Practical guide
Opening a local bank-card account in China
Use a commercial-bank outlet and bring valid identification.
The Ministry of Commerce’s English guide says foreigners can take valid documents such as a passport or Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card to a commercial-bank outlet to apply for a bank card. Account eligibility, required materials and product terms are live bank decisions, so confirm them with the bank before visiting.
A clear next step
- Bring your passport or other valid identification to a commercial-bank outlet.
- Ask which current account and card products you are eligible to apply for.
- Keep the issued card secure and contact the bank promptly if it is lost.
Sources & verification
Last verified
- Guide to Working and Living in China | Ministry of Commerce commercial-bank outlet application route · passport or Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card examples · card-security guidance