Real expat guides to living, working & traveling in China in 2026. Privacy tips, visas, flights, bringing your dog, and daily life hacks from IkkyInChina.
Disclaimer: Information draws from official Shanghai Exit-Entry Administration sources (as of April 2026). Always verify with authorities for your case, as policies evolve. China actively attracts global talent through its permanent residence (often called the “China Green Card”) program. Shanghai leads with streamlined pathways for foreign PhD holders working in academia, research, and high-tech industries….
Traveling through Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is a seamless experience for millions of passengers each year. However, many travelers are unaware that part of their ticket price includes the Air Passenger Departure Tax (APDT). This tax is automatically charged when purchasing a ticket, but not everyone is required to pay it. If you fall…
China’s immigration and visa framework continues to evolve, reflecting the country’s growing role in global business, research, and travel. In May 2026, several important China visa policy updates were introduced, impacting professionals, travelers, and foreign residents. These changes include new pathways for permanent residence in Shanghai, expanded visa-free transit options in Guangdong, broader exemptions for…
Legal disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only based on current public sources and the Exit and Entry Administration Law. Rules can change — always verify with your local PSB Exit-Entry Bureau or a qualified immigration lawyer before acting. Overstayed your China visa or 30-day visa-free entry? You’re not alone — flight delays, date mix-ups,…
As a China expat living in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, or anywhere across the country, you quickly discover that legalizing foreign documents is an unavoidable part of life. Whether you’re applying for a Z visa or work permit, registering a marriage with a Chinese partner, enrolling children in international schools, purchasing property, opening a bank account,…
China’s immigration landscape continues to evolve, and April 2026 brings another wave of important updates affecting foreign professionals, families, employers, and long‑term residents. These changes span Shanghai, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Cangzhou, and national-level Permanent Residence (PR) rules—making this one of the most significant policy rounds in recent months. This comprehensive guide breaks down every update with…
If you live in mainland China and travel to Hong Kong, this guide explains how to register AlipayHK for foreign residents of China, what verification limits apply if you do not hold an HKID, and practical workarounds so the wallet works for travel, shopping, and cross‑border payments. Follow this step‑by‑step walkthrough, verification tier explanations, real‑world…
Foreigners living in or visiting China must comply with strict accommodation registration requirements under the Exit and Entry Administration Law. Traditionally, this process required in-person visits to local police stations for those staying outside hotels. However, starting March 20, 2026, the National Immigration Administration (NIA) has launched a pilot program that allows foreigners staying in…
China’s visa and work authorization policies continue to evolve, reflecting the country’s focus on attracting high-end talent while managing demographic and labor market realities. In March 2026, several important updates were introduced that directly affect foreign employees, employers, and families living in China. These changes include new practices in Shanghai, stricter transfer rules in Guangzhou,…
China’s visa landscape has undergone significant changes in February 2026, impacting foreign professionals, and students. This comprehensive guide explores the 8 new China visa policy updates, offering practical insights for applicants, and employers. 1. Shanghai – A-Class Work Visa Salary Threshold Raised Shanghai has increased the A-Class Work Visa salary requirement: Practical Implications 2. Shanghai…
