China CITIC Bank is a joint-stock bank with an early international footprint, known for expat banking and credit cards; its branches are mostly in cities.
Apply in person at a branch; call ahead to confirm the branch regularly handles foreign account openings. Foreign applicants: see the notes below.
CITIC branches accept foreign passports with a valid Chinese visa or residence permit, plus a mainland real-name mobile number. Branches vary a lot in how often they handle foreign account openings — call ahead and prefer branches in tier-1 cities.
These are stable, standing account benefits (not time-limited) — available as long as you qualify:
Conditionally. Foreigners holding a valid Chinese visa or residence permit can open an account in branch; tourist visas are usually declined, and fully remote opening from abroad is not possible.
No minimum deposit; account opening is free.
Residents: mainland ID card + real-name mobile number. Foreigners: passport + valid visa or residence permit + mainland real-name mobile number.
In person at a branch, about 30 minutes with the card issued on the spot.
Incomplete or non-compliant documents; inability to explain the account purpose or source of funds; identity or address requirements unmet.
Standing benefits: No Monthly Fee, No Min Deposit. Promotions change by region and quarter — always check the bank's official promo page (verified 2026-10).
Having documents ready lowers the chance of rejection; policies change, so confirm with the bank before applying.