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With the Covid 19 pandemic in the past and travel booming, China has emerged as a popular destination for travellers. Singaporeans have realised that China offers plenty of scenic destinations, good food, and is just a relatively short flight away (4-6 hours), all at relatively affordable prices. Many first-timers to China may feel apprehensive as they would have heard about how difficult it is to make payment and how the Firewall blocks most apps etc. Preparing for a trip to China involves more than just packing your bags; understanding the local payment systems and having the right communication tools is crucial for a smooth journey. Follow our step-by-step guide on how to pay using Alipay and WeChat Pay for foreigners, complemented by valuable tips for travellers heading to China. While many have heard that cash is no longer accepted in China, this is not really true! Most vendors still accept cash, but they might not have change available. In which case, you’ll have to round up the bill or accept change via your Alipay Wallet. The most important setup you’ll need is the Mobile Payment platforms. China operates on different payment networks compared to many other countries. Paying directly with your international credit card is generally only accepted at major hotels or higher-end restaurants. Most places will only be able to accept payments made with international credit cards, the card is linked and payment is made through China Payment Apps like WeChat and Alipay. More importantly, cashless payment has become a way of life for the Chinese (they have a 86% penetration rate for mobile payments). Everyone will ask you to ‘scan for payment’ (扫码) that you’ll feel out of place if you’re unable to do so. There are some cases where Alipay may fail when scanning an code for payment. In such cases, try with Weixin Pay or use Cash instead. There will be a transaction fee charged by both Alipay and WeChat, depending on your transaction amount: Quick Tip: most vendors are happy to split the payments for you (as long as there’s no queue waiting behind you). The exchange rate is provided by the credit card issuing bank. For better foreign currency exchange rates and to avoid the bank’s foreign currency fee (usually around 3.25%), consider using Amaze/Youtrip/Revolut as your linked card. New guidelines announced by the Chinese Government in March 2024 have increased the single transaction limit of mobile payment for foreigners in China. These new limit apply only for Verified Customers, as there is a limit of  (~SGD2,800) for non-verified payment use with both Alipay and Weixin Pay. At the time of writing, Alipay has already incorporated the new transaction limits in line with the guidelines. However, Weixin Pay FAQ still displays the old transaction limits of: It is likely that Weixin Pay is working on enhancing the app to accept the new limits, and it is expected that the new limits will be incorporated soon. Furthermore, new non-verified payment limits of RMB 15,000 were rolled out in early March 2024. At the time of writing, both Alipay and WeChat apps have implemented this change. Foreigners are unable to top up both Weixin Pay Wallets and Alipay Wallets, as these transactions require a China-Issued Bank card. Foreigners are also unable to accept “Red Packets” via WeChat. However, you can accept transfers into your using the ‘Receive’ QR code for individuals. This can be useful for refunds, such as when paying via cash and the vendor has no change in cash for you. If you would like to avoid the 3% transaction fee for payments above RMB 200 and happen to have a friend in China, you can ask them to transfer money to your Alipay Balance. This balance can then be used to make payments to vendors (select the “ ” option instead of your linked credit card at the Payment QR Code page). Alternatively, foreigners can top up their Alipay Wallets via . To do so, simply search for “Tour Card” inside the Alipay App and follow the prompts. However, there is a for each top up, so it would make more sense to simply bind your credit card instead. To identify the best Credit Card to use for Mile Chasers, you will need to be mindful of the MCC codes for various transactions. Personally, I used the Amaze + Citi Rewards which award 4mpd. Here are some MCC codes for my recent transactions made via WeChat Pay linked to Amaze + Citi Rewards Mastercard. This list is not exhaustive and the codes might vary, so YMMV!!! Here are some apps you should download before stepping on your flight to China: Some additional travel tips: The simplicity of QR code payments in China has fueled widespread adoption of mobile payments, with Super Apps like WeChat and Alipay enhancing their power by offering millions of mini-programs via these apps for user’s daily needs. The latest increase in transaction limits and simplification of ID verification processes aim to address payment challenges faced by international visitors and is a sign that China is looking to open-up even more to foreigners. It is a good time to visit now, while tourist numbers are still low and goods and services affordable. The payment services landscape changes rapidly as improvements are constantly being made to make the country more tourist-friendly. If you notice any changes, or if you have any tips on travelling in China, feel free to share them in the comments below! READ MORE READ MORE