Overseas visitors in Shenzhen now have access to a diverse range of payment options, including the convenience of using WeChat Pay for small transactions without requiring ID verification, the national broadcaster China Central Television reported recently.

A foreigner, identified as Tony, recalled that when he first came to China in 2015, he had to exchange foreign currency at banks and carry cash for daily expenses. Now, he can make payments in a much more convenient way. “I am deeply impressed by the advancements in payment services,” Tony said.

To cater to the payment needs of the international community in Shenzhen, the city has continually enhanced its payment infrastructure. During the launch event of the 2024 Shenzhen International Shopping Carnival on April 1, Shenzhen unveiled four distinct achievements aimed at facilitating international payment methods. These initiatives include the simplification of WeChat Pay for foreign visitors, the introduction of CNY Hardware Wallets, and the unveiling of 100 designated payment zones where foreign bank cards and e-CNY are readily accepted. Furthermore, foreigners now have the option to withdraw cash using overseas bank cards and can also swap large denomination notes for smaller ones of equivalent value at local banks.

Currently, visitors can make payments using a variety of mainstream methods including cash, Visa cards, MasterCards, Alipay, WeChat Pay, and digital RMB at the Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport.

Many expats used to face challenges when using bank cards from their home countries. Businesses often had to pay a 3% service charge for transactions made with overseas bank cards, which dissuaded them from accepting such payments.

To alleviate this obstacle, overseas visitors can now link their international bank cards to WeChat Pay by answering a few simple questions, thus facilitating a convenient payment processes for transactions under 200 yuan (US$28) without the need for additional verification steps.

Furthermore, Shenzhen is refining its infrastructure to facilitate cash transactions. Currently, five currency exchange desks are available in international and domestic arrival and departure areas at the airport. Additionally, the airport has introduced eight ATMs that allow cash withdrawals using overseas bank cards. Key venues in Shenzhen, including transportation hubs, eateries, tourist spots, hotels, and hospitals, now feature currency exchange kiosks.

“Numerous shopping and dining venues are equipped with POS machines for international bank cards. I encountered no issues while using credit cards for payments,” Elina, an overseas visitor, said.