Visa and UnionPay team up to revolutionize cross-border payments to China

Visa has inked a deal with UnionPay International (UPI) to streamline cross-border payments into the Chinese mainland. The alliance will connect Visa Direct's global network with UPI's MoneyExpress platform, expediting money transfers and enhancing security. The service is slated to debut in the first half of 2026.

The accord will enable businesses and consumers worldwide to remit funds directly to over 95% of UnionPay debit cardholders in mainland China. This encompasses remittances, freelancer payouts, contractor payments, reimbursements, and family transfers. A single connection will facilitate all these transactions.

Visa Direct has been growing as a pivotal part of the global payment system. The new tie-up with UnionPay will assist clients in penetrating new markets, optimizing cash flow, and accelerating payments. China, as one of the largest remittance destinations, will now be more accessible through this alliance.

The service aspires to offer a smoother, more transparent way to move money across borders. Once operational, it will cater to a wide range of financial needs for individuals and businesses alike.

The expanded Visa Direct connection will go live in early 2026. It will empower faster, more reliable payments into China for millions of UnionPay cardholders. The deal fortifies Visa's footprint in a major global remittance market.