Before you shop
Paying in Shanghai
Set up one mobile option and carry a backup.
Shanghai’s official visitor guidance describes linking eligible international bank cards to Alipay or WeChat Pay. Set up the app and complete its required checks before a shopping day.
Carry a physical card and some renminbi as alternatives. A card being linked successfully does not mean every transaction or merchant will accept it.
Check the app’s current fees and limits, and your bank’s foreign-currency charges, before confirming a payment.
Your quick checklist
- Install and set up your chosen payment app
- Keep a backup payment method
- Check the total and currency before approving
Read the original guidance
Guide to payment services for foreign visitors at CIIE International Services ShanghaiCheck the linked official guidance for current conditions before acting.