In recent years, Hainan has continued opening itself up to an unprecedented degree, with its visa-free entry policy making it easier for foreign travelers to visit Hainan and various policies attracting expats here to work, live, and study. Yet, for newcomers, getting their heads around linking their bank cards to WeChat Pay or Alipay, which apps to download, and how to pay for things can often be a challenge.

Not to worry, A Guide to Hainan for Expats released on March 24 has got you covered. This colorfully illustrated guide, produced by the Foreign Affairs Office of Hainan Province (Hainan FAO), explains in plain English various aspects of traveling, living, working, studying, and doing business in Hainan for the first time ever, providing useful information and step-by-step instructions for a range of services.

What’s in the Guide?

The guide is divided into four sections. The first section, “About Hainan”, provides a brief overview of Hainan, introducing its various names, statistics, and highlights.

The second section, Staying in Hainan, covers everything from what to do after arriving in Hainan, useful apps, payment options, getting connected, housing, and education to medical care, emergency services, climate and temperature, and public holidays and traditional festivals.

The third section, Explore Hainan, provides information on cultural venues, where to find in-depth travel info, where to shop, what to eat, and major events and competitions that Hainan hosts.

The final section of the guide, Local Services, tells you where to look up local news, learn about Hainan’s latest policies, how to start a business, and provides information on other policies that apply for foreign nationals and useful contact information.

In addition, QR codes throughout the main guide link to 35 in-depth articles and how-to guides, such as a list of duty-free shops in Hainan and applying for a Chinese driver’s license, while more than 40 apps and vendors are mentioned.

Where do I get a copy?

The electronic version of the guide has been launched and can be viewed on a number of platforms, including the Hainan FAO WeChat public account（海南外事）, the HICN website (www.hicn.cn), hiHainan WeChat public account, and HIMC’s various overseas social media accounts (Facebook, X, etc).

Hard copies of the guide will be available at various locations, such as Entry-Exit Administration service centers, airports, ferry terminals, and hotels throughout the province. They will also be handed out to attendees of the BFA 2024 annual conference to enable them to make the most of their time in Hainan.

According to the Hainan FAO, launching the Guide to Hainan for Expats is an important step in improving Hainan’s international service level. The guide is intended to serve as a detailed “encyclopedia” for foreign nationals visiting and living in Hainan and showcase the island province’s openness and charm, spread China’s voice, and draw even more foreign talent to Hainan.

View A Guide to Hainan for Expats: 

A Guide to Hainan for Expats.pdf