Yes, foreigners can use international credit cards in China, but not always in the same way you might use them in Europe or North America.
Visa, Mastercard and other international cards are accepted at some hotels, upscale restaurants, international retailers and major tourist businesses.
However, China is heavily based around mobile payments.
For everyday spending, many travelers find it easier to link their international bank card to Alipay or WeChat Pay.
Here is what you need to know.
Are Visa and Mastercard Accepted in China?
Yes, but acceptance varies.
International cards such as Visa and Mastercard are more commonly accepted at:
- International hotels
- Luxury hotels
- High-end restaurants
- Department stores
- Airports
- Large tourist attractions
- International retail brands
However, smaller businesses may not accept foreign cards directly.
This can include:
- Small restaurants
- Local cafés
- Convenience stores
- Street food vendors
- Taxis
- Independent shops
This is why relying only on a physical credit card is not ideal when traveling in China.
What Is the Best Way for Foreigners to Pay in China?
For most visitors, the easiest setup is:
International credit card + Alipay + WeChat Pay
Foreign visitors can link supported international bank cards to mobile payment apps and use them at a large number of merchants in China.
This gives you access to the same QR-code payment system widely used by local residents.
Instead of handing over a card, you usually:
- Open Alipay or WeChat
- Scan the merchant's QR code or show your own payment code
- Select your linked bank card
- Confirm the payment
For everyday travel, this is often much more convenient than trying to use a physical credit card.
Can Foreigners Link Visa or Mastercard to Alipay?
Yes.
Eligible international cards can be linked to Alipay.
Depending on your bank and card type, supported cards may include major international networks such as:
- Visa
- Mastercard
- JCB
- Discover
- Diners Club
Availability can vary, so it is best to set up your payment account before traveling.
Read our guide:
How to Pay in China – Alipay Setup for Foreigners
Can Foreigners Use Credit Cards With WeChat Pay?
Yes.
WeChat Pay also supports eligible international cards for foreign visitors.
Once your card is linked, you can use WeChat Pay at many merchants that accept WeChat QR payments.
Read:
WeChat Pay in China for Foreigners
Should You Set Up Alipay or WeChat Before Arriving?
Yes.
Ideally, install and register the apps before you fly.
This gives you time to:
- Verify your account
- Link your card
- Complete identity checks
- Test the interface
- Contact your bank if a payment is declined
Trying to solve payment issues immediately after landing is much less convenient.
Will My Foreign Card Charge Extra Fees?
Possibly.
There may be two different types of fees.
Your bank's foreign transaction fee
Some banks charge an additional fee when you spend in another currency.
Check your card's terms before traveling.
Mobile payment service fees
Depending on the transaction amount and current platform rules, additional fees may apply to some international-card transactions.
Because payment policies can change, check the latest Alipay or WeChat Pay terms before your trip.
Should You Bring Cash to China?
Yes, but only a small amount is usually necessary.
China is highly digital, but RMB cash can still be useful as a backup.
For example, carry enough for:
- A taxi
- A small meal
- Emergency purchases
- Situations where your phone battery dies
- Temporary payment app problems
You do not need to carry large amounts of cash.
Can You Withdraw Cash From ATMs in China?
Many Chinese bank ATMs accept international bank cards.
Look for international card network logos on the machine.
Major banks are generally the best option.
Before traveling, check:
- International ATM withdrawal fees
- Daily withdrawal limits
- Whether your bank requires travel notification
It is also useful to have more than one payment method in case one card is blocked.
Should You Bring More Than One Credit Card?
Yes.
A good setup is:
- Primary international credit card
- Backup card from another bank
- Alipay
- WeChat Pay
- Small amount of RMB cash
This protects you if:
- One card is declined
- Your bank blocks a transaction
- A merchant does not accept your card network
- Your payment app temporarily fails
What About American Express?
American Express acceptance is generally less widespread than Visa or Mastercard for direct physical-card payments.
You may find it accepted at international hotels, premium restaurants and major retailers.
For everyday China travel, Visa or Mastercard usually offers more flexibility.
What If My Credit Card Is Declined?
A declined payment does not necessarily mean your card cannot be used in China.
Possible reasons include:
- Your bank flagged the transaction
- Online or international payments are disabled
- Identity verification is incomplete
- The merchant does not support that payment method
- The payment app needs additional verification
Before traveling, tell your bank you may be making transactions in China and make sure international purchases are enabled.
Best Payment Setup for a China Trip
For most foreign travelers, we recommend:
Primary: Alipay linked to an international card
Backup: WeChat Pay linked to another card
Additional backup: Physical Visa or Mastercard
Emergency: Small amount of RMB cash
This gives you several options without carrying large amounts of money.
Do You Still Need a Physical Credit Card?
Yes.
Even if you mainly use mobile payments, keep your physical card with you.
You may need it for:
- Hotel deposits
- Luxury hotels
- International businesses
- Car rentals
- Emergency payments
Think of mobile payment as your everyday solution and your physical credit card as an important backup.
Paying in China Is Easier Than It Used to Be
China's payment system can seem confusing before your first visit because it is so different from card-based systems in many other countries.
But once Alipay or WeChat Pay is connected to your international card, everyday payments become much easier.
The best approach is simply to prepare everything before your trip.
More China Travel Guides
You may also want to read:
- How to Pay in China – Alipay Setup
- WeChat Pay in China for Foreigners
- Best Apps to Download Before Traveling to China
- How to Get Internet in China
- How to Take a Taxi in China
At Joy Traveller, we help international travelers navigate the practical side of traveling in China, while creating customized journeys around their interests.
Planning your China trip? Send us your dates and travel preferences, and we'll help you build your itinerary.