A Chinese citizen living overseas can usually keep the basic pension going. The conditions are worth settling early, not at retirement age.
The basic rule
A Chinese citizen who keeps their nationality can generally continue contributing to the basic pension while abroad, and claim it at the statutory retirement age, subject to the local scheme's contribution and residence rules.
Short histories
Where total contributions fall short of the statutory minimum, extension or top-up may be available; whether an individual can do this without a mainland employing entity varies by locality.
Where to claim
The place of claim follows the rule of longest contribution, then the last contribution. For cross-border histories this decides which local scheme's rules apply.
Proof of life
Once a pension is being drawn abroad, a periodic proof-of-life document is generally required. Missing it interrupts payment.
Act early, not at retirement
These questions are cheaper to settle while you still have a presence in the scheme than at the age you want the money.