What is the difference between WeChat Pay and Weixin Pay?

Weixin Pay is the payment service for users with the mainland China version of the app, Weixin. WeChat Pay is the name used for the payment service in international versions of the app, such as in Hong Kong or Malaysia. When sending money from Australia to a user in mainland China, you are sending to their Weixin wallet.

Can I receive money on WeChat in Australia?

No, you cannot receive an international money transfer into a WeChat wallet in Australia. The payment functionality for Australian users is extremely limited, and the cross-border wallet system is not supported for receiving funds from overseas.

Do I need a Chinese bank account to receive money on Weixin?

No, the recipient in China does not need a Chinese bank account to receive money sent via a service like Remitly. The funds are deposited directly into their Weixin wallet balance, which they can then use for payments or transfer to their linked bank account.

What’s the turnaround time for transfers to a Weixin wallet?

When using a third-party service, transfers to a Weixin wallet are often very fast, sometimes arriving within minutes. The exact time can depend on the provider you choose and whether it is your first transfer with them, as identity verification can sometimes add time.

Can I link an Australian debit card to WeChat?

No, the feature that allows foreigners to use Weixin Pay within mainland China currently only supports international credit cards like Visa and Mastercard. It does not support linking international debit cards for payment.

Can I send money from WeChat to a bank account internationally?

No, you cannot send money from your WeChat app to an international bank account. The app's transfer features are designed for domestic use within the specific regions where wallets are issued, such as mainland China. For international payments to a bank account, you will need to use a traditional wire transfer or a digital money transfer specialist.