Foreign visitors to China can now enjoy the convenience of WeChat Pay’s QR code payment system, thanks to a new collaboration between UnionPay International and WeChat Pay. The partnership allows travelers using eight overseas e-wallets, including Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking and NAVER Pay, to make payments on the Chinese mainland by scanning WeChat QR codes.
This development marks a significant step toward making travel in China more accessible and hassle-free. By enabling foreign e-wallets to integrate with WeChat Pay, visitors can easily pay for goods and services without the need for cash or local bank accounts.
China has been progressively opening up its mobile payment platforms to international users. In addition to this latest enhancement, foreign travelers can link major international credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, to popular local platforms like Alipay and WeChat Pay.
The move coincides with China’s recent extension of its visa-free transit policy. Eligible foreign travelers can now stay in the country for up to 240 hours, or 10 days, without a visa—up from the previous limit of 144 hours. These changes aim to boost tourism and make it more convenient for visitors to explore China.
In November, WeChat Pay reported a 6.4-fold increase in transactions made using foreign card payments compared to July 2023. This surge reflects the growing ease and popularity of mobile payments among international visitors.
With the expansion of WeChat Pay services to foreign e-wallets, exploring China has never been easier for young travelers seeking adventure and cultural experiences. Whether you’re shopping in Beijing’s bustling markets or dining in Shanghai’s trendy cafes, paying is now just a QR scan away.
Reference(s):
WeChat QR payment access expanded for visitors to Chinese mainland
cgtn.com
