How to Pay in China as Foreign Travelers: Alipay & WeChat

Zoella Last updated 26 Aug 2026

Traveling to China means entering one of the world's most cashless societies, where paying in China happens almost exclusively through mobile payment apps. If you're wondering how to pay in China as a foreign visitor, you're not alone. For more travel tips, check out our Many travelers arrive expecting to use credit cards or cash, only to explore that most vendors, restaurants, and even street food stalls rely on QR code payments. This comprehensive guide explains exactly how to pay for things in China, from setting up Alipay and WeChat Pay to understanding what currency to use in China and navigating the occasional cash-only situation.

Understanding China payment methods before your trip is essential for a smooth travel experience. Whether you're planning to explore Beijing's ancient sites, shop in Shanghai's modern malls, or taste street food in Chengdu, knowing payment methods in China as a foreigner will save you from awkward moments and missed opportunities. For travelers who prefer guided tours where payment logistics are handled for you, browse China vacation packages at Tours4fun.

Understanding China's Cashless Society

China has undergone a digital payment revolution over the past decade that has fundamentally transformed how people buy goods and services. Unlike Western countries where credit cards dominate, China leapfrogged directly from cash to mobile payments. Today, over 80% of smartphone users in China use mobile payment apps for daily transactions, from buying groceries to paying utility bills. This shift happened so rapidly that many small businesses no longer accept cash, and some restaurants have eliminated cash registers entirely.

Chinese Payment Apps

The two dominant players in this ecosystem are Alipay (owned by Alibaba) and WeChat Pay (owned by Tencent). Together, they control over 90% of the mobile payment market. When you learn how to use Alipay in China or set up WeChat Pay, you unlock the ability to pay for virtually anything, anywhere in the country. From luxury hotels to street vendors selling skewers, everyone uses these platforms. The convenience is remarkable: no need to carry wallets, no waiting for card terminals, no foreign transaction fees. Simply scan a QR code, enter the amount, and the transaction completes in seconds.

wechat pay

For foreign travelers, this system initially seems impenetrable. After all, these apps were designed for Chinese users with Chinese bank accounts. However, both Alipay and WeChat Pay have recently opened their platforms to international users, making it possible for visitors to participate in China's cashless economy. The setup process requires some patience and preparation, but once configured, you'll find that paying in China becomes one of the most convenient aspects of your trip.

What Currency to Use in China

The official currency of China is the Renminbi (RMB), also known as the Chinese Yuan (CNY). When people ask what currency to use in China, the answer is straightforward: you'll be using RMB for all transactions, whether through mobile payments, cash, or the rare credit card acceptance. The currency comes in both coins and banknotes, with denominations ranging from 1 fen (the smallest unit, rarely seen) to 100 yuan notes. Common banknotes include 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 yuan, while coins come in 1 jiao (0.1 yuan), 5 jiao (0.5 yuan), and 1 yuan denominations.

guilin

While you might wonder if you should bring foreign currency to exchange, the reality is that China's banking system makes it relatively easy to obtain RMB upon arrival. Major airports have currency exchange counters, and ATMs throughout cities accept international debit and credit cards. However, carrying large amounts of cash becomes impractical when most vendors prefer digital payments. The smart approach is to bring a small amount of cash as backup, set up Alipay or WeChat Pay before your trip, and use ATMs to withdraw RMB as needed. This combination ensures you can handle any payment situation, from high-end restaurants to rural markets.

It's worth noting that while some tourist-oriented businesses in major cities might accept US dollars or euros, this is the exception rather than the rule. You should never rely on foreign currency for daily expenses. Instead, focus on mastering the mobile payment systems that locals use. Once you understand paying in China as a foreigner through these apps, you'll find that cash becomes almost unnecessary for day-to-day transactions.

How to Use Alipay in China: Complete Setup Guide

Alipay has become the most foreigner-friendly of China's payment platforms, actively courting international users with English interfaces and simplified verification processes. To learn how to use Alipay in China, start by downloading the app from your device's app store. The international version, called Alipay or Alipay HK depending on your region, offers an English interface that makes navigation much easier for non-Chinese speakers. Once installed, you'll need to register with your phone number and complete identity verification by uploading your passport photo and personal information. This verification process typically takes one to three business days, so don't wait until the last minute.

alipay

After verification, the next step is linking a payment method. Alipay now accepts international credit and debit cards from major providers like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Simply navigate to the bank card section in the app and add your card details. You'll receive a verification code from your bank to confirm the linkage. Once your card is connected, you can top up your Alipay balance or pay directly from your linked card. The app automatically converts foreign currencies to RMB at competitive exchange rates, though your home bank may charge foreign transaction fees.

Using Alipay for payments is remarkably simple. Most merchants display a QR code at their counter, which you scan using the app's built-in scanner. You enter the payment amount, confirm the transaction with your password or fingerprint, and the payment completes instantly. For travelers who prefer having everything arranged, Some larger merchants use a different system where you show your payment code (found in the app's pay section) and the merchant scans it with their device. Both methods are equally common and equally fast. The transaction history in the app helps you track spending, and you can split bills with friends or request money transfers through the same interface. China tours handle all local transactions.

How to Use WeChat Pay: Alternative Payment Option

WeChat Pay operates within the broader WeChat ecosystem, China's super-app that combines messaging, social media, and mobile payments into one platform. While slightly more challenging for foreigners to set up than Alipay, WeChat Pay remains essential because some merchants exclusively accept WeChat payments. To access how to pay for things in China through WeChat, first download the WeChat app and create an account using your phone number. The registration process requires verification through an existing WeChat user, which can be challenging if you don't know anyone in China. However, the platform has recently relaxed this requirement for international users, allowing registration without an existing user's verification in many cases.

wechat pay

Once registered, navigate to the Wallet section and add your international credit or debit card. WeChat Pay's acceptance of foreign cards has improved significantly, though some users report occasional issues with certain card types. After linking your card, you can use WeChat Pay similarly to Alipay: scan merchant QR codes or show your payment code for merchants to scan. The interface is primarily in Chinese, which presents a learning curve, but the payment process itself is intuitive once you understand the basic flow. WeChat Pay also allows you to send and receive money from contacts, split expenses, and even pay for services like ride-hailing and food delivery within the app.

The advantage of having both Alipay and WeChat Pay set up is redundancy. If one system experiences technical issues or a particular merchant only accepts one platform, you have a backup. Many locals maintain balances in both apps and use them interchangeably depending on the situation. As a foreign traveler, setting up both platforms maximizes your payment flexibility and ensures you can handle virtually any transaction you encounter during your stay.

Other Payment Methods for Foreign Travelers

While mobile payments dominate China's payment landscape, other methods still exist for specific situations. Credit cards from major international providers work at high-end hotels, luxury retailers, and international chain restaurants in major cities. However, acceptance drops dramatically outside these premium venues. Many mid-range restaurants, local shops, and transportation services don't accept foreign credit cards at all. If you plan to rely on credit cards, research your accommodations and planned activities in advance to confirm acceptance, and always carry a mobile payment backup.

Cash remains legal tender in China, and businesses cannot legally refuse it. However, the practical reality is that many vendors, particularly in urban areas, don't keep cash registers or may struggle to make change for large bills. If you do use cash, carry smaller denominations when possible. ATMs are widely available in cities and accept international cards, though your home bank may charge withdrawal fees and the ATM itself might impose additional charges. When withdrawing cash, choose ATMs affiliated with major banks like Bank of China, ICBC, or China Construction Bank for the best reliability and English-language interfaces.

Travel cards and prepaid options offer another avenue for managing payments. Some travelers obtain Chinese prepaid cards upon arrival, though these require passport registration and have usage limits. UnionPay, China's domestic card network, partners with some international banks to offer co-branded cards that work throughout China. However, these options require advance planning and may not be worth the effort for short trips. For most travelers, the combination of Alipay, WeChat Pay, a small amount of cash, and an international credit card for emergencies provides comprehensive coverage of all payment scenarios you'll encounter.

Practical Tips for Paying in China

Before departing for China, test your Alipay and WeChat Pay setups thoroughly. Make a small transaction at home if possible, or at least ensure the apps are fully functional and your cards are properly linked. Notify your home bank of your travel plans to China to prevent them from flagging your Chinese transactions as suspicious and blocking your cards. Download offline maps and translation apps, as you'll need these when navigating payment situations in areas with limited English signage.

When you arrive in China, prioritize getting connected to the internet. Both Alipay and WeChat Pay require active internet connections to process payments. Purchase a Chinese SIM card at the airport or ensure your international roaming plan includes data. Without internet access, your mobile payment apps become useless. Consider carrying a portable WiFi device as backup, especially if you're traveling to rural areas where cellular coverage might be spotty.

Keep screenshots of important information like your payment codes, transaction confirmations, and customer service contacts. These can be invaluable if you encounter technical issues or disputes. Save the customer service numbers for both Alipay and WeChat Pay, as well as your bank's international assistance line. When making large purchases, always request and keep receipts, as you may need them for returns, exchanges, or expense reports. For expensive items like electronics or jewelry, verify the merchant's return policy before completing the transaction.

Be aware of exchange rates and fees. While the app and WeChat Pay offer competitive rates, your home bank might charge foreign transaction fees on top of the converted amount. Some travelers find it cost-effective to load money onto their payment apps in larger chunks rather than making frequent small transactions, minimizing the number of times they incur conversion fees. Monitor your spending through the apps' built-in tracking features to stay within your budget and avoid unpleasant surprises when you return home.

Mastering Payment in China

Understanding Chinese payment systems as a foreigner is no longer optional—it's essential for enjoying a smooth travel experience in one of the world's most cashless societies. By setting up the app and this payment option before your trip, carrying some backup cash, and knowing what currency to use in China, you'll be prepared for any payment situation you encounter. The initial setup requires some effort, but once configured, mobile payments offer unparalleled convenience and are accepted virtually everywhere.

The key to success is preparation. Download the apps, complete verification, link your cards, and test everything before you leave home. Bring a portable charger, get a local SIM card for data, and keep customer service numbers handy. With these preparations complete, you'll find that paying in China becomes one of the easiest parts of your trip, allowing you to focus on exploring this remarkable country rather than worrying about transactions.

FAQ

Can I use my credit card everywhere in China?

No, credit card acceptance in China is limited primarily to high-end hotels, luxury retailers, and international chain restaurants in major cities. Most local businesses, restaurants, transportation services, and small shops only accept mobile payments through the payment platform or WeChat Pay. You should never rely solely on credit cards when traveling in China.

Can I use cash if I prefer not to use mobile payments?

Yes, cash is legal tender in China and businesses cannot legally refuse it. However, many vendors, especially in urban areas, don't keep cash registers or may struggle to make change. You might encounter situations where a vendor asks you to pay through mobile payment even if you offer cash. While you can insist on paying with cash, it's often more convenient to use mobile payments like everyone else. Carrying a mix of cash and mobile payment options gives you maximum flexibility.

What currency should I bring to China?

You should use Chinese Yuan (RMB) for all transactions in China. While you can bring foreign currency like US dollars or euros to exchange, it's more practical to withdraw RMB directly from ATMs using your international debit or credit card. ATMs are widely available in cities and offer competitive exchange rates. Bring a small amount of foreign currency as emergency backup, but plan to use RMB for all your daily expenses through mobile payments or cash.

Is it difficult for foreigners to set up this service?

Setting up the app as a foreigner has become much easier in recent years. The process involves downloading the app, registering with your phone number, completing identity verification with your passport, and linking an international credit or debit card. The verification typically takes one to three business days. While the process requires some patience, it's straightforward and well worth the effort given how essential mobile payments are in China.

Are there transaction fees for foreigners using this service or WeChat's payment feature?

The app and this payment option themselves don't charge significant fees for basic transactions. However, your home bank may charge foreign transaction fees when you link an international card. These fees vary by bank but typically range from 1% to 3% of the transaction amount. Some banks offer travel cards with no foreign transaction fees, which can help minimize costs. The currency conversion happens at competitive exchange rates within the payment apps.