Living in China
Asia — Expat guide for moving and living abroad
Country overview
Capital
Beijing
Currency
CNY
Continent
Asia
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Entry requirements
Check if your passport needs a visa for China.
Check visa requirementsPopular passport access to China
| Passport | Status | Max Stay |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Visa Required | — |
| India | Visa Required | — |
| Brazil | Visa Required | — |
| South Africa | Visa Required | — |
| Nigeria | Visa Required | — |
| United Arab Emirates | Visa Required | — |
| Singapore | Visa Free | 15 days |
| Pakistan | Visa Required | — |
| Canada | Visa Required | — |
| Israel | Visa Required | — |
Detailed visa guides for China
Monthly costs
Shanghai
Rent (center)
900 USD/mo
Groceries
280 USD/mo
Transport
40 USD/mo
Est. Monthly Total
1,290 USD/mo
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Work permits
-
Z Visa (Work Visa)
Duration: 1 year, renewable
Job offer from Chinese entity, degree verification
-
Talent Visa (R Visa)
Duration: 5-10 years
High-level foreign talent, nominated by employer
Salary & tax
Income Tax Range
3% – 45%
Social Security (Employee)
0.105%
Annual thresholds after CNY 60,000 standard deduction.
Calculate your net salaryUseful services
Insurance
SafetyWing
Nomad health insurance for your stay in China. Monthly subscription, cancel anytime.
Get a SafetyWing quote →Connectivity
Airalo
China eSIM data plans from $4.50. Activate before you land — no SIM swap.
Get an Airalo eSIM →Language
iTalki
Book 1-on-1 video lessons with native tutors before you move. 150+ languages.
Find a tutor →