Is China safe for expats?
Generally — yes, very much so. In fact, many long-term residents will tell you that daily life in China feels safer than in many other countries. Violent crime is extremely rare, and the vast majority of expats go about their lives without any trouble.
That said, like anywhere in the world, it’s smart to stay aware. Petty theft and pickpocketing can happen, especially in crowded markets or on public transport. Keep your belongings close, and don’t leave your phone or bag unattended — common-sense habits go a long way here.
COVID-19 changed the world, and China responded with some of the strictest public health measures anywhere. While much of that has eased in recent times, you may still find that different cities or regions enforce their own local rules.
It’s always best to be prepared. Before your trip or move, check the latest entry requirements — these can change quickly. And of course, make sure you have valid health insurance that includes coverage for COVID-19-related care, just in case you need it.
And it's not just COVID to keep in mind. Air quality, food safety, and seasonal illnesses are all part of the landscape in China. Let’s take a closer look.
If you've just arrived, jumping behind the wheel in a busy Chinese city can feel like diving into the deep end. The driving style may feel chaotic, especially in places like Beijing or Guangzhou. Traffic laws are often interpreted... flexibly.
For your first few months, you might want to stick with taxis, rideshare apps, or public transport (which is generally excellent and affordable). When you're ready to drive, take time to learn the local road culture — and be patient with yourself. Everyone takes a little while to adjust.
If you're moving to Beijing, Tianjin, or another heavily industrialized city, you’ve probably heard about the smog. Yes, air pollution can be a serious issue, especially during winter months. China has made big strides in cleaning up the air, but some days are still better spent indoors — especially if you have respiratory issues.
The good news? Not every city has this problem. Places in southern or coastal China, like Xiamen or Shenzhen, enjoy much better air quality. Wherever you’re headed, consider investing in a quality air purifier for your home and a mask for high-pollution days.
Keep in mind: English is not widely spoken on emergency lines. If possible, have a Chinese-speaking friend or colleague help you make the call. It’s also helpful to have your address written in Chinese — this can save precious minutes when describing your location.
China is a food lover’s paradise. From spicy Sichuan hotpot to crispy Peking duck, the flavors are unforgettable. But like in many developing countries, food safety can sometimes be an issue.
In recent years, there have been headlines about scandals involving fake rice, reused cooking oil (“gutter oil”), and excessive use of additives. While these are more the exception than the rule, it's still wise to be cautious. Shop at reputable supermarkets, cook at home when you can, and when eating street food, look for stalls that are busy (a good sign) and display a high safety rating — usually shown as a letter grade or a smiling face.
Pro tip: If you're sensitive to MSG, you can ask vendors to leave it out by saying “不要味精” (bù yào wèi jīng).
If something does go wrong, here are the key emergency numbers in China:
Keep in mind: English is not widely spoken on emergency lines. If possible, have a Chinese-speaking friend or colleague help you make the call. It’s also helpful to have your address written in Chinese — this can save precious minutes when describing your location.
China is a fascinating, welcoming country with a lot to offer. While there are health and safety concerns — just like anywhere — most expats live happy, incident-free lives.
Still, accidents can happen. That’s why having comprehensive travel or health insurance from a provider like Pacific Cross gives you peace of mind, whether you’re riding a motorbike in Yunnan or enjoying dim sum in Guangzhou.
