Tencent's TenPayGo app makes payments easier for int'l visitors to China

Tencent launched TenPayGo, a new payment app designed for international visitors to China, on September 24, ahead of the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Shenzhen. The app allows users to link international bank cards, overseas digital wallets or Apple Pay and make payments at merchants that accept WeChat Pay across China.

Users can register with an email address, without a Chinese phone number or a Chinese mainland bank card. The app currently supports cards from seven major international card networks, including Visa and Mastercard, as well as overseas digital wallets, with more partnerships expected to be added.

Beyond payments, TenPayGo offers services including AI-powered translation, tax refunds and access to public transportation in Shenzhen.

How to use TenPayGo

1. Download and register

Search for TenPayGo on the App Store or Google Play and register with an email address.

2. Link a payment method

Link an international bank card, such as Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express or Diners Club; an overseas digital wallet, such as ShopeePay or StarPay; or Apple Pay. Around 60 overseas digital wallets are expected to be supported by the end of the year. Payments can be made at merchants that accept WeChat Pay in China.

3. Pay

Use TenPayGo to scan a merchant's QR code or present your payment code at participating merchants. The service covers dining, shopping, transportation, hotels, attractions and other everyday scenarios.

4. More services

TenPayGo offers AI-powered translation across multiple languages and an AI visual search feature that can identify attractions and translate menus. Its "Shenzhen Tong" service, which is being rolled out progressively, allows users to take buses and the metro in Shenzhen with a QR code.

In partnership with institutions including the Shenzhen Branch of Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC), the app also provides quick access to tax refund services.

Note: Chinese mainland bank cards and balances cannot be used. Fees may apply when using some international bank cards or Apple Pay, with any applicable charges shown before payment is confirmed.

China has been expanding payment options for international visitors in recent years. Major payment platforms such as Alipay and WeChat Pay have introduced services that allow overseas bank cards to be linked, while international payment services and domestic platforms have also expanded partnerships to make payments more convenient for visitors. UnionPay's "Nihao China" app and contactless bank card payments on some metro systems in cities including Guangzhou and Shenzhen have added more options for overseas visitors.

Author | Huang Xinying

Photos & Video | WeChat