Uber has expanded its payment options in Canada, now allowing riders to pay for trips using WeChat Pay. The update comes through a renewed global partnership with the fintech platform Adyen, designed to make the app more accessible for international travellers and local users who prefer alternative payment methods.
The integration is specifically aimed at visitors and residents who rely on the WeChat mini app to book rides. By adding WeChat Pay to its local acquiring network, Uber is removing the need for users to have a traditional credit card or a local data plan to get around.
WeChat Pay is owned and operated by Chinese tech giant Tencent, based in Shenzhen.
The partnership with Adyen also powers Uber’s new physical kiosks, which are beginning to roll out at major airports and hotels. These kiosks feature touchscreens that allow travellers to request a ride and pay on the spot without ever opening the Uber app on their phone. This is particularly helpful for international visitors who haven’t yet set up a local SIM card upon arrival. The first kiosk debuted at LaGuardia Airport (LGA) Terminal C, but more are coming worldwide in the “coming months”.
A spokesperson for Uber confirmed the news in an email to iPhone in Canada earlier this week, saying, “Uber has expanded its global payments partnership with Adyen, adding more local payment methods — including WeChat Pay — to support riders in new markets and international travellers.”
This move reflects a broader shift toward localized payments. Beyond Canada, Uber is also adopting Pix in Brazil and AfterPay in Australia to match local spending habits. For Canadians travelling abroad, the expansion of these payment rails means a more seamless experience in over 70 countries where Uber operates.
The timing of the rollout is also likely strategic as North America prepares for the 2026 World Cup set for this summer, which is being co-hosted by Canada, alongside the U.S. and Mexico. With millions of international fans expected to visit Canadian host cities like Vancouver and Toronto, these payment integrations and airport kiosks are expected to reduce the friction typically faced by foreign tourists. WeChat Pay is available in Mainland China, Hong Kong and Malaysia.
Want to see more of our stories on Google?
P.S. Want to keep this site truly independent? Support us by buying us a beer, treating us to a coffee, or shopping through Amazon here. Links in this post are affiliate links, so we earn a tiny commission at no charge to you. Thanks for supporting independent Canadian media!
