This step takes place after you arrive in China and have everything stamped in your passport. So, of course, sort your Residence Permit first (see my visa journey post if you haven’t yet). Once you have it, opening a bank account is one of the first practical things you’ll need to do.
You can’t get paid, use Alipay properly, or pay rent without one. Here’s exactly how it went for me, using China Construction Bank.
Opening a Bank Account in China, at a Glance
- What you need: your passport, Residence Permit, and a Chinese phone number, you can’t open an account without one
- Once it’s open: full online banking, balance checks, and direct transfers to other accounts through the bank’s app
- Linking Alipay/WeChat Pay: once your card’s linked, you can pay almost anywhere using either app
What You Need to Open an Account
The basics are your passport, your Residence Permit, and a Chinese phone number, no phone number, no account, so sort that first.
You’ll also need proof of address. You get this from your police registration form, issued once you register your address with the local police after arriving in Shanghai. Bring some cash too. From what I recall, mine asked for a minimum deposit of around 100 RMB to open the account.
What to Expect in the Branch
Pick a bank branch as centrally located as possible, the more central it is, the better your odds that at least one member of staff speaks English.
Ask the person at the entrance for help when you walk in. They’ll take you to a computer where you get a ticket for the queue.
Keep a translator app open on your phone once you’re called and sat down. Show them the screen if you hit a question you don’t follow. See our guide to essential apps if you haven’t set one up yet.
Staff will photocopy your passport ID page, Residence Permit, and police registration during the process. Expect a few questions about your job too. Make sure you have your organisation’s name, address, and phone number to hand.
Once Your Account Is Open
Your phone number links from the start, so the CCB app works properly right away. Check your balance and make direct transfers to other accounts, all from your phone.
Linking Alipay or WeChat Pay to Your Bank Card
Link your card to Alipay and WeChat once it’s active. Both apps let you add a Chinese bank card. Once you’ve linked it, you can pay in shops, restaurants, and delivery apps just by scanning a QR code, no cash or physical card needed day to day.
This is the point where daily life in China starts feeling normal again. So much of it runs through these two apps rather than a card reader.
Getting a bank account sorted unlocks almost everything else: rent, Alipay, getting paid. If you’re up for figuring out the practical side of a move like this, we’re currently hiring.