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Visa in China: what to use instead

Payments

In China, everyday payments are often QR-based. Card acceptance can be inconsistent for small merchants.

What People Use in China

Alipay
A major QR wallet used widely for everyday payments, services, and in-app mini services.
WeChat Pay
A major QR payment method tightly integrated into WeChat and widely used for everyday spending.
UnionPay
A major card network in China, often encountered in banking and card acceptance contexts.

Traveler Tips

  • ✓Install Alipay and/or WeChat before arrival; complete identity verification if prompted.
  • ✓If linking an overseas card is supported, set it up early and test a small payment.
  • ✓Keep a backup plan (cash or a second wallet app) for edge cases.

Things to Watch Out For

  • ⚠Many small shops may not accept international cards directly.
  • ⚠Some wallet features may require verification or have limits.

Related

MastercardCashAlipayWeChat PayUnionPay