Bank of China
One of China's largest state-owned banks, where foreign visitors can exchange currency with a passport, withdraw cash with overseas cards at ATMs, and where longer-term residents can open a domestic debit account to link to Alipay or WeChat Pay.
About Bank of China
Bank of China publishes an English guide to cross-border financial services for short-term international visitors. Its outlets exchange up to 38 currencies, and small exchanges are possible with a passport without opening an account. Its ATMs accept major international cards such as UnionPay, Visa, Mastercard, JCB and American Express for cash withdrawals and balance checks. Foreign customers can apply for a domestic debit card at a branch with a passport or other valid ID, and the card can be linked to BOC mobile banking, UnionPay, WeChat Pay or Alipay.
Key Features
- Currency Exchange: Exchange foreign cash at branches, and at authorised hotel and airport counters within daily and yearly limits.
- ATM Withdrawals: Take out yuan with an overseas card at BOC-linked ATMs at any time.
- Domestic Debit Card: Open an account with a passport and use the card for QR code and online payments.
- VAT Refunds: Eligible visitors can claim departure tax refunds at BOC refund sites in several provinces and cities.
How to Get Started
- Bring your passport and visa to a Bank of China branch on a weekday during business hours.
- Take a queue ticket and tell staff whether you want to exchange money or open an account.
- Fill in the account application and tax residency declaration if you are opening an account.
- Link the new debit card to BOC mobile banking, Alipay or WeChat Pay once it is issued.
Opening an account usually requires a real-name Chinese mobile number, and some branches may ask for proof of work, address or a tax number; a Shanghai government guide lists mainly long-term visa types, so short-term tourists may be refused. Currency exchange at hotel and airport counters is limited to 10,000 yuan per person per day and 50,000 yuan per year. Services available at ATMs depend on your card issuer and card network.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Does Bank of China work with a foreign bank card in China? Yes — Bank of China accepts foreign-issued cards in China.
Is Bank of China available in English? Yes, Bank of China has an English-language interface.
Do I need a local phone number to use Bank of China? Yes, Bank of China requires a local phone number to register.
Do I need local ID or residency for Bank of China? No, Bank of China doesn't require local ID or residency for visitors.