Payments

UnionPay intros Nihao China app

Photo: sauloangelo - stock.adobe.com

January 6, 2026

UnionPay launched the "Nihao China" mobile application Friday at the China International Travel Mart, aiming to centralize payment and transit services for foreign visitors, according to a press release.

The digital platform allows international travelers to register via email or Apple ID and link foreign-issued bank cards, including UnionPay, Visa and Mastercard. The app integrates the three major domestic payment networks — UnionPay, Alipay and WeChat Pay.

The application's digital suite includes:

• Real-time exchange rates for 160 currencies and tax refund processing for major hubs like Beijing and Shanghai.
• Integrated payment for metro systems in 43 cities and bus networks across 1,760 regions.
• Direct links to third-party platforms for rail tickets (12306), food delivery (Meituan), and lodging (Ctrip).
• AI-driven translation for six languages and location-based maps for ATMs and currency exchange.

UnionPay officials stated that upcoming updates will include visa application tracking, virtual SIM card activation and reservation systems for national landmarks.

The launch follows broader efforts by Chinese financial authorities to lower barriers for international tourists. UnionPay reports that more than 200 million of its cards are currently issued outside mainland China, with recent expansions including the "SplendorPlus" card program across 20 international markets.