Most companies have a specific bank they prefer, or insist, you open an account with to simplify their payroll, so it is recommended that you ask your company before choosing a bank. The process should be basically the same at any major bank. These days, banks usually have at least one staff member who can help you with basic commands in English, and as long as you can get over the initial hurdle of communicating what service you need, then they can walk you through the steps of handing over your passport and initial deposit, signing the documents and entering your preferred six digit passcode (a few times).

Even if you happen to be working for a foreign company in China, having a local bank account will make things like paying rent, phone bills and utilities, and topping up your WeChat or Alipay wallets to use at shops, for takeout orders and taxis, much simpler. Most banks offer online banking, and even though they usually don' t have English-language interfaces, the apps are useful for keeping an eye on your balance and making transfers. All you need in order to make payments via bank to bank transfer is the recipient' s name, bank branch name and account number. Also, even if you' re married, you can only get one bank card per account, as joint accounts for couples are usually not an option.

To transfer money out of China you first need to prove that it is either earned income that you have already paid taxes on, or money that you transferred into China from overseas. You then need to convert it into whatever foreign currency you need before you transfer it to your home country. The entire process requires a lot of paperwork and red stamps, so if you don' t speak Chinese you will definitely want some help with this one.

You will need:

1.Bank card

2.Passport

3.Official income documentation from your employer

4.Certificate proving your tax payments on that income

5.0riginal employment contract

You can also use your Chinese bank' s Un ion Pay bank card while overseas to withdraw foreign currency at international banks that accept Un ion Pay, such as Citibank.