Study in Chongqing

For international students in Chongqing, familiarizing themselves with local payment methods is essential. This guide provides an overview of how to open a bank account and use mobile payment in China.

Opening a bank account in China is generally a straightforward process. The following steps outline how to open a bank account:

Choose a Bank: Chongqing offers a variety of banks to choose from, including the Bank of China, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, China Construction Bank, and Agricultural Bank of China. Select a bank that is most convenient for you.
Prepare Documents: Typically, you will need to present your passport, student ID, proof of enrollment, and proof of address (such as a rental contract). It is advisable to verify the specific document requirements with your chosen bank in advance.
Fill Out an Application Form: Once at the bank, fill out the bank account application form and submit the required documents.
Set Up a Password: Follow the bank's instructions to set a withdrawal password and a transaction password.
Receive Your Bank Card: After completing the application process, you will receive your bank card. It is usually delivered to your address within a few days.

Mobile payments are extremely popular in Chongqing, with nearly all merchants, restaurants, and markets supporting them. The following steps outline how to use mobile payments:

Register a Mobile Payment App: You can download and register apps like You can download and register apps such as Alipay or WeChat Pay, choosing a supported payment method during the registration process.
Link Your Bank Card: In the app, you will need to bind your bank card by entering the required details and verifying your identity.
Top Up Your Balance: You can top up your Alipay account or WeChat account via the linked bank card or make payments directly using the card.
Scan to Pay: When making a payment at a merchant, open the payment app, select the "Scan to Pay" feature, scan the merchant’s QR code, enter the payment amount, and follow the given instruction to complete the transaction.
Transfer Money: If you need to transfer money to a friend, select the "Transfer" feature, enter the recipient's phone number or scan their QR code, input the amount, and confirm to complete the transfer.

When using bank cards and mobile payments, please pay attention to the following security tips:

Regularly update your passwords and use strong passwords.
Avoid making financial transactions over insecure networks.
Regularly check your bank account and payment app transaction records to ensure there are no unauthorized transactions.
If you notice any suspicious transactions, immediately contact your bank or the payment platform's customer service for assistance.

Understanding how to open a bank account and use mobile payments will help international students better adapt to life in Chongqing, offering greater convenience in managing daily expenses and supporting your studies.