Expats in Shanghai: A Guide to Living in Shanghai

Shanghai, a bustling metropolis and China's largest city, attracts expats from all over the world with its promising career opportunities, vibrant cultural scene, and fascinating blend of modernity and tradition.

Foreigners will find endless opportunities in Shanghai's thriving international community to enjoy top-notch healthcare, education, and transportation facilities. The modernization level of this city is comparable to that of New York and London, and it has a cultural and historical heritage of both Chinese and Western cultures.

1.Shanghai China - Fun facts, History and Information

Population: 24-27 million
Currency: Chinese yuan (CNY) or renminbi (RMB)
Language: Mandarin Chinese and Wu dialect
Time Zone: UTC/GMT + 8 hours
Climate: humid subtropical climate
Average temperature: 16.6°C (62.0°F)
Emergency phone numbers: 110(police), 119(fire), 120(ambulance)

2.How to Get a Job for Expat and Work in Shanghai Guide

Shanghai is the commercial capital of China, and most multinational companies have their China headquarters in Shanghai, and some even have their Asia Pacific headquarters here. Many expatriats are sent by their companies to work in China for several years, sometimes only a few months.

Shanghai is an important global business center that provides numerous job opportunities for foreign nationals in various fields. Foreigners looking for jobs in this city will find that with appropriate education and experience, they can find employment.

3.Where to Live as an Expat? Best Place to Live in Shanghai

Shanghai is a sprawling city split in two by the Huangpu River, with Puxi to the west and Pudong to the east. Puxi is the old part of Shanghai and Pudong is the newer part of the city.

The most popular residential neighborhoods in Puxi are the city center, including Jing'an, Xuhui, FFC (Former French Concession), Changning, Huangpu, Hongkou, Putuo, and Yangpu. Living further away from the city center is also feasible, although it may be farther from the workplace.

4.How to Rent Your First Apartment? Rental Application Guide in Shanghai

For expatriats, finding suitable apartment in Shanghai is a crucial step. The largest portion of your expenses may be spent on rent, which is widely considered the most expensive part of life in Shanghai.

Shanghai offers a variety of housing options, including apartments, shared apartments, co-living spaces, serviced apartments, old lane house, old villa style houses, and villas. Be prepared for high rents, especially in neighborhoods with a high concentration of foreigners.

5.International Schools for Expats in Shanghai - Education List, Course, and Review

Due to the language barrier, most expats in Shanghai prefer to send their children to international schools compared to public schools in China. Expats who want to immerse their children in the local culture and language can also enroll them in public or private schools in China.

International education in Shanghai usually offers courses from different countries or regions, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, etc. Most international schools offer education from primary to secondary school, but there are also some preschool and kindergarten classes.

6.How to Apply for or Renew a China Visa? China Visa Policy and Application

Common visa types in China include Tourist visa (L), Visitor visa (F), Study visa (X), Work visa (Z), Residence visa (D), etc. Foreigners coming to China for tourism, business, study, work and life should choose the type of visa that suits them.

Foreign students can directly apply for a work visa in China after graduation, without any work experience requirement. Foreigners holding other visas can convert their existing visas into work visas after entering China and finding a job. China has also added Visa-free policies for multiple countries, so you may not need to apply for a visa to come to China.

7.Best Banks in Shanghai: Financial Centers, ATMs, Currency Exchange, Credit Card

Living and working in Shanghai, opening a bank account and managing finances are essential to daily life. Once your account is set up, you can receive remittance transfers from abroad through your local bank.

Shanghai is one of the major financial centers in the world, with some of the largest banks in China and the world, as well as local banks in Shanghai. Most banks require your passport and some require proof of residence when opening an account.

8.Lifestyle in Shanghai - The Quality of Life in Shanghai

What living in Shanghai is really like? As China's economic capital and most international city, Shanghai is full of skyscrapers, Bridges, elevated highways, large shopping malls and shopping districts.

Shanghai provides a large community of expat residents to welcome international residents, attracting many ambitious foreigners to come and develop. The international living atmosphere in Shanghai also includes vibrant nightlife, art, and entertainment venues.

9.Seasons in Shanghai: Weather and Climate in Shanghai

What is the weather like in Shanghai? Shanghai is located in the east coast of China and has a sub-subtropical oceanic monsoon climate. The weather in Shanghai is usually mild and humid, with four distinct seasons, warm spring, hot summer, cool autumn and cold winter.

Compared to its summer and winter, Shanghai's spring and autumn are relatively shorter, with an average annual temperature of 16.6°C (62.0°F). The hottest months here are July and August, with an average temperature of 21-28°C (70-82°F). The coldest time is from the end of December to early February, with an average temperature of 3-11°C (37-52°F).

10.Is Shanghai Safe? Safety Tips for Living in Shanghai

Is it secure to reside in Shanghai? Shanghai is relatively safe compared to other major cities in China, with a generally low crime rate. Shanghai has been particularly active in protecting its urban expat neighborhoods.

However, minor crimes such as pickpocketing may occur in crowded areas such as subway stations. Foreigners should be wary of street scams, pickpocketing, and petty theft.

11.How to Get Around Shanghai - Guide to Public Transportation in Shanghai

Shanghai has a well-developed public transport system, which makes it easy and efficient for expats to get around the city. Shanghai's extensive public transport network includes buses, trams, ferries, maglev trains, and subways.

The best mode of transportation in Shanghai is the subway, which covers most parts of the city and is both cheap and fast. Shanghai is also a pedestrian and bicycle friendly city with wide sidewalks and designated bike lanes.

12.Driving in Shanghai: China Driving Rules, Regulations, and Tips

You are not allowed to drive in Shanghai unless you have a proper license. A foreign driver's license cannot be used directly in China, you need to exchange the foreign driver's license for a Chinese driving permit.

Expat managers may use company cars with drivers. If you live in a community for foreigners, there will be shuttle services to and from international schools or important transportation hubs.

13.Food and Dining Guide in Shanghai - Best Restaurants for Expats in Shanghai

For those who love food, Shanghai is a food paradise. The variety of dining out in Shanghai is mind-boggling, with cuisines from all over the world and a variety of traditional Chinese dishes.

If you don't like eating out, you can choose your favorite restaurant for home delivery. If you enjoy cooking for yourself, this city offers a wide range of choices, including large supermarkets, small meat and vegetable markets, imported goods, fresh baked bread, and more.

14.Where to Shop in Shanghai - The Shopping Guide for Expats

Shanghai is known as a "shopping paradise" where you can find both low-end local goods and high-end imported luxury goods. Shanghai offers expats a wide range of shopping experiences, from luxury boutiques to international supermarkets.

Online shopping is becoming increasingly popular in China, where you can easily find the products you want online and have them delivered directly to your doorstep. But most online shopping websites are in Chinese, and many do not accept foreign credit cards.

15.Hiring Domestic Help in Shanghai - Find Nanny (Ayi) in Shanghai

Many families in Shanghai, whether they are Chinese or Expatriat, will choose to do so, if they can afford to hire an Nanny (Ayi). Having a reliable Ayi can make daily life more convenient and enjoyable.

Ayi's responsibilities will include cleaning, washing clothes, ironing clothes, helping to take care of children, cooking, etc. Maid (Ayi) can work part-time or full-time, or live in.

16.Best Gyms in Shanghai - Fitness Classes, Sports and Health Clubs in Shanghai, China

Finding the perfect gym in the right location, at a reasonable price, and in line with your goals and preferences can be time consuming.

Whether you are looking for a well-known brand, a place that opens early or late, or a quiet fitness venue, this guide includes top gyms and fitness centers in Shanghai.

17.A Guide to Healthcare and Health Insurance for Expats in Shanghai, China

A good healthcare plan is crucial for expats living in China. Many expats in Shanghai also need regular health checks, as these are often required to obtain work permits and visas.

Due to the large number of expat residents in this city, Shanghai offers international hospitals proficient in other languages and cultures. But there are also many resources provided by local public health facilities and clinical centers that are worth prioritizing for enjoyment.

18.Public Utilities in Shanghai: Electricity, Water, Gas, Internet, Phone

Shanghai has very good infrastructure and excellent public services. Basic public services are in a leading position in China, including housing, education, medical care, transportation, environment and culture.

Shanghai's power grid and equipment operate stably, even in the summer months, when air conditioning rates are high. The water quality of Shanghai's tap water meets national standards, and there is no plan to cut off or limit water supply throughout the city. Gas can be used for cooking and boiling water. Broadband internet access, smartphones, high coverage, and wireless networks in public places and cafes.

19.Cost of Living in Shanghai - Prices and Guide in China

Shanghai is great, but it is the most expensive city in China, with the average cost of living such as rent, food and entertainment significantly higher than in less developed Chinese cities.

According to Numbeo's data, rent and living costs in Shanghai are much lower than in New York. The salaries of most expatriats usually have a relatively large surplus while enjoying a comfortable life in Shanghai.

20.Pros and Cons of Living and Moving in Shanghai as an Expat

Shanghai has a strong economy and plenty of job opportunities. Shanghai has many high-quality expat communities and living resources. Shanghai offers high quality services, restaurants and nightlife. Low crime rate, safe place for expatriats.

Although there are many benefits to living in Shanghai, there are also challenges. Work in Shanghai is busier than in other cities of China. The cost of living in Shanghai can be high, especially with expensive housing rents. The weather in Shanghai during summer is very hot and humid.

21.How to Make Friends in Shanghai - Expat Communities, Social Life and Networking

Newcomers to Shanghai are likely to meet people from their own country and culture. Most Chinese also tend to be friendly and welcoming to expatriats.

Establishing social networks in Shanghai is crucial for personal and professional development. Feasible approaches include expat associations, professional social activities, improving Mandarin language skills, other interested social groups, and so on.

22.Where to Go Out in Shanghai - Guide to Nightclubs, Live Music, Cocktail Dens and Parties

With Shanghai's vibrant and colorful nightlife, you'll find the perfect place for you and your favorite night out.

This bustling metropolis is home to some of the best clubs and bars in the world, but that doesn't mean expensive nights are the only type of nights you can have.

23.Best Chinese Language Schools in Shanghai - Language Courses, Learn Mandarin in Shanghai

Shanghai is one of the most international cities in China and expats can live well without speaking Chinese. But knowing Chinese can sometimes help you a lot when dealing with locals.

After moving to Shanghai, you will find that Mandarin courses are very rich and there are opportunities for one-on-one teaching at very reasonable prices.

24.Customs and Traditions: Comprehensive Guide to China Culture and Shanghai Etiquette

As an expat moving to Shanghai, it is important to understand cultural differences and customs, which will help build relationships with the locals.

Chinese culture and etiquette may differ greatly from Western countries, and understanding some important etiquette customs can avoid embarrassing oneself. The culture of Shanghai is known as Haipai Culture, and it is also helpful to note regional cultural differences.

25.How to Plan a Trip to Shanghai - An Insider's Guide to Travel Shanghai, China

How many days should you spend in Shanghai? 5 days to see the best of Shanghai and you will start to really feel the culture and lifestyle of Shanghai.

If you enjoy day trips outside the city, there are several places nearby worth visiting. Tourism in most parts of China is both cheap and convenient, and each city provides unique experiences for tourists.

26.Shanghai Bucket List: Epic Things to Do in Shanghai, China

Shanghai is a charming city where you can not only find world-famous buildings, galleries, and art museums, but also the historic Shikumen architecture. Shanghai is also a paradise for food enthusiasts, where you can taste many Chinese and other international cuisines.

The city is full of things to do, take a selfie in front of The Bund, then cross the Huangpu River and climb the Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in the world. Stroll the boulevards of the Former French Concession and sample elegant independent cafes. Take the subway to the suburban Qingpu District and stroll through Zhujiajiao Water Town.

27.Tips for Moving to Shanghai - Best Professional Movers in China

How can I move to Shanghai? Planning your move in advance is a good practice for moving to Shanghai, and starting early will help you reduce costs and give you more time to prepare for the move.

Moving to Shanghai is exciting, but it can also be laborious. You need to find professional movers to assist with packaging, transportation, unpacking, and storage.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Expat Life in Shanghai, China

Shanghai is a beautiful city, and living in China is an exciting thing. Life may be different, but embracing differences is a good way not to be crushed by them.

Moving to Shanghai could be one of your best decisions. Expats living in Shanghai can look forward to a unique and unforgettable experience where your adventure will impact your career.