Learn more about moving to China
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.
If you plan to work or live abroad and require a criminal record check for the past few years, it's much more convenient to obtain one before leaving China. Trying to get it while you're out of the country can be costly and complicated, with agencies quoting prices from 3,000 RMB onwards. Likewise, if you've been residing in China for some time and are considering a new job, especially in roles like teaching, you might be asked to provide a non-criminal record. 📌 Here's a step-by-step guide on how to get your Criminal Clearance Certificate (officially known as 无犯罪记录证明). Requirements: Resided in China for more than 6 months on a temporary or permanent resident permit. No history of criminal sanctions during your stay. Keep in mind that there is no central authority in China that issues certificates of non-criminal records covering the entire country. So, the certificate you receive in one city only applies to your time spent there. If you've lived in multiple locations in China, you'll need to obtain separate records from each province. Visit the Entry-Exit Department: The location for obtaining a Non-Criminal Record varies depending on your city. In some cities, you can get it at the local police station, while in others, it's available at the Public Notary office. In Shanghai, you can get it at the Entry Exit Department. No appointment is necessary; just visit during their regular office hours and go straight up to the 3rd floor, room 303 marked "Overstay." Prepare the Required Documents: • Original Passport (if the record period includes time on your old passport, bring that too). • Copy of the first page of your passport. • Copies of all China visa pages from your passports covering the entire non-criminal record period. • Processing Time: The typical processing time for a non-criminal record certificate is 15-20 working days, excluding mailing time. So, it's advisable not to wait until the last minute before leaving the country. Get It Notarized: If you intend to use this document outside of China, you may need to get it notarized by the consulate of the country where you plan to use it. Make sure to check with your respective consulate for specific requirements. We hope this guide helps you navigate the process of obtaining your non-criminal record with ease. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Safe travels!
