Managing your money is key to long-term success in China. ExpatDen’s Finance Guides help you save money on international transfers and show you how to keep your cash safe and secure.
12 posts
A researched breakdown of what it actually costs to live in Chengdu: rent by district, food, transport, utilities, and healthcare, plus a straight comparison against Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen.
China has top-tier private hospitals, but they are expensive and often want payment upfront, so health insurance is a must for expats. This guide compares local and international plans, names the providers expats actually use, and helps you pick coverage.
China’s tier-one cities are no longer cheap, with costs in Beijing and Shanghai rivalling major Western capitals, but moving to a second-tier city can cut your expenses dramatically. This guide breaks down what expats actually spend on rent, food, transport, and more.
Getting your savings out of China is the hard part of expat life there: tight capital controls, a US-a-day conversion cap, and fees of 2% to 4%. This guide walks through every legal route home and the paperwork you need.
Shanghai is one of the most popular destinations for expat workers, offering world-class amenities and high earning potential alongside an equally high cost of living.
How to get the greatest amount of CNY in your Chinese bank account.
China’s income tax is lower than many expats expect, and foreigners still enjoy generous tax-free allowances extended through 2027. This guide explains who pays, the 183-day residency rule, the 3% to 45% rates, and the exemptions worth claiming.
China skipped credit cards and went straight to scan-to-pay, so a digital wallet is no longer optional once you arrive. This guide covers Alipay and WeChat Pay, how to set them up including linking a foreign card, and the etiquette like sending hongbao.
Use this step-by-step process to avoid the hassle and headaches of dealing with financial institutions in the country.
Travel insurance is not required to enter China, but one hospital visit or a missed connection can cost more than years of premiums. This guide explains what to look for and compares the providers worth considering.
Beijing is one of China’s most expensive cities, but monthly costs vary widely depending on lifestyle. This guide breaks down rent, food, transport, healthcare, and visa costs to help you set a realistic budget.
Getting a credit card in China as a foreigner requires two years of income history, a work visa, and often a major-company employer. This guide covers requirements, which banks to try, and whether the effort is worth it.
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