Here’s a practical guide for foreigners on payment methods in China, covering online platforms and international banking services:

 

 

A Foreigner’s Guide to Payment Methods in China:

China’s cashless payment ecosystem is highly advanced, but it can be challenging for newcomers. Here’s a breakdown of how to navigate payments as a foreigner:

 

1. Mobile Payment Apps

a. WeChat Pay   

 

–<Setup: >–

  – Download WeChat (international version available).  

  – Link a foreign Visa/Mastercard: Go to *Me > Services > Wallet > Cards > Add a Card*.  

  – Complete verification with your passport.  

 

— <Usage>–

  – Scan QR codes at stores, restaurants, and street vendors.  

  – Pay utility bills, book taxis, or split bills with friends.  

 

– -<Limits>–

  – Foreign cards may have transaction limits (e.g., ¥6,000/month). Fees (3%) apply for some transactions.  

 

b. Alipay  

– -<Setup>–

  – Download Alipay (English version available).  

  – Link a foreign card via *Me > Bank Cards > Add Card*.  

  – Verify your identity with passport details.  

 

– -<Tour Pass Feature>– 

  – Preload funds (up to ¥10,000) via Alipay’s “Tour Pass” for small vendors.  

 

– -<Usage>–

  – Widely accepted for shopping, transportation (subway/buses), and food delivery.  

 

–Note: Both apps now support direct foreign card payments, but smaller vendors may only accept Chinese bank accounts. Always confirm before ordering!

 

—

 

2. Bank Cards & ATM Withdrawals  

Most international cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) work at ATMs and large chains. Key banks:  

 

a. Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC)

– ATMs: Accept foreign cards; withdraw RMB (daily limit ~¥10,000).  

 

– Currency Exchange: Visit branches with your passport.  

 

– Merchant Acceptance: ICBC POS terminals support Visa/Mastercard at hotels, malls, and upscale restaurants.  

 

b. Agricultural Bank of China (ABC)

– ATMs: Widely available; foreign card withdrawals (fee ~¥15-20 per transaction).  

 

– Cross-border Services: Supports foreign card payments at partnered merchants (look for ABC stickers).  

 

–<Tips>–

– Notify your home bank about travel plans to avoid blocks.  

– Use UnionPay ATMs for lower fees.  

 

—

 

3. Cash: Still Handy!

– Carry small amounts of RMB (¥100-200 notes) for markets, rural areas, or emergencies.  

– Exchange cash at airports/banks (passport required).  

 

—

 

4. Important Reminders  

 

– VPN: Access your banking apps by using a reliable VPN (China restricts some foreign services).  

 

– Language Barriers:  

  Use translation apps (e.g., Google Translate) for in-person transactions.  

 

  – Look for banks with English-speaking staff (common in major cities).  

 

– Security: Enable payment passwords and avoid public Wi-Fi for transactions.  

 

—

 

–<Conclusion>–

Combine mobile payments (WeChat/Alipay with foreign cards), international bank cards, and cash for a seamless experience. For long stays, consider opening a Chinese bank account with your passport and residence permit.  

 

By planning ahead, you’ll enjoy China’s ultra-convenient payment culture stress-free!