- Home
- HSBC Premier
- Worldwide Assistance
- Leaving mainland China
You are not logged on.
Leaving mainland China
What you need to know
Some information that might be useful to you before you leave - click here on the headings below:
- Arranging your visa/work permit
- Driving overseas
- Finding the right place to live
- Children's education
- Arranging your finances
- Family healthcare
- Insurance coverage
- Packing up and moving
Please note: The information is provided for your reference only, and does not construe any form of legal, financial or other professional advice. HSBC is not responsible for the accuracy, updatedness and completeness of the information. This document does not constitute an offer, solicitation, advice or agreement, and is not legally binding over any party. HSBC makes no representation or warranty (express or implied) of any nature nor is any responsibility of any kind accepted with respect to the completeness or accuracy of any information, representation or warranty (expressed or implied) in, or omission from, this document. No liability is accepted whatsoever for any direct, indirect or consequential loss arising from the use of this document.
Arranging your visa/work permit
Unless you are a resident in the country you are moving to, you will most likely require a visa or work permit. If you are going overseas on a work contract, contact the appropriate administration department of your company to see whether they will arrange the necessary documents for you. Otherwise you may need to contact the visa department at the embassy of the country you are moving to and find out how to obtain the appropriate documents.
Visa and work permit applications can take some time to prepare, so you should start looking into it about a year before your departure. You should also make sure your passport has a validity of at least six months at the time of your move.
Driving overseas
Unlike Hong Kong, an International Driving Permit (IPD) cannot be issued in mainland China. However, some western countries, such as US, UK, Canada and Australia, will also recognise your domestic driving licence if a notarised translation of the driving licence (generally notarised by the destination country’s embassy) can be provided. However, a domestic driving licence can only be accepted for a limited period after arrival.
Once you arrive at your new destination, you should check with the local transportation authority to find out how to apply for a local licence there.
Finding the right place to live
Finding the right place to live can be quite difficult, especially if you are moving with your family and children. Contact relocation companies with expertise in your new destination and get a head start in your search. If you decide to buy or rent a property abroad, we can arrange for an overseas International Banking Centre to provide some reference.
Children's education
Finding the right school for your children will no doubt be a top priority if you are moving your family overseas. Depending on where you move to, you will have a few options to ensure your children's education does not suffer:
International schools
If your children attend an international school here in mainland China, you may want to find a similar school in the city to which you are moving. Find out if there is a suitable school where you will be relocating by searching the directory of international schools on the internet.
Local schools
If you are going to stay a while in the country you are moving to, you may want to consider enrolling your children in a local school. Contact the embassy of the country you are moving to for a list of schools and the application procedures.
If you intend to study overseas, you can visit our Study Abroad Resource Centre website to find out more about how we can help you.
Family healthcare
Hospital services, doctors' consultations, emergency services and other forms of healthcare may be wholly or partly paid for by the recipient in the country you move to. This is an expense that you need to factor into your finances, or make sure that you have the appropriate health cover.
A doctor's check up for each member of your family is also a good idea. It should be done no later than six months before departure.
Packing up and moving
Once you decide on the date of your move, notify the moving company at least three months before your departure. Book the time for your move to ensure all your belongings arrive before you do. In addition, obtain a complete listing of your belongings from your mover and check out what customs and excise documentation you will need to clear customs in your new country.
Just to be safe, leave a photocopy of your passport, visas and other important documents in a safe place before you move.
The information provided is intended as a general guide for reference. Benefits and features may be subject to local country regulatory restrictions. Please refer to the Premier Service Guide for detailed information.
