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

Do you want to get sun-tanned on Shenzhen beaches? Or do you want to tour the fun parks whilst embracing knowledge from its prestigious schools and easy workplaces? Either way, you want to be a Shenzhen expat.

Although, it’s common knowledge that moving to a new place is more complicated than picking out the right pair of shoes to tour that new country. Our expatriate guide to living in Shenzhen helps you settle in like it’s your hometown.

Shenzhen is the seventh prominent city in China, topping the charts as China’s most prosperous and primary manufacturing city. Shenzhen is the heart of beaches, parks, touring mountains, and convenient transportation.

However, being an expat during a coronavirus pandemic necessitates a health certificate before entering any country. Shenzhen isn’t left out of this rule as you’d need to provide a COVID-19 negative test result and simultaneously undergo the COVID-19 test protocol for travelers at the Chinese airport.

Packed up the bags? Check. Strapped your seatbelt? Check. Got the window seat on the flight? Probably. Have an idea how to live in Shenzhen? We’ll go ahead and answer no for that. This article covers every curiosity you’d have about living in Shenzhen as an expat.

5 Things to Know Before Living in Shenzhen

Before planning a relocation, being versed with the legal requirements of the country/city is a travel necessity. This article has detailed every Shenzhen essential you need to know before living in Shenzhen as an expat.

Get a Chinese Visa

Living in Shenzhen requires being familiar with the different kinds of visas issued to expats via the Chinese Consulate in your country. These visas are issued based on your period and purpose of stay in the country.

Currently, three major visa options issued to expats are tourist visas, work visas, and business visas. Before obtaining them, these visa options have different legal requirements, and we’ll dive into those requirements soon.

Nonetheless, keep in mind that these visas have an official period of stay and validity. Thus, if you plan to extend your stay, make sure to include it during the visa application. Without further ado, let’s jump into the three major visa options.

Tourist Visa

• A return passport with six months validity
• A plane ticket with your return date
• A passport photograph
• Visa application payment

Work Visa

• Work permit from your employer
• Passport photograph
• Passport with six months validity
• Health certificate/criminal records

Business visa

• Your business/company’s details (name, contact information, etc.)
• Passport photograph
• Passport with six months validity

Learn Mandarin/Cantonese Language

Living in Shenzhen mandates communicating with the locals. Although Cantonese is the most spoken language in Chinese cities, Mandarin dominates as the official language in Shenzhen.

However, it’s best to learn both languages as Shenzhen is filled with Chinese migrants with both major dialects. Duolingo comes in handy with helping you learn the basic phrases; you can also immerse yourself in Chinese movies/songs to get familiar with the words.

Finances Before Flight Tickets

Flight tickets solely go as far as taking you to the doorsteps of China; however, your financial budget guides you to living in Shenzhen. As stated earlier, Shenzhen is a city in China; hence your financial plan should revolve around its lifestyle.

Get a Home

Making a move to Shenzhen without where to reside spells disaster. Before earning the expat title, knowing where to rest off the jetlag is crucial. Temporarily living at a hotel will leave a hole in your wallet; thus, having accommodation before moving makes settling easy.

In the long run, we’ll outline the districts in Shenzhen, in addition to their cost of accommodation.

Get Employed

If your primary purpose of living in Shenzhen doesn’t revolve around schooling, getting a job before relocating helps make your finances steady and get that visa effortlessly. This article is going to guide you through Shenzhen’s job opportunities and work permits.

Why Shenzhen is Amongst China’s Top Expat City

Choosing to live in Shenzhen should top your list of best decisions in 2021. It is one of China’s top cities that attracts expats and locals from all walks of life. Let’s dive into the heart of Shenzhen that’ll make you giddy with excitement.

Contemporary Urban Lifestyle

As an expat living in Shenzhen, one thing you wouldn’t need to keep up with is the lifestyle. Shenzhen is a diverse city with tons of cultural and trendy activities due to variations in the population.

Hence you wouldn’t need to adjust to the way of life in Shenzhen as it incorporates both western and cultural lifestyle routines. The Shenzhen locals are also known to be more friendly and educated compared to the average Chinese.

Food Flexibility

Being an expat living in Shenzhen, the food flexibility allows you to choose from various cuisines. Whether you are a vegetarian or a Muslim, be rest assured of finding your specific kind of food in Shenzhen.

Aside from its refreshing Cantonese delicacies like the grilled lamb, seafood, congee, and dim sum, Shenzhen has a variety of western restaurants you can try whenever the cravings hit.

Tourist Attraction Sites

Regardless of the reason behind your stay in Shenzhen, one aspect of the city you wouldn’t want to miss is its attraction sites. These tourist sites are the heart of Shenzhen, being the top affluent city in China.

Aside from its popular tourist sites like the Da Fen art painting village, amusement parks, and Window of the world, the city also boasts stunning beaches and green gardens.

Tons of Job Opportunities

Being one of China’s fast-developing cities, Shenzhen is home to job opportunities for expats to grow financially. Aside from being an attraction site for tourists, the city also attracts foreign investors due to its economic growth.

A Hub for Easy Friendship

Due to its population diversity, you wouldn’t need to worry about making friends. Whether it’s fellow expats or Shenzhen locals, the majority of the people are friendly and open-minded.

Comfortable Transportation

One of the perks of living in Shenzhen is convenient transportation. Due to its vast and affordable transport network, getting around the city is a simple affair.

The transportation system ranges from metro to trains, ferries, buses, and taxis. The prices of each transport system depend on the distance traveled. However, the basic price range includes;

Pros and Cons of Living in Shenzhen

Once a small fishing village, Shenzhen has evolved to be a getaway destination for expats. Nonetheless, for every pro, there’s a downside to it. Thus, the pros and cons of living in Shenzhen as an expat include the following.

Pros

1.    Low Living Expenses

Despite being one of China’s top innovative cities, living in Shenzhen results in easy spending and more savings. The living expenses in Shenzhen are what attract expats to the growing city. Further, into this article, we’ll table the cost of essential utilities in Shenzhen.

2.    Clean Environment/Air

Being home to over 12 million culturally diverse people doesn’t impact the atmosphere in Shenzhen. Known for its green land, the cleanliness of the city is a major priority to the government.

3.    High Vitality Rate

Although living in Shenzhen exposes you to a myriad of people, the majority of the citizens are young-aged. Thus, if you are a young expat, be rest assured of finding peers who resonate with you. Aside from the age barrier, the quality of life in Shenzhen is the ultimate guide to a younger look.

4.    Vibrant Cultures

A perk of living in Shenzhen is introducing your culture without being accompanied by judgy looks. A city of expats and locals from all cultures is sure to make your stay in Shenzhen a euphoric experience.

Cons

1.    Simmering Heat

While packing up your weather apparel for your move to Shenzhen, there’s no need to stock up on winter coats as the winter season is usually mild. However, Shenzhen’s summer season works out your sweat glands as the temperature gets as high as 100 degrees.

2.    Fast and Busy Life

 Due to the population variation, living in Shenzhen can be pretty complicated at your first arrival, as the city is often vibrant and the residents work at a fast pace. Either it’s simple activities like walking or eating, the “Shenzhen” operates at a speed level.

3.       Bad Traffic

As stated earlier, the residents of Shenzhen are often on speed dial in their daily lives; thus, there’s little regard to proper movement as the streets are huddled with people and vehicles bustling about.

4.    Zero Queue Etiquette

 The “Shenzhen” tends to exhibit impatience in a queue. Boarding the metro or taking the elevator can be chaotic as the residents have zero tendencies to queue appropriately.

Things to Know for a Comfortable Living in Shenzhen

Living in Shenzhen as an expat will increase the release of dopamine, which is the hormone responsible for happiness. However, don’t get comfy yet without knowing few things to keep in mind as an expat in Shenzhen.

Valid Means of Identification

Living in Shenzhen requires being close to a means of identification. This identification could be your residence or work permit; as an expat, this means of identification might be requested by the police officers.

However, worry less as the Shenzhen cops are as friendly and polite as the citizens.

Conscious of Visa’s Expiry Date

The Chinese are extremely strict with overstaying your welcome in their cities. Thus, keep in mind the expiry date of your visa and schedule sufficient time to renew it.Exceeding your visa’s expiry date results in an expensive fine or, worse, being detained.

Abide By the Rules

Being an expat necessitates abiding by the laws of the country. In Shenzhen, the government is strict with the country’s regulations; hence, violation of the rules results in termination of your visa.

Shenzhen’s Expat Protection Right

Being one of the top affluent cities worldwide doesn’t stop Shenzhen from providing the necessary protection right to expats. Security officials are deposited almost everywhere in the city; thus, you can always talk to them for emergencies.

Child’s Residency

Having a family member who is a kid while living in Shenzhen requires obtaining a residency permit for the kid’s legal stay in the city. With the kid’s birth certificate handy, you can apply for residency at the Shenzhen public security bureau.

Zero Pleasantries

Although the residents of Shenzhen are friendly, the majority of the locals don’t exchange polite pleasantries. Saying “please” or “thank you” at restaurants is considered weird; to the Chinese, it’s not considered rude. Hence you shouldn’t take it personal if you get no reply to your greetings.

Cost of Living in Shenzhen

As an expat living in Shenzhen, stocking up on the essential life utilities is a significant priority. Shenzhen has seven major districts: Yantian, Nanshan, Futian, Luohu, Longgang, Baoan, and Shekou.

These districts have vast distances between them you’d want to consider, primarily if you work. Aside from a distance, each district has its specificity with essential commodities.

Without further ado, we’ll briefly break down each district to help you make a neighborhood decision, in addition to the prices of accommodation and other utilities.

Yantian District

The Haitian district keeps you close to the Shenzhen stunning beaches, Sea world park, and China’s largest amusement Park. Hence, if you are looking for a place to work and relieve the stress, later on, Yantian is perfect.

Nanshan

Nanshan is a favorite district for both locals and foreigners. A hub for lush green gardens and beautiful residential houses, coupled with being the home to brands like Lenovo, IBM, Huawei, and Tencent, this district keeps you away from the bustle of the street.

Futian

Futian houses major business companies in the city, making it the most expensive district in Shenzhen. The district encompasses the Cocoa Mall, Shenzhen’s five-star hotels, and most government offices.

Luohu

Luohu is the commercial district of Shenzhen, crammed with tons of shopping malls; it also features a railway border between Hong Kong and Shenzhen.

Longgang

The Longgang district is home to Shenzhen’s museums and art village. It also houses Shenzhen’s skyscraper, which is about 668m tall.

Baoan

Home to the city’s major transport network, Baoan is rapidly growing into a luxurious district featuring most of the sporting centers in Shenzhen.

Shekou

Tucked away at the edge of the Nanshan district, Shekou has the highest population of expats. Searching for fellow expats? Shekou is the home base for expats. The Shekou district consists of prominent shopping malls, diners, and entertainment precincts.

Accommodation in Shenzhen

Once you’ve decided which district to live in, Shenzhen, getting home would be the next step to properly being an expat. There are tons of housing choices in Shenzhen, ranging from apartments, studios to penthouses.

We’ve tabled the cost of each house option in Shenzhen. Keep in mind that the official currency is RMB or Renminbi, while yuan is the unit, the way USD is to dollars.

Food

On your first arrival in Shenzhen, you’ll probably opt to eat out. When you’ve got the hang of living in Shenzhen as an expat, you can decide to splurge on groceries. Either way, this article will provide you with the cost of groceries and eating out.

Other Essential Utility Prices in Shenzhen

Other utilities like electricity, internet connection, mobile plans, or gym membership are also priorities when living in Shenzhen.

Electricity/Gas

Sticking to a specific provider will cut down your expenses; the price of gas per litre is 7.11 yuan, while the cost of electricity and other utilities like water and heater ranges from 400-500 yuan.

Internet Connection/Mobile Plans

Accessing the internet depends on the district; nonetheless, the general price of internet utility is 126.83 yuan, while mobile plans rate from 0.14 yuan per minute.

Gym Membership/Other Leisure Activities

Gym membership prices range from 300-400 yuan monthly per adult; other sports/ leisure activities such as tennis is priced 108 per hour, while cinemas are 50 yuan per seat.

Job Opportunities in Shenzhen

Finding a job before living in Shenzhen is no stress, as the city is known as a hub for international/local jobs. As the city keeps thriving, there’s an increase in job opportunities.

Being home to a diverse number of population, Shenzhen provides tons of opportunities for expats to grow either as an employee or employer. Starting up a company isn’t difficult as the city is the base camp of successful businesses.

There are abundant job openings in engineering, medicine, design, electronics, research, IT, and teaching fields. Job ads can be found in newspapers and job websites like Zhaopin or Shenzhenparty.

Nonetheless, a work visa is essential to working in Shenzhen, as a work permit is a prerequisite to obtaining one. Fortunately, you can get a work permit online by sending your documents to your employer, who, in turn, grants you a work permit.

Schooling in Shenzhen

If your purpose of living in Shenzhen revolves around schooling, then good news, Shenzhen has a wide array of schooling options. These options range from public schools, private and international schools, homeschooling, tutors to special needs school.

Most expat parents opt for private or international schools due to the language barrier and academic competition in public schools. A perk of international schooling in Shenzhen is the curricula are based on specific countries; hence you can combine the Shenzhen curricula with that of your country.

Shenzhen also provides quality college education to expats with impressive teaching facilities and professors, setting the ground for opportunities after graduation.

Healthcare in Shenzhen

The healthcare system in Shenzhen is of high quality as they are tons of hospitals in most locations featuring world-class medical facilities. Some of these medical facilities are designed with a western-style to suit expats.

Although the public health sectors are inexpensive, it’s best to apply for international health insurance for private hospitals as well. Whilst visiting the hospitals, go along with a translator as the majority of the doctors rarely understand foreign languages.

You can also go along with your medical records containing allergies, blood type, etc. The emergency number 120 comes in handy in need of first aid or ambulance services.

Finances

Since you are versed with the prices of living utilities in Shenzhen, you’d be able to manage your finances within a budget properly. Although foreign credit cards are accepted at international places in Shenzhen, the Chinese union pay card is the dominating credit card.

Managing your finances in Shenzhen’s bank gives you access to the WeChat Pay app for convenient banking. The WeChat app allows you to pay for a broad range of goods simultaneously.

Selecting a bank with a wide brand coverage is advisable, as you’d be able to find its branch whenever you visit other cities. Bank of China, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China are examples of a vast coverage bank.

Safety in Shenzhen

Although vastly populated with many locals and foreigners, there’s a low crime rate, making Shenzhen a safe place to live. Aside from petty pickpocketing, the vibrant city offers a safe ground to stroll at night.

Conclusion

Living in Shenzhen as an expat is a joyful ride as you’ll experience the different cultures and richness of the city. That’s why it’s better to understand the pros and cons before planning your relocation process. Nonetheless, this expat guide helps you settle in like a natural Chinese.