Payment Guide for Medical Travel in China

Understand payment methods, currency exchange, and practical tips for paying for medical treatment in China.

WeChat Pay / Alipay

The primary payment methods in China. International visitors can now link foreign credit cards to WeChat Pay and Alipay. Strongly recommended to set up before departure.

Download and register before departure

Supports linking Visa/Mastercard

Accepted at virtually all hospitals and shops

QR code scanning — fast and convenient

International Credit Cards

International departments at Grade A Tertiary hospitals usually accept Visa and Mastercard. Standard outpatient clinics may not. UnionPay cards are widely accepted nationwide.

Cash (CNY)

Carry some CNY cash as backup. Exchange at airports or banks. Large medical payments are typically made via bank transfer or card payment.

Practical Tips

Notify your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks

Check your credit card's foreign transaction fees

Hospitals may require a deposit upfront — amounts vary by treatment

Keep all payment receipts for insurance claims or tax deductions

Major hospitals often have dedicated international billing counters

Exchange rate fluctuations affect total cost — consider exchanging in advance

Disclaimer

Payment methods and policies may change. Please contact your target hospital directly before departure to confirm accepted payment methods.