Guide to Payment Services for International Visitors in Guangzhou, China

Are you planning to visit a trade fair in Guangzhou, China soon? Such as the Canton Fair. If so, you might be wondering how to make payments in China.

We hope this guide helps you enjoy your time in China. Here are 3 main payment methods:

1. International Bank Cards
2. Cash
3. Mobile Payment

Method 1. Pay with International Bank Cards

International bank cards such as Visa, Master Card, and JCB are widely accepted in Guangzhou, China. You can find these logos at various places like airports, hotels, shopping malls, restaurants, tourist attractions, and exhibition centers. Additionally, UnionPay cards are accepted at all merchants with POS terminals in Guangzhou.

* Please ensure the issuer approves your bank card for use in China’s mainland.

Method 2. Pay with Cash

Five ways to withdraw or exchange for CNY cash in Guangzhou.

• Bank Branches

Bank branches displaying “Currency Exchange” signs offer currency exchange, money change, and exchange rate query services. A valid ID is typically required.

• Self-Service Machines (E.g. ATM, CRS, etc.)

You can withdraw CNY cash from ATMs, CRS, and other self-service machines that display your card scheme logos. The maximum amount for a single withdrawal is CNY 3,000.00.

• Franchised Institutions for Foreign Currency Exchange

You can exchange currencies at counters of franchised institutions for foreign currency exchange where the “currency Exchange” signs are often shown. The daily limit is the equivalent of USD5,000.00, and the annual cumulative limit is the equivalent of USD50,000.00. Such counters are usually located at airports and other ports of entry.

• Foreign Currency Exchange Agencies

You can exchange currencies at counters of franchised institutions that offer foreign currency exchange services. These counters are usually marked with “currency exchange” signs and can be found at airports and other ports of entry. The daily limit for currency exchange is the equivalent of CNY10,000.00, while the annual cumulative limit is the equivalent of CNY50,000.00.

• Foreign Currency Exchange Machines

To exchange your currency using a foreign currency exchange machine, you will need a valid ID. Please note that the daily limit for exchange is equivalent to CNY 5,000.00.

Method 3. Mobile Payment

Mobile payments are accepted from UnionPay, Alipay, WeChat Pay, and some overseas e-wallets.

UnionPay, Alipay, and WeChat Pay support bundling overseas mobile numbers. Make sure your phone has activated international roaming.

The maximum annual cumulative limit for overseas personnel using mobile payment in China’s mainland is USD50,000.00, with a single payment limit of USD5,000.00.

Please refer to the following English service hotlines for any inquiries or additional information:

UnionPay: +86-95516

Alipay: +86-571 2688 6000

Wechat Pay: +86-95017

Welcome to Guangzhou, China!