Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Online Banking
While Chinese people swear by online banking, for expats it can be a real headache—you
know it's potentially a lifesaver, but it often seems just out of reach. The English versions
of most banks' websites are downright rotten, in both design and functions offered. If you
want the full range of functions, including online shopping and transfers, you will most
likely need to use the Chinese-language version.
Most Chinese banks also use complicated security systems, such as plug-in USB keys,
for their Internet banking. Apple users will have even more headaches. At the time of writ-
ing, only a handful of banks, including Bank of China, ICBC, and China Merchants, al-
lowed Apple users to access online banking, but then of these only ICBC then gave Mac
users the complete range of functions. China Merchants, for example, allowed Mac users to
use the General Edition online banking, which allowed for viewing account details, but not
the Professional Edition, which allows for shopping and transactions. For this you needed
to have a PC.
You may need to upgrade your operating system—anything older than Snow Leopard
won't work for any online payment service, even Zhifubao. Next, you will need to go into
the bank with your passport to register for online banking. This may cost a small fee. They
will help you set up your online banking account, but once you get home, you'll also need
to download software from the bank's website onto your computer. Next, you may need
to experiment with browsers. Windows Explorer generally works best with Chinese sites,
while Opera, Safari, Firefox, and Chrome have varying levels of success.
Most banks have English-language hotlines, so before you jump into online banking, it's
recommended to call them first to ask exactly what the requirements are for banking and
what functions will be available to you with the computer system you have.
With fully fledged online banking, you'll be able to check balances, transfer payments to
other banks, and pay for products at online stores, such as Taobao, JD.com, and so on. Even
if your landlord has an account in a different bank, you'll be able to pay your rent without
leaving home. You will, however, still need to familiarize yourself with the Chinese on the
screen.
Phone Banking
Many banks now offer banking from your cell phone. Again, this isn't always easy for a
foreigner as you'll probably find the software is in Chinese only and may require a
sh
ē
nfèn-
zhèng
number for ID. If things don't work on your computer, this can be an avenue worth
