There are definitely some frustrations related to money here.  Firstly, there are several limits to my accessing apps and purchasing due to my not having my final resident/work permit “visa”.  I’ve been here 6 weeks and still do not have the permanent documentation that allows life to run a bit simpler.  For instance, Citic bank does not allow foreigners to access any account information on their website or app.  They say that this is a government call, but then my co-workers, who maintain accounts elsewhere, claim they can use that bank’s app or website to access transaction and balance info.  Stupid Citic bank only offers text message info per transaction; if I need a balance inquiry, I must visit an ATM.  However, stupid Citic won’t even let me sign up for the text message service unless I have my passport in hand—despite the fact that the government is holding my passport until my visa processes.  The bank won’t accept the temporary government-issued work permit nor a copy of my passport.  So, I have to return to the branch when the govt finally issues my damn visa and returns my passport.  Good grief.

Secondly, I can’t do many things without my resident Visa card; for instance, the bike app that allows bike rentals will take my 200yuan deposit, but won’t let me finalize my registration without my visa registration #.  Aargh.  Why take my money and disallow me from using your bikes...?  Aargh.  

Just hassles and inconveniences is all, but irritating, LOL!

Looks like I will have to get a second bank account so that I can access account information.  Saving money is different here as well— there are restrictions and high fees associated with sending money home.  
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Hmmm.

And I haven’t finished the visa application and procurement process that continues in China!

On the bright side, money is good and there is plenty to bank with! ;-)