From landing to settling in Xining

Documents, housing, business, healthcare and schooling — who to see and what to bring at each step. Where an official text exists we link it; where a detail is unverified we say so.

1. Before you arrive

Residence permit for Taiwanese residents

Available to Taiwanese residents who have lived on the mainland for six months or more with lawful stable employment, residence or continuous study. Used for tickets, hotels, banking and social insurance. Apply at the public security bureau where you reside; documents and processing time follow the counter's requirements.

Taiwan Compatriot Permit (5-year) and endorsement

A valid permit is required whether you fly direct or via Hong Kong or Macao. For a first application, consult the local Taiwan Affairs Office or the exit-entry administration.

Work permit

Employers in Qinghai handle the employment formalities for Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan personnel with the human resources and social security authority. See related policies →

Accompanying family

Spouses and minor children may apply for residence alongside you; required documents follow the exit-entry administration.

2. Settling in

Renting a home

Rents in Xining are lower than in eastern provincial capitals. Every housing listing on this site comes from an official notice or verified source, with area, rent and the lessor's contact. Browse housing →

Bank account and payments

Open an account at any major bank with your permit or residence card. Enable mobile banking and mobile payments at the same time for everyday spending and bill payments.

Mobile number and broadband

Register a SIM in your own name at a carrier store with your permit — it is the basis for registering government and everyday service accounts later.

Driving licence and transport

A Taiwanese licence can be exchanged for a mainland one by passing the theory test (Subject 1) at the vehicle office where you reside.

3. Doing business

Company registration

Apply to the Xining market supervision administration as a limited liability company, partnership or other form. Taiwanese investment access follows the national negative list for foreign investment. See the negative list →

Premises

Factories, warehouses, offices and shops on this site each show their source and verification level — contact the lessor directly or ask the association to make the introduction. Browse premises →

Tax and social insurance

After registration, complete tax registration and set up social insurance. Taiwanese residents may join social insurance on the same terms as local employees.

Applying for incentives

Qinghai provincial and Xining municipal measures and industrial support funds are applied for annually; the association can help clarify the criteria and document checklist. See policies →

4. Daily life

Healthcare

With a residence card you can see a doctor at local hospitals and settle bills as provided; apply for a social security card first.

Schooling for children

Compulsory education is arranged by the local education bureau; senior high follows the local admissions policy for that year.

Legal and disputes

Cross-strait commercial disputes can be resolved by mediation, arbitration or litigation; the association can recommend local legal service providers.

Mutual support

In an emergency or difficulty, contact the secretariat and the association will coordinate with local Taiwanese businesses and the relevant authorities.

This describes the general route only and does not replace the requirements of the competent authority. Document lists, deadlines and fees follow the service counter and official notices; we never publish figures we have not verified.

Ask the association Read the policies