After concluding your work in China, or even during your work period,  you might need to transfer the money you earned  to a foreign country? Simply provide the following documents, and you can transfer the funds to the country of your choice through the bank:   The process is straightforward: • Prepare all necessary documents. • Visit the bank counter in person. Please note that this transaction requires personal handling. • The funds will be transferred to your overseas account within 1-5 working days. Required Documents: ·         Original Passport ·         Valid Visa (within the validity period) and Work Permit.  ·         Ensure all original documents are provided and taken to the bank for the transfer.   Company or Employer Documentation: ·         Tax List ·         Monthly Salary List ·         Work Contract ·         Work Permit ·         All documents must be in their original version ·         Material from Employee's Overseas Account: ·         For this section, you are also required to fill in all the information at the bank, and the bank will provide a form during the transaction.   Your overseas account information: ·         Full Name ·         Overseas Address ·         Bank Name ·         Bank Address ·         Bank Account Information ·         Swift Code Here are a few common phrases in Chinese that will help: - 转外汇 Foreign Currency Exchange  - 转账 Transfer  - 外汇转账 Foreign Exchange Currency Transfer If you have all the documentation required, you are able to wire money abroad as an expat.  Once you are at the bank, there will be a lot of questions and paperwork.  Once the process is completed the first time, it will become easier in the future, but be sure to patient.  If you need support, do not hesitate to reach out to your Maxxelli Consultant.

China's major cities are taking proactive steps to reduce greenhouse emissions and create a more sustainable environment. These efforts are aimed at curbing vehicle emissions and promoting eco-friendly transportation options.  Below are examples of a cities and the steps they are taking to reduce emissions locally, but don't hesitate to ask your Maxxelli Consultant for the steps your new home city is taking to create a green future for all of us. In Shanghai, electric and fuel-efficient vehicles are rewarded with green license plates, which come with perks and incentives.  (it's also quite apparent which cars on the road are EV with the coloured license plates)  Additionally, the city has implemented measures like license plate lotteries and auctions to control the number of new vehicles on the road and reduce traffic congestion. To combat environmental challenges, Beijing follows an odd-even license plate system. Vehicles with odd-numbered plates are allowed on certain days, while those with even-numbered plates can drive on alternate days. The city also enforces strict emission standards to ensure vehicles comply with environmentally friendly norms. Guangzhou encourages the adoption of new energy vehicles (NEVs) by offering substantial subsidies and incentives. These incentives significantly reduce the cost of purchasing NEVs, such as electric cars and hybrids. Additionally, the city implements a car ownership lottery system to limit the number of new vehicles on the road and decrease emissions. Shenzhen takes the lead in sustainable transportation by replacing its entire public bus fleet with electric buses. This proactive move has resulted in lower emissions and improved air quality. Moreover, the city offers generous subsidies and financial support to promote the use of new energy vehicles among residents. Chengdu, a city known for embracing innovative solutions, promotes sustainable transportation through various initiatives. The city encourages residents to use bicycles through extensive bike-sharing programs. Additionally, public transportation is prioritized, with special discounts offered for metro and bus rides to reduce reliance on private vehicles. These cities' efforts towards sustainability highlight China's commitment to reducing greenhouse emissions. By implementing measures like license plate restrictions, promoting electric vehicles and public transportation, and supporting eco-friendly alternatives, China aims to create a greener and more livable urban environment. If you are in a city that makes EV license plates visible, you can definitely see the impact.  And don't be surprised when a friend or colleague tells you they cannot drive that day - the plate restrictions are enforced.  Over the past 10+ years, China has taken immense steps to lower the greenhouse emissions from daily transportation.

China's high-speed rail system has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past two decades, revolutionizing transportation in the country and setting an exemplary standard for sustainability. With ambitious future plans, China's dedication to expanding and enhancing their high-speed rail network is poised to drive even greater sustainable development in the years to come. High-Speed Rail Giant: China entered the high-speed rail sector in 2008 when it introduced the Beijing-Tianjin Intercity Railway, their first commercial high-speed rail line. This milestone marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey towards achieving a more sustainable and efficient transportation system. Connectivity and Accessibility: Over the past 20 years, China has focused on developing an extensive high-speed rail network, connecting major cities and regions, which has significantly reduced travel times and increased accessibility for both urban and rural populations. This improved connectivity promotes social inclusion and economic growth while minimizing the environmental impact of alternative modes of transportation. Environmental Benefits: China's high-speed rail system has not only rendered transport faster and more convenient but is also playing a crucial role in curbing carbon emissions. By shifting passenger traffic from cars and planes to trains, the country has reduced its carbon footprint significantly. Trains are considered a more sustainable alternative, emitting lower greenhouse gases and consuming less energy per passenger kilometer compared to other modes of transportation. Boosting Regional Development: The development of high-speed rail has been instrumental in bridging the gap between urban and rural areas, fostering regional development and reducing socio-economic disparities. The rail network has facilitated the flow of goods, services, and talent while expanding employment opportunities far beyond metropolitan centers. This shift towards regional development creates more sustainable and balanced growth across the country. 5 Year Future In China's latest Five-Year Plan for 2021-2025, the government aims to further advance and consolidate its high-speed rail system. Several key focus areas have been identified for future development:    a. Expansion and Upgrades: Additional lines will be built, connecting more cities and regions to the high-speed rail network. Upgrades will also enhance the efficiency and capacity of existing lines, increasing their speed and further reducing travel times.    b. Technology and Innovation: The plan highlights the importance of embracing cutting-edge technology, including the adoption of more sustainable energy solutions such as electrification and reliance on renewable energy sources. Research and development efforts will continue to improve the overall sustainability of the system.    c. Integration: The government aims to enhance integration between high-speed rail and other modes of transportation, including airports, urban transit systems, and intermodal logistics. This comprehensive approach promotes seamless connectivity and reduces the overall environmental impact of the transportation sector. Conclusion: China's high-speed rail system plays a key role in China's past and future development.  Think about this, within around 5 hours of Wuhan you have access to nearly 1 billion people via high-speed rail.  No need to drive or fly, take the train and connect.

Driving in Shanghai has become significantly less intimidating in recent years, especially when compared to a decade ago when traffic rules felt more like suggestions than actual regulations. For many, owning a car remains a pursuit for long-term expats with ample resources. However, renting a car can be a fun and cost-effective way to escape the city for a weekend adventure and it's relatively straightforward to do.   First and foremost, it's crucial to understand that foreigners are not allowed to drive in China using their home country driver's license or an International Driver's Permit (IDP). To get behind the wheel in China, you'll need a Chinese driver's license.   So, here's a comprehensive guide on how to obtain one based on your situation. Skip to the section that applies to you and read on.   You can obtain a...   Temporary Driver's License (临时驾照): If you already have a driver's license from your home country and just want to drive rental cars, this is the easiest option. No exams are required; it's just some paperwork. The downside is that it's limited to rental cars, and the permit expires with your visa. [More on this process](insert link to relevant article).   Permanent Driver's License (长期驾照): If you already have a driver's license from your home country and want to drive any car, including your own, follow this route.   OR   Starting from Scratch: If you've never held a driver’s license before and want to obtain a Permanent Driver's License from the beginning, this section is for you.   Step 1: Get Your Documents Translated   If you have a valid driver's license from your home country, obtaining a Permanent Driver’s License in China is a straightforward process. You don't even need to speak Chinese to get it. First, you'll need to get your current home country driver's license translated by an official authority. Take both your driver’s license and your passport to the Shanghai Interpreters' Association (or send a courier). Your visa should have at least 90 days of validity remaining. The verification cost varies by country, starting at 50 RMB. The process typically takes two to three days. Ensure you don't open the envelope provided by the Interpreters' Association.   Step 2: Study for the License Written (Theory) Exam   Don't underestimate the written test; it's often considered the most challenging part. The Chinese driver's license test is known for its difficulty. You'll need to study diligently for this crucial step.   Administered by the transportation bureau, the written test requires you to answer 100 random questions from a pool of 1,500 that you must study beforehand. To pass, you need to get 90 of them right. Most of the questions are multiple-choice and true/false questions, with 90% being common sense that you might already know even if you've never driven before.   The remaining 10% require focused learning. Some questions may be tricky due to awkward phrasing. For example, you might encounter a picture of a car driving away from a traffic accident and be asked if it's a "Law-Breaking Act" or a "Criminal Act." These can be challenging to decipher without prior study.   Several apps on the app store can help you prepare for the exam, but the quality varies. We recommend "Drive in China" and "Laowai Drive." Please note that while both apps claim to be free, some may charge around 10 USD once you've downloaded them.   Based on our testing, "Laowai Drive" had more up-to-date questions, whereas "Drive in China" was outdated and potentially unreliable.   It's essential to remember that all apps use a combination of Google Translate and user-submitted translations that may not match the wording used in the actual exam. More on this in the "How to Not Fail the Damn Exam" section below.   Step 3: Register Your Application and Take the Test   Visit the No. 1 Branch of the Vehicle Administrative Office without the need for a prior appointment. Bring the following documents:   • Unopened envelope with the certified translation of your home country driver's license. • Original home country driver’s license and a photocopy (front and back). • Passport and a photocopy. • Residence permit and a photocopy. Although the office may assist with photocopies, it's advisable to bring your own copies for a smoother process.   After registration, you'll be directed to a room for a brief health and eyesight test. Proceed to the second floor to take the written exam.   Step 4: Taking the Written (Theory) Exam   Now, let's talk about the exam itself. You'll have a total of 45 minutes to tackle the 100 questions, and you need to answer at least 90 of them correctly to pass the exam. Before starting the test, you'll be asked to select your preferred language, which you won't be able to change during the exam. Please note that personal items, including your phone, are not allowed in the testing area.   The test is administered on a computer, and the user interface may appear somewhat different from the apps you used for studying. It might take a moment to get used to it. During the exam, you have the flexibility to change your answers at any time. Once you've completed all 100 questions, simply click a button to submit your responses, and your result will be provided immediately.   What if you score 89 out of 100 points? Unfortunately, it's considered a fail. But here's a pro tip: you have the opportunity to retake the exam on the same day, so arriving early can give you ample time for two attempts. If you encounter another setback, you can register for a new appointment for the following week.   The catch? They don't reveal which questions you got wrong, making it a rather challenging experience.  Good luck!