Guides / Living in China
Shenzhen Arrival Guide

Banking in China

How to open a bank account and manage finances in China

Living in China 1 min read Updated 2026-03-14

Shenzhen rewards people who get a few basics right early. This guide focuses on the first practical moves that make the city easier to navigate, pay for, and enjoy from day one.

Why Open a Bank Account

Opening a bank account in China can make daily life easier, especially for receiving payments and connecting mobile payment services.

Requirements

Foreigners usually need their passport,Registration form of temporary residence and Chinese phone number to open a bank account.

Foreigner-Friendly Banks

Some banks are known for being more foreigner-friendly, including Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC). Bank branches may have English-speaking staff in major cities like Shenzhen.

Digital Banking

Once your account is opened, you can link it to mobile payment apps and manage many transactions digitally.