What does China use instead of credit cards?

Ray: Credit cards were never prevalent in China. They don’t need special machines like businesses do to accept credit cards or many mobile payments like Apple Pay, which are essentially digital wallets of bank cards, while Alipay and WeChat are more pure digital payments.

Do they use credit cards in China?

Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, JCB, Diners Club, Federal and Million cards find acceptance in China, although to varying degrees. You may use your credit card at mid-sized to large hotels, restaurants and other businesses in most major cities, but you’ll find very few or no takers in rural areas.

What happens if I use my credit card in a foreign country?

Basically, when you’re abroad, you can use your credit card as you would in your own country. You can also use your credit card to withdraw cash in most ATMs overseas. Although, make sure to keep your eye out for foreign transaction fees and currency conversion markups.

Can I use UnionPay in China?

Use abroad UnionPay debit cards, however, can only be used in the UnionPay network and other networks that have signed contracts with UnionPay. Since 2006, China UnionPay cards can be used in over 100 countries outside China.

Are Visa cards accepted internationally?

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted worldwide. If an establishment takes credit cards, it’s a good bet that your Visa or Mastercard will work. American Express and Discover have an international presence, too, but they are accepted by fewer merchants.

Can you use American credit cards in Europe?

American credit cards work throughout Europe (at hotels, larger shops and restaurants, travel agencies, car-rental agencies, and so on); Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted. It’s a good idea to bring an extra card as a backup (especially if you’re renting a car and using your card to cover CDW insurance).

Is China becoming a cashless society?

China is fast becoming one of the most cashless societies in the world, fueled by the rise of dominant fintech platforms like Tencent’s WeChat Pay and Alibaba’s Alipay. But the digital evolution has also left behind tens of millions of people who lack the access or knowhow to navigate China’s Internet-based economy.