When thinking about moving to China, there are a lot of things one has to consider before making such a big decision. It doesn’t matter if you are going on your own or if a company is sending you, moving to China can be very overwhelming for most people. Here are some tips to make your move less stressful: Not everything is what it seems When moving to China, try not to stress about the rich history and culture. Although it is a very developed country, there is still a lot to do. Try to be open-minded and think of it as a learning experience. Being the center of attention There are a lot of foreigners living in China, especially in big cities but you may still feel like an outsider. Depending on where you are moving to, be prepared to be stared at, to be chatted to by locals and to meet a few people who will want to take pictures with you. Chinese people are very curious about foreigners, so don’t be surprised if they treat you like a movie star sometimes. Don’t be afraid to explore When moving to a new city, find some time to explore your area. Walk around, take the bus or subway once in a while and just get familiar with your neighborhood. This way, you’re not only learning about the city, but you can also feel like you belong. Don’t lose your sense of judgement Being around friendly people and buying cheap things at the market can be fun, but beware of the consequences. It doesn’t really matter where you are moving, you should always be prepared for anything. If you feel an opportunity is just too good to be true, then it probably is. You can always share your thoughts and concerns with some friends, or with someone who has already been to the place you are moving to. Don’t be afraid to ask! Learn Mandarin It doesn’t matter how long you are planning to stay in China, it’s never a bad idea to learn another language. You don’t have to speak Mandarin fluently –or at all for that matter- but it will be easier to get by if you learn some common phrases and you will definitely feel more confident. Do as they do This doesn’t mean that you should change your whole personality and your beliefs when moving to another country, but you should be up to date with all the traditional etiquettes and you should respect their culture. There is also nothing wrong with adopting some local customs to make your stay easier and more enjoyable. Have facts before you go If your company is sending you to China then they will probably tell you everything you need to know. However, if you decide to move on your own, there are a couple of things you should consider. Try to have some answers to some fundamental questions, such as: Do I need a VISA, work permit etc.? Perhaps the most important things you have to answer are the legal questions regarding your relocation. These are obviously very important in every case of moving abroad. How much money do I need for a month to get by? This is very important when searching for a job, because you need to know whether you can cover all of your expenses. Do the same systems, social networks etc. work in China? You need to answer this question before moving, so you know how to keep in touch with friends, family members etc. Can I find a job if I don’t speak the language? Although, a lot of international corporations have English speaking roles, most companies prefer to hire someone with some basic knowledge of the local language. There are a lot of things to consider, but you can always rely on the internet and do some searching on your own.