iFAST Global Bank scan and pay feature covers 150 million merchants in China

How the QR payments work

iFAST Global Bank now offers Worldwide Scan & Pay through its mobile app for Digital Personal Banking clients, letting them pay by scanning QR codes at more than 150 million merchants across 220+ markets, including China. The bank said the service links directly to customers’ Multi-Currency Current Accounts and completes in seconds without a card or cash.

The London-based bank said it's the first UK bank to partner with Ant International’s Alipay+ on the feature, which went live on May 11. The system works at Alipay+-compatible merchants in China and other supported markets.

Who can use it

The rollout mainly affects UK-based travelers, expats and digital nomads with iFAST Global Bank accounts. It gives them a way to pay in China and elsewhere without opening a local bank account or carrying a physical card.

The service is aimed at everyday spending, including retail, dining and travel purchases. iFAST said the feature is available immediately after launch for eligible clients.

What nomads should do next

Eligible users need an iFAST Global Bank Digital Personal Banking account and a Multi-Currency Current Account. After that, they can open the bank’s app, scan a merchant QR code and confirm the payment.

The bank did not detail special fees in the launch note, so users should still check their account terms before relying on the service for routine spending. For broader travel planning, read our visa updates and our full China guide for the complete picture.