The Most Foreign Friendly Banks in China (2024)

S. Alexander · July 9, 2018

We’ve seen just how tech-savvy China has become over the years. The growing number of consumers who turn to their mobile phones as a means of paying for everyday necessities is enough evidence on its own. Who wouldn’t be excited to part-take in spending money in an almost cashless society? If you’re like me and want to be on top of things before even moving to China, I’m sure having an idea of the way banking in China works, so that you can use your mobile device for shopping, is a top priority.

The Most Foreign Friendly Banks in China (1)

After some research, I found the top banks for foreigners (in terms of online banking and English services) to be: China Merchants Bank (CMB), ICBC, Bank of China (BoC), and China Construction Bank (CCB).

With this knowledge in hand, I took it upon myself to try and call the numbers given on the banks’ English sites. Most of the banks only offer numbers that can be called from within China on their English sites. CMB was the only bank of the four to offer a number in which Skype wouldn’t consider invalid (the others were only 5 digits), thus making it possible to speak to a representative before reaching China. CMB offers excellent English services. However, because I did not already have a job, job contract, and place of residence in China, I was unable to find out information on my banking options at CMB.

That being said, it is probably best to wait until you’re in China with a local cell-phone number to call banks, if you have more questions beyond what is given on their websites. Now, back to your banking options.

From the looks of it, ICBC is touted as being the most accessible, which means the likelihood of having access issues are lower, if you don’t live in a metropolitan area. However, several blogs like InterNations and forum posts suggest bank accounts be opened closer to your area of residence. This means that even if ICBC is everywhere, it’s best that you stick to banks in close proximity.

The Most Foreign Friendly Banks in China (2)

Step 1: Open a bank account at a branch that’s close to home.

If opening up an account will come as a hassle due to language barriers, fret not. Apparently, it is possible to set-up an appointment with a bank so that an English speaking employee can assist you with the process. Given that most banks offer online information in English, finding out which number to call shouldn’t be an issue.

Step 2: Set up your e-wallet.

Now that you’ve gotten your bank account set and loaded with money, you can start shopping with your phone through WeChat and other e-wallets. Simply register your Chinese bank card in your e-wallet and Let the Shopping Begin!!!

Step 3: Send money home?

Once you’ve reached your spending limit and think it’s time to start saving and sending money home- consider signing up for Swapsy! We’ll be sure to get you the currency you need without the remittance fees.

Click here to see How to Exchange USD and CNY on Swapsy - A Walkthrough.

The Most Foreign Friendly Banks in China (2024)

FAQs

Which bank is best for foreigners in China? ›

Here are just a few of the best options for US expats:
  • Bank of China.
  • China Construction Bank.
  • Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC)
Aug 25, 2022

Which bank is best for US expats in China? ›

After some research, I found the top banks for foreigners (in terms of online banking and English services) to be: China Merchants Bank (CMB), ICBC, Bank of China (BoC), and China Construction Bank (CCB).

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.

Which is the No 1 bank in China? ›

Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC): The largest bank in China by assets, and one of the largest banks in the world. China Construction Bank: The second-largest bank in China by assets. Agricultural Bank of China: The third-largest bank in China by assets.

Can an American have a 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 Americans have Chinese bank accounts? ›

To open a bank account with a traditional Chinese bank you'll need to provide proof of identity, work permit and residency permit. This usually means you'll need the following: Proof of identity – a valid passport. Work permit – work visa and letter from employer.

What US banks are 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.
  • Citibank.
  • Bank of America Merrill Lynch.
  • BNY Mellon.
  • East West Bank.
  • JPMorgan Chase Bank.
  • Morgan Stanley Bank International.
  • SPD Silicon Valley Bank.

What banks accept US citizens living abroad? ›

  • Capital One 360.
  • Citibank CitiGold.
  • HSBC Premier.
  • Alliant Credit Union.
  • First Republic Bank.
  • Ally Bank.
  • Fidelity Investments.
  • Navy Federal Credit Union.

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.

What is the largest foreign bank in China? ›

HSBC has operated in mainland China since 1865 and is a force to be reckoned with: it is the largest foreign bank in the country, operating in 50 cities, with 150 outlets and over 7,000 employees.

Can I send money to China in bank account? ›

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.

How much money can I transfer out of China? ›

Cash in to/out of China

Travelers are allowed to take up to US$5000 equivalent of foreign currency or 20 000 RMB of local currency in cash in or out of the country. This applies to both foreigners and Chinese nationals. If the amount does not exceed this limit, one will not be required to declare this to customs.

Which bank failed in China? ›

Baoshang Bank went bankrupt, while some rural banks in Henan province froze accounts, prompting protests by customers worried about their savings.

What bank is owned by China? ›

State-owned Commercial Banks
NameAbbreviationHeadquarters
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China*ICBCBeijing
China Construction Bank*CCBBeijing
Bank of China*BOCBeijing
Agricultural Bank of China*ABCBeijing
2 more rows

Who owns all the banks in China? ›

The Chinese Government has majority ownership of banks that account for more than half of Chinese banking system assets, mainly through equity stakes of around 60–90 per cent in each of the five largest commercial banks.

Can you use American money in China? ›

The US Dollar is a universally accepted currency the world over. If you are not able to procure Chinese Yuan for your trip to China, then no need to worry. You can buy the US Dollar and exchange it for the Chinese Yuan in China without any hassles.

How do I transfer money from China to US bank account? ›

Methods to transfer money out of China
  1. Via bank to bank transfer.
  2. Through Western Union or Moneygram.
  3. PayPal and other payment options.
  4. Use Alipay international transfer.

Is it illegal for a US citizen to have a foreign bank account? ›

It's 100% legal for US citizens to have foreign bank accounts. You just need to tell the IRS and report it properly. In fact, we've found hundreds of banks still willing to accept US clients.

Does China monitor bank accounts? ›

The financial industry in China is supervised by the People's Bank of China (PBoC) which is China's central bank. It is also in charge of formulating and implementing monetary policies and monitoring lending and foreign exchange transactions between banks as well as the national payment and settlement system.

How to open China bank online? ›

  1. Download the China Bank START App.
  2. Choose the account to open then tap “Apply Now”
  3. Complete the eligibility questions and customer information.
  4. Input the one-time password sent to your mobile number.
  5. Scan your valid ID and take a selfie.
  6. Sign online, review, then submit your application.

How do I open an offshore bank account in China? ›

Documents required to open FTN account
  1. Business registration documents translated and notarized in Chinese.
  2. Articles of incorporation.
  3. Copy of the legal representative and Chief Financial Officer' ID card or passport.
  4. Copy of the ID card or passport of the agent opening the account (if applicable)

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.

How much of Bank of America does China own? ›

Is Bank of America Partly Owned by China? No, Bank of America is not partly owned by China. It is an American bank.

What are the 4 state owned banks in China? ›

The Big Four and others

In 1995, the Chinese Government introduced the Commercial Bank Law to commercialize the operations of the four state-owned banks, the Bank of China (BOC), the China Construction Bank (CCB), the Agricultural Bank of China (ABC), and the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC).

How much money can a US citizen have in a foreign bank account? ›

Since foreign accounts are taxable, the IRS and U.S. Treasury have a very rigid process for declaring overseas assets. Any American citizen with foreign bank accounts totaling more than $10,000 in aggregate, or at any time during the calendar year, is required to report such accounts to the Treasury Department.

What is the best international bank expats? ›

Summing Up: The Best Banks for Expats and Digital Nomads
  • Revolut — Best overall digital nomad bank account.
  • Wise — Best multi-currency account for digital nomads.
  • N26 — Best fully-licensed neobank in Europe.
  • Chime — Best fee-free ATM access for Americans.
  • Starling Bank — Best international UK bank account.

Which US bank has most international branches? ›

Bank of America

With operations in more than 35 countries around the world including Spain, Germany, and Japan, they are able to provide services to a worldwide customer base. The bank offers a suite of financial products including, but not limited to, commercial banking, investment banking, and consumer banking.

How many foreign banks are there in China? ›

In 2016, there were 1031 foreign banking institutions in China.

What are the big 5 banks in China? ›

These are the Industrial & Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), the China Construction Bank (CCB), the Bank of China (BoC), the Bank of Communications (BoCom), and the Agricultural Bank of China (ABC).

What are the 4 big banks in China? ›

China's four largest banks–Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, China Construction Bank, Agricultural Bank of China, and Bank of China–are required to hold TLAC that is equal to 16% of their risk-weighted assets by 1 January 2025.

Who is China's largest foreign investor? ›

Singapore and China are celebrating the 30th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations in 2020. Since 2013, China has been Singapore's largest trading partner, and Singapore has been China's largest foreign investor.

Does China have Zelle? ›

No, Zelle® can only be used to send funds to someone who has a bank account in the United States.

How much money can I send to China from USA? ›

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.

What is the cheapest way to transfer money to China? ›

Bank transfers are usually the cheapest option when it comes to funding your international money transfer with Wise. Bank transfers can be slower than debit or credit cards, but they usually give you the best value for your money.

What is the best way to send money to China? ›

Best ways to send money to China

Bank transfers are usually the cheapest option when it comes to funding your international money transfer with Wise. Bank transfers can be slower than debit or credit cards, but they usually give you the best value for your money. Read more how to use bank transfers as a payment option.

Is PayPal blocked in China? ›

Is Paypal Available in China? Yes, in Jan 2021, PayPal finished its acquisition of a Chinese licensed payment company called GoPay. PayPal is the first foreign payment company with a domestic payment license and 100% ownership of China's payment platform.

Can you send money from China to USA with PayPal? ›

Send payments securely.

Now you can send international payments from anywhere you happen to be, at home or on the go. All you need is the recipient's email address or mobile number and the money will go to their account. If they're new to PayPal, they can create an account quickly for free.

What is the most popular bank in China? ›

Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) (601398. SS), , the world's largest listed lender by assets, came in at 3.5% annual net profit growth.

What is the bank scandal in China? ›

China's latest banking scandal started last April, when five rural banks, four in Henan and one in the eastern province of Anhui, froze depositor funds. Sanlian Lifeweek, a state-owned magazine, estimated that 400,000 customers were affected.

Are Chinese banks insured? ›

China's DGS came into effect in May 2015 and insures deposits in both local and foreign currencies for all businesses and individuals up to CNY500,000 per depositor per bank.

Can US citizens buy land in China? ›

So, can foreigners buy property in China? The answer is yes, foreigners are allowed to purchase property in China! The essential requirement is that you have studied or worked in China for at least one year on a residence permit. Foreigners are allowed to only own one residential property for dwelling purposes.

Who owns the US bank? ›

Is U.S. Bank part of U.S. Bancorp? Yes, U.S. Bancorp [NYSE: USB] is the publicly traded parent company of U.S. Bank. While we often use U.S. Bancorp in formal documents and corporate filings, U.S. Bank is what you'll see on branch doorways, app stores, national television commercials and much more.

Is Chase a Chinese bank? ›

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., doing business as Chase, is an American national bank headquartered in New York City, that constitutes the consumer and commercial banking subsidiary of the U.S. multinational banking and financial services holding company, JPMorgan Chase.

What are the big six banks in China? ›

The Big Six - Agricultural Bank of China, Bank of Communications, Bank of China, China Construction Bank, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and Postal Savings Bank of China - reported stable non-performing loan (NPL) ratios in the first-quarter compared with the end of last year, thereby lightening their ...

Can I open bank account with tourist visa in China? ›

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.

What bank account can a foreigner open? ›

However, larger banks such as US Bank, TD Bank, Bank of America, Chase, and Wells Fargo will allow non-residents to set up a checking account and a savings account. Instead of your SSN, they'll ask for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) and other documents.

Which bank is foreigner friendly in US? ›

8 Best Banks for Non-US Citizens
  • HSBC.
  • Citi.
  • Bank of America.
  • Capital One.
  • Chase.
  • Charles Schwab Bank.
  • Wells Fargo.
  • Wise.
Jan 20, 2023

How much bank balance is required for China tourist visa? ›

X1、X2 Visa

2. Original and photocopy of "Visa Application for Study in China" (Form JW201 or Form JW202). 3. An original bank statement issued in English with a balance of a required amount($2500 for every school-year) or scholarship certificate.

Can I open an offshore bank account in China? ›

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. Supervision – The China Banking Regulatory Commission administers offshore accounts while non-resident accounts are supervised by SAFE.

Can I withdraw money from my Visa debit card in China? ›

Find ATMs in China

You'll find ATMs aplenty in major Chinese cities inside banks and shopping centers, available during normal business hours. ATMs accept both Visa, Mastercard and Discover cards, though you may see Visa's Plus and Mastercard's Maestro and Cirrus logos on the machines.

Which American banks are 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.
  • Citibank.
  • Bank of America Merrill Lynch.
  • BNY Mellon.
  • East West Bank.
  • JPMorgan Chase Bank.
  • Morgan Stanley Bank International.
  • SPD Silicon Valley Bank.

What is First American International Bank in Chinese? ›

First American International Bank (Chinese: 恆通銀行) was an overseas Chinese bank in the United States.

Can a US citizen have a foreign bank account? ›

It's 100% legal for US citizens to have foreign bank accounts. You just need to tell the IRS and report it properly. In fact, we've found hundreds of banks still willing to accept US clients.

Which country is the easiest for foreigners to open a bank account? ›

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.

Can I have a US bank account with a foreign address? ›

You must be living in the U.S. to open your account. You'll need to provide both a foreign and U.S. address, as well as two forms of ID and a tax identification number.

What bank accounts don t need SSN? ›

Here are some banks and credit unions that don't require you to have an SSN to open an account:
  • Bank of America.
  • Chase.
  • Wells Fargo.
  • Marcus by Goldman Sachs.
  • Self-Help Federal Credit Union.
  • Latino Credit Union.
Nov 16, 2022

Can a foreigner open a Wells Fargo account? ›

Wells Fargo offers checking accounts to foreigners who hold the documents required for verification. If you're not a US resident or citizen you can also choose to use the Wells Fargo international investment services which are available online, in branch and by phone.

What is the best bank for immigrants? ›

Best banks for immigrants in the U.S.

Bank of America also allows customers to open accounts with an SSN. Chase and Bank of America welcome undocumented immigrants as customers too. Chase has nearly 5,000 branches in 48 states, and Washington, D.C. Bank of America has around 4,200 branches in 34 states.

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