How to Use Alipay & WeChat Pay as a Foreigner

China has become one of the most cashless societies in the world. From street food stalls to luxury restaurants, most vendors prefer — and some exclusively accept — mobile payments via Alipay or WeChat Pay. Here's how to get set up as a foreign visitor.

Why You Need Mobile Payment in China

• Many vendors no longer accept cash
• Taxis, food delivery, and supermarkets all prefer QR code payments
• Significantly faster and more convenient than cash
• Required for many apps and services within China

Option 1: Alipay International (Easiest for Visitors)

Alipay now offers an International Tourist Mode that accepts foreign credit and debit cards.

Setup Steps:

1. Download Alipay from the App Store or Google Play
2. Sign up with your international phone number
3. Verify your identity with your passport
4. Add your international Visa or Mastercard
5. You're ready to pay by scanning QR codes

Limitations:

• Maximum spending of 50,000 RMB (~USD 7,000) per year
• Some features unavailable compared to Chinese accounts

Option 2: WeChat Pay

WeChat Pay is integrated into the WeChat app, which you should already have.

Setup Steps:

1. Open WeChat → Me → Pay → Wallet → Cards
2. Add international Visa or Mastercard
3. Complete identity verification

Limitations:

• International card setup may require additional verification steps
• Some payment scenarios limited to mainland China bank card holders

How to Pay

Paying as a Customer (Scan QR Code)

1. Open Alipay or WeChat
2. Tap the "Scan" or "Pay" button
3. Scan the merchant's QR code displayed at the counter
4. Enter the amount (if required) and confirm

Receiving Payment (Show Your QR Code)

1. Open Alipay/WeChat
2. Go to "Receive Money" or "My QR Code"
3. Show your QR code for the merchant to scan

Backup: Physical Cards & Cash

Despite the cashless trend, always carry:

• International credit/debit card (Visa/Mastercard accepted at major hotels)
• Some RMB cash (for remote areas, small villages, or emergencies)
• US Dollars can be exchanged at major banks and airports

Where to Get RMB Cash

• Bank of China ATMs: Most reliable for international cards
• ICBC ATMs: Good international card support
• Airport exchange counters: Convenient but slightly worse rates
• Bring USD or EUR — they're easy to exchange and get good rates

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Payment technology in China evolves rapidly. Check the Alipay and WeChat Pay apps for the latest international visitor features before your trip.