Go2China
Setup Guide
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Download the App
Search 'DingTalk' on App Store or Google Play. DingTalk has an official English interface — switch language in Settings after installing.
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Register with Phone
Register using your phone number. International numbers are accepted. You can use DingTalk in personal mode without a company, but most features require joining an organisation.
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Join Your Organisation
Your employer or school admin sends an invitation link or QR code. Open the link or scan the code to join the workspace. This unlocks attendance, tasks, and shared documents.
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Attendance Check-In (打卡)
Many Chinese companies require daily clock-in via DingTalk. Go to Workbench → Attendance → Check In. Your GPS location is recorded — make sure location access is enabled.
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Join a Video Meeting
Tap the + button → Video Conference, or paste a meeting link from a host. External users can join via link without needing a DingTalk account.
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Switch to English
Go to Me → Settings → General → Language and select English. Most core features are translated; some admin-side functions remain in Chinese.
Field Notes
Real-world tips from users in China
- DingTalk is the standard tool for Chinese companies and schools — if you work or study in China, you will almost certainly need it.
- The attendance check-in (打卡) function is a core part of Chinese workplace culture — it records your clock-in time and GPS location.
- Video meetings support external guests via shareable link — guests do not need a DingTalk account to join.
- File attachments have generous size limits compared to WeChat — useful for sharing large documents within a team.
- The English interface covers everyday use well; Alibaba has invested significantly in internationalising the product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use DingTalk in China without a company invitation?
You can register a basic account, but full workspace features require an invitation from a company or school administrator. Without one, your access to chats, documents, and team tools will be limited.
Is DingTalk available in English for foreign users?
DingTalk's interface is primarily in Chinese, though basic navigation is manageable. Foreign workers in China often use it once their employer sets up the account and invites them to the company workspace.
Do I need a Chinese phone number to register for DingTalk?
Yes, registration requires a Chinese mobile number to receive an SMS verification code. Foreign employees typically register using a local work SIM provided by their employer in China.
Does DingTalk work in China without a VPN?
Yes. DingTalk is a domestic Alibaba service and runs smoothly on mainland Chinese networks. It is widely used by businesses and schools across the country without any VPN requirement.
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