China is the most cashless major economy on the planet. The two payment apps that dominate — WeChat Pay and Alipay — were originally designed for Chinese users only. The good news? Things have changed dramatically. Both now open to foreign users with international card linking.
The Two Payment Apps You Need
WeChat Pay
- What it is: China’s super-app — messaging, social media, payments, everything
- Foreign card support: Yes, Visa/Mastercard can be linked since 2024
Alipay
- What it is: China’s other payment giant, owned by Ant Group
- Foreign card support: Yes, Visa/Mastercard/Discover/JCB supported
Do you need both? Not necessarily, but having both gives you backup coverage.
How to Set Up WeChat Pay
- Download WeChat from your app store
- Register with your phone number
- Tap “Me” → “Pay” → “Wallet”
- Tap “Add a payment method” → “International Bank Card”
- Enter your card details (Visa or Mastercard)
- Verify with SMS code from your bank
- Done! You can now scan QR codes to pay
Important notes:
- You’ll need to verify your identity (passport photo + selfie)
- Small foreign transaction fee (usually 2–3%)
- Daily and monthly limits apply (typically $10,000 USD equivalent)
How to Set Up Alipay
- Download Alipay from your app store
- Register with your phone number
- Tap “Me” → “Bank Cards” → “Add”
- Enter your international card details
- Verify with SMS
- Complete identity verification if prompted
- Start paying!
Pro tip: Look for the “Tour Card” feature — designed specifically for foreign visitors.
What If I Don’t Want to Use Apps?
Option 1: Cash Still Works
- Get cash from ATMs (ICBC, Bank of China accept foreign cards)
- Exchange at banks (not airports — worse rates)
- Always carry some cash for emergencies
Option 2: International Credit Cards
Visa/Mastercard accepted at international hotels, upscale restaurants, major department stores. NOT accepted at: Street food stalls, small shops, most local restaurants, taxis.
Common Payment Scenarios
- Street food: WeChat Pay / Alipay / Cash
- Taxi (DiDi): WeChat Pay / Alipay
- Metro: WeChat Pay / Alipay / Cash
- Restaurant: WeChat Pay / Alipay / Cash
- Hotel: Credit Card / WeChat Pay / Alipay
- Shopping mall: All options
Currency Tips
- Exchange rate: Approximately 7.2 RMB = 1 USD
- Tipping: Not customary in China
- Bargaining: Common in markets, not in stores
Summary Checklist
Before you arrive in China:
- Download WeChat and Alipay
- Register and link your international card
- Enable international transactions on your bank card
- Get some RMB cash as backup
- Download Trip.com for bookings
For more travel tips, check out our Ultimate China Travel Guide and Is China Safe for Tourists?
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