Shanghai Expats Chat

An English-speaking Telegram chat for people living in or moving to Shanghai.

English only · Free · ModeratedOpen since Oct 2026

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Who it's for

Made for English teachers and students in Shanghai. Also known as SH.

Common questions in this chat

Can I enter China without a visa and for how long?

China's unilateral visa-free policy lets ordinary-passport holders from the listed countries (including Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand and many European states) enter for up to 30 days for business, tourism, family visits or transit. It was extended to 31 Dec 2026; check the NIA or your Chinese embassy for later dates. Others need a visa. Source: hr.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/qzfw/Visa/202511/t20251104_11746850.htm. Checked: 2026-10.

Do I have to register with the police when I move into an apartment?

Yes. Foreigners in private housing must register their temporary residence with the local police within 24 hours of arrival (hotels do it for you). In Shanghai it can be done through the WeChat service or at the local police station; bring your passport and rental contract. Failure or delay can mean a warning or a fine of under RMB 2,000. Source: english.www.gov.cn/2025special/bizexpatsinchina2025. Checked: 2026-10.

Can foreigners use Alipay and WeChat Pay in China?

Yes: link a Visa, Mastercard (WeChat) or Visa, Mastercard, Diners, Discover (Alipay) card. Reported limits are US$5,000 per transaction and US$50,000 a year, and a March 2026 notice waives the 3% fee for payments under 200 yuan. Overseas cards cannot send transfers or red packets. Check the app for current limits. Source: english.www.gov.cn/news/202404/11/content_WS6617c858c6d0868f4e8e5f4d.html. Checked: 2026-10.

How does the 240-hour visa-free transit work in Shanghai?

Nationals of the listed countries (including the US, UK and Canada) transiting to a third country or region can stay up to 240 hours via Pudong, Hongqiao or the Shanghai port. You need a valid passport, a confirmed onward ticket within the transit period and the arrival card (online or paper); approval is on-site and you must stay in permitted areas. See the official page for the current country list and passport rules. Source: english.shanghai.gov.cn/en-VisaFreeTransit/index.html. Checked: 2026-10.

What are the steps after arriving on a Z work visa?

For stays over 90 days, apply for the Foreigner's Work Permit within 30 days of entry at the authority where your employer is based, and apply for the residence permit at the local exit-entry police within 30 days of entry (unless the visa says 30 days of stay). Extensions are filed 30 days before the residence permit expires. Source: ss.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/zytx/202404/t20240410_11279338.htm. Checked: 2026-10.

Chat rules

  1. No spam. No ads, promo or referral links without a moderator's OK.
  2. Nothing illegal or dangerous: no escorts, drugs, scams, fake documents.
  3. No forwards from channels while you're new — write your own words.
  4. Respect each other. No insults, discrimination or harassment.
  5. English only so everyone can follow.
  6. Stay on topic: life in Shanghai — housing, visas, work, health, events, tips.
  7. Report, don't argue: reply to the message with /report and moderators will look.

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