China: all programs

China at a glance

China is the world's second-largest economy with about 1.4 billion residents. The capital is Beijing, and the largest business centres are Shanghai, Shenzhen and Guangzhou. The language is Chinese, and English is spoken mainly in large companies and tourist areas. The currency is the yuan, about 6.7 yuan per dollar on 6 October 2026. Hong Kong and Macau have their own entry, tax and currency rules.

Who the move suits

• entrepreneurs who source goods, manufacture or trade with China;
• professionals with a contract from a Chinese company, teachers and researchers;
• students at Chinese universities;
• families who value safety and affordable living in a big city.

It is harder for those not ready for the language barrier and internet restrictions: many foreign services are unavailable in China without special tools.

Entry for Russian citizens

Since 15 September 2025 Russian citizens have entered China visa-free for up to 30 days per trip for business, tourism, family visits and transit. In May 2026 this arrangement was extended until 31 December 2027. Visa-free entry does not cover study, work or long-term living: you need a purpose visa and, after arrival, a residence permit.

Residence options

• Work - a work permit and work visa through a Chinese employer, then a residence permit;
• study - a student visa on a university invitation;
• family - visas and permits for spouses and children of residents and citizens;
• your own business - a foreign-invested company and a work permit for its manager.

China rarely grants permanent residence and does not recognise dual citizenship. We choose the basis and prepare the documents for the visa and permits.

Taxes

Resident income tax runs from 3% to 45% after an annual deduction of 60,000 yuan, about $8,940. You become a tax resident after 183 days a year. VAT is 13% on goods and 6% on services, and small businesses pay 1%. Corporate tax is 25%, 5% for small businesses until the end of 2027, and dividends are taxed at 20%. More in taxes in China.

Cost of living in Beijing

Flats are rented for a year with a one or two month deposit and several months paid in advance. Almost everything is paid through mobile apps, and an individual can exchange currency within an annual limit, usually about $50,000.

Where to live

• Beijing - Chaoyang and Sanlitun with embassies and restaurants, Shunyi with villas and international schools, university Haidian.
• Shanghai - the financial centre with the most foreigners and international schools.
• Shenzhen and Guangzhou - manufacturing, electronics and trade, close to Hong Kong.

Property for foreigners

The housing market is more closed to foreigners than in most countries: as a rule you can buy only one flat or house for your own use, and only after a year of living, working or studying in China. Land belongs to the state, and the buyer gets the building and a land use right. We check whether a purchase is open to you and help with company registration and a business account.