Payment & Tax Refund Guide

Payment & Tax Refund Guide

To ensure your journey through Guizhou is seamless, we have compiled essential payment and tax refund information covering "Dining, Accommodation, Transportation, Sightseeing, Shopping, and Entertainment". Whether using cards, mobile scanning, or cash, you can enjoy secure and convenient payment services across the province, along with an efficient tax refund process upon departure.

Diverse Payment Options

In Guizhou, international visitors can choose from credit/debit cards, mobile payments, and cash. These methods are widely accepted for public transport, shopping, entertainment, daily expenses, dining, and sightseeing.

(I) International Bank Cards

Major scenic spots, luxury hotels, department stores, and airports across the province widely accept international cards, including UnionPay, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and JCB.Mobile payment is the pulse of daily life in China. You have three primary ways to join in:

1. Link Your Card: Download Alipay or WeChat and link your international credit or debit card to scan and pay at almost any merchant.

2. Use Your Home App: Residents of Hong Kong and Macau, or Bank of China (BOC) customers in countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Canada, and Cambodia, can use their local BOC apps to scan UnionPay QR codes in mainland China.

3. Digital RMB (e-CNY): Download the Digital RMB App, register with your international phone number, and link your Visa or Mastercard to experience China's cutting-edge digital currency.

(II) Cash Payment

Some bank branches and ATMs in Guizhou support withdrawing RMB cash using foreign bank cards or exchanging foreign currency for RMB.

All 104 BOC branches in Guizhou provide currency exchange for up to 25 foreign currencies. BOC has installed self-service currency exchange machines at Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport and established 14 exchange points at key attractions and international hotels. It is recommended to call ahead for availability.

Banks provide pre-packaged "change wallets" containing small-denomination RMB notes for convenient daily micro-transactions.

(III) Bank Account Services

If required, you may apply for a local bank account at any bank branch in Guizhou by presenting a valid ID. HK & Macau Residents: Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macau Residents; Taiwan Residents: Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents; International Guests: Passport or Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card.

Departure Tax Refund Guide

Effective October 1, 2025, Guizhou Province has officially implemented the Departure Tax Refund Policy for overseas tourists.

(I) Key Policy Highlights

1. Threshold: A minimum purchase of 200 RMB at the same store on the same day is required to qualify for a refund.

2. Refund Rate: The standard refund is 11% (consisting of a 9% tax rebate and a 2% processing fee). Calculation: Refund Amount = Invoice Amount (including VAT) × Refund Rate.

3. Refund Methods: Refunds are available via cash, bank card, or mobile payment. The cash refund limit has been increased to 20,000 RMB.

4. "Buy Now, Refund Now" Service: Guizhou promotes an immediate refund service at designated stores. After shopping at designated stores, if you meet the requirements, you can receive the equivalent tax refund amount in RMB cash on the spot, greatly enhancing the convenience of shopping and tax refund processes. Eligible shoppers can receive their RMB tax refund in cash on the spot after shopping, significantly enhancing convenience.

(II) Refund Process

1. Shopping: Purchase goods at stores with the "Tax Free" logo and request a Tax Refund Application Form and the official Sales Invoice.

2. Verification: Upon departure, head to the Customs verification point at Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport. Present your unused goods, the application form, sales invoices, and your valid ID (passport).

3. Receive Refund: Once verified by Customs, proceed to the tax refund agency service desk in the airport’s sterile area to receive your payment.

(III) Practical Tips

1. The Power of Two: We recommend a "Card + Cash" strategy. Use your card or mobile app for major expenses, but keep a small amount of RMB cash for boutique mountain guesthouses or rural crafts.

2. Look for the Logos: Always check for Visa, Mastercard, or UnionPay decals at shop entrances. If in doubt, a simple "Can I pay by card?" is usually understood.

3. Unbroken Seals: Allow extra time at the airport for the refund process. Ensure that items remain unused and sealed in their original packaging, as they must be carried with you for Customs inspection.

4. Support Centers: Financial institutions like the Bank of China have specialized service outlets across Guizhou to provide dedicated consultations and assistance for international guests.

5. Tax Refund Details: https://www.gov.cn/zhengce/zhengceku/202504/content_7021194.htm