How To Get A Job As An Expat In China – that will be the topic of today’s article.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

China is a land of opportunity for expats looking for work. With a growing economy and an ever-growing number of businesses, plenty of jobs are available for those with the right skills and qualifications. However, getting a job in China as an expat can be challenging.

The competition is fierce, and many employers require extensive experience and qualifications. However, if you are prepared to put in the effort, there are plenty of opportunities available for qualified and motivated. So, how do you get a job as an expat in China? Here are some tips!

1.    Research the Market

Before you start applying for jobs, it is important to research and figure out what the market is like. Are there specific companies or industries that are hiring expats? What are the qualifications and experience required for these jobs? If you have the right skills and experience, now is the time to start targeting these companies and industries.

2.    Network

Networking is the key in China. Many jobs are not advertised publicly, so it is important to build relationships with people who can help you find opportunities. Attend industry events, meetups, and networking events, and connect with people on social media. Also, don’t be afraid to reach out to friends and contacts that already live in China. They may know of job opportunities that are not advertised online.

3.    Use WeChat

WeChat is a hugely important tool for job seekers in China. Nearly all businesses and organizations have a WeChat account, and it is the best way to connect with potential employers. Make sure you have a good profile photo and be prepared to send your resume and cover letter as attachments.

4.    Prepare Your Documents

In order to apply for jobs in China, you will need to provide a range of documents. Make sure you have a current resume or CV, as well as a cover letter that is tailored to the Chinese market. You will also need to provide copies of your passport and visa, as well as your education and employment certificates.

5.    Use Job Boards and Recruiters

There are many job boards and recruiters that specialize in finding jobs for expats in China. These websites are a great place to start your job search, and they can help you connect with potential employers. Also, don’t forget to check out the classifieds section of local newspapers and websites.

6.    Attend Job Fairs

Job fairs are a great way to meet potential employers and learn more about the jobs available in China. They are also a good opportunity to network with other job seekers. Major cities in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, hold regular job fairs for expats.

7.    Be Patient

Finding a job in China can take time, so be prepared to be patient. It is important to keep applying for jobs, even if you don’t hear back from every employer. Also, don’t be afraid to start your own business in China. There are plenty of opportunities for entrepreneurs, and the business climate is favorable for those willing to take a risk.

7 Benefits of Working in China

China is a vast and diverse country with over 1.3 billion people. It is also the world’s second-largest economy and home to some of the largest and most successful companies in the world. Also, with the rapid growth of the Chinese economy, opportunities for foreign workers are plentiful.

Opportunities for Career Growth

China is one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, and it offers many opportunities for career growth. If you’re looking to expand your horizons and advance your career, China is a great place to do it. With its booming economy and rapidly expanding middle class, there are plenty of opportunities for career growth in a wide range of industries.

A Diverse and Interesting Culture

China is a country with a rich and fascinating culture. From its ancient history to its modern metropolises, there’s always something new to explore in China. Whether you’re interested in Chinese art, food, architecture, or just want to experience a different culture; China is a great place to do it.

A Growing Economy

China is one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, and its economy is projected to keep growing in the years ahead. This means that there are plenty of opportunities for career growth in a wide range of industries. If you’re looking to invest in your career, China is a great place to do it.

A Safe and Stable Country

China is a safe and stable country with a low crime rate. You don’t have to worry about your safety or security when living or to work in China. Also, since China is a rapidly growing economy, it’s a great place to invest in your future. That’s why, if you’re looking for a safe and stable place to invest in your career, China is a great option.

A Great Place to Live

China is a great place to live with friendly people and a diverse culture. There’s always something new and interesting to explore in China, and its economy is growing rapidly. If you’re looking for a great place to live and work, China is a great choice. Also, China offers a wide range of job opportunities, so you’re sure to find something that’s a good fit for you.

Affordable Living Costs

China is an affordable place to live, with living costs much lower than in most Western countries. This means that you can save money while living and working in China. It also means that you can afford to live a comfortable lifestyle in China. Also, the cost of living in China is still increasing, so it’s a great time to move to China and take advantage of its affordable living costs.

A Great Place to Learn Chinese

China is an excellent place to learn Chinese. With its rich culture and diverse language, you’ll be able to learn Chinese quickly and effectively in China. Learning Chinese will open up many opportunities for you, both in China and abroad. So, if you’re interested in learning a new language, China is the perfect place to do it.

Best Jobs to Look Out For In China as an Expat

If you’re an expat looking for a job in China, there are many opportunities to choose from. However, it can be tough to know which jobs are the best ones to go for. Here is a list of the top five jobs to look out for in China as an expat:

English Teacher

One of the most popular jobs for expats in China is teaching English. There are plenty of opportunities to find teaching jobs in China, and they come with a variety of benefits, such as good pay and a comfortable work schedule. Teaching English in China is a great way to know the culture and make new friends.

Business Consultant

If you have experience in business and are looking for a job in China, then becoming a business consultant may be the perfect option for you. Business consultants are in high demand in China, and they can make a good salary while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle.

Freelance Writer/Media Professional

If you’re a writer or media professional, China is a great place to be. The Chinese market is booming, and there are plenty of opportunities for freelance writers and media professionals. The pay can be good, and the work schedule is usually flexible. Also, living in China can be a great opportunity to learn more about the country and its culture.

Engineer

If you’re an engineer, China is a great place to work. There are many engineering jobs available in China, and they come with good pay and a comfortable work schedule. In addition, engineers are in high demand in China, so this is a great opportunity to get your foot in the door of the Chinese job market.

Medical Professional

Medical professionals are also in high demand in China. If you’re a doctor, nurse, or other medical professionals, there are plenty of opportunities for you in China. The pay is good, and the work schedule is usually flexible. In addition, medical professionals can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in China.

Hotel Managers

If you have experience in the hospitality industry, China is a great place to work as a hotel manager. There are many opportunities for hotel managers in China, and they can make a good salary while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle. In fact, hotel management is one of the most popular jobs for expats in China.

Salesperson

If you have experience in sales, China is a great place to work. There are many opportunities for salespeople in China, and they can make a good salary while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle. In fact, sales are one of the most popular jobs for expats in China.

Marketing Jobs

Marketing jobs are also in high demand in China. If you have experience in marketing, there are many opportunities for you in China. The pay is good, and the work schedule is usually flexible. In addition, living in China can be a great opportunity to learn more about the country and its culture.

IT Jobs

IT jobs are also in high demand in China. If you have experience in IT, there are many opportunities in China. The pay is good, and the work schedule is usually flexible. In addition, living in China can be a great opportunity to learn more about the country and its culture.

Restaurant Manager

If you have experience in the restaurant industry, China is a great place to work as a restaurant manager. There are many opportunities for restaurant managers in China, and they can make a good salary while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle. In fact, restaurant management is one of the most popular jobs for expats in China.

Top 7 Cities to Get Suitable Jobs in China

China is one of the most popular job seekers due to the abundance of job opportunities and high salaries. However, not all cities in China are equally suitable for finding a job. The following is a list of the top 7 cities in China that offer the best prospects for finding a suitable job.

Beijing

Beijing is the political and cultural center of China. It is also one of the most developed cities in the country. With its strong economy, Beijing is a great place to find a job. Major industries in Beijing include information technology, finance, and real estate. Also, Beijing is home to many international companies, so there are plenty of job opportunities for foreigners.

Shanghai

Shanghai is the most populous city in China and one of the largest financial centers in the world. The city has a strong economy and is a great place to find a job. Major industries in Shanghai include manufacturing, finance, and trade. Many international companies are located in Shanghai, so foreigners have plenty of job opportunities.

Guangzhou

Guangzhou is the capital of Guangdong Province and one of the most prosperous cities in China. The city has a rapidly growing economy and is a great place to find a job. Major industries in Guangzhou include manufacturing, trade, and logistics. Many international companies are located in Guangzhou, so foreigners have plenty of job opportunities.

Shenzhen

Shenzhen is a major city in southern China and is home to many high-tech companies. The city has a strong economy and is a great place to find a job. Major industries in Shenzhen include information technology, biotechnology, and new media. Many international companies are located in Shenzhen, so foreigners have plenty of job opportunities.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is an autonomous territory of China and one of the most developed cities in the world. The city has a strong economy and is a great place to find a job. Major industries in Hong Kong include financial services, trade, and logistics. Many international companies are located in Hong Kong, so foreigners have plenty of job opportunities.

Tianjin

Tianjin is the fourth most populous city in China and one of the most prosperous cities in the country. The city has a rapidly growing economy and is a great place to find a job. Major industries in Tianjin include manufacturing, logistics, and information technology. Many international companies are located in Tianjin, so foreigners have plenty of job opportunities.

Suzhou

 Suzhou is a major city in eastern China and is home to many high-tech companies. The city has a strong economy and is a great place to find a job. Major industries in Suzhou include information technology, biotechnology, and new media. Many international companies are located in Suzhou, so foreigners have plenty of job opportunities.

Requirements to Get a Job in China

If you’re looking for a job in China, there are a few things you’ll need to have to be successful. Here are seven requirements that will help you land a job in this booming economy:

• A valid passport and visa
• A degree or certification from a recognized institution
• Proficiency in Mandarin
• At least two years of work experience
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• A positive attitude and strong work ethic
• Familiarity with Chinese culture and customs

Understanding Chinese Work Ethics

In recent years, Chinese work ethics have come into question. There are a few reasons for this. First of all, the Chinese work culture is very different from the American work culture. In China, it is expected that employees will put in long hours and not complain.

This can be difficult for Americans to understand. Secondly, there have been several high-profile cases of corruption and unethical behavior by Chinese officials. This has led to a general perception that Chinese people are not trustworthy.

However, it is important to remember that most Chinese people are hardworking and honest. The problem is that the bad apples have given the rest of China a bad reputation. In order to understand Chinese work ethics, it is important to understand the cultural context in which they developed.

The Chinese work ethic is based on the idea of jiucheng, or “hard work.” This concept dates back to ancient times when the Chinese people were poor and had to rely on their labor to survive. In order to compete with other countries, China has always emphasized the importance of education and hard work.

The Chinese government has also been known for its strict work ethic. In the past, it was common for people to be arrested for not working hard enough. This may seem harsh to Americans, but it is important to remember that the goal of the Chinese government is to build a strong and prosperous country.

In general, the Chinese people have a strong work ethic and are willing to do whatever it takes to achieve their goals. This can be seen in how they work long hours and often put their company’s needs before their own.

While the Chinese work ethic can be difficult for Americans to understand, it is important to remember that it is based on a different cultural context. The Chinese people have worked hard for centuries to build today’s country. And in the future, they will continue to work hard to maintain their position as one of the world’s leading economies.

Things to Do Before Coming to Work In China

Are you planning to work in China as an expat? If that sounds like a yes, that’s a good decision! But did you know that there are some things you need to do first? In this section, we will walk you through the five things to do before coming to work in China as an expat. Check it out below!

Learn About Chinese Culture and Etiquette

China is a fascinating country with a rich culture, but it can be quite different from what you’re used to. Make sure you learn about the culture and etiquette before you arrive so that you can avoid any embarrassing faux pas.

Some things to know include the importance of politeness and respect in Chinese culture, as well as the various taboos and superstitions. Be aware that loud noises and public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, and try to avoid speaking about sensitive topics such as the Communist Party, Taiwan, or Tibet.

Get Your Visa Sorted

Unless you have a valid visa, you will not be able to stay in China for more than 72 hours. Make sure you get your visa sorted before you arrive; otherwise, you could find yourself stranded at the airport.

There are different types of visas depending on your purpose of visit, so make sure you get the right one. Tourist visas are the most common, but there are also business, student, and work visas.

Learn Some Basic Chinese Words and Phrases

Even if you don’t plan to learn Mandarin, it’s a good idea to learn some key phrases before you come to China. This will make life a lot easier for you and help you connect with locals. Some basic phrases to learn include hello (ni hao), thank you (Xie Xie), and sorry (DUI bu qi). You can find more Chinese phrases here.

Get Acclimatized To the Climate

China has a wide range of climates, from the humid tropical south to the cold, dry north. Make sure you’re prepared for the weather conditions in the area where you’ll be living and pack accordingly. Also, be aware that the weather can change rapidly, so always carry a jacket with you, even in summer.

Learn About the Local Customs and Laws

China has a complex legal system, and it’s important to be aware of the local customs and laws before you arrive. Some things to keep in mind include the fact that smoking is banned in most public places and that you should always carry your identification with you at all times.

Conclusion

Finding a job as an expat in China can be challenging, but with the right tools and information, it can be much easier. That’s why this ultimate guide is essential for anyone looking to relocate to China for work.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here.  

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

International consultancy Mercer (headquartered in New York) has published a study on the cost of living for expats in 2021.

Mercer’s study of more than 400 cities around the world compared the value of more than 200 items in each location, including housing, transportation, food, clothing, household goods, and entertainment. The results showed that more than half of the 10 most expensive cities for expatriates are located in Asia.

The capital of Turkmenistan in Central Asia is recognized as the most expensive city in the world for foreign workers. Ashgabat, a city with a population of about one million, has spearheaded a 2021 cost-of-living survey conducted by consulting firm Mercer.

So, Ashgabat unexpectedly took the first position. Mercer testified that over the past year, Ashgabat has soared in the ranking of high prices by five steps.

The company’s analysts explain this breakthrough by the fact that the country is going through a severe crisis. As a result, the cost of living here has increased significantly.

In the ranking, Ashgabat is above the most expensive city of last year – Hong Kong, which came in second, followed by Beirut in Lebanon and Tokyo in Japan.

In the annual report, more than 200 cities were ranked by the cost of expenses such as housing, food or transportation costs.

Expatriates or emigrants are people who live or work outside their countries.

Most of the cities in the Mercer Top 10 are business centers where economic growth has driven higher home prices and other living expenses.

But Ashgabat owes its high rating to economic problems, not prosperity, which makes it stand out.

For the third year in a row, Hong Kong has been holding the palm of questionable primacy. The city owes this to the political unrest, as well as the super-expensive real estate market.

In the top ten of the rating, in addition to the above three leading cities, there are three more Asian megacities: Singapore, Shanghai, and Beijing. In the overall results (indicated above), Shanghai and Beijing ranked sixth and ninth, respectively, up to one position from last year. In fact, the poll saw ratings rise in all cities in mainland China, especially Tianjin and Chengdu, which climbed 12 positions to 26 and 28, respectively. The reason cited in the report is “the appreciation of the currency against the US dollar and the rapid recovery from the impact of COVID-19.”

Switzerland has become the most disadvantageous country for foreign specialists to live in. Three of its cities are located on the steps of the top ten at once: Zurich, Bern, and Geneva.

Top 10 cities in Mercer’s 2021 cost of living ranking:

1. Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
2. Hong Kong
3. Beirut, Lebanon
4. Tokyo, Japan
5. Zurich, Switzerland
6. Shanghai, China
7. Singapore
8. Geneva, Switzerland
9. Beijing, China
10. Bern, Switzerland

In compiling the ranking, Mercer analysts took into account a number of factors that shape the cost of living. Including fluctuations in exchange rates, the impact of inflation on the prices of goods, services, and housing. Let’s now discover a little about these cities and their cost of living.

Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

The cost of living in Turkmenistan is $ 1,057, which is 1.43 times the world average. Turkmenistan ranked 55th out of 197 countries for the cost of living and 146th among countries with the best living standards.

The average salary after taxes in Turkmenistan is $ 370, which is enough to cover living expenses for 0.3 months.

Sot the life in Turkmenistan cost 2.9 times the average salary. Thus, the cost of living in Turkmenistan for local residents and expats differs significantly.

The main advantage of such a rapid development of Turkmenistan is the presence of oil and gas deposits on its territory. Thanks to investments from foreign investors in the development of this industry, Turkmenistan reached a fairly high standard of living in 2021.

This is evidenced by prices, living standards, availability of jobs, and well-organized work of all management personnel. Over a fairly short period, the government adopted many reforms.

The improvement in economic indicators occurred not only due to the availability of oil and gas but also due to the very successful development of the agricultural system. Turkmenistan is one of the largest suppliers of wheat and cotton. Beets account for a very large share of exports.

Today this republic is characterized by stability, balance, and very liberal views. The construction business is well developed in the country.

Honk Kong

Now Hong Kong is in the status of an autonomous territory under the control of China: the PRC government oversees defense and foreign policy issues, and legislation, monetary system, and immigration policy are the subject of local authorities’ concerns.

The cost of living in Hong Kong is undoubtedly high: according to some reports, the cost of living in the city is the highest in the world. For a number of years, including 2020, Hong Kong topped Mercer’s cost of living rankings. This is partly due to the region’s overblown real estate market, which is making it expensive to find housing.

Add to that the fact that most of the food and goods are imported, and you might find that Hong Kong essentials tend to be more expensive than other cities. However, the usually high salaries foreigners receive tend to offset these costs, and many feel that their quality of life is better than it was at home.

Housing in Hong Kong is really expensive and expats depending on their own needs can expect a higher salary to spend on an apartment. The older Chinese-style apartments, in particular, maybe more reasonably priced, but don’t afford the space that Western expats may be used to.

Public transport is cheap, clean and reliable. In comparison with that, owning and keeping that car in Hong Kong is also very expensive. Most people even think that they don’t need one in case they live in the city center, plus the cost and other not comfortable facts – generally not worth it.

Beirut, Lebanon

This beautiful country is as different as the people living there, Lebanon offers a non-ordinary experience of life as a crossroads between the Middle East and the Mediterranean.

Most expats working in Lebanon are employed by NGOS or within the diplomatic arena. Other specialists, who are expats there, can work in construction, architecture, or engineering. Tourism also offers different opportunities for expats in Lebanon.

New expats in Lebanon can find the cost of living in Beirut, Lebanon’s capital, really higher in comparison to other cities in the Middle East. The cost of housing, food, and energy largely can be considered as enough high.

Another expense that expats in Lebanon should know is the transportation price. There is a lack of public transport in Beirut, which leads to the use of a private car, which is also expensive.

Living expenses in Beirut are comparable to other cities, where the average monthly living expenses can range from $ 1,200 to $ 2,000.

The easiest way to find an apartment is online through agencies. The cheapest option is to rent a room in a shared apartment (on average $ 300 to $ 500 per month) to private rentals from $ 600 or more, depending on size and location.

The food cost differs depending on where you eat! Groceries are cheap if you buy ordinary Lebanese items; Western and Asian goods are expensive. Near Saifi, there are restaurants and shops where you can eat or buy food. In general, eating out costs $ 2 to $ 5 for a sandwich, and for lunch $ 8 or more.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is notorious for its high cost of living, which is often a major concern for expats moving to the city. With the salaries offered in Tokyo, expats can still build a comfortable life here. ranked fourth out of 209 cities for expats ranked in the Mercer Cost of Living Survey. It is much more expensive.

The food standards are high enough. Delicious food can be found in every corner of the city. Competition between businesses is fierce, making it easy to find great deals on most dishes.

Surprisingly, food at a restaurant is usually cheaper than food in groceries. One of the most affordable options is bento boxes, which can be purchased in stores. Most department stores also have food courts on the basement floors that sell food at reasonable prices.

The price of fresh food in Tokyo is higher than some expats might be used to, but the quality and quality are top-notch. Seafood is relatively cheap. Many supermarkets offer evening discounts to get rid of daytime supplies.

The biggest expense for an expat in Tokyo is living. Apartments are the most popular type of housing for expats. Monthly rents can be sky-high for housing, which is often much less than expats are used to. Foreigners should also be aware that other fees apply when initially moving to a location.

Additional costs that need to be budgeted for include deposits, principal, first month’s rent in advance, and agency fees. Due to the high cost of parking in Tokyo, most expats prefer to use public transportation rather than have a car. Compared to other Asian capitals such as Seoul, public transport in Tokyo is expensive but extremely efficient.

Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich’s cost of living is also high, even according to the standards of expensive countries. In addition to accommodation, transportation, food, and education, expats will also have to pay various taxes, license fees, and insurance premiums.

However, its high cost of living is offset by high wages and good quality of life. It is important for expats to anticipate what their living expenses in Zurich will be so that they can negotiate a good salary and plan ahead. The cost of living in Zurich.

Most residents, including locals, rent their homes in Zurich, so competition for a relatively small amount of affordable properties is fierce. Foreigners could spend between a fifth and a third of their income on monthly rent. Renters have to pay their own utility bills, which are usually about 10 percent of the rent. TV and radio license fees are also worth considering when considering utility bills. Foreigners living in Zurich need to get used to recycling. The municipality levies a tax on residents for each garbage bag, and significant savings can be made by separating the garbage into plastic, glass, and aluminum and dumping it in free recycling sites around Zurich.

While Zurich’s public transport network is excellent and extensive, it doesn’t come cheap. Regular users should invest in monthly and yearly transport passes that will save them a significant amount of money in the long run.

Owning and maintaining a car in Zurich is very expensive and completely unnecessary for most expats. Public parking fees are increasing rapidly. Drivers also have to pay for parking in residential areas, so expats planning to get a car should check residential parking rates when they are looking for a home.

Shanghai, China

Shanghai is one of the most popular cities in China, which is eagerly visited by numerous tourists from all over the world. Some of them decide to go on a tourist trip, while others plan to stay there a little longer. Many people choose to study in this big city due to the large number of universities.

The cost of living in Shanghai is considered the highest in China and is the sixth most expensive city out of 209 cities for expatriates, according to the 2021 Mercer Cost of Living Survey.

Depending on the expat’s budget, some will naturally choose the more economical lifestyle in the city, while others will tend to live more extravagantly than at home, taking advantage of Shanghai’s luxury and famous nightlife. No matter which end of the spectrum an expat lives on, it is good to know the basic cost of living in Shanghai prior to arriving.

Renting a two-room apartment in downtown Shanghai usually costs between $ 582 – $ 1,400. For comparison: for the same apartment with similar conditions outside the center, you will pay from approximately 291 – 874 US dollars per month.

The taxi driver starts the course with an entry fee, which in Shanghai is about $ 2. The toll for each kilometer is approximately US $ 0.36. For example, if you drive 10 km, the taxi fare will be about $ 5.60. It is worth remembering that an hour of waiting for you with a taxi driver usually costs from approximately 4.40 – 8.70 US dollars.

Singapore

Unfortunately, the cost of living in Singapore is rising. The good news is taxes are low, professional salaries tend to match the high cost of living, and expat packages can include perks such as transportation, school fees, and living allowances.

Expats who prefer to live in houses and bungalows can also look forward to big bucks. A large house can cost S $ 35,000 per month, while a three bedroom apartment will cost around S $ 3,000 per month.

Costs vary greatly depending on the age, condition, and location of housing, and it is clear that expats will get more return on their investment the further they live from the city center.

Depending on personal habits, grocery shopping can be frugal or extortionate. Foreigners who like to buy imported goods from home may be amazed at how quickly costs can add up. While Singapore offers many tempting options for delicious food, eating out can be costly. However, there are alternatives, and if expats prefer hawkers over restaurants, local food may be much more affordable.

Public transportation in Singapore is efficient and significantly less expensive than using personal transportation as EZ-Link passes provide good value for money. Owning a car in Singapore is more of a luxury than a necessity, and due to the high taxes levied on cars as well as parking costs, it can be an expensive luxury.

Geneva, Switzerland

As in all of Switzerland, the cost of living in Geneva is inevitably high. Fortunately, most expats are lured into the city with high salaries that offset the costs they may incur.

Accommodation is likely to be the biggest expense for an expat in this Swiss city. Geneva has a severe housing shortage and landlords may charge additional fees. The rent can be high even for a one-room apartment on the outskirts of the city. Landlords can also ask for up to three months’ rent as security.

Expats moving with their families to Geneva looking for a larger home may need to consider housing options abroad in France. Here they will find more options with slightly better rental rates.

While Geneva’s public transport infrastructure is extensive and efficient, it is not cheap at all. However, this remains cheaper than owning and maintaining a car in the city. There are various discounts available to reduce travel costs. The cheapest way to get around Geneva is by bike. The city is well equipped for cyclists and it is a fast, efficient and economical way of getting around.

The amount an expat spends on leisure activities will depend on their personal preference. There are great restaurants in Geneva, but restaurants, bars, and clubs are not cheap. Skiing can be quite expensive too, but there are plenty of free trails for hikers and bikers.

Beijing, China

The cost of living in Beijing is on par with many European capitals. As the cultural and political center of China, Beijing is not far behind Shanghai when it comes to the high cost of living.

In short, while life in China is generally more affordable than in other great economic powers, Beijing is not cheap – especially for expats who demand a certain level of comfort and luxury.

Many expats are attracted to Beijing’s lucrative pay packages to work in Beijing, and therefore costs are usually not a concern.

Living in Beijing will be the biggest expense for expats. Over the years, property prices have generally risen, and foreigners will find that buying and even renting a property in Beijing can cost a lot of money.

As a rule, the closer the house is to the city center, the more expensive it is. Beijing is organized along the ring roads, where the first ring road is closest to the city center. Despite the high cost of housing and education, food in Beijing is relatively cheap, including good quality food. Sure, there are many five-star establishments that can quickly drain a person’s funds, but dining at a decent restaurant for four can be perfectly reasonable.

For newcomers who are brave enough, the best and cheapest food often comes from the back streets; and often, eating out can be cheaper than preparing meals at home.

The cost of food will be significantly higher for expats who rely on Western food and rarely eat local Chinese food. Many foods that are considered staples in the Western diet are rarely found in Chinese food, such as cheese and bread.

Bern, Switzerland

Switzerland is almost as famous for its high cost as it is for its scenic ski slopes. The three Swiss cities ranked in the top 10 in the 2020 Mercer Cost of Living Survey – Zurich, Bern, and Geneva – and rural areas aren’t necessarily much cheaper.

On the other hand, wages and living standards in Bern are also among the highest in the world. And with efficient government services and well-maintained infrastructure, most expats find the high costs to be worth it.

Most people in Bern rent real estate, resulting in a shortage of available apartments. In many cases, it is also necessary to make a prepayment of three months. In Bern, garbage collection requires special garbage bags, the price of which depends on their size, so households that produce more garbage will pay more. Recycling is free of charge, and even expats with little concern for the environment can look forward to a greener life in Switzerland.

The extensive and efficient public transport system in Bern is unfortunately also quite expensive. Foreigners living in the city center and planning to commute regularly to work should consider buying a multiple-trip pass.

Car ownership in Switzerland is more expensive due to additional fees. Many who can drive without a car get by. In addition to the cost of importing, buying, or renting a vehicle, expats will have to pay for monthly insurance, Cantonese tax, parking permit, road sticker, and gasoline.