
Photo: VCG
Though China has become economically powerful, its passports have not.
Because Chinese passport-holders can travel visa-free to relatively few countries, travelers often have to fill out tedious visa applications that require proof of good financial standing.
But worry not, says Canada: The country announced Friday that it will begin cooperating with Alibaba affiliate Ant Financial, to allow Chinese to show their financial status through an English-language Zhima report.
Alipay is China’s leading online payment system and has 700 million active users around the world. Chinese hoping to visit Canada will be able to use Zhima credit, or Sesame credit, the credit-assessment service developed and operated by Ant Financial.
“The Zhima report is more comprehensive than the traditional bank statements and deposit certificates typically received in support of visitor visa applications. Chinese nationals can, however, continue to provide bank statements or other evidence of financial standing if they choose,” Canadian officials said.
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