Is there a software that can translate speech in real time?
Youdao Translator—It supports simultaneous translation, and commonly used national languages can be selected. This software currently charges a fee: 18 yuan per hour for a monthly subscription, 128 yuan for an annual card, and 108 yuan for a six-month card.
Why can’t I find the Chinese software I need in the App Store on my iPhone, and what should I do?
First, set the region in the App Store to Mainland China, then search again.
Can pets be delivered directly to my home?
Yes, transport companies usually deliver directly to your door. If staying in a hotel, you must sign an agreement, pay a deposit and cleaning fee, and show vaccination records. For apartments, obtain landlord approval beforehand and confirm exit cleaning fees.
Can I drink tap water directly in China?
It is not recommended to drink tap water directly. We suggest drinking bottled water or boiling the tap water first.
How do I set up the internet in my apartment?
We recommend the China Telecom Fusion Package (SIM card + Broadband). Once installed, you just need to pay the monthly mobile bill. Please consult the business hall or us for specific plans.
Can I transfer money directly to an EU bank account?
Yes, but you need to go to the bank counter. Please bring your passport, bank card, labor contract, tax payment certificate, and proof of income.
How do I pay for utilities in a non-service apartment?
Obtain the account numbers for water, electricity, and gas, then bind them to Alipay or WeChat Pay. You can pay monthly or set up auto-pay. Please ensure your account has sufficient balance.
How do I convert foreign currency to RMB on my phone?
Log in to your mobile banking app and find the "Foreign Exchange Settlement" or "Currency Exchange" function to process the transaction.
What should I do if the gas is cut off due to arrears?
1. Top up the balance on your phone. 2. Quickly press the red button on the gas meter twice. 3. Wait a few minutes, then restart the boiler (unplug and replug).
How do I apply for a train ticket invoice (Fapiao)?
You can apply directly in the 12306 App for your own tickets. If you cannot use the App or need it for others, the passenger must bring their passport and order number to the station counter.
Where can I get my child vaccinated?
Please go to the Community Health Center in your residential area. No appointment is needed; bring the passport and vaccination book. We suggest checking their hours and confirming vaccine types with the doctor beforehand.
What does the pink gas slip on my door mean?
It usually means one of two things: 1. A notice for the bi-annual free safety inspection (you need to call to schedule). 2. The meter reader could not enter, and you missed the reading. You can take a photo of the meter for us, or pay it next time.
What should I do if the internet in the apartment is slow or not working?
Unplug the power from the modem/router, wait 5 minutes, then plug it back in. If the problem persists, please contact your housing agent to arrange a technician for inspection.
What should I do if there is no light or power in the apartment?
First, check the main light switches inside the apartment. Second, check the circuit breaker box to see if any switches have been tripped or turned off.
Will my SIM card still work outside China?
Normally, international roaming is activated when we apply for the SIM card. However, charges will be much higher than in China, and rates vary by country/region.
Do I need to redo police registration if I travel outside China and return?
Please send a photo of your newest entry stamp page to your agent. Policies vary by local police station. Please confirm with your housing agent if a new registration is required.
What should I do if the door lock keeps beeping?
The battery is low. Please replace the batteries as soon as possible.
Can I have a barbecue in the community green area?
No, barbecues are not permitted in the compound according to community regulations.
How should I sort and dispose of household waste in the community?
Please dispose of waste according to the community classification standards. In Hangzhou, it is usually divided into four categories: Perishable Waste (Green bin), Recyclables (Blue bin), Hazardous Waste (Red bin), and Other Waste (Gray bin). Please dispose of trash in the designated bins during specified hours.
Who should I contact if the air conditioner in my room breaks down?
You should contact your real estate agent, landlord, or property butler immediately. Usually, if the damage is not caused by misuse, the landlord is responsible for arranging professional repair services and covering the costs.
How should I deal with noisy neighbors disturbing the peace?
We recommend a three-step approach: 1. Try friendly communication first to explain the disturbance; 2. If ineffective, contact the property management butler for mediation; 3. If the situation is severe and persistent, you can call the police at 110.
How can I enter the community or building if I forgot my access card?
You can go to the security booth or property center and ask the security guard to open the door after verifying your resident identity. Alternatively, contact family members or roommates living with you to open the door remotely or come down to let you in.
Can I charge my e-bike downstairs in the apartment building?
For fire safety reasons, it is strictly forbidden to charge e-bikes in corridors, lobbies, or to take batteries home for charging. Please be sure to park and charge your vehicle in the designated e-bike charging areas or smart sheds within the community.
Can I rent a parking space in the community temporarily?
Most communities support temporary parking or monthly rentals. Please verify the specific rates (hourly or monthly) and application procedures directly with the property management center or apartment reception.
How do I change the batteries in the gas meter?
Usually, the battery compartment is at the bottom of the gas meter. Open the cover and insert 4 new AA batteries according to the polarity. After closing, long-press the function/reset button on the meter for a few seconds until the screen lights up to restore gas supply.
How much do cleaning ladies (Ayi) charge for their services?
Charges are usually based on service hours. The current market rate in Hangzhou is about 50-60 RMB/hour for daily cleaning and 70-80 RMB/hour for deep cleaning. Rates may rise significantly during holidays like Chinese New Year. Booking in advance is recommended.
What is the minimum age to ride a bike on the road?
According to China's Road Traffic Safety Law: You must be at least 12 years old to ride a bicycle on the road, and at least 16 years old to ride an electric bicycle (e-bike).
When is it allowed to walk dogs?
In downtown Hangzhou, dog walking is only allowed from 19:00 to 07:00 the next day. You must keep your dog on a leash (muzzles required for large dogs) and clean up waste immediately. (Note: This applies to Hangzhou main districts; other cities may have different regulations).
What are the subway operating hours?
Regular operating hours: First train approx. 06:00, last train approx. 22:30 to 23:10. Some lines extend service on weekends and holidays. Please check map apps or the official local subway app for precise schedules. (Note: Data based on Hangzhou Metro; times vary by city).
Where can I pick up my express packages?
Express packages are usually delivered to your door. If not, they are often placed in designated locations like Cainiao Stations or Hive Boxes (smart lockers) within the community. Please pick them up using the pickup code received via SMS or the app.
How can foreigners buy an electric bicycle (e-bike)?
It is recommended to bring your passport and purchase from an authorized brand store. After purchasing, you must apply for a license plate immediately at the store or the Vehicle Management Office. It is illegal to ride without a license plate.
How should I choose a restaurant when ordering food delivery?
You can check the merchant details on the store's homepage in the delivery app. For food safety, we suggest prioritizing restaurants that have a verified "Physical Store" badge, are located nearby, and have high customer ratings.
Can foreigners drive in China?
Yes, but you must obtain a Chinese driver's license first. The International Driving Permit (IDP) is not valid on its own in China. You can apply to convert your home country's license to a temporary one or take a test for a permanent license.
Do I need to register at the police station immediately after moving?
Yes, it is very important. According to Chinese law, foreigners must register their accommodation at the local police station within 24 hours of moving into a new residence, bringing their passport and lease contract.
What should I do if I forget my keys or get locked out?
Contact your agent, landlord, or apartment manager immediately—they often have spares or trusted locksmiths. Avoid street ads (risk of overcharging, damage, or theft). Legitimate services cost 100-300 RMB with invoice. Make a spare key afterward.
Who is responsible for repairs if the room leaks or pipes are clogged?
Per Civil Code: Non-human damage (aging, defects) is landlord’s responsibility/cost; tenant misuse (forgotten tap, improper use) is tenant’s. Upon discovery: photo evidence, notify landlord/property in writing promptly. If delayed, repair yourself and keep invoices to reclaim. Specify repair terms in lease.
How to book moving services?
Use Huolala app (most popular, with quotes, ratings, insurance) or search “搬家” on Alipay/WeChat for certified platforms. Book 1-7 days ahead, get quote (on-site/online), confirm price/insurance, supervise on day. Foreigners: prefer English/foreign-card support; watch for stair fees etc.
How to top up water and electricity fees in an apartment?
Online preferred: Apartment WeChat/app or Alipay/WeChat “生活缴费” with account number (WeChat/Alipay; foreign cards may need binding). Offline: property desk cash/scan. Keep 50-100 RMB buffer to avoid cutoff; older places use prepaid cards. Check balance regularly; estimate usage (electricity 0.5-0.8 RMB/kWh, water 3-6 RMB/ton).
How can foreigners get a Chinese SIM card?
In-person only at China Mobile/Unicom/Telecom hall. Bring: original passport + valid visa/residence permit + temporary residence registration (police station). Select number/package/get card on-site (facial verification). Choose data+call plan. Short-term: airport prepaid; avoid unofficial cards.
I live in China long-term and want to drive abroad. How do I apply for an International Driving Permit?
1. Holders of Chinese Driver's Licenses: China does not issue official IDPs. Check if the rental agency accepts a "Translation & Notarization of Driver's License". If yes, agents on Taobao/Alipay can process this for ~100 RMB using photos of your passport and license.
2. Applying for Agency IDPs (IAA/IDD): Available via Taobao/Alipay.
- IAA (10-20 years): 999-1299 RMB. Requires: Photos of license & passport, handwritten name/height/weight, signature on white paper, and a 2-inch white-background digital photo.
- IDD (1-5 years): 198-258 RMB. Requires: Photos of passport & license details, small 2-inch white-background photo, signature photo, address, phone, and email.
Note: Always verify if the destination country accepts these documents before applying. Processing takes 3-5 working days.
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