Banking experience for foreigners
Bank of China has the longest international history of China's state-owned banks and remains the institution most oriented towards cross-border financial services. For foreigners, this translates into a more practised process for account opening, foreign-currency exchange, and international wire transfers than at some rival state banks.
Foreign nationals can open an account with a passport and a Chinese mobile number; a residence permit is required at most branches for a full-function account with internet banking enabled. Temporary visitors holding a tourist visa may be limited to a restricted-function card at some branches — it is worth calling ahead to confirm current policy at the specific branch you plan to visit.
BoC's foreign-exchange operations are a particular strength: the bank quotes competitive rates for USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, JPY, HKD, SGD, and other currencies. In-branch FX counters operate during standard banking hours. International remittance is well-handled, and BoC's SWIFT relationships are among the broadest of any Chinese bank.
The online banking platform and mobile app both carry English interfaces. Customer service at major city branches is more likely to have English-capable staff than at smaller branches.
Key services
BoC provides retail accounts, mortgages, foreign-currency deposits, wealth management products, letters of credit, and trade finance. Its international department in key cities handles complex cross-border transactions for foreign-invested enterprises and individual high-net-worth clients. Student remittance packages — supporting overseas tuition payments — are a commonly used retail product for Chinese families.
Mobile app and digital banking
The Bank of China mobile app (中银手机银行) has a functional English interface. QR-code payments via UnionPay are supported. NFC payments on Android handsets are available where the bank card has the contactless chip enabled.
Where to find branches
BoC has branches throughout China. Its international-service desks are most developed in Beijing (Xicheng headquarters, Wangfujing), Shanghai (Pudong, Lujiazui), Guangzhou, and Shenzhen. Airport branches at major hubs (PEK, PVG, CAN) offer extended FX hours.