Can Australians Use Credit Cards in China?

If you're planning a trip to China and are still wondering whether Australians can use your credit card there, which types are accepted, or if linking your card to an app will work for payments, today Trip.com is here to clear up all your questions about using credit cards in China, making your shopping and travels even more convenient.

Why are credit cards still essential?

Today, China has fully embraced a cashless society. Whether it's street food stalls, shopping malls, subways, or taxis, almost everything supports payment via Alipay and WeChat Pay. Sometimes, foreign tourists might feel inconvenienced if they only carry cash. Beyond swiping at various locations, credit cards can also be linked to China's payment apps. Travelers can link their credit cards to Alipay or WeChat Pay to start spending in China immediately. Plus, some banks offer promotions or special privileges for spending, allowing you to earn reward points or get cash back.

Which credit cards can be used in China?

Many travelers wonder which credit cards they can use. The answer is right here—let's take a look!

💳 UnionPay

UnionPay is the most widely accepted card in China, usable everywhere from small convenience stores and local restaurants to large shopping malls and luxury hotels. If you already have a credit or debit card with the UnionPay logo, you have nothing to worry about—you'll definitely be able to spend with ease on your trip to China.

🌐 Visa & Mastercard

Visa and Mastercard cards can still be used in China, but their acceptance might be limited to certain places, such as

• Major international hotel chains
• Large restaurants or fine dining establishments
• Department stores in the big city
• Airports and shopping centers for travelers

Also, smaller shops or typical convenience stores might not accept Visa or Mastercard, so using these cards in China might not be as convenient as using a UnionPay card.

So, which type of card should you bring along?

If you're planning a trip to China in 2026, we recommend carrying a UnionPay card as your primary payment method, as it offers the most comprehensive coverage throughout the country. However, it's still a good idea to have a Visa or MasterCard as a backup.

2 Ways to Use Your Credit Card in China

When traveling to China, tourists can use their credit cards in two ways: paying directly at merchants and linking the card to popular payment apps. Each method has its own advantages and precautions, as follows:

Method 1: Paying by swiping or tapping your card

Using a credit card to swipe or tap for payment is a method many are familiar with, and it's still widely accepted in China—especially at major hotel chains, upscale restaurants, department stores, and airports.

Method 2: Linking your card to a payment app

The most essential method for travelers looking to handle daily expenses in China, as almost every establishment—from subways, convenience stores, and street food stalls to taxi services—uses Alipay and WeChat Pay as their primary payment channels. Travelers can link any type of credit card to these apps and start spending just like a local immediately.

Steps to link your credit card to Alipay

Using Alipay is super convenient for travelers because you can link your own credit card to the Alipay app without needing a Chinese bank account. Check out these simple steps to get it set up:

Step 1: Download and install the Alipay app

• Go to the App Store or Google Play
• Search for Alipay and tap download
• Once the installation is complete, open the app and select English.

Step 2: Sign up and register your account

• Enter your phone number to verify
• Enter the OTP code received via SMS
• Set a password to access the app

Step 3: Select the "Tour Pass" or "Add International Card" menu

For travelers, you can choose a Tour Pass or select "Add International Card" to link your credit card directly.

Step 4: Enter credit card details

• Enter your credit card number
• Full name on card
• Expiration Date and CVV code
• The system will link your card to Alipay

Step 5: Verify your identity

• Upload passport photo
• Fill in the required information as prompted by the system, such as your passport number, full name in English, and so on.
• Confirm the steps, and the system will review and approve your access.

Once you've completed all the steps, you'll be able to use the Alipay app to scan and pay, with the charges going directly to your linked credit card. It's super quick and easy!

Comparing the Pros and Cons of Using Credit Cards in China

Even though China has become a cashless society, credit cards are still an essential tool for travelers. Let's take a look at the pros and cons of using credit cards in China.

Carrying a credit card in China is still essential, and linking it to apps like Alipay or WeChat Pay makes spending even more convenient, comprehensive, and secure than relying on cash alone.

5 Things to Prepare Before Using Your Credit Card in China

Before flying to China, getting your credit card ready is a must. If any issues arise while using it, your trip might not go as smoothly as planned. Let's check out the 5 things you need to prepare before using your credit card in China.

Notify the bank

Contact your card issuer's call center to let them know you'll be using your card in China. This helps prevent your card from being blocked due to the system flagging it for suspicious activity.

Check your credit limit before you travel

Make sure to double-check that your card's remaining credit limit is enough to cover your trip expenses, especially for accommodation, high-speed train tickets, or shopping.

Get to know exchange rate fees

Most banks charge a fee of approximately 2.5% on your spending, so it's good to know this in advance to plan your travel budget accurately.

Save bank contact number

In case your card gets lost, money is deducted unexpectedly, or you run into payment issues, it's always a good idea to keep your bank's call center number handy.

Prepare a backup card

Carry more than one card, such as a UnionPay card for everyday use and a Visa or Mastercard as a backup, to reduce the risk of being stranded if your primary card doesn't work.

Once you've checked off all 5 items on this list, using your credit card in China becomes a breeze—giving you peace of mind regarding both security and convenience throughout your entire trip.