Moving to China
China continues to be a top destination for global professionals, educators, entrepreneurs, and families looking for cultural richness, career growth, and international exposure. From Beijing and Shanghai to Shenzhen and Chengdu, every city offers something unique to expats.
Yet moving to China for the first time can feel daunting. Visa processes, housing rules, language differences, and cultural customs are often unfamiliar. That’s where a reliable moving company makes all the difference, ensuring that your relocation is well-organized, compliant, and stress-free.
This guide outlines what you need to know before and after arrival, including visas, cost of living, accommodation, education, and lifestyle.
Overview
China is the world’s most populous nation and a rising global power with modern cities, ancient traditions, and vast geographic diversity.
Capital: Beijing
Major Cities: Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu
Population: 1.4 billion
Languages: Mandarin (Putonghua) is the official language
Currency: Renminbi (RMB or CNY)
Climate: Varies, cold winters in the north, tropical in the south
Religion: Predominantly secular; freedom of religion is recognized
English is not widely spoken outside major business districts, but expat communities are well-established in larger cities. Professional movers can help you settle in efficiently while you adjust to the new environment.
Visa and Immigration Process
Visa rules in China are strict and must be carefully followed. Most expats will need a long-term visa before entering.
Common Visa Types
Z Visa: For foreign employees (requires sponsorship)
S1/S2 Visa: For dependents and family members of foreign workers
X Visa: For students enrolled in academic programs
M Visa: For short-term business visits
Permanent Residency: Rare, but possible for long-term professionals and investors
Application Process
Most applicants begin with an invitation letter from a China-based employer or school. After submitting to a Chinese consulate or embassy, applicants receive a temporary visa. Upon arrival, you must apply for a residence permit within 30 days.
As part of our relocation service, Asian Tigers works closely with immigration professionals to assist with documentation, renewals, and transition planning. Learn more through our visa and immigration support.
Cost of Living
China offers a wide cost-of-living range depending on your city and lifestyle. While Shanghai and Beijing can be expensive, many other cities offer a high quality of life at a much lower cost.
Monthly Budget Estimates (RMB)
Sample Cost Breakdown
Rent: ¥5,000 – ¥20,000/month depending on city and housing type
Groceries: ¥2,000 – ¥4,000/month
Dining out: ¥30 – ¥100 for casual meals
Transport: Public transit is cheap (~¥200/month); taxis are widely available
Utilities: ¥500 – ¥1,200/month depending on size and season
Your relocation package may include housing or cost-of-living allowances, especially in tier-one cities.
Housing and Accommodation
Expats typically rent apartments or serviced flats in urban areas. While the rental market is fast-moving, most properties come furnished and are managed by agencies familiar with foreigners.
Common Housing Options
Serviced Apartments: Great for short-term or corporate relocations
High-rise Apartments: Common in cities; often come with building management
Townhouses/Villas: More common in suburban expat communities
Expat-Friendly Areas
Lease terms typically run 12 months with upfront payment requirements. If your housing is delayed or not yet finalized, Asian Tigers offers secure storage solutions and local home search support to help you bridge the gap.
Education System
Most expat families opt for international schools, especially in large cities where programs follow American, British, or IB curricula.
School Options
International Schools: Often include language support and global curricula
Private Bilingual Schools: Growing in popularity for families staying long-term
Public Schools: Generally not recommended unless fluent in Mandarin
Leading International Schools
Beijing: International School of Beijing (ISB), Dulwich College, Yew Chung
Shanghai: Shanghai American School, British International School, Concordia
Guangzhou/Shenzhen: Utahloy, QSI, Shekou International School
Asian Tigers helps families assess educational options and navigate enrollment timelines through dedicated school search support.
Cultural Integration and Lifestyle
China is fast-paced and full of contrast: ancient temples sit beside glass skyscrapers. Expats are generally welcomed, but it helps to be respectful of local norms.
Language
Mandarin is essential for full integration. Many expats take survival Chinese courses to handle daily needs and travel.
Etiquette Tips
Use both hands when offering or receiving something
Public manners are different, adapt with patience
Respect holidays and customs like Spring Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival
Major Holidays
Chinese New Year (late Jan/Feb)
Golden Week (Oct 1–7)
Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival
Digital tools like WeChat and Alipay are integral to daily life, covering everything from payments to appointments.
Settling into Life in China
Relocating to China offers access to a dynamic market, deep history, and fast-growing cities. While the transition takes effort, it’s a highly rewarding move for professionals, families, and business leaders.
Asian Tigers is a leading moving company in Asia, with decades of experience helping clients make confident moves into and across China. Our expert movers handle everything from customs and shipping to storage, housing assistance, and local onboarding.
Questions about relocating to China? Chat with Cindy, our AI assistant, for instant support.
If you’re planning a move to China, we’re ready to support you every step of the way.
Contact us today
Let’s get moving.
