WeChat Pay and Alipay for Foreign Tourists in China
How to set up mobile payments in China as a foreigner โ step by step.
Contents
Why You Need Mobile Payment in China
China has become the world's most cashless society. In most cities, especially outside tourist areas, cash is rarely accepted. Restaurants, convenience stores, street food stalls, taxis, and even temples use QR code payments. Without WeChat Pay or Alipay, you will struggle.
Many restaurants, especially local ones, only accept WeChat Pay or Alipay. Foreign credit cards are often refused even at sit-down restaurants.
Setting Up WeChat Pay as a Foreigner
China opened WeChat Pay to foreign Visa, Mastercard, and Discover cards in 2023. The setup process takes about 15 minutes.
- 1Download WeChat and create an account using your phone number
- 2Open WeChat โ Me โ Services โ Wallet
- 3Tap "Add Bank Card" and select your card type
- 4Enter your foreign Visa or Mastercard details
- 5Verify with a text message to your phone
- 6Set a 6-digit payment password
- 7You can now pay by scanning any QR code in China
- โDo this before you leave home โ the setup process is easier on a stable connection
- โWeChat Pay works at virtually every merchant, restaurant, and attraction in China
Setting Up Alipay International
Alipay International supports foreign cards and is slightly easier to set up than WeChat Pay. Use it as a backup.
- 1Download Alipay and create an international account
- 2Go to Settings โ Bank Cards โ Add International Card
- 3Add your Visa or Mastercard (Amex is not supported)
- 4Enable the "Alipay +" international payment feature
- 5Test with a small purchase before your trip
How to Pay in China
There are two ways to pay: scanning a merchant's QR code, or showing your QR code for the merchant to scan. Both work with both apps.
- 1Open WeChat โ Scan the QR code on the cashier's device
- 2Enter the amount if prompted, confirm your payment
- 3Alternatively, go to WeChat โ "Pay" to show your personal QR code
- 4You will get an instant notification confirming payment
- โMost QR codes in China are red (Alipay) or green (WeChat) โ both work in most places
- โSave your payment receipts in the app โ refunds require the transaction ID
Backup: Using ATMs in China
If mobile payment fails, UnionPay ATMs accept most foreign Visa and Mastercard debit cards. ICBC, Bank of China, and China Construction Bank ATMs are the most reliable.
- โBring your card's international PIN โ many ATMs require a 6-digit PIN
- โWithdrawal limits are typically ยฅ2,500โ5,000 per transaction
- โExchange rates at ATMs are generally better than currency exchange counters
Some ATMs have been known to swallow foreign cards. Use ATMs inside banks during business hours so staff can help if needed.
Travel Cards โ Show These to Locals
Save these cards on your phone and show them directly to taxi drivers, restaurant staff, or anyone who can help.
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Hello, I am a foreign tourist. Can I pay with WeChat Pay or Alipay?
Tip: Show this card when you are unsure if mobile payment is accepted, or when the cashier is confused by your setup.
Note: App availability and foreign card support may change. Always have a backup payment method.
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