Refer China: 2026 Survival Book in China

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2026 Survival Book in China

Hello, 2026!

A brand-new year, and for many of us, another chapter of life in China. Whether you've been here for a few years or just several months, navigating change is part of the journey. That's why we've gathered the updates that matter most, as the "2026 Survival Book"—from visas and travel to tech and lifestyle—to help you feel at home, informed, and one step ahead.

Entry, Visas & Legal Updates

2025 brought several significant updates to China's entry and visa systems that are still shaping how foreigners arrive, stay, and engage with local processes. These changes have made both short-term visits and long-term stays more accessible. For background and in-depth explanations, check out the articles below.

Digital Entry Card

If you're arriving in China this year, the process just got smoother. Starting November 2025, travelers can pre-register their entry cards online before landing—a welcome time-saver after a long flight.

//China to Enable Online Entry Card Filing for Foreigners Nov 20

//How to Fill China's Digital Entry Card: A Step-by-Step Guide

And for those planning longer stays, China's visa system is evolving too, with an online platform to simplify your application process.

//China to Launch Online Visa Application System Starting June 30

A New Door Opens: K Visa

For young professionals in science and tech, this could be your moment. The K Visa is China's first major new visa type in over 10 years—and it's built for flexibility, not bureaucracy.

//BREAKING:China to Introduce New K Visa for Foreigners from Oct 1

//No Job Offer Needed: FAQs on China New K Visa for Foreign Talent

New Regional Access: ASEAN Visa

Coming from Southeast Asia? China has launched a dedicated visa channel for ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste, making short-term visits even more convenient.

//China Introduces "ASEAN Visa" for 10 Countries, 5yr, Multi-Entry

Legal Updates

From updates to how foreign nationals serve sentences to new rules around religious activity, 2026 is also a year to stay legally aware.

//New Rules Proposed for Foreign Offenders in China

//May 1: New Rules on Religious Activities of Foreigners

//Having Visa Valid Until XXX Doesn't Mean You Can Stay That Long

For more visa-related information and updates, stay tuned to AnyVisa!

Workplace Stories & Career Trends

Planning Time Off?

Mark your calendar! The 2026 holiday schedule is official—and there's a 9-day break you'll want to plan around. Meanwhile, school holidays may become more flexible, thanks to new policies adapting to climate and work-life needs.

//China Announces 2026 Public Holiday Schedule, 9-Day Break Awaits

//Shanghai's Average Monthly Recruitment Salary for Q3 Announced

//Want an 11-Day Holiday? Cities Pilot "Spring & Autumn Vacations"

If you've thought about switching cities, you may check the following articles. More local governments are offering perks to attract foreign talent—from visa support to generous incentives and funding.

//Shanghai Updates Foreign Talent Policy: 10-Year Visa Possible

//Special Visa Facilitation for Foreign Business Ppl to Shanghai

//Province Offers Up to 1 Million Subsidies for Foreign Talent

//New Skill Cert Lets Expats Work in China-No Experience Needed

//One More Place Offers 5-Year Multiple Entry Visas for Foreigners

Ever wonder how foreign labor disputes or employment contracts play out in Chinese courts? Our ongoing column shares true cases to help you avoid pitfalls.

//Court Ruled

The "Why Fire Me" column dives into local employment disputes and lessons learned.

//Why Fire Me

For more information and openings, follow AnyJob:

Travel Essentials

Travel just got more connected. Pudong Airport's Terminal 1 is now open 24/7, and China Eastern is set to operate the world's longest direct flight—Shanghai to Buenos Aires!

//Shanghai Pudong Airport's New 24/7 Policy Wins Praise

//Starting Oct, Domestic Flights No Longer Provide This Document

//World's Longest 20,000km Direct Flight to Launch from Shanghai

Also keep an eye on our column on new & expanded international routes:

//6 New & Expanded Intl Direct Routes from Shanghai & Near[Oct 25]

Not all power banks are welcome on planes—check those CCC marks!

//Official: Bans Non-CCC Certified Power Banks on Domestic Flights

The list of countries eligible for visa-free entry to China continues to grow. Be sure to check the latest changes.

//China Signed Agreement on Mutual Visa Exemption with 2 Countries

//China to Trial Visa-Free Entry for Russian Citizens from Sept 15

//China Extends Visa-Free Policy and Adds +1 Country to the List

Payments & Tech

New rules require ID for overseas money transfers over ￥5,000. Take note before you send.

//One More Step Required for Overseas Transfers Over ¥5000/$1000

Shanghai Metro is going fully contactless—from UnionPay to Apple Pay to digital RMB, transit just got faster.

//Now You Can Tap Your Foreign Bank Card to Ride Shanghai Metro

Look out for 5G-A on your phone and the new iPhone Air, which is making eSIM mainstream. Also, new restrictions on facial recognition are in effect.

//Have You Tried 5G-A Yet? Discover What the "10x Faster" 5G Means

//eSlM Comes to China with iPhone Air-What You Need to Know

//Mandatory Facial Recognition To Be Restricted in Certain Places

Apps & Daily Digital Life

WeChat evolves, again. Faster quotes, better AI search, and message recall tweaks—WeChat is getting smarter in ways you'll actually notice.

//WeChat Boosts Efficiency with Enhanced Quoted Replies

//See lf You Already Can Access DeepSeek R1 Al Search in WeChat!

//Handy Trick to Extend WeChat Message Recall Time, 2 Mins - 3 Hrs

Want to check or cancel auto-payments on Alipay? Here's how.

//How to Check & Cancel Data Auths and Auto-Payments on Alipay

Amap has launched its first English-language map, perfect for overseas users navigating China.

//Amap Launches First English Version Map for Overseas Users

Local Life

Metro life gets an upgrade:

//5 New Metro Stations Open in Shanghai, Making Travel Easier

//Shanghai Metro Gets Major Upgrade, Boosting Commuters' Happiness

If you lose something on the Shanghai Metro, here are three reliable ways to find it:

//What Gets Lost the Most on Shanghai Metro? You'll Be Surprised.

Keep it under 15 km/h on e-bikes—or risk a fine.

//District Enforces 15 km/h E-Bike Speed Limit with ¥50 Fine

And now, pets can join you on select high-speed rail routes

//@Pet Parents! China Pilots Pet Shipping on High-Speed Trains

For the latest events and happenings, keep an eye on AnyShanghai's weekly Wednesday updates. Join us in exploring the city's lively culinary and social landscape!

//Event & Fun

You can also follow AnyShenzhen to get news about the Shenzhen, Guangdong, and Greater Bay Area.

For International Students

The Ministry of Education has removed 270 foreign universities from its list of recognized institutions—be sure to double-check your school. Meanwhile, Peking University is pioneering a bold move by scrapping GPAs for undergraduates, starting with the Class of 2025.

//China No Longer Recognizes Degrees from 270 Foreign Universities

//Peking University Announces Complete Abolition of GPA System

Are you thinking about starting your own business or need guidance on work permits after graduation? We offer consulting services tailored for international students—feel free to reach out to us for support.

Community & AnyHelper

We've loved connecting with you throughout 2025. In September, AnyHelper partnered with SinoUnited Health to give away 5 Health Screening Packages and 5 Rehabilitation Therapy Experiences to our international community in Shanghai.

//A Doctor's Act of Care on the Metro Led Us to His Medical Team

//Your Health, Their Words: What Our Lucky Draw Winners Are Saying

We know that healthcare can be overwhelming in a new country, so this initiative was about more than just appointments—it was about offering accessible, trusted, and foreigner-friendly care.

And as autumn set in, we brought the mystery. At the end of October, we hosted An Exclusive Halloween Party. Unlike typical public events, this one embraced the thrill of the unknown and brought together a curated group of expats for an unforgettable night of costumes, connection, and surprises.

//10.31｜NEW PLAN: An Exclusive Halloween Party.

As we look ahead to 2026, we're doubling down on what matters: creating more opportunities to meet, support, and empower the international community across China.

We aim to expand wellness offerings, grow social and professional networks, and launch new initiatives to help you feel more connected—wherever you are. Stay close, stay informed, and let's thrive together!

Can't keep track of all the details? Just follow AnyHelper's public account.

Integrating cutting-edge AI technology, AnyHelper can answer your queries in 12 languages using a comprehensive knowledge base.

Contact Emily to join our vibrant community to engage with experienced expats and dedicated volunteers for direct interaction and inquiries. Your gateway to effortless information access and community connection is right here.

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.....

We're also reaching out to hearts and minds willing to join hands as Community Volunteers for our AnyAsk forum, a place of support for expatriates navigating life in China. Check this article for more information:

//Invitation - to Be a Beacon of Help in Expat Community