What conditions do I need to meet to hire a foreign nanny?

Foreigners who meet one of the following conditions are eligible to apply for a residence permit for private affairs regards to domestic service:

1. Foreign professionals who have obtained the qualification for permanent residence in China or hold a work-type residence permit.

2. Foreign legal representatives, general managers, deputy general managers or financial directors of multinational corporations' regional headquarters (or headquarters-type organizations).

I am a foreign student about to study in Shanghai. How do I book a medical check appointment for a residency permit if I don't have WeChat?

All bookings are currently managed through the WeChat account "SITHC-SHHG". However, for foreign students who are new to Shanghai and do not yet have access to WeChat, an external mailbox has been set up to assist you.

How much should I contribute to the housing provident fund?

If you work in Shanghai, don't forget to ask your company to set up and contribute to your housing provident fund. It's very important if you want to buy a house in the city. Here is an illustration to show you how much you should contribute to your housing provident fund. 

FAQs: Individual income tax annual settlement

The deadline for filing annual individual income tax (June 30) is approaching. Here are some frequently asked questions from expats. Make sure to file on time!

Appliance care: Ensure your home runs smoothly

Air conditioner not cooling, fridge icing up, or washing machine refusing to spin? No need to worry. Shanghai is home to many reputable repair service providers that can handle all your appliance issues.

How do I get a notarial certificate of no criminal record?

The materials required for notarization include the certificate of no criminal record issued by the exit and entry administration department, a valid passport, a student ID card. When applying for a certificate proving you have no criminal record for a specific period, if you have used different passports during that time, you need to present all the passports that cover that period.

How can I get a certificate of no criminal record?

People who have lived in China for a cumulative of 180 days or more since their entry into the country can request a criminal record check.

How can I check the amount I have accumulated in my social security account?

A: You need to bring your insurance documents to the nearest district social security center to check the pension insurance payment status. You can inquire about the details of your account of housing provident fund for the past three years at the outlets of the Shanghai Provident Fund Management Center or those of the China Construction Bank, with any of the following valid identification – passport, residence permit, exit and entry permit, or other valid ID.

How do I get a pet out of China?

About a week to 10 days before your departure, submit all required documents, including the pet's health and vaccination records, the pet owner's identity information, and flight details, to Huangpu Customs online through the international trade single window to acquire an Animal Health Certificate.

FAQs on visiting China visa-free

Thanks to several newly-implemented policies, an increasing number of foreigners are now able to visit China visa-free. The National Immigration Administration recently answered some of the frequently asked questions on visa-free entry.