Welcome to Shanghai! Moving to a new city, especially one as vibrant and dynamic as Shanghai, can be both exciting and a bit daunting. Here’s a guide to help you set up the basics for your day-to-day life and settle in smoothly.
Accommodation, rental or house buying
Find a Place to Stay: Shanghai has a wide range of housing options, from modern high-rise apartments to traditional lane houses (Shikumen). Websites like Anjuke, 58.com, or SmartShanghai can help you find listings. Consider whether you prefer living in central areas like Jing’an or the quieter outskirts.
Lease Agreement: Make sure to thoroughly understand your lease, including the rental price, deposit, and any maintenance fees. It’s common to pay a deposit equivalent to two months’ rent.
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Community and Social Life in Shanghai
Join Expat Groups: Shanghai has a large expat community. Joining groups on platforms like WeChat, SmartShanghai, or Meetup can help you connect with others and get advice on living in the city. Shanghai is full of cultural sites, shopping districts, and restaurants. Visit the Bund, Yu Garden, and the French Concession to experience different facets of the city.
How to open a Banking Account in Shanghai
Open a Bank Account: To manage your finances in China, you’ll need a local bank account. Popular banks include ICBC, Bank of China, and China Merchants Bank. You’ll need your passport, work permit, and proof of residence to open an account.
Mobile Payment Apps: Mobile payments are prevalent in China. Link your bank account to WeChat Pay or Alipay for everyday transactions, as many places prefer these over cash or cards.
Getting your Mobile and Internet contract
Get a Local SIM Card: Choose a mobile plan from China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom. You can get a SIM card at the airport or at any mobile service provider’s store. Bring your passport, as it’s required for registration.
Set Up Internet: Arrange for home broadband through your mobile service provider or companies like China Telecom. Internet speeds are generally good, but international websites may be slower due to the Great Firewall.
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Transportation
Public Transport Card: Shanghai’s public transportation system is extensive. Get a Shanghai Public Transportation Card (Jiaotong Card) for easy access to the metro, buses, and even taxis. You can top it up at metro stations or convenience stores.
Bicycles and Ride-Hailing: Didi Chuxing is the local equivalent of Uber and is widely used. You can also use apps like Mobike or HelloBike for bike-sharing, which is a popular way to get around.
Healthcare
Register with a Local Hospital: Choose a hospital or clinic, preferably one with an international department if you prefer English-speaking doctors. Shanghai United Family Hospital and ParkwayHealth are popular among expats.
Health Insurance: Ensure you have health insurance that covers both public and private healthcare. If your employer doesn’t provide sufficient coverage, consider purchasing additional insurance from companies like Ping An or Bupa.
Legal and Administrative
Work Permit and Residence Permit: Ensure your Work Permit and Residence Permit are in order. Your employer usually helps with this, but make sure all documents are submitted on time. Keep these documents safe, as you’ll need them for various processes.
Register with the Police: Within 24 hours of moving into your new home, you need to register with the local police station. This is mandatory for all foreigners living in China.
Daily Living Essentials
Large supermarket chains like Carrefour, City Shop, and Ole’ cater to both local and international tastes. For fresh produce, visit local wet markets. You can also use apps like Hema (by Alibaba) or JD.com for grocery delivery. If you’re renting, you may need to set up utilities like electricity, water, and gas. This can often be arranged through your landlord, but ensure you understand how billing works and where to pay.
Emergency Numbers
Save emergency numbers like 110 for the police, 120 for an ambulance, and 119 for fire emergencies. Also, have your embassy’s contact details and the number of a nearby hospital readily available.
Culture and Etiquette
Understanding Local Customs: Shanghai is a mix of traditional Chinese culture and modern global influences. It’s important to be respectful of local customs, especially during festivals like Chinese New Year.
Laws and Regulations: China has strict laws, particularly around internet usage and public behavior. Be aware of what’s allowed and what’s not, especially in terms of internet use, social media, and public conduct.
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to settling into your new life in Shanghai. If you have any more specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out!
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