How Foreigners Can Use Payment Methods in China

The issue of payments for foreigners visiting China has garnered significant attention. After a series of preliminary efforts and advancements, on March 14, 2024, the People’s Bank of China released a bilingual payment guide, introducing various payment services and usage procedures to foreigners visiting China.

Bank Cards

If foreigners in China possess bank cards bearing logos such as UnionPay, Visa, or Mastercard, they can make card payments at merchants with the corresponding acceptance logos. If there is no logo, they can ask the cashier whether the card can be used for payment. For those with UnionPay cards, they can be used at any merchant in China with card payment terminals.

Mobile Payments

With just a mobile phone, foreigners can also access convenient payment services, including options such as Alipay, WeChat Pay, and Cloud QuickPass. According to the People’s Bank of China’s payment guide, transactions below a certain amount do not require identity information to be collected.

Using mobile payments usually involves four steps: downloading the app, registering or logging in with a phone number, linking a bank card within the app, and then making payments by scanning a QR code. However, the supported bank cards may vary depending on the payment service provider.

The guide also explains how to use the “Travel Card” for payments. The Travel Card is a prepaid card that foreigners can apply for and recharge via the Cloud QuickPass app, and then use for daily online and offline purchases.

Additionally, certain foreign e-wallets can be smoothly used at domestic merchants. Users of the following foreign e-wallets can directly make payments with their existing wallets without needing to download any additional apps.

Cash

If foreigners in China need Chinese yuan in cash, they can withdraw it using their bank cards at ATMs with the corresponding clearing network logos. They can also exchange foreign currency cash for Chinese yuan at bank branches, foreign currency exchange institutions, and self-service exchange machines that display the currency exchange logo.

Bank Accounts

Foreigners visiting China can open a local and foreign currency bank account by presenting their passport or other valid identification at nearby bank branches. Commercial banks like the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), Agricultural Bank of China, Bank of China, China Construction Bank, and Bank of Communications offer account opening services. Once an account is opened, they can enjoy services such as deposits and withdrawals in both yuan and foreign currency, foreign exchange, domestic transfers, cross-border remittances, and payments.

Digital RMB

As the pilot programs for the digital RMB continue to expand, many foreigners have shown great interest in using digital RMB. The payment guide also introduces the usage of digital RMB. Mobile users can download and install the “Digital RMB (Pilot Version)” app from app stores and follow the in-app instructions for use. The guide also notes the regions where digital RMB is currently available for registration and use.

For more detailed information, you can visit the People’s Bank of China’s website.