Starting your journey as an au pair in China or as an international student is more than just a trip—it’s a life-changing adventure that opens doors to cultural exchange, language immersion, personal development, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re planning to join a host family through an au pair program in China or enroll in a university as a foreign student, the experience promises growth on both a personal and academic level.
Living in China offers a unique opportunity to explore Chinese culture, learn Mandarin, and build strong connections with locals and fellow international travelers. From exploring ancient temples to enjoying street food in bustling cities, every day brings new discoveries. However, amidst all the excitement, it’s essential to prioritize your health, safety, and legal responsibilities.
This complete guide is designed for anyone preparing to study abroad in China or participate in a cultural exchange program. You’ll learn everything you need to stay safe and thrive—visa regulations, health insurance, host family life, daily routines, emergency contacts, and more. With the right preparation, you’ll step confidently into your new environment and enjoy a smooth, fulfilling stay in one of the world’s most dynamic countries.
Health & Safety Basics
Health Insurance: Non-Negotiable
Before moving to China as an au pair or international student, it’s crucial to make sure your health and emergency insurance is properly set up. This isn’t just a formality—it’s your safety net while living abroad.
Most au pair programs in China either include comprehensive medical coverage or require you to purchase your own plan before arrival. This typically covers doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and even emergency evacuation, which can otherwise cost thousands.
If you’re coming as a student on a Chinese visa, most universities offer a low-cost student insurance plan, often under $100 USD per academic year. It’s a simple and affordable way to stay protected throughout your program.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t skip the pre-departure preparation! We strongly recommend attending all orientation sessions and reviewing your top 5 things to know before becoming an au pair in China to fully understand the health and safety landscape.
By securing the right insurance in advance, you’re not only complying with program rules—you’re setting yourself up for a smooth and stress-free stay in China.
Living with a Host Family (for Au Pairs)
As an au pair in China, you’ll typically live with a Chinese host family in a private, fully furnished bedroom equipped with Wi-Fi, providing you with a comfortable and stable environment to immerse yourself in local culture.
Meals are included, but it’s important to clearly communicate any dietary restrictions or food allergies before your arrival. Chinese cuisine can vary greatly by region, so don’t hesitate to express your preferences or limitations during the first days. For more insights on adapting to local eating habits, check out our guide on cultural surprises you’ll experience as an au pair in China.
Your responsibilities will typically involve around 30 hours per week of childcare and light household tasks, depending on your agreement. Most au pairs also enjoy 1.5 to 2 full days off per week, giving you time to relax, explore the area, or even join local adventure activities.
Living with a host family is one of the most enriching aspects of the au pair experience, allowing you to build meaningful connections while gaining a deeper understanding of daily life in China.
Legal and Administrative Essentials
Visa Types
Getting the right Chinese visa is a key step before starting your journey. Whether you’re applying as an au pair or a foreign student, your visa type will depend on the duration of your stay and the nature of your program.
For short-term programs (less than 6 months), you’ll need either an F visa (exchange programs) or an X2 visa (short-term study).
For programs lasting longer than 6 months, you’ll be required to apply for an X1 student visa.
It’s important to note that if you leave China during your stay, you might need to apply for a new visa, which can take approximately 4–7 working days to process. Always check with your agency or school before planning any trips outside of China.
To better understand which visa suits your profile, read our complete guide: How to get your Chinese visa.
Need help choosing the right city or school? Explore our Top 5 Mandarin schools in China to plan your ideal exchange experience.
Other Documents and Setup
Once you arrive in China, your au pair agency or study abroad program will likely assist you with the basic administrative steps to help you settle in quickly and comfortably. These include:
Getting a local Chinese SIM card, which is essential for using navigation apps, messaging platforms, and receiving important updates from your host family or university.
Opening a Chinese bank account, allowing you to manage your finances, receive possible stipends, and link to local payment apps.
Setting up mobile payment tools like WeChat Pay or Alipay, which are used for nearly everything in daily life—from groceries and transportation to restaurants and tourist attractions.
For a deeper understanding of daily life in China, including what to expect with budgeting and spending, check out our article on the cost of living as an au pair in China.
These small but crucial steps will help you feel confident and connected as you begin your cultural exchange experience.
Personal Safety Tips
Staying safe while living in China as an au pair or international student is all about being informed, respectful, and proactive. Here are a few key tips to help you avoid trouble and enjoy a worry-free stay:
Avoid bringing restricted or illegal items such as airsoft guns, spring-loaded toys, or imitation weapons. These may be considered illegal in China and can lead to serious consequences.
Stay in close contact with your local program coordinator or advisor, who serves as your first point of support in case of emergencies or misunderstandings.
Be transparent and communicative with your host family from the beginning. Clarify expectations around duties, time off, and house rules to ensure a harmonious relationship.
Research your host family ahead of time, especially if you’re new to cultural exchange. Understanding their background and lifestyle will help you feel more prepared and reduce anxiety.
If you’re unsure about what to expect when living with locals, our article on the top 5 things to know before becoming an au pair in China offers valuable insights into communication, cultural norms, and daily life.
Building a foundation of trust and staying aware of local laws will ensure you have a safe, enriching, and drama-free experience abroad.
Staying Healthy in China
Vaccinations
Before starting your au pair or study abroad journey, make sure your routine vaccinations are fully up to date. This includes common immunizations such as MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), hepatitis A and B, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, and polio.
Depending on your destination in China and the season, your doctor may also recommend additional vaccines, such as typhoid, rabies, or Japanese encephalitis—especially if you plan to travel to rural areas or stay for an extended period.
💡 Tip: It’s best to consult your doctor at least 6 weeks before departure to allow time for any necessary boosters or follow-up shots.
For a broader overview of how to prepare mentally and physically, don’t miss our Ultimate Guide to Experiencing Life as an Au Pair in China, where we cover health, daily life, and cultural adaptation tips in detail.
Protecting your health from day one ensures a safer, smoother, and more enjoyable experience in China.
Food & Water Safety
Food is a major part of the cultural experience when living in China, and trying local dishes can be one of the most exciting aspects of your au pair or study abroad journey. However, it’s important to stay mindful of food safety and dietary needs to avoid health issues.
Whenever possible, eat meals with your host family or at trusted local restaurants and cafeterias. Avoid street food from unknown vendors, especially if you have a sensitive stomach or food allergies.
Be sure to communicate clearly with your host family about any dietary restrictions, allergies, or preferences as early as possible. Many Chinese families are unfamiliar with Western allergies like gluten intolerance or lactose sensitivity, so clear explanations are key.
Want to learn more about navigating culture shock at the dinner table? Check out our article on the 5 cultural surprises you’ll experience as an au pair in China.
By being cautious and transparent, you can enjoy delicious Chinese cuisine while staying healthy and safe throughout your stay.
Medical Access
Knowing how to access medical services in China is a key part of staying safe during your au pair or student exchange program. While major cities offer modern hospitals and international clinics, it’s essential to plan ahead—especially if you’re staying in smaller towns.
Locate the nearest hospital or clinic shortly after arrival. Ask your host family, program coordinator, or university for recommendations.
Keep a physical card or note with your Chinese address and emergency contacts written in Mandarin. This is incredibly helpful if you ever need to ask for help or take a taxi to a medical facility.
Even with mobile apps, language barriers can cause delays in stressful moments—so being prepared can make a real difference.
For more practical advice on everyday life and staying safe while abroad, check out our comprehensive Ultimate Guide to Experiencing Life as an Au Pair in China.
Having a health plan in place gives you peace of mind so you can fully enjoy your experience in China.
For International Students
If you’re coming to China as an international student, make sure to attend your university’s orientation events. These sessions are a goldmine of information designed to help you settle in, stay healthy, and thrive during your stay.
During orientation, you’ll learn about:
🏥 On-campus health services and how to access medical care as a foreign student
🧠 Mental health support available to help you manage homesickness, stress, or cultural adjustment
🚨 Local emergency procedures and who to contact in case of urgent situations
Many students overlook these free tools—but they can make a big difference in your experience abroad. Whether you need help with medical concerns or simply want someone to talk to, these services are there to support you.
To learn more about what to expect when starting your journey, take a look at our guide on Top 5 Things to Know Before Becoming an Au Pair in China—many tips also apply to students.
Using these resources wisely will help you feel more confident, safe, and connected throughout your time in China.
Whether you’re participating in a cultural exchange program, starting a new life as an au pair in China, or beginning your study abroad adventure at a Chinese university, one thing is certain: the key to success is preparation.
By staying informed about health insurance, visa procedures, host family life, and safety practices, you’ll not only protect yourself—you’ll also gain the confidence to truly enjoy the richness of Chinese culture.
From everyday routines to bigger cultural surprises, knowing what to expect can make all the difference. We strongly recommend reading our Ultimate Guide to Experiencing Life as an Au Pair in China to dive deeper into the full journey that awaits you.
Now is the perfect time to plan your next step. With the right preparation, your experience in China will be safe, meaningful, and unforgettable.
🏫 Additional Info for Exchange Students Living in China
If you’re planning to study abroad in China as an exchange student, it’s essential to understand the local culture, health system, and administrative requirements. Many international programs offer guidance through orientation sessions, student advising, and intercultural training before departure.
Whether you’re here for a spring semester, a full year, or just a homestay program, make sure to confirm all necessary documents, including your transcript, proof of language proficiency, and student visa. Don’t forget to review your application process, deadlines, and host university contacts.
Living off campus or with a host family can be a rewarding way to immerse yourself in the cross-cultural experience. You’ll meet new friends, discover American culture from a Chinese perspective, and broaden your international education.
Resources such as your school’s international office or exchange partner can help you navigate the experience — from healthcare, insurance, and student health requirements, to managing internships, weekend travel, and understanding your home-country’s embassy rules in China.
🎒 Preparing for Your Study Abroad Experience in China
Before your departure to China as an exchange student or international au pair, it’s essential to prepare all the necessary documents and get familiar with the local healthcare system, administrative processes, and safety practices.
Make sure to start your application process early. This includes checking your application deadline, collecting your transcript, and confirming your student visa requirements. If you’re part of a homestay program or international student exchange, your home-country’s academic advisor or exchange program coordinator can support you during the orientation phase.
It’s also helpful to review any available student health resources and understand what’s covered by your insurance. Knowing how to access care on or off campus, navigate pharmacies, and communicate in emergencies will help you feel more confident and secure.
Your study abroad experience in China will also help you develop intercultural skills, adapt to a cross-cultural environment, and broaden your knowledge of both Chinese culture and the expectations of your host family.
Don’t forget to attend any information session offered by your international program or host university, and always keep copies of important documents like your handbook, ID, and medical forms.
🎓 Practical Tips for Exchange Students Studying Abroad in China
For many exchange students, preparing to study abroad in China is a major step toward building international experience and gaining new academic and life skills. Whether you’re here for a semester, a year abroad, or a summer abroad program, taking the time to plan is essential.
Start by reviewing the admissions process and contacting your study abroad office or education abroad advisor. Prepare key documents such as transcripts, your visa, and proof of language proficiency (like the TOEFL). Be mindful of deadlines, especially if you’re applying for financial-aid or navigating tuition and coursework from different countries.
If you’re attending colleges or universities with English-speaking programs, check whether there are language courses for additional support. You can also join intern or enrichment activities on campus, especially during fall semester orientation.
Living on or near campuses in China may differ from your home-country, especially in terms of healthcare access, safety tips, and cultural norms. Whether you’re part of a student exchange program, a high school exchange, or a university-level initiative, this is a chance to grow through lifelong learning and higher-education exploration.
Be ready to adapt, apply what you learn in the real world, and embrace the full scope of international study and study abroad opportunities China has to offer.