What is the local currency?
China's currency is the renminbi (RMB) or the yuan, which means "people's currency."
In spoken Chinese, the yuan is referred to as kuai.
↑ Top
What denominations does it come in?
The currency has three units: yuan, jiao and fen. One yuan equals ten jiao, and one jiao equals ten fen. The following denominations are available:
Notes: 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, 1 yuan; 5, 2 and 1 jiao; and 1 fen
Coins: 1 yuan; 5 and 1 jiao; 5, 2 and 1 fen
Due to the very low value, fen notes and coins are almost useless.
↑ Top
What is the best way to exchange currency?
The Bank of China is the only domestic bank that exchanges money. In comparison with international banks such as Citibank, HSBC and Standard Chartered, the rates are competitive but the bank fees are higher.
Currency is only exchanged freely from foreign currencies to RMB. However, freelance moneychangers outside banks are usually more economical and commonly used.
Bank of China ATM machines will accept foreign ATM cards.
↑ Top
What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?
Mobile payment is popular in China big cities, people uses Wechat pay or Alipay as their main means of payment. In Tianjin, you can purchase a Tianjin city IC card to pay for public transport and daily spending. Cash is also commonly used in supermarket chains and stores. Hotels catering to foreigners will accept international credit cards.
↑ Top
Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.
Hotels, restaurants and major shopping chains accept credit cards. It is advisable to keep cash on you at all times.
↑ Top
By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?
You can pay bills either through local inter-bank transfer or cash. Money wire transfers can also be arranged from overseas for some landlords.
↑ Top
What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?
You can open a bank account with your passport and a nominal deposit although, strictly speaking, a residence permit is also required. It is recommended that you open a bank account as soon as possible after arrival.
↑ Top
Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?
The international banks operating in Tianjin (HSBC, Citibank and Standard Chartered) have reliable English-speaking staff. However, they are generally not versed in other languages.
↑ Top
Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?
The yuan is not a freely converted currency. While it is easy to change foreign currency into yuan, it is often more difficult to exchange yuan into a foreign currency without additional paperwork required, such as proof of income tax payment. Additionally, transferring RMB out of China is not permitted nor is transferring foreign currency that has originated in mainland China. Changing RMB to a foreign currency is not permitted unless it is changing money back that was cashed using traveler's checks.
↑ Top
What are typical banking hours?
Most banks are open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Some domestic bank branches are also open during the weekends.
↑ Top
Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?
Domestic banks have ATMs that are available around the clock. However, international banks are not yet permitted to issue ATM cards for accounts opened locally.
↑ Top
Is there any other money information that might help me?
Check with your bank of choice for any changes in the bank's policy.
↑ Top

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.