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How to set up Alipay or WeChat Pay as a foreigner

Install the app at home, register with your own phone number, verify your identity with your passport, then link a Visa or Mastercard. Do it at least a week before you travel: identity checks, especially on WeChat, can take a few days.

Alipay

  1. Download Alipay from your normal app store and sign up with your home mobile number.
  2. Open the bank-card section and add your card. Enter your name exactly as printed on your passport.
  3. Complete the passport verification when prompted.
  4. Find the two things you will use daily: "Scan" (you scan the shop) and "Pay/Receive" (the shop scans you).

WeChat Pay (optional second option)

  1. Install WeChat, register, then open Me > Services > Wallet and add a card.
  2. Passport verification on WeChat has been reported to take one to three days, so start early.

Test before you go

  1. Open the payment code screen and make sure it loads without errors.
  2. Screenshot your passport photo page; some verification steps ask for it again.

What goes wrong

Registering with a temporary or virtual number. You cannot receive later security codes and get locked out mid-trip.
Name does not match the passport. Verification fails and the card will not link.
Only one card linked. If that bank blocks the payment, you have no fallback.

The game makes you choose between Alipay, cash and "just my Visa" with the clock running.

How many traps would you hit? Play free

About 5 minutes. No sign-up.

Quick questions

Alipay or WeChat Pay: which one?

Either works almost everywhere. Alipay is usually the easier one for visitors to set up; having both gives you a backup.

Can I receive money or top up a balance?

Visitors mostly pay straight from the linked card. You do not need a balance to pay in shops.

More answers

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Last reviewed 2026-11. Payment, ticketing and entry rules in China change often; confirm details with the official app or site before you travel. This page is general travel information, not professional advice.