Expats working legally in China shall be covered by social security (including pension, medical, work-related injury, unemployment and maternity insurance). This should be paid by the employer and expat as legally required. Expats should enjoy the same insurance package as any other insured persons, and can find the list of designated hospitals, coverage, and medical reimbursement rates on the website of the local human resources and social security bureau. Employers shall, within 30 days of the date when a work permit is issued, complete insurance registration procedure for foreign employees at their local social security center.

The documents required for expats to purchase social security in Shanghai include:

1. Employment documents. Labor contract or employment contract.

2. Other documents, which may include the following documents:

Expats are required to bring with them one of three documents, namely, a Foreigner's Permanent Residence ID Card, Foreigner's Work Permit in China, or a Shanghai Residence Card (Type B), as well as their passport (not required for holders of a Foreigner's Permanent Residence ID Card).

Nationals of countries that have signed bilateral or multilateral agreements on social security with China (including Germany, South Korea, Denmark, Finland, Canada, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Spain, Luxembourg, Japan and Serbia) and are employed in China shall purchase social security in accordance with those agreements.

Source: Expat Guide: Work and Live in Shanghai