Yes, you can absolutely get your housing fund back when you leave China, and the process is often more straightforward than expats assume. The entire procedure hinges on one critical document: your Termination of Labor Contract Certificate. This official paper, provided by your employer, is the key that unlocks the withdrawal process at your local housing fund center. Without it, you cannot proceed, so securing this from your HR department in a timely manner should be your number one priority before your final day of work.