What is E‑CNY?

E‑CNY (Digital RMB) is China’s official digital currency designed for seamless everyday payments. Foreign visitors can download the app, register with their own country’s mobile number, link international cards, and pay instantly at merchants across China.

Availability
Restaurants, retail, transport, hotels, tourist attractions, and more
Wallet tiers
From basic (phone verification) to higher limits (passport/KYC) depending on your needs
Payment modes
Scan QR codes, tap‑to‑pay (NFC where supported), and selected offline payments

Step 1 — Download the app

1

Get the official app

  • Search for e‑CNY on the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
  • Install the international version suitable for overseas users.
  • Ensure your device region settings allow international apps.

Step 2 — Register your wallet

2

Simple phone verification

  • Register using your mobile number from over 210 countries and regions.
  • No Chinese bank account required.
  • Verify via SMS, set a passcode, and create your wallet.
Tip: Keep your passport ready if the app requests identity verification to raise limits.

Step 3 — Link cards & top up

3

Use Visa/Mastercard or pay‑as‑you‑go

  • Link supported international cards (Visa, Mastercard) for direct payments.
  • Pay‑as‑you‑go: no need to pre‑load, just pay directly with your linked card.
  • Optional: top up the wallet balance; Hong Kong users may use FPS via local banks.
  • Refunds: unused funds can be sent back to your original card or cashed out at designated counters.

Step 4 — Make payments

4

Fast, familiar checkout

  • Scan merchant QR codes in shops, taxis, and restaurants.
  • Use tap‑to‑pay where NFC is supported by your device and wallet tier.
  • Offline payment may be available for selected wallets and devices.
If a merchant supports Alipay/WeChat Pay QR, E‑CNY is often supported too—look for "数字人民币" signs.

Quick setup at a glance

Step Action What you need Time
Download Install the e‑CNY app (international version) App Store / Google Play access 1–2 minutes
Register Sign up with your mobile number Phone number (210+ countries), SMS verification 2–3 minutes
Link card Connect Visa/Mastercard (optional top‑up) International card enabled for overseas transactions 2–4 minutes
Pay Scan QR or tap‑to‑pay Merchant QR/NFC terminal, your phone Instant

Card not linking?

Check that your bank allows international transactions and e‑commerce. Some cards require enabling "overseas usage" in your banking app.

Bank settings

Verification limits

Basic wallets have lower limits. Completing identity verification (e.g., passport) can increase daily/transaction limits for smoother use.

KYC tiers

Network access

Ensure your device has mobile data or Wi‑Fi. If connectivity is poor, try offline payment only where supported by your wallet/device.

Connectivity

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a Chinese bank account?
No. Foreigners can register and pay without a local bank account.
Which cards are supported?
Visa and Mastercard are supported for direct payments and top‑ups. Support may expand over time.
Can I refund my balance?
Yes. Unused funds can be refunded to your original card, or cashed out at designated service counters.
Is NFC available?
Tap‑to‑pay is available on supported phones and wallet tiers. Otherwise, QR payments are universally accepted.
Can I use it in Hong Kong?
Yes, and you may top up via FPS with local bank accounts where supported.

Quick tips for smooth travel

  • Enable overseas transactions on your card before travel.
  • Keep your passport handy for verification if higher limits are needed.
  • Use pay‑as‑you‑go for short stays; top up for longer trips.
  • Look for "E‑CNY / 数字人民币" signs at checkout counters.
You’re ready: download the app, register with your number, link your card, and pay anywhere that supports E‑CNY.