How to Open a Bank Account in China (2024)

With the fastest growing economy in the world, China is no doubt an up-and-coming economic superpower.

There has never been so much foreign interest in this blooming economic powerhouse.

If you’re planning on doing business in China, moving to China, or visit China regularly and want to start banking there, this article is for you.

Here we’ll go over a step-by-step guide to help you get started banking in China.

Gather Your Documents

The first order of business is to get your necessary documents in order.

To start a bank account anywhere in the world, you need to provide the bank with some documentation so that they know who you are, and what your banking history is.

To open a bank account in China, you need the following documents:

  • Passport: You need your passport because it is the government photo ID with the highest level of credibility.
  • Proof of Residence: In most cases you must live in the country where you wish to start a bank account, however in China your residence permit is only needed for correspondence purposes for most non-business bank accounts. Some banks will allow you to provide an email address instead for web-based correspondence. They will also ask for proof of address as well for the business if you're opening a business account.
  • Employer Note: Some banks require you to work in China in order to open an account. If this is the case, you will need to provide the bank with a note from a legitimate employer operating in China.
  • Work Permit: If you have a work visa allowing you to work in China, some banks will accept this as documentation.
  • Student Pass: If you are a foreign exchange student at a Chinese college, you can show the bank documentation of your enrollment to start a foreign student bank account.
  • An Initial Deposit: All banks require an initial deposit to be made when opening a new account. Depending on the bank you choose and the type of account you want to open, the minimum deposit amount will vary.

There may be more documents required by the bank of your choosing, but these are the common documents you will need that most banks will accept.

Keep in mind that in most cases, you will need to visit the bank in person in order to open an account.

But there are some cases in which you can open a Chinese bank account online.

Depending on the region you live in and the manner of the bank account you’re looking to open, you can easily or not-so-easily get a bank account open online.

This process could take much longer and be less safe than doing so in person.

It is recommended that you consult with the staff of the bank of your choice to see your online banking options.

Choose Your Account Type

In the Chinese banking system, there are four different types of accounts that non-resident foreigners can open.

Here is a list of account types available to foreigners, the requirements for each, and their advantages.

  • Free Trade Non-Resident (FTN): This type of account is made for overseas companies and is only offered in the Hainan or Shanghai free trade zone. Users of this account type enjoy convenient investment options and some great currency exchange tools.
  • Honk Kong Bank Account: HKBAs were created to facilitate business between the free trade zone of Hong Kong and mainland China. HKBAs allow business people to transfer money overseas somewhat freely. Hong Kong Bank Accounts are known for their stellar internet banking network. These accounts are complicated to open, especially if you come into the process with an American passport, as these are heavily regulated accounts.
  • Non-Resident Account (NRA): An NRA can be opened in any Chinese bank. NRA accounts can be opened with Chinese Renminbi (RMB) or foreign currencies, limiting your foreign exchange risk exposure. Keep in mind that these accounts are not available for individuals, but for overseas corporations. They are used primarily for capital investment from overseas corporations in China.
  • Offshore Accounts (OSA): OSAs are a rare form of a Chinese bank account. They are used for conducting operations with foreign currencies, not RMB, and the funds can only be sourced from and used for business foreign to China. Only four banks in China are legally permitted to open these types of accounts.

If you’re looking for a more personal bank account in China, you must be a resident of the Country.

Non-resident foreigners looking to open a Chinese bank account need to do so in the context of overseas business or currency exchange.

Tourists are able to open limited bank accounts for the purpose of converting their currency to RMB for convenience.

Additionally, it is much simpler for Chinese expatriates to open bank accounts even if they don’t primarily live in China.

Choose Your Bank

Now that you’ve picked the account type you need, you now have to choose the Chinese bank with which you wish to do business.

China is the home to some of the world’s largest banks, mostly because they are all owned by the government and centralized accordingly.

There are 4 large banks in China that are majority-owned by the Chinese government but don't let this discourage you, they are quite consumer and business-friendly for China-based customers.

  • Bank of China: The Bank of China is the largest government centralized bank that provides a wide range of services for businesses as well as investment packages, even abroad. They are the most visibly present retail bank in China.
  • ICBC: One of the largest banks in China, ICBC boasts some of the highest monetary volumes of any bank in the world. With branches throughout China and around the world, ICBC is an exceptional bank that was voted the best bank in China in 2015. ICBC has a host of products and services and has experienced customer service that speaks English.
  • Agricultural Bank of China: Another Chinese megabank, HSBC is a worldwide network of banks with a wide array of financial products and services. HSBC is commended for its sophisticated internet banking system and convenient mobile app.
  • China Construction Bank (CCB): The CCB was the second-largest bank on the planet in 2015. CCB offers a slew of account options, credit and debit cards, and loans. CCB has 13,000 branches across China alone, and many more worldwide. Due to its expertise in asset management, it is often friendly to manufacturers and construction-type companies.
  • HSBC: While not a China government-owned bank, many businesses in China choose to register their business in Hong Kong, and in doing so can opt to use the HSBC business account to run their business in China.

These are the largest and most popular banks for overseas companies to bank with.

Remember that if these banks don’t suit your needs, there are always smaller and local Chinese banks to do business with or even international banks.

Make Your Initial Deposit

Once you have followed the instructions above, your Chinese bank account will be officially established after making your initial deposit.

You may need to be present in a branch office to make the first deposit.

Looking to operate a virtual business account without getting China involved but still using the RMB? Open a business account with Statrys today and run your china-based business with confidence and trust.

How to Open a Bank Account in China (2024)

FAQs

How to Open a Bank Account in China? ›

If you're looking for a more personal bank account in China, you must be a resident of the Country. Non-resident foreigners looking to open a Chinese bank account need to do so in the context of overseas business or currency exchange.

How to open a bank account in China? ›

China Bank Accounts
  1. Two (2) 1x1 ID Pictures.
  2. Original/s and clear copy/ies of at least one (1) of the following valid IDs*: Passport. Driver's License. Professional Regulations Commission (PRC) ID. National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance. Police Clearance. Postal ID. Voter's ID. Barangay Certification.

How do I open a bank account short answer? ›

7 steps to take to open a savings account
  1. Choose how to apply. ...
  2. Gather your identification. ...
  3. Provide contact details. ...
  4. Select a single or joint account. ...
  5. Accept the terms and conditions. ...
  6. Submit your application. ...
  7. Fund your new account.
Aug 17, 2022

Can anyone open a Bank of China account? ›

If you're looking for a more personal bank account in China, you must be a resident of the Country. Non-resident foreigners looking to open a Chinese bank account need to do so in the context of overseas business or currency exchange.

Can I open a Chinese bank account from USA? ›

Yes. You can open a Chinese account as a foreigner. However, non-Chinese residents can usually not open an account with a traditional bank, and may find it easier to get set up with a specialist online provider.

Does China have open banking? ›

First, though, let's look at the world's most successful market for open banking, full stop: China. China's regulators didn't do anything to require open banking. They just let innovative tech companies like Alibaba and Tencent scale at a breathtaking pace.

How does banking in China work? ›

The Chinese banking system focus on the PBOC which plays the role of the central bank and commercial bank with the task of supervision and control of the other smaller banks. These functions are carried out within an economic structure that relegates the banking business almost exclusively to service national planning.

How much money is needed to open a bank account? ›

If you do, opening an account at a bank or credit union is straightforward. The interest they pay for savings accounts You usually need to make an initial deposit between $25 and $100 to open a savings or checking account. Find out how much you must keep in the account at all times to avoid or reduce fees.

Can you open a bank account with no money? ›

Yes, you can do it with no money. However, the bank may require you to deposit a certain amount of money into the account in order to start using it. Some banks have no minimum deposit requirement, while others may require a minimum $500 or more deposit.

What are 3 reasons to open a bank account? ›

Top Reasons to Open a Bank Account
  • Your money is safe. ...
  • You get your money faster with no check-cashing fees. ...
  • Online bill pay. ...
  • Debit cards. ...
  • Fraud protection. ...
  • You can transfer money to family and friends with ease. ...
  • You have proof of payment. ...
  • You can keep an eye on how much money you have.

How do I create a China bank account online? ›

China Bank Mobile App
  1. Download the China Bank Mobile App from the App Store or Google Play.
  2. Tap SIGN-UP, consent to the Terms & Conditions. ...
  3. Create your user ID and password and nominate your active mobile number and email address.
  4. Input the One-Time Password (OTP) sent to your nominated mobile number.

Does China Bank have online banking? ›

What is China Bank Online? It is the internet banking channel of China Bank that enables banking transactions through a personal computer, laptop, tablet or mobile phone.

What is the limit for Bank of China? ›

With the card and password, cardholders can withdraw from ATMs in China with a daily cumulative maximum limit of 10,000 RMB, and annual cumulative maximum limit of 300, 000 RMB.

Is there a US bank in China? ›

Among the 41 locally incorporated foreign banks in China, there are eight from the U.S. that operate about 80 branches and representative offices in China.

Are foreign banks allowed in China? ›

Foreign banks (Foreign Banks) can operate in China either as subsidiaries or branches. A subsidiary of a foreign bank (Foreign Bank Subsidiary) is a separate legal entity from its parent, and as such requires its own governance and risk management, as well as meeting capital and liquidity requirements in China.

Can I open an offshore bank account in China? ›

Differences in Bank Accounts in China for foreigners

Scope – Offshore accounts can be opened for overseas institutions, as well as for individuals in China. Non-resident accounts can only be opened by overseas institutions.

Has China frozen bank accounts? ›

Since April last year, at least 40 billion yuan ($8.5 billion) has been frozen in four of the small-sized banks, including Mr Kang's bank, Yuzhou Xinminsheng Village Bank, as well as Shangcai Huimin Village Bank, Zhecheng Huanghuai Village Bank and Kaifeng Xindongfang Village Bank.

Which foreign banks operate in China? ›

Branches and subsidiaries of foreign banks
  • ABN AMRO (Netherlands) (now RBS China due to de-merging)
  • Australia and New Zealand Banking Group.
  • Banco Santander.
  • Bank Mandiri.
  • Bank of America Merrill Lynch.
  • Bank of Montreal (Canada)
  • Bank of New York Mellon.
  • Barclays Bank.

What are the online only banks in China? ›

China's WeBank, MYBank and Suning Bank were named the top three leading digital-only banks in Asia-Pacific (APAC), recognized for their growth and success by The Asian Banker's inaugural ranking of the world's leading digital banks.

How do I transfer money to China bank? ›

Bank transfer to China - most banks will let you send money internationally online, by visiting a branch or by phone. Payments to CNY will be sent directly from your bank account to your recipient's local bank account in your chosen currency.

How do I send money to a bank in China? ›

There are several methods you can consider when sending money to China. It's important to understand which one suits your preference best. The most reliable methods include PayPal, Bank or Wire Transfers, Statrys business accounts, and other digital remittances cross-border services such as Wise and WorldRemit.

Can I withdraw money from China bank? ›

How much can I withdraw? You can withdraw a minimum of Php100 and a maximum of Php 20,000 in a day.

Do I need SSN to open bank account? ›

You are not required to have a social security number to open a checking or savings account. To open a checking or savings account, the bank or credit union will need to verify your name, date of birth, address, and ID number.

What documents needed to open bank account? ›

To do this you will need your:
  • Current debit or account details.
  • Income details.
  • Proof of home address.
  • Information of any existing overdrafts.

Do you need 500 dollars to open a bank account? ›

A minimum opening deposit is a certain amount of money—usually $25 to $100—that a bank or credit union requires you to deposit to open a checking or savings account. Some financial institutions do not require a minimum opening deposit.

What is the easiest bank to open? ›

15 Easiest Bank Accounts to Open Online
  • Ally Bank.
  • Juno.
  • Synchrony.
  • Current.
  • Wells Fargo.
  • United Bank.
  • Axos Bank.
  • Wise.
Mar 20, 2023

What banks don't require money to open? ›

Banks that Don't Require an Opening Deposit
  • Ally Bank. Ally Bank is a high-interest option with unique online integrations such as mobile check deposits, money transfers by voice, and automated savings programs. ...
  • Axos Bank. ...
  • Capital One. ...
  • Discover. ...
  • Monorail. ...
  • State Farm. ...
  • Varo.

What bank is easy to open online? ›

According to our analysis of dozens of finance apps and banks on the market, we rate Revolut as the easiest bank account to open online in the USA in 2023. It gives you an FDIC-insured online checking account and a debit card, all normally within just minutes!

What bank is the safest to put your money? ›

5 Safest Banks in the U.S.
BankAssets
JP Morgan Chase$3.2 trillion
Bank of America$2.42 trillion
Citi$1.77 trillion
Wells Fargo$1.72 trillion
1 more row
May 17, 2023

How do banks keep track of money? ›

Banks keep track of transactions on a ledger and settle with each other in bulk, crediting or debiting accounts that the different banks have between themselves. This keeps the transaction costs for banks down and makes the process as efficient as possible.

What are 3 ways to withdraw money? ›

Rest assured, you have many simple options to choose from.
  • Use an ATM. If you have an ATM (Automated Teller Machine) card or debit card linked to your bank account you can visit an ATM to withdraw some cash. ...
  • Write a Check for Cash. ...
  • Fill Out a Withdrawal Slip. ...
  • Link Your Account to a Peer-to-Peer Payment Service.

How much is the initial deposit in China Bank? ›

A no-initial deposit, no-maintaining balance account for OFWs that makes saving and sending/receiving remittances more secure and convenient. Save for the rainy days in a simple and easy to monitor savings account.

How do I connect to Bank of China? ›

For first time user, kindly visit any of our branch near you with your identification documents to sign up for Mobile Banking App.
  1. Open BOC Personal Mobile Banking , and enter user ID and password.
  2. Get a one-time password (OTP) sent via Etoken and enter it in the APP.

How can I get ATM card in China Bank? ›

Where can I get the new China Bank EMV ATM Card? You can get the China Bank ATM Card with EMV when you open an ATM account in any China Bank branch. If you are already an ATM accountholder with China Bank TellerCard, you can go to your ATM's branch of account to change your old card to the new EMV card at no cost. 2.

How many digits is a China bank account number? ›

Bank of China (Mainland China)

The Bank of China in China account number usually has 19 digits.

Is China Bank secure? ›

China Bank Online implements TLS (Transport Layer Security) encryption technology that will protect your confidential information.

What is China Bank mobile app? ›

China Bank Mobile App is a FREE app that lets you access your China Bank account 24/7 using your smart phone. Access to Emergency Cash. Soon, you can withdraw in any BancNet ATM without a China Bank ATM card. Send money to anyone (Coming soon.)

How much usd can i carry to China? ›

In China, any individual carrying more than USD $5,000 worth of foreign currency (or CNY 20,000) in or out of China must declare that amount to customs. Please check the most up-to-date customs regulations before your departure to ensure smooth travel.

How much money can be transferred from US to China? ›

All transfers over $10,000 have to be reported to the IRS, but if you're sending money as an individual, your bank or money transfer provider will take care of that for you. However, if you're sending over $10,000 overseas on behalf of a business, you'll need to fill out a currency transaction report.

How much money can you transfer from China to US tax? ›

Financial institutions and money transfer providers are obligated to report international transfers that exceed $10,000. You can learn more about the Bank Secrecy Act from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. Generally, they won't report transactions valued below that threshold.

Does Bank of China have Zelle? ›

Comprehensive Account Features

Supports Zelle® and Venmo transactions so customers can easily send and receive money instantly.

Does China own Wells Fargo and Bank of America? ›

No, Bank of America isn't owned by China. BofA is an American multinational investment bank that has a partnership with China Construction Bank.

Is there a Citibank in China? ›

Citibank has a presence along the North-East and South-East of China, with a total of 47 consumer bank outlets in the 13 cities of: Shanghai. Chengdu. Beijing.

Why is China blocking banks? ›

In early 2021, Beijing banned banks from selling deposit products via online platforms, fearing that the rapid expansion of the fintech sector could increase risks in the wider financial system.

Is it illegal to not accept cash in China? ›

In the circular, the PBOC says that the Renminbi is the official currency of the People's Republic of China, which includes paper bills and coins. No entities or individuals may refuse cash payments, except under circ*mstances where noncash payments are legally required, such as in e-commerce and unstaffed stores.

Does China have FDIC equivalent? ›

China issued the Deposit Insurance Regulations on March 31, 2015, more than twenty years after Chinese authorities first began discussing the need for a deposit insurance system. The program went into effect on May 1, 2015.

Can US citizens open bank account in China? ›

If you are planning to spend some time in China, you may wonder if foreigners can open a bank account there. The short answer is yes—foreigners can open bank accounts in China as they can anywhere else.

Can a US citizen have a Chinese bank account? ›

Can a US citizen open a bank in China? Generally speaking, you can open a bank account in China as a foreigner. There are no specific laws or restrictions to stop you.

Can a US company open bank account in China? ›

Once a foreign company completes the registration process for setting up a subsidiary, and then obtains the required business license, it is then permitted to open a bank account at local banks in mainland China.

Can you open a bank account in China as a foreigner? ›

If you are planning to spend some time in China, you may wonder if foreigners can open a bank account there. The short answer is yes—foreigners can open bank accounts in China as they can anywhere else.

Can I open an bank account in China bank online? ›

Yes. China Bank START was designed with your security and data privacy in mind. The bank followed the standard security requirements for online account opening. China Bank START will not save your information until you successfully completed the online account opening.

Can I open bank of China online? ›

BOCHK Mobile App enables you to apply below accounts and services in one-go: Integrated Banking Services. HKD Savings Account.

Can you open a Chinese bank account from abroad? ›

Certificates required – A non-resident account requires showing a Mainland identification card. A passport or exit-entry permit is required for any other type of bank account in China for foreigners.

How much do you need to open a China savings bank account? ›

The initial deposit and maintaining balance is P 500, you can choose to open either ATM or Passbook. Please be informed that part of our KYC (Know Your Client) process -- additional requirements may be asked as deemed necessary by the branch.

Which country is the easiest to open a bank account as a foreigner? ›

Belize – Best choice for low deposit and remote opening

Generally, Belize is considered one of the easiest countries to have a bank account. The reason behind the popularity of Belize is its stability. To begin with, Belize's offshore banking system is among the most stable in the world based on its liquidity rates.

Do Chinese pay taxes in China? ›

Residents are generally subject to China individual income tax (IIT) on their worldwide income. Non-residents are generally taxed in China on their China-source income only (see the Residence section for more information).

How do I apply for Bank of China personal online banking? ›

You can apply for Bank of China Personal Online Banking at any BOC branch. Your username, password and eToken will be provided on-the-spot. Please contact our 24-hour customer service hotline at 1800 66 95566 or + (65) 677 95566 (from overseas) for assistance on our Personal Online Banking services.

How much is the initial deposit in China bank? ›

A no-initial deposit, no-maintaining balance account for OFWs that makes saving and sending/receiving remittances more secure and convenient. Save for the rainy days in a simple and easy to monitor savings account.

Does China have bank account? ›

There are substantially more Chinese commercial banks than foreign bank branches, which allows for more convenient and faster RMB remittance; Most Chinese companies have local bank accounts - conducting transactions with them will be easier and faster if done from a Chinese bank instead of an international bank; and.

Are there any banks you can open online? ›

Wells Fargo, Bank of America, U.S. Bank and most other big banks offer the ability to open accounts on their websites. Some of the top online banks and credit unions — including Alliant Credit Union, Ally Bank, Discover Bank and SoFi — make it possible to open checking accounts online in just a few minutes.

Can I open my account online? ›

For opening Savings Account online, all you need is a mobile number for initiating the process. One just needs to submit the application and attach documents online instead of going to the bank yourself.

Can I open a bank account in another country without living there? ›

Yes, but you will likely need to provide extra documentation to verify your identity, place of residence, and the legal purpose of the account.

Can I open a bank account without being in the country? ›

Is it possible to open a US bank account online as a non-resident? No. Most US banks will require non-residents to apply for an account in person. That means you have to travel to the US and walk into a bank branch to set up your account.

Which international bank is in China? ›

HSBC's knowledge of mainland China and its international operations enable it to provide customers with a wide range of financial and banking services, including wealth and personal banking, commercial banking, and global banking and markets.

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