Expat Communities in China: Connect, Share, and Thrive
Moving to China as an au pair, student, or expat is an incredible adventure — but it can also feel overwhelming at first. Finding the right expat community can make all the difference in helping you adapt, build friendships, and feel at home while living abroad.
Why Join an Expat Community in China
When you arrive in a new country, connecting with others who share your experience is essential. Expat communities in China offer social support by allowing you to meet people who understand the challenges of moving abroad. They provide practical advice on everyday life, from visa renewals to healthcare tips. Many organize language exchange activities to help you improve your Mandarin, while also creating networking opportunities with professionals, students, and other au pairs. These groups also organize cultural events, allowing you to discover local traditions alongside other internationals. Whether you’re in Beijing, Shanghai, or Chengdu, joining an expat group is one of the best ways to start feeling at home in China.
Best Expat Communities for Au Pairs in Chengdu
- Chengdu International Women’s Club — A friendly community organizing cultural events and meetups.
- GoChengdu Expat Forum — Great for news, events, and classifieds tailored to foreigners in Chengdu.
- WeChat Expat Groups — Join via QR codes shared by your host family or other au pairs.
- Language Exchange Meetups — Perfect for practicing Mandarin while making friends.
Tip: We provide access to several exclusive WeChat groups for au pairs in Chengdu as part of our orientation week.
How to Find and Join Expat Communities
- WeChat — The most popular way for expats to connect in China. Search for groups or ask your agency to add you.
- Facebook & Meetup — While Facebook is blocked in China without a VPN, many communities still organize events through these platforms.
- City-specific forums — Sites like GoChengdu and SmartShanghai are excellent resources for local events and advice.
- Language schools & cultural centers — Many schools organize events open to expats and locals alike.
Benefits for Au Pairs Joining Expat Groups
Joining an expat community while on an au pair program offers a strong support network when you’re far from home. You’ll gain valuable insights into Chinese culture and traditions, improve your Mandarin through language exchanges, and get access to recommendations for weekend trips, restaurants, and cultural activities. It’s also a great opportunity to build lifelong friendships with people from around the world.
FAQ – Expat Communities in China
Are there many expat communities in China?
Yes! China has a large and active expat population, especially in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Chengdu.
Do I need a VPN to access expat groups online?
Sometimes. While WeChat is fully accessible, platforms like Facebook and Instagram require a VPN.
Can I join expat groups before arriving in China?
Absolutely. Many groups allow you to join in advance, which is a great way to start meeting people and preparing for your move.
Do expat groups help with learning Chinese?
Yes! Many organize language exchange meetups, making it easier to improve your Mandarin while meeting new friends.
Masons Au Pair Helps You Connect
We don’t just help you find a host family — we also make sure you integrate smoothly into your new life in China. As part of our program, you’ll get access to exclusive WeChat expat groups, receive tips and guides for making friends in China, and join cultural exchange activities organized by our team.
Join Our Au Pair Program