Moving to china
Welcome to the Middle Kingdom - with UTS
Is your new life centered in China or are you leaving this region? With 4 locations in the Middle Kingdom, we are happy to help you.
No matter where you go: UTS knows the challenges and overcomes them for you. Every year, more than 500 customers trust us to move to and from China.
UTS advises you on the preparations, clarifies your questions on a visa, immigration, and import regulations and also manages the execution of your move.
China is one of the most popular emigration destinations in the world, and this is not without reason as the country impresses again and again with numerous records: With more than 1.4 billion citizens, it has not only the largest population but also the fastest growing. Furthermore, China is in the top position when it comes to foreign investments.
These factors attract many people to the country every year, which the following statistics also confirm: More than 28,000 Germans emigrated to China within the last ten years.
Your contact person
ALL TOPICS AT A GLANCE:
Moving to China - Scheduling
Transfer times China / Shanghai
Export customs clearance in Bremerhaven, DE //
Hamburg, DE 2 – 4 days
34 days at sea
Import customs clearance in China 8 – 10 days
Moving to China - Entry requirements
Visa is mandatory
German citizens need a valid passport and visa to enter China. Please note that the passport must be valid for at least six months. The visa must be applied for at the "Chinese Visa Application Service Center" before traveling to China. We recommend an early application, as seasonal delays of several weeks can occur. Also, there is no possibility of obtaining a visa upon arrival. Anyone staying in the country for more than 24 hours is obliged to report to the local police authority. If you are staying in a hotel, this will be done automatically for you.
News: Entry without a visa for a maximum stay of 15 days
Since 01.12.2023, it has been possible for German citizens to enter Germany without a visa. The prerequisite for this is that the stay is limited to a maximum of 15 days. This regulation does not apply to persons with German service passports. Please note: The visa waiver regulation is currently valid until 30.11.2024. Further information can be found on the homepage of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Federal Republic of Germany.
As there are more than eleven different types of visas in China, we have listed the most relevant visas for you, namely the permanent visa and the work visa:
The Work Visa (Z-Visa)
A work visa is required if you are staying and working in China for more than six months. It is issued to both the applicant and his/her family members. For this, you need an invitation from the employer and a health certificate with an HIV test. In addition, each applicant must register at the Ministry of Labor and Social Security within 30 days of arrival in China. A one-year work permit will then be issued there. Please note that it is not possible to extend the visa. Only a new application after expiration is possible.
The Permanent Visa (D-Visa)
The permanent visa is valid for anyone who wants to stay in China permanently. This visa can only be obtained if you are invited to enter China. To pursue a professional activity, every person entering China also needs a work visa (Z-visa).
Anyone who has lived here for several years can apply for Chinese citizenship. Of particular interest is the possibility of dual citizenship. For more information on visa requirements, please contact the Chinese Embassy in Berlin.
Moving with animals
Is your pet moving to China with you?
No problem for UTS! You can also rely on our professional and competent staff in this area. We will organize the transport for you and take care of the necessary administrative requirements.
Whether it's questions about air travel, preparations for the move or the right transport box. We have the answers. Under Moving with animals you will find lots of helpful tips and advice so that you can start your journey with your pet well prepared.
What you should bear in mind when entering the country with pets
- Only one pet may be imported per adult person
- A health certificate is required (important information: sex and breed of the animal)
- Vaccination certificate (including a valid vaccination against rabies)
- Vaccinations against enteritis E3 (in the last 12 months), panleukopenia and feline respiratory diseases are mandatory for cats
- Upon arrival, quarantine is mandatory for at least 7 days. Depending on the airport, this period can be up to 30 days. The costs for this must be borne by the pet owner.
- Carry proof of residence
Note: These are general regulations. These may vary depending on where you live in China.
Import regulations
Attention - Customs in China
The customs regulations are quite complex. The individual regulations depend on the respective cities or the duration of the stay. We therefore recommend talking to one of our qualified UTS employees to provide you with tailored information and give you the best possible advice.
Nevertheless, there are some general points to bear in mind:
- Household effects should be imported within 6 months of arrival
- Foreign nationals must have a work or residence permit for at least 365 days (or longer)
- The original work permit certificate and passport with residence permit are required for the import permit application upon arrival of the shipment
- Import duties are levied on furniture, electrical appliances, food, luxury goods and all other goods with an excessive delivery quantity. The remaining goods are treated duty free
- Full customs duties are levied on the repatriation of Chinese imports if the duration of stay in the last 3 years is less than 365 days
- The full name must be stated on all parcels
- The quantity of parcels shipped must match the packing list
- The quantity and value of the goods must be clearly indicated, especially in the case of dutiable goods. Please use the import customs declaration form and submit it to the relevant customs authority
Further useful information on import regulations can be found on the IAM website: Country Guide China
Health insurance
Compulsory or not?
Compared to Germany, there is no compulsory health insurance in China.
Nevertheless, we strongly recommend that you take out health insurance before you emigrate. Many employers also offer their employees health insurance that covers all basic care.
Private insurance is also possible. The costs vary greatly depending on the benefits and other criteria. Employees who are employed by a foreign employer are usually offered health insurance with better conditions.
Moving to China - FAQ
Formalities - Frequently Asked Questions
Below we have summarized some of the most frequently asked questions about formalities when moving to China. For further information, please contact your UTS expert at any time.
To be able to plan your move to China optimally, we recommend that you cancel your registration at the registration office in Germany in good time. Entry is only possible with a passport valid for at least six months in addition to a visa. Upon arrival in China, everyone must report in person to the local police within 24 hours.
The German driving license is not valid in China, even with an international driving license you are not allowed to drive. However, it is possible to apply for a Chinese driving license. Requirements for this are a valid German driving permit, a health certificate and the completion of a theoretical examination. If you have a driving license for less than three years, you will also have to take a practical test.
In China, there is no compulsory health insurance like in Germany. However, we recommend that you get health insurance before moving to China. Many employers also offer health insurance that covers all basic needs to their employees. Private insurance is also possible. The costs vary greatly depending on benefits and other criteria. Usually, employees who are employed by a foreign employer are offered health insurance with better conditions.
Although there is a social security agreement between China and Germany, this is only valid for pension and unemployment insurance, and only if the employee is relocated to China. Furthermore, the period is limited to 4 years. In China, the pension consists of the basic pension, which is co-financed by the employer and the employee's own savings. Self-employed and freelancers can apply for membership of the retirement fund but must pay all contributions themselves. Further information can be found in the German Pension Insurance.
Although there is a social security agreement between China and Germany, this is only valid for pension and unemployment insurance and only if the employee is posted. Furthermore, the period is limited to 4 years. In the People's Republic, the pension consists of the basic pension, which is co-financed by the employer and the employee's own savings. Self-employed persons and freelancers can apply for membership of the pension fund, but must pay all contributions themselves. For more information, please refer to the German Pension Insurance.
No, there is no compulsory health insurance here.
The German driver's license is not valid in the People's Republic. A local driver's license must be applied for.
Worth knowing
The diversity of Chinese culture
Chinese culture attaches great importance to a harmonious society. People should help each other out and act in solidarity and united against problems. This idea was founded in ancient China as follows: Peace is a special quality. In China, there is still the ideal of a society in which everyone is related to their neighbor and everyone is equal and should be treated as such. The unity of the people is therefore one of the highest priorities of Chinese culture and strongly influences the country's politics. Everyone is called upon to preserve Chinese culture and unity.
Understanding the Chinese mentality is the foundation for learning the language; those who do not do this will have a hard time.
For this reason, it is advisable to familiarize yourself not only with the essential basic concepts of the language, but also with the customs before emigrating.
Politeness plays a particularly important role here. The words please and thank you should not be used too infrequently.
If you are invited to a business meal, you should show a willingness to experiment: All dishes should be sampled, this expresses politeness and good manners.
Care should also be taken when addressing people. Although it is customary to address people by their surname or title, as in Germany, the surname comes first on most business cards. In the meantime, however, more and more internationally active companies are orienting themselves towards Western standards - this can cause confusion. It is therefore advisable to ask for the surname in a friendly manner if there is any confusion.
Another difference is the Chinese indirect communication style. The direct and concrete way of expression that we know in Germany is rather unusual in the People's Republic and is not seen as very polite. You rarely hear unambiguous acceptance or rejection, as this does not correspond to the Chinese mentality.
The Chinese are also rather reserved when it comes to expressing themselves. Opinions are usually paraphrased, a direct announcement is rather rare. But you shouldn't let this put you off, because when it comes to business goals, the Chinese clearly have a vision and the necessary assertiveness and determination.
Language - a major challenge
In addition to the predominant Han ethnic group (around 1.25 billion people), China is home to 55 recognized ethnic minorities. In addition to the general official language, standard Chinese, there are other official languages depending on the region:
- Cantonese (in Hong Kong and Macau)
- Tibetan (Tibet)
- English (Hong Kong)
- Mongolian (Inner Mongolia)
- Zhuang (Guangxi)
- Uyghur (Xinjiang)
- Korean (Yanbian)
You should bear in mind that English is not as widely spoken there as it is here. The older generation in particular speaks virtually no English. However, knowledge has improved in recent years, especially in the major cities. English is much more widespread among the younger generation, but smooth communication is still not guaranteed. Many restaurants also only offer Chinese menus in some cases. For this reason, communication in everyday life is not always easy.
Fortunately, more and more apps are currently coming onto the market that allow you to translate languages in real time. Nevertheless, it can't hurt to take a Chinese language course to at least get by in everyday life without any problems. You should not be put off by the unfamiliar rhythm of the individual characters and syllables. Of course, learning the characters also takes time and requires a lot of self-discipline. But with regular practice and professional help, this too can be mastered.
The 5 religions of the People's Republic
The Chinese live and experience religion differently to us in Europe and is therefore not comparable to the West. Many locals do not belong to "one" religion, but live a rather diverse life. It is therefore not unusual for a Chinese Christian to visit a mosque or a Buddhist temple, or to practise Taoist ceremonies. The traditional Chinese religion does not have just one god, but is rather based on the worship of ancestors.
Nevertheless, Buddhism and Islam in particular are very widespread. But Taoism, the Roman Catholic Church and the Protestant Church are also officially recognized national religious communities.
There are no official figures on how many people actually belong to Buddhism or Taoism, as neither religion has any strict regulations or ceremonies that would prove that they belong to Buddhism or Taoism. For this reason, Buddhism and Taoism cannot be assigned to any direct national minority.
China's economy
Booming economic power
The People's Republic is particularly worthwhile for investors, specialists and managers. With average economic growth of 5% and the largest economy in the world, the country offers unimagined opportunities. The high level of income in particular makes China so attractive. Financial experts now also see great opportunities for the entire global economy in the People's Republic. Numerous foreign companies, including an increasing number of German companies, are investing or have production facilities there. Although there is an abundance of cheap labor, there are unfortunately far too few skilled workers, which means a first-class opportunity for those wishing to emigrate. In addition to a lack of knowledge of the Asian market, communication is also a major challenge, as very few Chinese speak fluent English.
Assertiveness is in demand
Due to the high level of attractiveness in recent years, the large number of graduates and the growing population density in Chinese cities such as Shanghai and Beijing, there is currently strong competitive pressure, which is exacerbated by traditional role models and society's expectations. This demands good performance at work and also a greater willingness on the part of employees to be present for longer and work more. Even after work and at weekends, it is quite possible to be contacted by superiors or colleagues to discuss work content. Business meetings at the weekend are also not uncommon.
Tax system
Income tax
Income tax is comparatively high, with rates of up to 45 percent. For foreigners, however, some items can be recognized as tax-free under certain conditions. In addition, there is a tax-privileged bonus payment that is due annually. Regulations stipulate which benefits are not subject to personal income tax (IIT). These include, for example:
- Apartment rent
- Flight home (up to twice a year)
- Language courses
- Schooling for the children
- Relocation costs at the beginning or end of the assignment
The actual tax amount is based on objective and actual assessment bases and the submission of valid invoices.
For further details regarding income tax in China, please contact our UTS representative.
Tax liability
Every person is subject to Chinese income tax (IIT) if the following criteria are met:
- Resident in China
- Resident in China for more than one year
- Staying in China for less than 1 year, but receiving income from China
The IIT allowance per month is RMB 5,000 (approx. €637) for non-Chinese nationals.
Cost of living
Rental prices in China
How expensive is the metropolis?
With an area of almost 10,000,000 square kilometers, the country is not only geographically very divided. The cost of living is very city-dependent. In general, however, you can expect to spend more on dairy products and drinks than in Germany. A modern and centrally located apartment in Shanghai can quickly cost several thousand euros, whereas in medium-sized cities or outside the city center, apartments can be found for just a few hundred euros. In the following overview, we at UTS Germany have already summarized the average rental prices for you (as of 2024):
Average rental prices in Beijing
- 1-room flat
in the city center: approx. 880€ - 1-room flat
outside the city center: approx. 500€ - 3-room flat
in the city center: approx. 2,050€ - 3-room flat
outside the city center: approx. 1,080€
Average rental prices in Shanghai
- 1-room flat
in the city center: approx. 950€ - 1-room flat
outside the city center: approx. 470€ - 3-room flat
in the city center: approx. 2,600€
- 3-room flat
outside the city center: approx. 1,270€
Average rental prices in Shenzhen
- 1-room flat
in the city center: approx. 670€ - 1-room flat
outside the city center: approx. 390€
- 3-room flat
in the city center: approx. 1,600€
- 3-room flat
outside the city center: approx. 880€
Average rental prices in Chongqing
- 1-room flat
in the city center: approx. 310€
- 1-room flat
outside the city center: approx. 150€
- 3-room flat
in the city center: approx. 560€
- 3-room flat
outside the city center: approx. 290€
Average rental prices in Guangzhou
- 1-room flat
in the city center: approx. 390€
- 1-room flat
outside the city center: approx. 260€
- 3-room flat
in the city center: approx. 1,040€
- 3-room flat
outside the city center: approx. 630€
Food prices
Too expensive or cheap?
The cost of living varies greatly and depends heavily on the region (metropolitan or rural areas) and your own lifestyle. Dairy products and drinks in particular are more expensive here than in Germany. Western products also usually cost more than local ones, as demand is not as high.
So here's a tip: try the excellent Chinese cuisine! A visit to a local restaurant is possible from as little as €6, and street food is also very popular and above all inexpensive, with numerous dishes starting at just €1.
- Milk (1 liter) = approx. 1.80€
- White bread (500g) = approx. 1.50€
- Rice (white), (1kg) = approx. 0.90€
- Eggs (12 pcs.) = approx. 1.60€
- Cheese (1kg) = approx. 12.00€
- Chicken breast fillet (1kg) = approx. 3.30€
- Beef (1kg) = approx. 11.00€
- Apples (1kg) = approx. 1.70€
- Bananas (1kg) = approx. 1.30€
Average food prices in China (as of 2024)
Driving in China
Is the German driver's license valid?
The German driving license is not valid in the People's Republic, and even with an international driving license you are not allowed to drive.
However, it is possible to apply for a Chinese driving license. The requirements for this are a valid German driving license, a health certificate and the completion of a theoretical test.
Anyone who has held a driving license for less than three years must also take a practical test.
