{"id":18617,"date":"2026-11-10T07:20:35","date_gmt":"2026-11-10T07:20:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sinotrip.net\/?p=18617"},"modified":"2026-11-10T07:20:36","modified_gmt":"2026-11-10T07:20:36","slug":"how-to-use-alipay-in-china","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sinotrip.net\/es\/how-to-use-alipay-in-china\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Use Alipay and WeChat Pay in China as a Tourist"},"content":{"rendered":"

Learning how to use Alipay in China can make daily payments easier for foreign tourists. Visitors can link eligible international bank cards, scan merchant QR codes and pay at many restaurants, shops and hotels. WeChat Pay is another useful option for everyday purchases.<\/p>

You do not always need a Chinese bank account or mainland phone number. However, card support and identity checks depend on your account and issuing bank. This guide explains how to set up both apps, make payments and solve common problems.<\/p>

1. How to Use Alipay in China: Setup Steps<\/h2>

Alipay is one of the main mobile payment options in mainland China. Its English interface makes it useful for international visitors. You can register with an overseas mobile number and link an eligible foreign bank card.<\/p>

Step 1: Download and Register<\/h3>

Download Alipay from your phone’s official app store. Open the app and register with your mobile number. Select the correct country code for your number. Complete the SMS verification process and follow the account setup instructions.<\/p>

You can prepare your account before arriving in China. Keep access to your registered phone number because the app may request additional verification.<\/p>

Step 2: Verify Your Identity<\/h3>

Open the account or identity verification section when prompted. Follow the instructions and provide the requested passport details. Some users may need to upload a passport image or complete additional checks.<\/p>

Verification requirements can vary by account and payment service. Use your own valid travel document and enter the details accurately.<\/p>

Step 3: Link an International Bank Card<\/h3>

Open Alipay and find the Bank Cards section. Select the option to add a card. Enter the information requested by the app and complete any bank verification steps.<\/p>

Supported international card networks may include Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, Discover and Diners Club. For more information, see the Chinese government’s payment guide for overseas visitors<\/mark><\/a>.Actual acceptance depends on the payment service and card issuer. Your bank may also block an overseas transaction for security reasons.<\/p>

Step 4: Make Your First Payment<\/h3>

Once your card is linked, test the app with a small purchase. Check the payment details before confirming. Keep the payment notification so you can verify that the transaction was successful.<\/p>

\"Alipay<\/figure><\/div>

2. How to Use WeChat Pay in China<\/h2>

WeChat is widely used for messaging and everyday services in China. Its payment function is called Weixin Pay, also known internationally as WeChat Pay. Foreign visitors can link eligible international bank cards for supported purchases.<\/p>

For additional instructions, read the <\/mark>Shanghai government guide to mobile payments<\/mark><\/a>.<\/p>

Step 1: Register or Sign In to WeChat<\/h3>

Download the official WeChat app and register with your mobile number. Existing users can sign in to their accounts. Make sure your app is updated before setting up payments.<\/p>

Step 2: Add Your International Bank Card<\/h3>

Open WeChat and select Me, then Services, Wallet and Bank Cards. Follow the instructions to add your card. Enter the required card and personal information.<\/p>

WeChat may ask you to verify your identity. Follow the on-screen instructions and complete any requested checks. If the card cannot be linked, contact your bank or WeChat support.<\/p>

Step 3: Use WeChat Pay<\/h3>

Open the payment function when you are ready to pay. You can scan a merchant’s QR code or show your payment code. The cashier can scan your code to collect the payment.<\/p>

Check the amount and payment result before leaving the counter. Keep in mind that linking an international card does not unlock every WeChat feature. Services such as personal transfers and red packets may have separate restrictions.<\/p>

3. How to Pay with Alipay and WeChat Pay<\/h2>

Both apps support two common QR code payment methods. The cashier will usually tell you which method to use. Look for the Alipay or WeChat Pay logo before starting.<\/p>

Method 1: Scan the Merchant’s QR Code<\/h3>
  1. Open Alipay or WeChat.<\/li>\n\n
  2. Tap Scan on the app’s main screen.<\/li>\n\n
  3. Point your phone camera at the merchant’s payment QR code.<\/li>\n\n
  4. Enter the payment amount if the app requests it.<\/li>\n\n
  5. Check the amount and confirm the payment.<\/li>\n\n
  6. Wait for the successful payment message.<\/li><\/ol>

    Method 2: Show Your Payment Code<\/h3>
    1. Open the payment function in your app.<\/li>\n\n
    2. Display your personal payment QR code or barcode.<\/li>\n\n
    3. Let the cashier scan it with the payment terminal.<\/li>\n\n
    4. Check the confirmation message and transaction amount.<\/li><\/ol>

      Do not confuse a merchant’s collection code with a personal transfer QR code. When shopping, use the merchant’s official payment method. Never share your payment password or verification code with another person.<\/p>

      Where Can Tourists Use Mobile Payments?<\/h3>

      Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted by many participating businesses in China. Common payment situations include:<\/p>