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What if I lose my passport?
show answer +The step-by-step process includes reporting the lost passport, obtaining the lost passport report, applying for a new passport, updating accommodation details at the hotel or permanent residence's nearby police station with the new passport number, and preparing the necessary application materials for the residence or stay permit.
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How to convert an overseas driving license into a local one
show answer +If you want to drive, you can convert your overseas driving license into a local Chinese one.
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Customs clearance guide for inbound passengers
show answer +This guide is provided on an informational basis to assist you in going through the Customs formalities when you enter China through international airports, seaports, trains or bus stations.
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Where can I find reliable travel agencies in Shanghai?
show answer +Shanghai's thriving travel agency industry caters to a diverse clientele, offering an array of services that cater to every taste and budget. Here is a whitelist of travel agencies in Shanghai.
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How do I update my residence permit if my address has changed?
show answer +If your residence address has changed, the first step is to report the temporary residence registration of overseas personnel to the local police station within 24 hours. You can log in to the "Self-help Declaration System for Overseas Personnel's Accommodation Registration" (https://gaj.sh.gov.cn/crj/24hr) to complete the online self-declaration, or visit the police station in person.
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How do I apply for the change of residence permit when employer has changed?
show answer +Foreigners employed in Shanghai, if their employer changes, shall, within 10 days from the date of the change, go through the formalities for the change of residence permit with the exit and entry administration of the Shanghai public security authorities.
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What are the public service numbers in Shanghai?
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How much individual income tax should I pay?
show answer +If you have a domicile in China or have no domicile but have resided in China for a cumulative period of 183 days within a tax year, you will be identified as a Chinese tax resident and need to pay individual income tax on income earned from within and outside the territory of the PRC.
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I want to learn about Shanghai's investment policy. Where do I start?
show answer +Key takeaways of Shanghai's FDI promotion policies.
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How can I find job opportunities in Shanghai?
show answer +Chinajob is a website for expats to find jobs in Shanghai. Chinajob (www.chinajob.com), founded in 1995, is a large-scale professional website sponsored by the Foreign Talent Research Center of the Ministry of Science and Technology. It is the first and the most authoritative international talent website established in China.
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Can I transfer money to my home country? Is there a cap?
show answer +Yes, and there is a cap. You may transfer a maximum of $500 per day with just your passport and valid visa.
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To transfer more than $500 at one time, you will need to provide some documents and information to the Chinese bank you are transferring money from. -
What documents do I need to open a bank account?
show answer +A passport or permanent residence permit. If it is difficult to accurately determine the identity of the applicant opening the account with valid identification, the bank may request the applicant to provide supporting documents.
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How do I get a work permit?
show answer +Work permits are issued by Chinese government to allow foreign nationals to work in the country. Here is a guide to obtaining a foreigner’s work permit. Foreigners employed in Shanghai must obtain a work permit regardless of their nationality, visa type, or the length of their employment.
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Is Shanghai a safe place?
show answer +Shanghai is one of the safest cities in the world. People in the city seldom worry about being robbed when they walk on the streets.
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Is tipping necessary when dining in Shanghai?
show answer +Consumer taxes are included in price tags on goods. Cafeterias and bars in all hotels and some restaurants and bars outside hotels may include a service charge of 10 percent to 15 percent. Tipping is not expected in most restaurants and hotels. But, tipping can be a way to show your satisfaction with the services.
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How to take metro in Shanghai
show answer +Among Shanghai's many transportation options, the metro system stands out as a convenient and efficient way to traverse the city's vast urban landscape.
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Can employers pass the handling of the foreigner's work permit to an agent?
show answer +Employers may pass the handing of the Foreigner's Work Permit to an agent that has registered in the Service System for Foreigners Working in China. Please provide the Letter of Authorization of the employer and specify the authorized entity and the matter(s) authorized.
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If I have a permanent residence permit, do I need to apply for the foreigner's work permit?
show answer +No. But if you want to enjoy greater convenience in Shanghai, you may apply for the Foreigner's Work Permit.
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How do I get individual income tax records?
show answer +As a foreign employee, you can get your individual income tax document on the website of Shanghai Municipal Tax Service or the Individual Income Tax app.
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How can I bring pets to China?
show answer +Things you need to know before bringing pets to China:
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Only dogs and cats are allowed into China.
One pet is allowed per carrier per entry.
Pets should be implanted with electronic chips.

Feel free to email us if you have any requests or suggestionsintlservices@shanghai.gov.cn