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The China Navigator
Money & payments

ATM & Cash

How to withdraw cash in China with a foreign card: which ATMs accept Visa and Mastercard, fees, daily limits, and when cash still matters.

Last reviewed October 23, 2026 · policies change — confirm the official sources before travel

ATMs are widely available in China, but foreign visitors should understand fees, limits, and which ATMs to use. This guide helps you access cash safely and affordably.

Key points

ATMs available 24/7 at banks and convenience stores
Most accept international cards (Visa, MasterCard, UnionPay)
Daily withdrawal limits vary by card and bank
ATM fees: your home bank + Chinese bank charges apply
Some ATMs dispense only RMB
Industrial and Commercial Bank (ICBC) ATMs are most foreigner-friendly

What works in practice

1

Use ATMs attached to major banks for better service

2

Check your bank's international withdrawal fees beforehand

3

Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to minimize fees

4

Keep transaction receipts

5

Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks

Mistakes to avoid

Using random ATMs (may charge high fees)

Not checking withdrawal limits before travel

Ignoring exchange rates when withdrawing

Forgetting to inform bank about China travel

Frequently asked

What ATMs can I use in China?

ATMs from ICBC, Bank of China, China Construction Bank, and international ATMs (Citibank, HSBC) accept foreign cards.

What are the fees?

Typically 15-25 RMB per withdrawal plus your home bank's international fee. Check with your bank for specifics.

Questions about your trip?

If you want help with routes or want to ask me something directly, you can find me here.