Arriving in Beijing can be a somewhat daunting experience. Achieving even basic tasks can be arduous and time consuming. Enlisting the help of your employer or making contact with other new residents before arriving can prove invaluable. Alternatively, hiring a local interpreter may be a good option to consider. On arrival, you will need to:

• Upgrade your entry visa to a full working visa (Z Visa) and obtain your resident’s permit.
• Find an apartment or house. It is a good idea to stay in a hotel near where you want to live, rather than commute for viewings.
• Visit schools or kindergartens in your chosen area.
• Set up utilities. Landlords will normally have done this, or will help set it up.
• Sign up to telephone, television and internet providers.
• Buy yourself a mobile phone (see Shopping),
• Buy household items. Most apartments are furnished but this can be removed if you have brought your own. Stores such as IKEA and Dazhong are good for the basics.
• Apply for a driving licence and take the theory test (only those with a resident’s permit may have a Chinese driving licence).
• Register with one of the western hospitals in the city.
• Register with the local police station. Your landlord will need to accompany you, so do this when you sign contracts.
• Join local sports clubs or gyms (many larger apartments have facilities and fees can often be negotiated into your rent).
• Register with your embassy.
• Register any pets with the local police station and get a licence. Expats cannot register dogs themselves – this can only be done with a Chinese citizen ID card.
• Find pharmacies stocking western medicines, supermarkets (including those selling imported goods), vets and pet supply shops. See Shopping.
• Learn some Mandarin.