WeChat Pay Now Links to Non-Chinese Cards
In this article (4)
Tencent’s WeChat Pay is now linking to non-Chinese credit cards for mobile payments.
This means expats in China and foreign residents of Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan can now bind and activate WeChat Pay accounts with credit-card services provided by JCB, MasterCard and Visa.
Tencent says it is the first time WeChat Pay users do not need a Chinese bank account or credit card.
With China going cashless, Alipay and WeChat Pay are now used for online shopping, ride-hailing, buying tickets, renting bikes, food delivery and hotel bookings.
In its five years, WeChat Pay has expanded to 25 countries, serving Chinese tourists.
According to a Tencent data report last year, more than 64 per cent of expats in China use WeChat Pay for their daily needs.
Questions & Answers
Q.Who can now link non-Chinese credit cards to WeChat Pay?
Who can now link non-Chinese credit cards to WeChat Pay?
Expats living in mainland China, and foreign residents of Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan, are now able to bind and activate WeChat Pay accounts using non-Chinese credit cards. This change applies to services from JCB, MasterCard, and Visa.
Q.What is the main significance of this update for WeChat Pay users?
What is the main significance of this update for WeChat Pay users?
This marks the first occasion that WeChat Pay users do not need to possess a Chinese bank account or a Chinese credit card to utilise the mobile payment service. It simplifies access for non-Chinese residents.
Q.What services can WeChat Pay be used for in China?
What services can WeChat Pay be used for in China?
WeChat Pay is widely used in China for various services, including online shopping, ride-hailing, purchasing tickets, renting bikes, food delivery, and making hotel bookings. It is integral to China's move towards a cashless society.