Shenzhen Expats Chat

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

English only · Free · ModeratedOpen since Oct 2026

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Who it's for

Made for English teachers in Shenzhen. Also known as SZ.

Common questions in this chat

Can I enter China visa-free to live in Shenzhen?

Visa-free entry is for short stays only. Citizens of listed countries can enter for up to 30 days without a visa under the current policy, which the embassy notice extends to 31 Dec 2026 (the list was about 46 countries). It does not allow work or study and the policy may change, so check your nationality on the embassy page before booking. Source: hr.china-embassy.gov.cn/eng/qzfw/Visa/202511/t20251104_11746850.htm and discover.passportindex.org/policy-and-regulations/china-extends-visa-free-entry-to-46-countries-until-end-of-2026/. Checked: 2026-10.

How much does a one-bedroom cost in Shenzhen?

Sources disagree, so treat it as a range: a 2026 guide gives roughly CNY 4,800-7,500 in Futian CBD and 5,000-8,500 in Nanshan/Shekou, another puts a standard one-bedroom in Nanshan at CNY 8,000-11,000. Check current listings on local platforms. Source: citiesinsider.com/country/china/shenzhen/housing-costs/en and costliving.net/shenzhen/. Checked: 2026-10.

What deposit and fees do I pay when renting in Shenzhen?

The common pattern is 'two months deposit, one month rent' (ya er fu yi), with an agent fee often cited as about half a month's rent; leases are typically a year. Confirm in writing what the deposit covers and who pays utilities. Source: citiesinsider.com/country/china/shenzhen/rental-market/en and expat.com/en/guide/asia/china/15504-accommodation-in-shenzen.html. Checked: 2026-10.

Does the 240-hour transit policy work through Shenzhen?

Nationals of eligible countries can pass through China visa-free for up to 240 hours (10 days) if they hold a confirmed onward ticket to a third country or region and stay inside the permitted area; Guangdong has a Pearl River Delta zone. Work, study and news reporting are excluded. The country count differs between sources (55-57), so check the official Shanghai government page and the list for your nationality. Source: english.shanghai.gov.cn/en-Individuals-ImmigrationandVisas-Visa-freepolicies/20260709/d70a1231ba4641ff9a024e53751ad480.html and chinatravel.com/guide/visa/240-hour-visa-free-in-china. Checked: 2026-10.

Do I have to register with the police when I arrive in Shenzhen?

Yes. Foreigners must register their accommodation with the local police within 24 hours of arrival. A hotel does it at the front desk; in a private home you or your host register at the police station or via the official QR/online channel. Missing it can mean a warning or fine, so ask the police station or the city site for the current penalty. Source: sz.gov.cn/en_szgov/services/personal/residency/content/post_11699146.html and eyeshenzhen.com/content/2018-04/11/content_18859966.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 Shenzhen — 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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