Residents » Overview » When You Arrive

Finding and furnishing an apartment, securing a job and meeting new people can be an exhausting but fun process in Shanghai, but the city offers plenty of support from recent arrivals so don't be afraid of the challenge.

• Visas/Residency - report to the police station with your current address (hotels will do this for you) within the first 24 hours of your arrival. If you're working, your employer should begin to apply for your work visa and resident permit for you and your family . If you're looking for work, know your options for staying in Shanghai longer-term .

• Consulate – register with your consulate for tax and safety reasons .

• Apartment – take your time looking and pick the right realtor for your budget .

• Language – sign up for a Mandarin course or find a private tutor online (see Activities, p. XXX). Explore your neighbourhood and try out new phrases on your Chinese neighbours.

• Socialise – go out and explore the Shanghai nightlife, join an association that promotes a common interest, or attend a networking event (see Activities).