How to pay in China as a foreign visitor

Mobile payment by QR code is very common in China, so how to pay is one of the first practical questions before a trip. The good news: you can use your own bank card through the payment apps. Here are the options, and what to set up before you fly.

Option 1: Alipay or WeChat Pay with your own card

Foreign Visa and Mastercard cards can be linked to Alipay and WeChat Pay, so you can pay by scanning QR codes like locals. In practice:

1. Install the app before you leave and create an account with your phone number.
2. Add your Visa or Mastercard in the app’s wallet.
3. Complete any identity check the app asks for.
4. Pay by scanning the shop’s QR code, or by showing your payment code.

Setting up both apps gives you a backup if one payment is refused.

Option 2: cash

Cash is still one of the ways to pay, so carry some yuan as a backup. It is useful if your phone runs out of battery or a payment does not go through.

Fees and limits

Fees and spending limits depend on the app, the amount and your own bank, and the information available online does not agree. Check the current terms in the app and ask your bank about foreign transaction fees before you travel.

Paying for attraction tickets

• Forbidden City: the official website accepts bank card, WeChat Pay or Alipay; payment must be completed within 30 minutes of reserving. See how to book as a foreigner.
• Tours: booked online with our partners’ usual payment methods; see Beijing tours.

Before you go

• Set up and test the payment app.
• Tell your bank you are travelling to China.
• Get a working data connection: see mobile data in China.

Payment apps and maps need internet access: see internet in China for tourists.