So, you’re moving to Beijing, not just visiting. Living in Beijing is one of the most rewarding adventures of your life. Having called this city home for over a decade, this is your unfiltered manual for building a life, not just passing through.
🏙️ Chapter 1: Laying Your Groundwork – Practicalities First
Before you dive into the fun, get the essentials sorted. This foundation will make everything else smoother.
Visa & Finances: The Two Pillars: The first step is securing your legal status. While your employer will assist, understanding the process is key. For a clear, step-by-step walkthrough, our Complete Guide to Applying for a Chinese Visa breaks down requirements and procedures. Once that’s in motion, smart budgeting begins. To plan effectively, consult our detailed 2023 Price Guide to Navigating the Cost of Living in Beijing, which covers housing, groceries, transport, and leisure.
Finding Your Home: Most expats start in central districts like Chaoyang, Dongcheng, or Haidian. For a detailed breakdown of each area’s vibe and pros/cons, our blog Beijing Administrative Districts for Travellers: Attractions & Areas is a great place to start your research.
Your Digital Lifelines:WeChat is the operating system for life in China. Alipay is its main rival for payments. Baidu Maps or Amap are essential—Google Maps does not work reliably here.
