Your First 30 Days
China β Step-by-step checklist for your first month
Educational information only β not legal advice. Verify all details with official sources. Laws and conditions change frequently.
Days 1β3: Land Safe
- 1.Arrive at Beijing Capital, Shanghai Pudong, or Guangzhou Baiyun airport β Chinese immigration processes returning nationals with hukou verification
- 2.Register at your local police station (ζ΄ΎεΊζ) within 24 hours of arrival β required for all residents including returning citizens
Days 4β7: Get Connected
- 3.Get a China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom SIM β requires your Resident Identity Card (ε± ζ°θΊ«δ»½θ― / shenfenzheng)
- 4.Visit the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) to update or obtain your ε± ζ°θΊ«δ»½θ― (Resident Identity Card / RIC)
Week 2: Documents & Stability
- 5.Set up WeChat Pay and Alipay β both are essential for daily transactions, payments, and receiving money
- 6.Open a bank account at Bank of China, ICBC, or Agricultural Bank of China using your RIC
Week 3β4: Start Rebuilding
- 7.Register your household registration (ζ·ε£/hukou) at the local police station β required for access to local services
- 8.Contact your local street committee (ε± ε§δΌ) for community registration and access to local welfare programs
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Start Free Assessment βLegal Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws, policies, and conditions change frequently. Nothing on this page creates an attorney-client relationship. Always consult a licensed attorney for legal advice specific to your situation. Deported Not Defeated is not a law firm.