Standard of living in China

Since 2021, China's economy has won the first position in the ranking of the world's highest GDP, overtaking the United States. The GDP size was $13 trillion. According to economic analysis, the annual increase in indicators is 12-23%. Today the country is a leader in industry, mining, gold and foreign exchange reserves, supplies Europe, Russia, and the USA with goods - about $600 billion goes in the form of exports to European countries, slightly less than $520 billion to America. Developed economies name China as their top trading partner.

In addition to foreign policy, the Chinese government is actively developing its domestic economy, investing large sums in production, space and nuclear industries, which gives it power in security matters. It is also worth noting that the Chinese army is the largest in the world. The country also ranks first in the world in terms of population; in 2021, the figure increased due to positive growth to 1.4 billion people. Most of them live on only 10% of the land of the entire territory of the PRC, which ranks third in the world in terms of area.

External economic indicators speak of the richest state in the world, but in real life this is not entirely true. The Chinese continue to live and work in the provinces, receiving minimum wages of $300-400. That is why the PPP indicator is inferior to other countries. In some areas, the population lives below the poverty line, and this definitely prevents the Republic of China from getting ahead and achieving the status of a “developed economy”. But now the Communist Party is doing everything possible to eradicate poverty. New reforms have been developed, including changes in salaries, easing the tax burden, and increasing the size of social benefits.

Through the eyes of Russians, the best cities to move to are Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Tianjin, Chongqing, Suzhou, Chengdu, Hangzhou. About 120 Chinese billionaires live here. The average standard of living is $335-450 excluding the cost of an apartment. In Hong Kong, the figure reaches $645; living here is expensive, but salaries are also much higher. The poorest cities are Urumqi, Zhaotong, Xichang, Yinchuan, Lanzhou; in these areas, 13% of ordinary people live in poverty.

Pros and cons of immigration to China

In order for Russian emigrants to move to China safely and not regret it in the future, it is advisable to study the strengths and weaknesses of a state with a cult of the Celestial Empire. The most common pros and cons of emigration most often cover all areas of Chinese life - economy, society, culture, nature.

pros

The benefits of immigration include:

1. Prospects for emigration. After the move, new horizons open up in an industrial country linked to a market economy. When you move here, you appreciate the power, financial opportunities, open niches for business and accessibility of the labor market. The anthill country provides even a foreigner with a warm place to enrich himself. There are a huge number of skyscrapers, offices, and trading houses, which characterizes the scale and leadership in business.
2. Availability of life. In China it is easy to live on thousands of dollars or a few hundred. The services market is so diverse that even if you experience financial difficulties, you are unlikely to go hungry. You can rent a cheap apartment, eat at street restaurants and earn money from a variety of jobs.
3. Openness of local residents. The Chinese are simple people, accustomed to working, so they know how to enjoy even the smallest things. Due to the large influx of immigrants and tourists, they have learned to interact with other nationalities. Learning English also helped with this. Some Chinese of the older generation studied at universities in the USSR and mastered the Russian language. This created goodwill between neighboring countries.
4. Public transport. The Chinese metro, trains, and electric trains are among the fastest in the world. The metro operates in 28 cities and new lines are regularly built. Public transport runs strictly on schedule, and stations are equipped with strict control points. In addition to high-speed transport, there are buses and trams. The best route can be selected using applications, which makes life easier for a Russian after emigration.
5. Social network. The Chinese actively use local social networks; they use them to make friends, look for work, choose a wardrobe, and order food from different cuisines. They do this through popular social networks WeChat, Weibo, etc.

Minuses

The disadvantages of emigration cannot be ruled out, and there are plenty of them, just like there are advantages. Here are the most important ones that may influence the decision to move. These include:

1. Culture and Chinese language. An Asian country is very different from European ones - in everyday life, socialization, habits, and manner of communication. For migrants from Russia, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan, the Chinese language remains the main disadvantage. It is difficult at a professional level. But some immigrants note the ease of conversation. To master it, you should take special courses, since without knowledge of the language it is difficult to assimilate.
2. Ecology. Air pollution is one of the strategic problems of the Celestial Empire. In some places, places with poisoned soil, soil, and hydrosphere have been identified. Explosions in mines and chemical plants are often recorded, as a result of which 2 million people have already suffered. Megacities are in terrible smog. The government is extremely concerned about the statistics of high morbidity and mortality due to these causes. A program is currently underway to replace cars with electric cars.
3. Internet censorship. China has a law on Internet censorship, which is why a filter has been installed on Western online channels. After emigrating, it is difficult for the Russian-speaking population to switch to Chinese social networks.
4. Expensive education, medical services. From 2021, Chinese families are allowed to marry during their student years and have more than one child. But according to statistics, young couples allow this to happen less and less often; families often have only one child. This is largely due to paid school and post-school education and medical services. In this matter, there are more advantages in Russia, where you don’t have to pay at least for school.
5. Overpopulation. It is impossible to move calmly and freely around megacities, and even across the provinces. A large number of people force them to stand in line for several hours - at a bank, supermarket, gym, or face inconvenience when jogging. There are many people on the street doing different things. At first, this irritates newcomers very much, and some do not dare to finally emigrate there.

Pros and cons of living in the country

As in any country, living in China for Russian emigrants has both positive and negative sides. This is truly a great country that attracts with amazingly beautiful landscapes, rich culture and spiritual heritage. Foreigners are attracted here by a wide range of professions, and you can find a job even if you don’t know Chinese. In many ways, the well-being of an emigrant is determined by which city or province he chooses to live.

Let's start with the benefits that living in China will give you.

1. First of all, this is the number of jobs and a wide choice of professions. Often our compatriots work in the entertainment sector (dancers, DJs, etc.), which does not require knowledge of the language. In most cases, English is sufficient for such workers.
2. Low prices on electronics and household appliances. Since almost all of these products are produced in China, their cost is very cheap, and purchases at the lowest possible price can be made in their homeland. This is especially true for smartphones.
3. Incredible selection of products. The choice of all kinds of goods in China is huge, regardless of the budget, since the production sector here is very developed.
4. Night leisure. If you love nightlife, here you will have a place to relax - there are many cafes, restaurants, clubs and other entertainment establishments at your service.
5. Possibility to order almost everything to your home. Home delivery is incredibly popular in China. This is especially true for food and drinks - tens of thousands of delivery services operate here.
6. Affordable clothing. The prices for clothes in China in yuan are simply ridiculous, so people from all over the world order them. The same applies to the assortment. The only thing that might confuse you is the size, since the Chinese tend to run significantly small when sewing.
7. Opportunities for starting a business. A large number of citizens and favorable policies for entrepreneurs make it easy to open a business and develop it.
8. Housing. There should also be no problems with housing here - this is possible even with a limited budget - the only question is the condition of the property. This applies to both rented and own housing.
9. Transport. Public transport fares in China are very low. In addition, many Chinese actively use bicycles - almost all of them have one. Many tourists visiting the country also rent bicycles.

Of course, there were some downsides. In the case of the Celestial Empire, they are as follows:

1. Ecology. In China it is not in the best condition, which is due to the large number of industrial enterprises. This is true for large cities - in the provinces and regions the situation is better. Air pollution is a consequence of the same reason. It is also relevant for megacities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou or Hong Kong.
2. The situation on the roads. In China, the roads are quite noisy, cars honk constantly, and the situation with traffic rules is deplorable. Crossing the road at a zebra crossing is almost impossible.
3. Bicycle theft. As already mentioned, bicycles are very popular in China. Despite all their advantages, keep in mind that this vehicle can be stolen at any time, and there is almost no chance of finding it in the future. Locks can cost more than the bikes themselves.
4. Heating. In winter, the apartment will probably be cold, because there is no central heating as such - everyone warms up as best they can.
5. Internet. The Internet, as many say, in China is terrible: it is constantly overloaded, slow and faulty. Unlimited is extremely rare, but prompt and high-quality ones are expensive.
6. Harsh work schedules. Weekends and holidays are extremely rare here. Many people work overtime even during major holidays.
7. Junk food. National dishes in China in most areas are very fatty and high in calories, since oils and fats are held in high esteem here. There are also problems with drinks - people like to add sugar and chemicals to them. Choosing something to eat if you're trying to eat a low-calorie diet can be challenging.
8. Smoking. China has a huge number of smokers, and you can smoke almost everywhere here. This poses a problem for those who have children or those who suffer from respiratory diseases.
9. Banking system. At banks in China, you'll encounter long queues and surprisingly slow staff assistance. If you need to carry out even a minimal banking transaction, you will have to face hours of hell.
10. Pets. Owning animals in China is a particularly difficult and expensive pleasure. Moreover, even walking outside and training with them will be a real challenge, since you will also have to stand in line to get onto the walking path or training ground with your pet.

It is impossible not to note the specific behavior of the Chinese. They are simple and very unceremonious people. Often the residents of this country do not follow generally accepted rules, swear loudly and demonstrate rudeness. This, of course, spoils the overall impression of the country. Many who move here are shocked by the local population.

Ways to emigrate to China from Russia in 2021

The Republic of China is loyal to foreigners. Moreover, local authorities are interested in good business ideas and qualified specialists from outside. Currently, the popularity of emigration has not yet reached its peak, which means there are enough opportunities to move. Russians, Ukrainians, and Kazakhs are especially watching migration policy, so it’s worth considering the following relocation options:

1. Business immigration.
2. Investments in the economy.
3. Employment.
4. Marriage with a resident.
5. Migration of the older generation.

Business immigration

Popular trading platforms Taobao, Aliexpress, Chinabrands, DHgate clearly show how large the trade turnover is in China. Considering the companies that present their products, we can conclude that it is easy to do business. And indeed it is! The Department of Commerce and Industry does not make exorbitant demands, and even in the first year supports it with no taxes. Any foreigner with a business plan can apply: to register a company, purchase or acquire a share as a founder. The main nuance is that the activity does not contradict the law.

First, the entrepreneur must apply for a visa at the Chinese Embassy in his home country. Upon arrival, contact the Migration Office, directly in the city of your visit, they will issue a residence permit for 3 months, then for a year. If the business is running successfully, the migration service issues a residence permit, which allows you to move and live for a long time. After 5 years, you are allowed to apply for permanent residence. It must be said that the Chinese issue residence permits for entrepreneurs faster than with other methods of emigration.

Investments in the economy

Emigration under the economic investment program is allowed with an investment of at least $500,000; according to unofficial data, the maximum amount is $2 million. Although, according to reviews from those who moved, much more can be invested if necessary. China itself is a major export investor; it sends about 65% of investments to Asian countries, including Hong Kong. Also, Latin America accounts for 15% and Europe 10%.

Recently, people are increasingly considering the issue of moving not to Shanghai or Beijing, but to a separate administrative region of Hong Kong. This is where the financial activities of investment funds, banking institutions, and international IT companies are focused. Investments in the economy allow citizens of the Russian Federation, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and other foreigners to immigrate and immediately become the owner of a permanent resident.

Employment

If you find a job in China, you will have more chances to move. The work serves as a strong bridge in further naturalization. In addition, the Chinese government supports the relocation of close relatives. Sometimes, through employment, compatriots migrate with their children or transport their parents. As a result, China becomes the new homeland.

Often, a job search begins with trade connections. Some entrepreneurs from Russia purchase goods in Beijing, Urumqi, Guangzhou, and after a while they want to move and emigrate, hiring for jobs in trade, logistics, and transport companies. True, you need to know Chinese, at least at a basic level. Another option to leave is a transfer to the head office in China, where you can further your career. A popular area for employment is IT.

Chinese activity in technology is the highest, conglomerates such as Alibaba, WeChat are always in need of web developers, analysts, application developers, and system administrations. Many IT companies are located in the scientific and technological center of Zhongguancun, which is considered the Chinese Silicon Valley; Microsoft, Nokia, IBM, Lenovo, Baidu, and Sohu have offices here. Also, the Chinese are constantly in need of creative people; by nature, the locals do not have creative talents. They are good performers, but without imagination.

To move and obtain a residence permit, you will need an invitation from a local employer. Initially, Chinese companies are required to approve the hiring of a foreigner from the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy.

Marriage to a resident

It is possible to move to the Celestial Empire and obtain a family residence permit through marriage registration. Recently, Russian and Ukrainian girls are increasingly resorting to it, and Asian men are also strongly attracted to them. Some take advantage of this, and some actually see their husband in the face of the Chinese. In any case, a passport is issued only after 5 years of cohabitation.

Migration of the older generation

There is a separate program for pensioners and parents, they can actually move in with their children. It is allowed to emigrate only if there are no close relatives in the homeland. The age of pensioners must meet the emigration requirements and be at least 60 years old.

Immigration to China from Russia

Russian immigration to China is stable and is not experiencing any special surges. The greatest interest is in obtaining residence permits and permanent residence in China for residents of the Far East, Transbaikalia and Eastern Siberia. Some Russians strive to improve their standard of living, many do business with Chinese partners, and some leave, seeing great prospects in this country. China is attractive for scientists and young professionals. The picture is completed by a large number of ethnic Chinese living in the eastern regions of the Russian Federation who are returning to their historical homeland.

Previously, the main flow of immigrants from Russia dispersed throughout Northern China and settled in the border areas. There were many Russians in Harbin and Beijing, but today no one is surprised by the appearance of Russians on the streets of Shanghai or Guangzhou, in the central and southern provinces of the PRC.

Advantages of a residence permit in China for Russians

Why is China attractive for Russian immigrants who have become residents of the PRC? We will try to highlight the main advantages:

• you can stay in the country unlimitedly;
• the opportunity to open your own business and run it in the Middle Kingdom on more favorable terms than for other foreigners;
• the right to use medical services in public clinics of the country practically free of charge;
• official employment and good salaries for migrant workers, prospects for career growth both within the PRC and outside the country;
• education at a Chinese university for little money, by Russian standards. Chinese diplomas are accepted by the vast majority of countries in the world without nostrification;
• purchase of real estate within the country and mortgage lending at a preferential interest rate.

China is a country that has preserved communist symbols

Obtaining a residence permit

Not only entrepreneurs, but also ordinary people from the CIS are ready to take a risk and move to China for a residence permit. To achieve this, they make different attempts - they go away to study, find a husband, get a job. The legality of being in the territory is very important, otherwise the police will deport you and impose large fines. The process of obtaining a residence permit is quite standard.

Documentation

The applicant must submit the following documents to the Immigration Department of the People's Republic of China to emigrate and obtain a residence permit:

• a foreign passport with a validity period of at least one year;
• residence passport, with copies of the first pages;
• photograph on a white background, size 3.3 x 4.8 cm, 6 pieces:
• a certificate of no criminal record obtained in your home state;
• bank statement for the last 6 months confirming financial solvency;
• letter of invitation from the receiving party in China;
• documentation of marital status;
• evidence of family ties for older immigrants;
• results of a medical examination including tests for AIDS, drug addiction, tuberculosis;
• a signed pledge not to engage in anti-state activities.

Price

For consideration of the application, applicants for emigration pay a fee of up to $95. The renewal cost will be $15. In case of refusal to emigrate, the money is not returned.

Registration period

According to the rules of the Migration Administration of the People's Republic of China, a residence permit is issued within 30 calendar days. In case of extension, the same period. For business immigration, the review process may be delayed due to additional checks by state security.

Validity

If the answer is positive, the immigrant can move and receive the right to live and work in the Republic of China for a year. Next, the process for issuing a residence permit is being reviewed; the renewal period may be increased to 3-4 years.

How to get a residence permit

The Department of Migration Affairs under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the country deals with issues of obtaining a residence permit in the PRC. It has representative offices in all more or less large populated areas. As a rule, they are located in city council buildings. The period for consideration of the issue is a maximum of a month, so documents for a residence permit should be submitted in advance. The cost of obtaining a temporary residence permit is low and is only $95 (paid in Chinese yuan).

Dollar to Chinese Yuan exchange rate: 1USD equals 6.9 CNY.

For an annual renewal of the document, you should also contact the specified Office. The procedure also takes about a month, depending on the workload of Chinese officials, so you should submit documents in advance. The renewal cost is minimal - only 100 yuan (about $15).

Violations of immigration rules in China are subject to severe penalties, including deportation. Officials in China and Chinese abroad are completely different people. You should be prepared for somewhat harsh treatment and uncompromising behavior from representatives of the Chinese authorities. However, as a rule, they do not go beyond the bounds of decency, although communication with them often leaves an unpleasant aftertaste.

A plastic card with a photo and personal data is issued as a document confirming residence in China.

Obtaining Chinese citizenship

Any foreigner after living for 5 years in the status of a residence permit can apply for permanent residence (permanent residence). Permanent emigration with permanent residence status is allowed after 5 years. This means that a migrant can apply to the Migration Department for citizenship. The total period from a residence permit to obtaining citizenship will be on average 10 years. In short, it is only for pensioners, scientists, Chinese husbands/wives - for them no more than 5 years.

To move, a citizen of the Russian Federation or another state submits the following documents to the Department:

• a completed application according to the sample;
• a copy of the permanent residence card;
• a copy of a foreign passport;
• certificate from place of employment (own business or from a local employer);
• bank certificate confirming the availability of funds in the account;
• information about the absence of offenses from the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the People's Republic of China;
• information on timely payment of taxes, deductions and other government fees;
• analysis of business activities, investments from the Ministry of Economy of China (for business immigration or investor status);
• renunciation of native citizenship;
• additional information on request.

The emigration case is at the disposal of the commission of the Migration Directorate. After the foreigner's approval, he is invited for an interview. First, you need to pass an exam on your knowledge of the Chinese language and talk about the history and legislation of China. If state security gives a positive answer, the migration service sets a date and time for obtaining a resident’s passport.

Features of migration to China

Today, many young people are thinking about living in China, but moving to this country, unique in its culture and history, is not so easy. Going through the naturalization process in this state is almost impossible. Foreigners, as in other developed countries, must respect and zealously honor the laws of the Chinese constitution.

In addition, those who have moved and want to obtain a residence permit, and subsequently citizenship, must meet the following conditions:

• Have close family ties in China;

• Live in the country for a long time;
• Have other, undisclosed reasons.

It is very difficult to obtain a residence permit in China, since a small percentage of those wishing to cross the border with the right of permanent residence receive permission. But in order to have the right to a residence permit, you can use such an opportunity as purchasing a home.

Even by buying Chinese housing in border areas, a foreigner may have the opportunity to later completely settle within China.

But border life is too specific, and not everyone wants to live on such lands.

In addition to retirees, many young people and business people have recently moved to China. Businessmen have chosen this country because of its ease of starting a business. Workers are interested in this state, as it actively attracts qualified specialists, providing them with very good living conditions and development in a professional sense.

Students also dream of moving to this country, since studying in China is much cheaper, and the quality of education is not inferior to that of Europe.

Categories of emigrants in China

Moving to China is carried out by various segments of the population. Everyone has their own special motivation and reason. These categories include:

• Businessmen. The most common and popular category is business. Therefore, many representatives of this population group, if their business is quite successful, move to China for permanent residence;
• Working group. In addition to the fact that there are categories that leave for the country of their own free will, there are groups that move to China with the right to permanent residence in connection with certain work issues in their company. Large companies themselves send workers to China for work related issues;
• Student group. Quite a lot of people now send their children to study in China in order to learn the language and get a good education.

  
  But learning Chinese is a rather difficult process, and not everyone finds it easy. In addition, Chinese life is sometimes difficult for residents of Europe and the CIS countries;

• Sinologists or sinologists. These are those who have studied Chinese history, culture and language in depth in the CIS countries and want to test their knowledge in practice. Mostly such people work in the service sector, as guides or translators. But they can also work successfully in business and represent the interests of various companies. In addition, sinologists can continue their studies in China and even receive a scientific degree;
• Category of brides or grooms.

  
  Most often, it is girls who dream of moving to another country by marrying a foreigner. Chinese men are no exception for them. In China, the family is a very important unit of society, so all residents of this country treat its creation with great respect. Chinese men are very hardworking and lead a sober life, which is very attractive to many Russian women. According to established Chinese cultural traditions, marrying a foreigner is considered prestigious, as the children will be beautiful;

• Pensioners. China, oddly enough, is a great place for older people to live out their days. Therefore, it was pensioners who were the pioneers as migrants.

List of in-demand professions and salaries for immigrants in China

Before emigrating, check out the job offers on popular Chinese sites or the information in this article. It will also be useful to know that earnings depend on the place of residence - in the metropolis the average salary is $995, in the provinces it is two times lower. Often companies offer live-in jobs to both expats and locals from the suburbs. The latter go home for the weekend and return on Monday. Foreigners are glad that there is enough work here and there is a place to get a job. If you speak Chinese or English at a basic or intermediate level, then you can apply for the following vacancies:

Attitudes of locals towards immigrants in China

The Chinese Immigration Administration is loyal to white Europeans. Local authorities understand that foreign immigrants can benefit the economy. As already mentioned, ordinary Chinese are pragmatists and adhere to the views of the Communist Party, which cannot be said about Russians, Ukrainians, and Belarusians.

Our compatriots have more flexible thinking and are prone to ideas. Creative and scientific workers, programmers, and teachers are especially valued. For citizens of the Russian Federation of such professions who are ready to move, China issues permanent residence permits for them almost immediately, after one year. It is worth noting that in general Russian-Chinese relations are quite close in matters of economics and politics, which is why ordinary Chinese are happy to see Russian migrants. They consider the Russian-speaking population friendly, cheerful, and hospitable.

China visa centers in Russia

Before moving to China, you should open a visa; this is done at the Embassies and Visa Centers at the following addresses:

• 115127, Moscow, st. Friendship, 6;
• telephone;
• work schedule from 9-00 to 12-00 h.

• 190121, St. Petersburg, Griboyedova, 134;
• telephone;
• working hours from 9-00 to 12-00, only on Monday, Wednesday, Friday.

• 690065, Vladivostok, st. Krygina, 3;
• telephone;
• working hours from 9-00 to 12-30, only on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday.