1. The "Six-Year Rule" (Worldwide Tax)
China taxes foreigners on Worldwide Income (including Indian interest, rent, etc.) only if they reside in China for 6 consecutive years without a break.
Clock started reset on Jan 1, 2019. First batch hits 6 years in 2025.
The "Tax Break" Reset
To reset the 6-year clock and avoid tax on global income, you must perform a "Tax Break":
Clock is Ticking...
If you don't take a break, your Global Income becomes taxable in Year 7.
2. Sending Money Home (SAFE Compliance)
China has strict capital controls. You cannot simply transfer RMB to INR.
Tax Proof
Visit Local Tax Bureau. Get "Tax Record" showing IIT paid on salary.
Bank Application
Submit employment contract, payslips, passport, and Tax Record to bank.
Conversion
Bank converts RMB to USD (Spot Rate). Daily limit depends on proven post-tax income.
Remittance
USD sent to India via SWIFT. Indian bank converts USD to INR (NRE/NRO).
4. Income Matrix (DTAA)
China Salary
👷China: Taxed at progressive rates (3% - 45%).
India: Exempt (for NRIs).
NRE Interest
🏦India: Tax Free.
China: Taxable *IF* you hit the 6-Year Residency rule. Otherwise, generally exempt if not remitted (under old rules) or if under 6 years.
Royalties/Fees
📜DTAA: India-China Treaty limits tax on Royalties/Fees for Technical Services to 10%.
Useful for consultants invoicing Indian clients from China.
3. Social Insurance Refund
Foreigners must contribute to Chinese Social Insurance (Pension, Medical, etc.). When you leave China permanently, you can withdraw the Personal Account portion.
The Breakdown (Approx Rates)
*Rates vary by city (Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen).
Before leaving China, visit the Social Insurance Bureau to apply for lump-sum withdrawal. It can be a significant amount (e.g., 8% of salary x years worked).