Mobile Payments in China
How to set up WeChat Pay and Alipay as a foreigner — step by step.
Mobile payment dominates in China. Almost every shop, restaurant, taxi, and market accepts WeChat Pay or Alipay, while cash remains legal tender that may not be refused. This guide tells you exactly how to get started as a foreigner.
WeChat Pay — step by step
Download WeChat from the App Store or Google Play. It is available in Arabic, English, and Chinese.
Register with your foreign mobile number. You will need an existing WeChat user to verify your account (security requirement).
Go to Me → Pay → Wallet → Cards → Add Card. Add your Visa or MasterCard. Note: foreign cards are limited to US$5,000 per transaction and US$50,000 per year.
If you open a Chinese bank account (Bank of China, ICBC, etc.) you can link your Chinese card and top up without limits.
To pay, tap "+" → "Pay" to show your QR code, or scan the merchant's code. You can also send money to friends.
Alipay — step by step
Download Alipay from the App Store. The app lets non-residents link foreign cards directly.
Register with your phone number and complete the identity verification (KYC) with your passport or residence permit.
Tap Me → Bank Cards. Alipay supports Visa, MasterCard, and other cards. Foreign-card limits: US$5,000 per transaction, US$50,000 per year.
For higher limits, complete passport verification inside the app. This gives you full access to all services.
Tap "Pay" to show your QR code or scan the merchant's code. Most stores in China accept Alipay.
Limits & restrictions
| WeChat Pay | Alipay | |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign card — per-transaction limit | US$5,000 | US$5,000 |
| Foreign card — annual limit | US$50,000 | US$50,000 |
| Chinese card — no limit | ✅ | ✅ |
| Send money to friends | ✅ | ✅ |
| In-store payment | ✅ | ✅ |
| Online shopping | ✅ | ✅ (Taobao/Tmall) |
Practical tips
- 💡 Always carry a small amount of cash (¥200–500) for emergencies.
- 🔋 Keep your phone charged — you cannot pay without power.
- 📶 Ensure you have mobile data or Wi-Fi when paying.
- 🏧 ATMs in China generally accept foreign cards (Visa/MasterCard). Look for Bank of China or ICBC.
- 💱 At ATMs, choose "Withdraw without currency conversion" to avoid double fees.
- 🏪 In major trade markets (Yiwu, Guangzhou), many vendors accept USD or AED directly.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use WeChat Pay without a Chinese bank account?
Yes. You can link a foreign Visa/MasterCard directly. Foreign-card limits are US$5,000 per transaction and US$50,000 per year. For larger amounts you need a Chinese bank account.
What is the difference between WeChat Pay and Alipay?
Both are accepted almost everywhere. WeChat Pay is built into the WeChat messaging app. Alipay is more popular for online shopping. Some merchants accept only one, so install both.
What do I do if I run out of balance?
Go to any ATM and withdraw with your foreign card (usually ¥2,500–3,000/day limit). You can also ask a friend to transfer money and pay them back.
Do I need a Chinese phone number?
No. You can register with your foreign number. However, buying a Chinese SIM (China Mobile or China Unicom) makes everything much easier.