New for 2026

UnionPay App Guide

China's homegrown payment network now welcomes overseas visitors. Use the UnionPay app or get a Tour Card for everyday purchases across the mainland.

Setup Time
~15 min
Cards
Overseas UnionPay (HK/Macao)
Hotline
95516

How to Set Up UnionPay

1

Download the UnionPay App

Find the UnionPay app on your device's app store or visit the official website to get started. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices.

2

Register and Sign In

Create your account using a phone number. You will receive an SMS verification code to complete registration and sign in to the app.

3

Complete Real-Name Authentication

Identity verification is required before you can add any cards. At present, the app supports overseas UnionPay cards issued in Hong Kong SAR and Macao SAR.

Only Hong Kong and Macao UnionPay cards are supported at this time. More regions may be added in the future.
4

Add Your Card and Start Paying

Link your bank card, then use the Scan feature to scan merchant QR codes, or tap Pay/Collect to show your own payment code to the cashier.

UnionPay Tour Card

The Tour Card is a prepaid card you can apply for and top up directly within the UnionPay app. It is designed for overseas travelers who want to make mobile payments throughout mainland China.

  • Valid for 90 days from the date of issue; automatically frozen upon expiry
  • Requires your passport information and a visa photo for identity verification
  • Load funds in advance and spend at any merchant accepting UnionPay mobile payments
Tip: When making a payment, scan the QR code that matches your payment provider. For example, if your app partners with Alipay, scan the Alipay logo QR code at the merchant.

UnionPay Service Hotline

Chinese mainland numbers: 95516

Non-Chinese mainland numbers: +86-21-95516 or +86-21-20556900

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