in advance, including: identity information, arrival date, flight number to Shanghai and train number to Hefei, detail of quarantine situation, address in Hefei, employment contact information.
Now, Hefei does not require inbound passengers to do further quarantine anymore, but they will still need to cooperate with epidemic prevention to do 3 nucleic acid tests on the 1st, 7th and 14th day after they arrive in Hefei. The epidemic prevention stuff will help with the first 2 times and foreigners need to go to the testing site by themselves to do the 3rd time test.
After inbound passengers arrive at Hefei to get their mobile number, they can apply for Anhui Health Code in “Wanshitong” App, which is very important for them to move around in the city. For foreign personnel, they can only apply it through the App now,“Wanshitong” also has Alipay access and WeChat mini program, but for this moment they only open the access to Chinese ID number.
Q&A about Qurantine
Q：Can I choose quarantine at home?
A：Normally 14 days centralized quarantine at landing city is needed. The details are subject to the local isolation policy and on-site coordination after arrival.
Q：Can I choose quarantine hotel?
A：The hotel is subject to the staff assignment on the day of arrival in Shanghai (Sometimes you may be able to choose between two price ranges, or choose which district/area to live in, but this depends on the arrangement of the arrival in Shanghai on the day). If you are carrying family members & children and need a large suite or want several family members to live in the same room, you need to explain the situation to the airport staff. If feasible, the airport staff will give priority to the arrangement; However, under normal circumstances, the hotel can not meet the requirements of multiple family members living in the same room. Therefore, each adult is usually arranged to carry 1-2 children to live alone.
Q：What is the price of Shanghai quarantine hotel?
A：Generally, the price is between RMB200-500 per night, and the meal cost is calculated separately, generally RMB100/day.
Q：When staying in a segregated hotel, can spouse, couples, and good friends share the same room?
A：In order to avoid cross-infection, it is not allowed to be in one room, you cancommunicate with the staff for details.
Q：How to pay for the quarantine hotel?
A：You can use cash, WeChat, Alipay and domestic credit cards. Overseas credit cards sometimes do not work with quite many hotels. It is suggested to bring cash in advance (about RMB 10000 per person).
Q：Can I order takeout during quarantine?
A：From April 1st, takeout food usually is not allowed to bring in.
Q：Can the quarantine Hotel accept express delivery?
A：Generally, it's OK, but it's due to prevention and control (packaging and disinfection, manpower arrangement, delivery to the door of each room) and other reasons.Some hotels will have restrictions on the number of express deliveries, depending on the regulations of the hotel.
Q：Will someone clean the room during quarantine?
A：No one will come into your room to clean during the 14 days quarantine period.
Q：On the day after the end of the quarantine period, what time can I leave the quarantine hotel?
A：It depends on the regulations of the quarantine hotel. Please consult the staff of the hotel for details.
Today, iReloChina has done some sorting out on how foreign talents purchase foreign exchange for salary, hoping to let you have an understanding of the process.
The notice is applicable to employers or foreign talents remuneration foreign exchange.
The mode of the process of purchasing foreign exchange is "online application, window verification and acceptance". The specific process is as follows:
1. Log in
Shanghai foreigners work management service system
(https://kjgl.stcsm.sh.gov.cn/fwps/stcsm/login/loginX.jsp)
2. After entering the login page, fill in "company code", "company name", "mobile phone number", and "graphic verification code".
Company code: unified social credit code of company
Company name: Full name of the company
Mobile phone number: it is required to fill in the mobile phone number of the valid operator registered in the foreigner work management service system.
3. Click "send SMS verification code" to get the SMS verification code.
Fill in the verification code and click "start" to enter. Select "I want to log in" or "I want to register" on the following page.
4. Click the "I want to log in".
Select the effective operator, fill in the mobile phone of the registered effective operator, fill in the graphic verification code and SMS verification code, click "enter the system" to verify, and it will automatically jump into the system after passing the verification.
5. After entering the system, select "Apply for Foreign Talent Salary Purchase Foreign Exchange".
Enter the valid work permit number of the foreign talent (Only can be processed for company employees).
6. In the filling page of the application form, the items marked with"*" in red are required.
In the two columns of the start time and end time of the corresponding interval of foreign exchange, the month of applying for foreign exchange can be selected. The end time cannot be earlier than the start time. The range can be selected from 1 month to 12 months. After filling in all the items correctly, please save them before printing the application form.
7. Attachment upload & submit
In which "special information form for foreign talent's salary purchase of foreign exchange" must be attached, and "supplementary materials for salary purchase of foreign exchange" is a non-mandatory attachment. The attachment is required and supplementary materials need to be uploaded if there is other income. After uploading all kinds of attachments, please click the "submit for review" button to submit business data for review.
There is no need to wait for the online acceptance results. The applicant or the operator can directly bring the "foreigner work permit", "special information form for foreign talent salary purchase" and other required materials to the window for acceptance.
The employer with demand can contact iReloChina for consultation and application.
The cost of living in Shanghai is very flexible - It depends on the area in which you live or on your spending habits. Expats can afford a comfortable lifestyle and do many activities in Shanghai such as daily meals at restaurants, shopping, bars and tea houses, gym membership, massages, visit the best places of the city but also exploring areas of China.
It is important to know that, the more you adapt to the local culture, the more affordable you can live.
The rent represents the largest part of the budget for a person living in the city center of Shanghai unlike other small cities in China.
Examples :
- Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 Sqft) furnished accommodation in an expensive area: 15 021 yuan.
- Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 Sqft) furnished accommodation in a normal area: 8 477 yuan.
For instance, housing in New York is 105% more expensive than in Shanghai.
Moreover, basic monthly utilities such as water, heating, gas, electricity and internet cost for 2 persons in an 85m2 flat around 400-500 yuan per month in Shanghai, whereas in London it can cost around 242 yuan per month.
The cost of living in Shanghai when it comes to technology is fairly reasonable. In fact, a new card sim costs around 100 yuan and around 150 yuan per month for unlimited internet, unlimited messages and around 600 free minutes.
Actually, using public transport does not generate very large expenses whatever the expats's budget. For short distances, taking the bus is a good option because a one-way ticket costs only 2 yuan. The subway is also convenient because it is fast, there is no need to wait a long time and it is also cheap since one-way ticket costs only 3 yuan whereas, in Stockholm, it costs around 30.91 yuan.The taxi is slightly more expensive but it is very affordable compared to many western countries. For example, you can spend 30 yuan for a trip of 20 minutes. In France, taxis are much more expensive as it can cost around 231,86 yuan for the same travel time.
Therefore, many other people choose to cycle or ride scooters, because it’s economical and really practical for short distances in Shanghai. However, driving in Shanghai can be expensive because petrol is not cheap.
Imported, Western-style brands and goods will often be quite expensive than locally made clothes, which are very affordable. Electronics items, however, are often cheaper than in most Western countries.
Shanghai has many local supermarkets but also foreign ones, for example, Carrefour, the French hypermarket chain. If you eat in a Chinese style, your weekly groceries will be very cheap (no more than 200 Yuan per person). On the other hand, if you need to purchase a lot of imported Western foods, it is obvious that your shopping is going to be considerably more expensive than back home.
For those expats who miss their countries and who want some occidental foods time to time, Shanghai offers a big choice of occidental restaurants with different prices for a medium budget (between 60 yuan and 200 yuan if it is a luxury restaurant for one person).
Eating out in local restaurants is generally affordable, although some establishments are cheaper than others. The thrifty will spend around 45 Yuan per day if he eats outside at lunch and dinner. We can notice that there is a big difference between France’s prices. In fact, one meal in a normal local restaurant cost between 110 yuan and 170 yuan in France.
Visa requirements and conditions vary depending on the type of visa applied for, but for all those type of visas below, you have to present the standard visa requirements which are:
Original passport with at least 3 blank visa page and valid for at least 6 months.
Passport photocopy.
Completely filled visa application form and a recent photo sticked on it.
The original and the photocopy of the proof of legal stay or residence status such as certificate of residence,employment, student, or other legal status in your country.
A photocopy of previous Chinese passeport or Chinese visas if you had one.
Visa regulations are subject to change at short notice and expats should contact their nearest embassy or consulate for the latest information.
Here are some informations and the additional requirements of each type of visa.
If you want to work in China for more than six months, you should ask for this type of visa. You can ask for a business visa in the embassy or in the Chinese consulate of your home country. This is a single entry visa and allows you to stay in China for 30 days and you must transfer Z visa to Residence permit in the police station during this period. It is mandatory to ask for a work permit in China because you won’t be allowed to work only with your work visa.
Documents required :
The original foreign employment permit and invitation letter.
An original invitation letter by Duly Authorized Unit. The host company will obtain it from a local government agency.
Foreign experts license issued by the State Bureau of Foreign Experts.
Delivred to foreigners who want to go to China for commercial and trade activities. This type of visa is generally limited to stays of 30-60 days. Applicants that have already obtained this visa before more than twice in two years and have a certificate of investment in China or a business licence, are allowed to apply for a multiple-entry M visa which is valid for six or 12 months.
Documents required :
The business license of the applicant or the commercial register.
A round-trip air ticket.
The hotel reservation or an accommodation certificate in China.
Business letter from the company in your country addressed to the Consulate of China, visa section. This should include the employment status held in the company, the reason of the travel, and a proof of sufficient funds.
Business invitation from the company in China addressed to the Consulate of China, visa section. This should contain: Information on the applicant (full name, gender, date of birth, etc., details of planned visit (purpose of visit, arrival and departure dates, places to be visited, relations between the applicant and the inviting entity or individual, financial source for expenditures) and information on the inviting entity or individual (name, contact number, address, official stamp, signature of the legal representative or the inviting individual)
There are two types of Dependent visa: Q1 and Q2.
The first one is issued to those who are family members of Chinese citizens or of foreigners with Chinese permanent residence and intend to go to China for a long-term family reunion, or to those who intend to go to China for the purposes of foster care (intended duration of stay in China exceeding 180 days). Q1 visa is issued for single-entry only
The second one is issued to those who intend to visit relatives who are Chinese citizens residing in China or foreigners with permanent residence in China; the intended duration of stay is limited to 120 days per visit. Q2 is usually issued for multiple-entry. Only expats who hold a US passport can have a multiple-entry up to 10 years.
For family reunion:
An invitation letter from a Chinese citizen or a foreign citizen with a Chinese permanent resident permit who lives in China. This letter should contain: personal information on the applicant (full name, gender, date of birth, passport number, etc.), details of planned visit (purpose of visit, intended arrival date, place(s) of intended residence internded duration of residence, arrival and departure dates, relations between the applicant and the inviting entity or individual, financial source for expenditures).
Information on the invitating individual (name, contact telephone number, address, official stamp, signature of legal representative or the inviting individual, etc).
A photocopy of Chinese ID of the inviting individual or foreign passport and permanent residence permit.
Original and photocopy of certification (marriage certificate, birth certificate, certification of kinship issued by Public Security Bureau or notarized certification of kinship) showing the relationship of family members (spouses, parents, sons, daughters, spouses of sons or daughters, brothers, sisters…) between applicant and inviting individual.
For foster care:
Foster entrustment notarization issued by Chinese embassies/Consulates General in foreign countries or Foster Care Power of Attorney notarized and authenticated in the country of residence or in China.
Original and photocopy of the consignor's passport(s), as well as the original and photocopy of certification (marriage certificate, birth certificate, certification of kinship issued by Public Security Bureau or notarized certification of kinship) notarized and authenticated certification showing the relationship between parents or guardians and children.
A letter of consent on foster care issued by the trustee living in China who has agreed to provide foster care services and a photocopy of the ID of the trustee.
Residence certificate: A photocopy of the certificate indicating the permanent residence status abroad of the parent(s) when the child was born, provided that either or both parents of the child are Chinese citizens.
Documents required for the Q2 visa:
An invitation letter from a Chinese citizen of a foreign citizen with a Chinese permanent residence permit who lives in China.This invitation letter should contain: information of the applicant (name, gender, date of birth, passport number, etc), details of planned visit (purpose of visit, arrival and departure dates, place(s) to be visited, relations between applicant and the inviting individual, financial source for expenditures), information on the inviter (full name, contact number, address, signature, etc.)
A photocopy of the Chinese ID or the foreign passport and permanent residence permit of the inviting individual.
There are two types of Private Visa. The intended duration of stay in China of the S1 visa exceeds 180 days and is issued for single-entry only while the S2 visa is granted as 30 – 90 days per visit and is issued for multiple-entry. Only expats who hold a US passport can have a multiple-entry up to 10 years.
S1 and S2 visas are issued to those who intend to go to China in order to visit “immediate family member” (spouses, parents, sons, daughters under the age of 18 or parents-in-law…) working or studying in China or to the foreigners who intend to go to China for other private affairs. With this type of visa, the intended duration of stay in China exceeds 180 days and is issued for single-entry only. The applicant can apply for the residence permit in the Police station in order to obtain multiple entry visa.
Documents required:
An invitation letter from the inviting individual (a foreigner who stays or resides in China for work or studies) which contains: information on the applicant (full name, gender, date of birth, etc.), details of planned visit (purpose of visit, arrival and departure dates, place of intended residence, relations between the applicant and the inviting individual, financial source for expenditures, etc.), and information on the inviting individual (name, contact telephone number, address, signature, etc).
A photocopy of passport and residence permit of the Foreign inviter.
Original and photocopy of the certificate of relationship between applicant and inviter such as marriage certificate, birth certificate, or certificate of kinship.
There are two types of student visas. X1 is issued to those who
intend to study in China for a period of more than 180 days, while X2 visa is issued for those who intend to study in China for a period of less than 180 days.
Documents required:
The original and a photocopy of the admission letter submitted by the Chinese institution you will be studying at.
A proof of funds.
A round-trip air ticket.
The visa holder should submit an application of permanent residence in the nearest public security administration office during the next 30 days after his arrival in the Chinese territory.
This type of visa is issued for tourist visits to China. You will normally have a single-entry visa which is generally valid for 90 days. Multiple-entry visas can be valid for 6, 12 or 24 months. Only expats who hold a US passport can have a multiple-entry up to 10 years.
Documents required:
A Proof of itinerary: flight booking and hotel reservation.
A Proof of funds.
An invitation letter and a copy of the inviter's Chinese ID. This letter should contain: Information of the applicant (name, gender, date of birth, passport number), details of planned visit: arrival and departure date, tourism destination, financial source for expenditures, information of inviter (name, contact number, address, signature).
An official signed and stamped Invitation Letter for Tourist issued by Duly Authorized Tourism Unit in China can be used in place of the hotel reservation if your travel is organized by a tour group in China
If you are in China for business, studies or for any other reason that requires you to stay in the country for a while, you will need to open an account with a bank.
First, it is important to know that you cannot use your foreign credit card everywhere in China. For instance, you cannot use it for taxis, supermarkets, etc. You can only use it in hotels, some restaurants and shopping centers for example. Moreover, your home bank will likely charge you international ATM fees (waived with some banks) if you use your foreign card for withdrawals. There are some other fees when you pay by card, but also an international currency exchange fee which is usually about 3%.
The commissions for exchanging money or withdrawing money at Chinese banks are much smaller if you have a Chinese bank account.
Having a Chinese bank card is really useful since you can withdraw cash and pay by card almost everywhere. You can withdraw cash from the ATM and even deposit cash in some of them. You can also add your Chinese bank card in the WeChat application and pay with it many things such as the rent, taxis, supermarkets, restaurants… Indeed, WeChat is really popular and practical in China.
If you don’t speak Chinese, try to ask a local friend or a colleague to go to the bank with you in order to help you if you have some questions, but it is not really necessary as you can do it as it is pretty simple.
First, you will have to fill out an account opening application form. You must ensure that there are no spelling errors in your name because if it is the case, this can cause problems when you use the online account or WeChat account.
The procedure is very simple since you just have to bring your passport, a proof of residence, to give your Chinese phone number and to make a first deposit. The employment pass, student pass or work permit are sometimes required by some banks. Application fees should not exceed 40 RMB (Some banks might make you pay around 15 RMB for the card they give you such as ICBC).
The process is usually instantaneous. In fact, you will have a debit card and a checkbook as soon as your account will be opened. You will have to sign a few other documents and choose your password (six-digit).
If you want to manage your bank account by internet or by the smartphone application, you can ask it to the banker, or make purchases online and you will have access to those services. Otherwise, it won’t work.
Before opening a Chinese credit card, it might be interesting to know if the bank of your country has some partnerships with Chinese banks. If you choose Bank of China, you can easily proceed to electronic money transfer from your foreign account to your local account because this bank allows IBAN and SWIFT transfers.
However, money transfer from China to your foreign account is controlled. Indeed, you should ask for an authorization from the Chinese authorities in order to verify that the amount of the transfer is lower than your monthly salary.
• Bank of China
• HSBC China
• Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ISBC)
• Agricultural Bank of China
• Construction Bank of China
It is obvious that the most important factor to consider when choosing your bank is convenience. You should choose the nearest bank branch of your neighborhood or of your office because your account will be tied to the specific branch in which you will open it. So if you face some problems such as the loss of your bank card, the change of your password, you will need to go back to this bank branch.
• You will be charged 2 RMB for each withdrawal from another bank.
• For most travelers, using cash is the easiest way to pay for many things in China.
• Withdrawal from ATM cannot generally exceed 2500 RMB for each transaction except some banks. So if you need to withdraw one more time from your foreign credit card, you will be charged two times.
• You can withdraw money from your foreign credit card only in some ATM in China bearing the PLUS or CIRCUS indications.
• If you plan to open a bank account in China, you must read the terms and conditions carefully, especially the section on banking fees and charges. You can find it on the websites of the banks. You can check it out and do a comparison with other banks before choosing a specific one.
