How to Use Alipay and WeChat Pay in China (Guide for Foreigners)

Mobile payment is a part of everyday life in China. From large shopping malls to small noodle stalls, almost every purchase is made by scanning a QR code. While this used to be difficult for short-term visitors, things have changed—foreigners can now use Alipay and WeChat Pay with international bank cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Discover).

This guide explains how to pay in China using Alipay and WeChat Pay, from setting up the apps to making everyday payments as a tourist.

How to Pay in China as a Tourist

For most visitors, paying in China means using mobile payment apps rather than cash. Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted almost everywhere, from restaurants and taxis to street vendors and metro stations.

The good news is that tourists can now use both apps with international bank cards, without needing a Chinese bank account.

Step 1: Set Up and Download Mobile Payment Apps

Alipay

Search “Alipay” on the App Store or Google Play and download the official app.Choose International Version when signing up.

WeChat

Search “WeChat”, download the app, and register with your mobile number.

Download Alipay

Download Wechat

Step 2: Register and Verify Your Account

Alipay Registration Steps

1. Open the app → Tap Sign Up

2. Enter your phone number

3. Select Nationality

4. Verify with SMS code

5. Complete basic profile information

WeChat Registration Steps

1. Open WeChat → Sign Up

2. Verify your phone number

3. Set your name and region

4. Log in to WeChat

Alipay sign-up

Wechat sign-up

Step 3: Link Your International Card (Visa/Mastercard)

Foreign travelers can now link their cards directly.

Bind a Card in Alipay

1. Tap Me → Bank Cards → Add Card

2. Enter your card details

3. Fill in your passport information

4. Complete facial recognition

5. Confirm your card is activated

Supported cards: Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Discover

Bind a Card in WeChat Pay

1. Go to Me → Services → Wallet

2. Tap Cards → Add Card

3. Enter your card details

4. Complete identity verification

5. Your WeChat Wallet is ready

Bind card in Wechat

Bind card in Alipay

Step 4: Making Payments in China

Once linked, both apps allow two payment methods:

Method A: Scan the Merchant’s QR Code

1. Open Scan

2. Point your camera at the QR code

3. Confirm payment amount

4. Tap Pay

Method B: Let the Merchant Scan Your Code

1. Open Pay/Collect (WeChat: “Money” page)

2. Show your personal payment QR code

3. Merchant scans your code

4. Payment completes instantly

Check Transaction History and Currency Conversion

Alipay: Me → Bills

WeChat: Me → Services → Transactions

You’ll see currency conversion details and timestamps.

Essential Tips for Foreign Travelers Using Alipay and WeChat Pay

1. Always Keep Your Passport Handy

If the app asks for verification, you may need to submit your passport again.

2. No Chinese Number Needed

Foreign phone numbers work for both apps.

3. Some Small Shops Prefer Cash

Although rare, keep around 100 RMB cash just in case.

4. Refunds Go Back to Your Original Card

Alipay and WeChat automatically handle the exchange.

5. If a Payment Fails

Try these steps:

• Switch to Wi-Fi

• Restart the app

• Try Merchant-Scan instead of User-Scan

• Check if your bank restricts international online transactions

Troubleshooting and Emergency Contact Information

Alipay

• Mainland China: 95188

• Overseas: +86 571 2688 6000

WeChat

• In-app support under Help Center