Banking & Money
China β Accounts, transfers, and managing finances
Educational information only β not legal advice. Verify all details with official sources. Laws and conditions change frequently.
Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you use them, at no extra cost to you. We do not provide money transfer services and do not process funds.
Banking & Receiving Money
- βΈWeChat Pay and Alipay are China's dominant mobile payment platforms β essential for daily life (requires a Chinese bank account and phone number).
- βΈOpening a bank account requires your θΊ«δ»½θ― β Industrial and Commercial Bank (ICBC), Bank of China, and China Construction Bank are the major banks.
- βΈInternational transfers to China have been more regulated in recent years β Western Union and Wise can transfer but verify current availability.
- βΈUnionPay cards from Chinese banks allow ATM withdrawal of CNY.
- βΈReceiving USD from family and exchanging at a bank or official money changer is one approach β be aware of China's annual exchange quota of USD $50,000.
Common Transfer Services
Wise
Money TransferWise offers transparent fees, real exchange rates, and multi-currency accounts for sending money internationally.
Best For
Low-fee international bank transfers and multi-currency accounts
Remitly
Money TransferRemitly specializes in family money transfers with options for cash pickup, bank deposit, and mobile wallet in many countries.
Best For
Family remittances with cash pickup and bank deposit options
WorldRemit
Money TransferWorldRemit supports transfers to mobile wallets, cash pickup agents, and bank accounts in many countries.
Best For
Online money transfers to mobile wallets, cash pickup, and bank deposit
MoneyGram
Money TransferMoneyGram has one of the largest cash pickup networks worldwide with bank deposit options in many countries.
Best For
Cash pickup with a global agent network
Western Union
Money TransferWestern Union is one of the most widely available money transfer services with cash pickup locations in nearly every country.
Best For
Cash pickup with one of the largest global agent networks
Ria Money Transfer
Money TransferRia Money Transfer offers cash pickup, bank deposit, and debit card delivery in many countries.
Best For
Cash pickup and bank deposit for Latin America and more
Financial Safety: Availability, fees, exchange rates, delivery times, and payout methods vary by country and provider. Always confirm directly with the licensed provider before sending money.
Anti-Scam Warning: Never send money to someone you do not know personally. Beware of romance scams, fake immigration help, job scams, and urgent family emergency scams.
Compare all money transfer options
Compare ProvidersGet a Free AI Case Assessment
Answer a few questions about your situation and get a personalized report about your options β completely free and confidential.
Start Free Assessment βLegal Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws, policies, and conditions change frequently. Nothing on this page creates an attorney-client relationship. Always consult a licensed attorney for legal advice specific to your situation. Deported Not Defeated is not a law firm.