Settle

Common forks: work (Z + residence permit via employer), study (X via school), family reunion, or business. ChinaCopilot links information — we do not process visas or residence permits.

1. Be honest about whether you will work, study, or visit
2. Read the work / study notes below
3. Use licensed employers, schools, or agencies — not tourist-status workarounds

No coaching for working on tourist or visa-free status. Illegal work risks detention and bans.

Lawful employment usually runs through a licensed employer who sponsors the work permit / Z visa / residence permit sequence. Your HR or mobility team owns the filing.

1. Ask HR for the written step list and who books medical / permit appointments
2. Keep offer letter, contracts, and passport scans organized
3. Do not start paid work before the status that allows it is in place

Student status typically goes through admission documents and school instructions (including any JW forms your school requires). The international student office is the source of truth.

1. Follow only your school’s document checklist
2. After arrival, complete registration / residence permit steps they assign
3. Keep admission letters and payment receipts offline

Family reunion and business categories differ by consulate and city. Start with the official visa channel for your passport country, then Plan → Prep → Arrive under that category.

1. Use visaforchina / consulate instructions for your nationality
2. Do not reuse a tourist checklist if your purpose changed
3. Ask the inviting family member or company for their invitation pack

Longer stays often require a residence permit and ongoing temporary residence registration at each address. Employers and schools usually shepherd the first round.

1. Ask sponsor who books the Exit-Entry appointment
2. Bring passport, photos, forms, and sponsor letters they list
3. Re-register whenever you change address

Major banks usually need passport, mainland phone number, and valid stay / residence documents. Branch policies differ — go in person and ask which foreigner products they offer.

1. Pick a large bank near your school/office
2. Bring passport, phone number, address proof, and residence documents
3. Ask about ATM / app limits for foreigners before you leave the counter

Lease carefully: confirm who handles police registration, deposits, and utilities. Prefer written contracts you can photograph.

1. Clarify registration responsibility in writing
2. Photograph the signed lease and landlord ID pages if lawfully provided
3. Budget deposits + first months + agent fees if any

If you are on a lawful work path, payroll withholding and tax registration are normally handled with your employer. ChinaCopilot does not provide tax filing advice.

1. Ask HR which documents you must keep annually
2. Use a licensed accountant if you have multi-country income questions
3. Ignore ‘cash under the table’ suggestions

Not tax, legal, or immigration advice.