By Rachel Wu
Making cashless payments in China just got a major upgrade for foreign visitors.
Thanks to new cross-border features and expanded partnerships, travelers from eligible countries and regions can now pay using their familiar digital wallets at everyday locations like stores, restaurants, and attractions—no Chinese bank account or extra apps required.
One Wallet, More Places
Image via WeChat Open Course
China’s digital payments system has broadened its support so that 29 overseas digital wallets now work with WeChat Pay QR codes inside China, covering users from 12+ countries and regions.
That means visitors can use their home country’s wallet apps to scan Chinese merchants’ WeChat Pay QR codes, and the system automatically handles currency conversion.
There's no switching between apps or cash needed.
Examples of supported wallets include popular mobile wallets from South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand and beyond (e.g., NAVER Pay, K PLUS, ICBC Mobile Banking, etc.).
Cross-Border Technology at Work
Image via Mobile Payment Network
This integration works through a unified cross-border QR payment gateway enabled by TenPay Global with UnionPay and other partners.
Once connected, you don’t need extra registration; just use your compatible wallet app and scan QR codes at merchants that accept WeChat Pay.
Linking Cards Directly Still an Option
Even if your wallet isn’t on the supported list, you can still link your international Visa/Mastercard (and some debit cards) to WeChat Pay before your trip, making everyday payments in-store fast and familiar.
This has been available since mid-2023 and remains one of the easiest ways for tourists to pay in China.
What About China’s Digital Yuan (e-CNY)?
Image via e-CNY homepage
China’s official digital currency, the e-CNY, is also being rolled out for foreign visitors in pilot programs.
While not yet a universal payment method everywhere, some travellers can now use digital Yuan for transportation, dining, and shopping with select banks and programs.
Quick Tax Refunds for Shoppers
China’s instant tax refund process is also being streamlined with mobile tools in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen.
Tourists can use QR tools to claim refunds faster, often right into their mobile wallets without long lines.
Image via WeChat Payment Service
Here’s how it works:
Open WeChat and scan the refund QR code. Check the refund amount and details.
Tap 'Confirm Authorization' to authorize the WeChat payment receiving function.
Tap 'Confirm Receipt' — the refund is credited instantly to your WeChat balance.
Image via WeChat Payment Service
[Cover image via Pexels]
▼For more news, click ‘Read more’ (阅读原文) below.