Opening a bank account

1. How to apply for a bank card in China?

To apply for a bank card at a domestic branch, you typically need to present valid identification, such as a current passport or a foreigner's permanent residence ID card. For specific requirements, please contact your nearest bank branch or the bank's customer service hotline.

2.How to make payments using domestic bank cards?

In China, you can use your bank card to make payments at any merchant that has a POS machine. Additionally, linking your domestic bank card to mobile payment apps such as UnionPay, WeChat Pay, or Alipay offers the convenience of mobile transactions. You also have the option to withdraw RMB cash with your bank card for cash payments.

Getting a SIM card

1. How to get a SIM card in China? 

To get a SIM card from a major telecommunication services provider on the Chinese mainland, you need to visit one of the provider's physical stores. You will need to present valid identification, such as your current passport, for real-name registration. It is recommended that you contact the physical store before your visit to confirm with store staffers the materials you need to bring with you. 

2. What are the major telecommunication services providers?

There are four major telecommunication service providers on the Chinese mainland, namely China Mobile, China Telecom, China Unicom, and China Broadnet. 

3. How can I find a physical store of the above-mentioned elecommunication services providers?

Each provider has many physical stores scattered across the city. You can easily find one using a map app. For example, to locate a China Mobile physical store nearby, simply search "中国移动" on your preferred map app. 

Checking into a hotel

1. How to book a hotel room in Shenzhen?

You are recommended to book your hotel room before visiting Shenzhen. Choose a trustworthy online hotel booking website, and choose a hotel and a room type based on your itinerary, budget and preferences. Alternatively, you may visit the official website of your preferred hotel brand to book your stay. Please read instructions on the website or contact the hotel to make sure if the hotel can receive international visitors. 

2. What are the steps of checking into a hotel in Shenzhen?

Checking into a hotel is easy and straightforward. Simply present your passport to a hotel staffer, confirm your reservation, and fill out a registration form. Then you can receive your room card. 

Using public transportation

1. What are the ways to pay for a metro or bus ride in Shenzhen? 

There are quite a few ways to pay for a metro or bus ride in Shenzhen. Some of the most used ways include: 

1) Cash;

2) The pay-as-you-go "Shenzhen Tong" (深圳通) card for public transportation;

3) The "Chengchema" (乘车码) WeChat miniprogram; 

4) The "Shenzhen Tong" QR code, which can be accessed via the "Shenzhen Tong" WeChat miniprogram, Alipay, or the "Shenzhen Tong" app; 

5) Certian public transportation cards issued in some other cities. 

2. How do I know if my public transportation card issued in another city can be used in Shenzhen?

Your public transportation card can be used in Shenzhen if it is a China T-union card. Those with a "China T-union" logo on it are China T-union cards.

3. Can expats aged 60 and above enjoy free metro rides in Shenzhen? 

Expats aged 60 and above can enjoy free metro rides in Shenzhen. He/she will need to present to a metro staffer his/her identification such as passport.

Registering your stay

1. What materials do I need to bring with me to regsiter for my stay offline?

If this is your first time registering, you will need to bring your passport, one photo measuring 3.5 cm by 5.3 cm, your house rental contract (if applicable), and your work permit (if applicable).

If you are renewing your registration, you will need to bring your passport along with any relevant documents that support the renewal. Please bring your new tenancy agreement with you if your address has changed.

2. Where should I go for registration if I don't live in Shekou?The most convenient way to register for your stay is to register through the official WeChat account of the Shenzhen Municipal Public Security Bureau "深圳公安." If you prefer to register your stay offline, please visit a public security organ near your place of residence.

Visiting a doctor

The following video shows how to visit a doctor in Shenzhen.