A complete guide for expats living in China, covering essential apps and daily life tips:
1. China Sim Card: It’s the key to access most services like payments, social apps and more. Get one if you stay long-term.
2. Pre-landing Apps: Install WeChat, Alipay, DiDi and a map app before arrival for easier verification.
3. Payment Methods: Use Alipay or WeChat Pay as main option, carry cash as backup. Foreign payment apps are not widely accepted.
4. Life Checklist: Prepare phone number, install essential apps, set up payment methods and use map + DiDi for getting around.