Payment Q&A

Bank cards, mobile payments (most common), cash, bank accounts, and digital yuan.

(1) Overseas visitors to China can exchange RMB cash in their country or region in advance and bring them into China (each person can carry up to RMB 20,000 in cash into and out of the country).

(2) RMB cash can be exchanged at commercial bank outlets, currency exchange outlets or self-service exchange machines at international airports, land ports, ports and other ports of entry, or RMB can be withdrawn at ATMs using international bank cards.

Cash: RMB can be withdrawn at ATMs that support international bank cards at the port of entry, or through exchange service providers/self-service exchange machines. Renminbi can also be obtained in the urban area through the above methods. Exchange services are available at authorized currency exchange offices, some hotels, bank branches and exchange counters (usually marked with the prominent“”logo).

Bank account: You can open a bank account with your passport or other valid ID, such as Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), Agricultural Bank of China (ABC), Bank of China (BOC), China Construction Bank (CCB), and Bank of Communications (BOCOM).

In China, tipping is usually not required because the cost of most services is included in the bill. At restaurants, taxis, and hotels, you don't have to pay more than the amount of your bill.

This no-tip culture helps you control your expenses and avoid social faux pas while respecting local customs.

Whether you need to pay taxes in China depends on your specific situation.

If you receive income in China and meet the tax conditions set out in the Chinese tax law, you will need to pay taxes. For example, income from wages and salaries, income from labor remuneration, etc., are usually subject to individual income tax.

If you are only traveling for a short period of time, visiting, etc., and do not receive taxable income, you are generally not taxable.

Eligible for tax refund: Foreign tourists and Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan residents staying in Chinese mainland for no more than 183 consecutive days.

Tax refund requirements: Purchase of goods worth more than RMB 500 at designated duty-free shops on the same day, and the goods are used unopened, and the departure date is not more than 90 days from the date of purchase.

Tax refund rate: 11% for goods with a tax rate of 13%, and 8% for goods with a tax rate of 9%.

Tax refund process: You need to bring a valid identity document, the purchased goods, the《departure tax refund application form》and the VAT invoice to the customs for verification, and then apply for tax refund at the airport.

1. Download the WeChat or Alipay app and register with a foreign mobile phone number.

2. Bind an international bank card with Mastercard, Visa, etc.

3. Scan the QR code to pay.

Note: The binding needs to be authorized by the card issuer, and the transaction amount does not exceed 200 yuan, and 3% will be charged if it exceeds it. The annual limit is $50,000, and the single limit is $5,000.

Bank cards should be kept in a safe place to prevent loss or theft. In case of loss, please report the loss to the bank in time.