Maestro
payment.acceptance.heading: payment.acceptance.limited
Can I use Maestro in China in 2026?
Maestro is accepted at most hotels, large restaurants, and chain retailers in mainland China. Bring cash or a Visa/Mastercard backup for broad coverage.
FAQ
Can I link my Maestro card to Alipay?
No — Alipay does not accept Maestro cards for linking (mostly retired — most cards reissued as mastercard debit by 2024). Link a Visa or Mastercard instead, or top up the Alipay Tour Card. See our full Alipay for foreigners .
Will my Maestro card work at small shops in China?
Some — but most small shops only accept cash, Alipay, or WeChat Pay. For Maestro, linking to Alipay is the most reliable workaround and works at almost any QR-code-accepting merchant.
Are there foreign transaction fees on my Maestro card in China?
Most foreign-issued Maestro cards charge a 1–3% foreign transaction fee on purchases in mainland China. Check your cardholder agreement — some travel-rewards cards waive this fee on certain categories.
Can I get cash in China with my Maestro?
Yes. ATMs at major banks (Bank of China, ICBC, China Construction Bank) accept international Maestro cards in tier-1 cities. Daily withdrawal limits are typically RMB 2,500–10,000 per transaction.
Should I bring cash as a backup if I have a Maestro card?
Yes — always carry RMB 500–1,000 in cash for taxi drivers, rural vendors, and small shops that do not accept mobile payments. Exchange at the airport or any major bank branch.