Moving to China for work or leisure can be an exciting experience, but it’s important to understand the local systems and services to make your transition smoother. Here’s a quick guide for foreigners on essential services in China:
- SIM Card & Mobile Services: You can easily apply for a SIM card at major telecom operators like China Telecom, China Mobile, and China Unicom by presenting your passport or foreign permanent resident ID. This will help you stay connected throughout your stay.
- Bank Cards & Payments: Open a bank account and apply for a card by visiting a commercial bank with your passport and local mobile number. For mobile payments, popular apps like WeChat and Alipay are widely accepted – you can even link your international credit cards (Mastercard, Visa, etc.).
- Public Transport: Whether it's booking train tickets via the 12306 website or hopping on the metro using your mobile app, public transport is convenient and accessible. Make sure to check out mobile payment options like Alipay for a seamless experience.
- Car Rental & Ride-Hailing: Need a car? Use popular apps like Didi or search for car rental services via WeChat and Alipay. Renting a car requires an international driver’s license, but it's relatively straightforward.
- Hotel Accommodation: Booking a hotel is simple with platforms like Trip.com. At check-in, just present your passport or foreign ID. Many hotels also accept international payment methods like Apple Pay, PayPal, and major credit cards.
Living in China is all about embracing the local conveniences while staying connected to global services. With just a few steps, you can enjoy seamless experiences across transport, banking, shopping, and beyond.
