Money & Payments

1. Alipay for Foreign Visitors

Alipay is a widely used mobile payment platform in China. Eligible international visitors may be able to link a supported overseas bank card and use Alipay at participating merchants.

Getting started

1. Install the official Alipay app from your device’s app store.
2. Register using the details requested by the app.
3. Complete any identity verification required for your account.
4. Open the bank-card section and follow the instructions to add an eligible card.
5. Review the card details, payment terms and any applicable fees shown in the app.

Using Alipay

• Scan a merchant’s supported payment QR code, or present your payment code where accepted.
• Check the amount and currency before confirming a payment.
• Wait for the app to confirm that the transaction is successful.

Things to consider

• Not every overseas card or issuer is supported.
• Some transactions may require additional verification.
• Fees, limits and card eligibility can depend on the current app terms and payment provider.

2. WeChat Pay for Foreign Visitors

WeChat is a major communication and service app in China. Its WeChat Pay feature can be used for supported payments, and eligible international visitors may be able to link supported overseas bank cards.

Preparing WeChat Pay

1. Install the official WeChat app.
2. Create or sign in to your account and complete any requested verification.
3. Open the Wallet or payment section, if available for your account.
4. Follow the app’s instructions to add an eligible international bank card.
5. Review the terms, fees and any restrictions displayed during setup.

Using WeChat Pay

• Use the in-app scan function when a merchant displays a supported payment QR code.
• Show your payment code where the merchant accepts customer-presented codes.
• Check that the app confirms the transaction before you leave.

Things to consider

• Availability and card support may differ by account and card issuer.
• Some services may request extra identity checks.
• Payment acceptance varies by merchant and transaction type.

3. International Bank Cards

International bank cards, including supported Visa and Mastercard products, may be accepted directly at selected hotels, shops, restaurants, transport counters and other merchants. Acceptance is not universal, so check before relying on a card alone.

Before travelling

• Confirm with your bank that your card can be used in China.
• Check foreign transaction charges, exchange rates and cash withdrawal fees.
• Understand your bank’s fraud alerts and overseas transaction controls.
• Carry a second card, preferably stored separately from your primary card.
• Keep your bank’s official contact details accessible in case the card is blocked.

Where a physical card may help

• Hotels and larger establishments that accept international cards.
• Selected retail outlets and restaurants with compatible terminals.
• Some ATMs that support your card network.

4. RMB Cash in China

Renminbi (RMB), also called the yuan, is China’s official currency. Cash remains a useful option for visitors, particularly when a phone is out of battery, a payment app is unavailable or a merchant cannot process a digital payment.

When cash can be useful

• As a backup when mobile payments or card transactions fail.
• For small purchases where cash is accepted.
• When internet connectivity or phone access is unavailable.
• During unexpected situations when another payment method is not working.

Obtaining RMB

• Exchange currency through authorized exchange providers.
• Withdraw cash from ATMs that support your international bank card.
• Check exchange rates, withdrawal charges and any bank restrictions before use.

Handling cash

• Keep a modest amount for emergencies rather than carrying all your travel funds in cash.
• Store cash securely and separately from your cards.
• Keep smaller denominations where practical.
• Check your change after cash transactions.