Money & Payments

China has leapfrogged credit cards entirely and gone straight to mobile payments. From luxury restaurants to street-side dumpling vendors, nearly every transaction happens through a phone. For tourists, this creates a unique challenge: without WeChat Pay or Alipay, you'll struggle to buy anything.

The good news? Both apps now support international credit cards, making setup possible before you even board your flight.

Setting Up Alipay

Alipay (支付宝) is generally easier for foreigners to set up and is our recommended first choice.

Step 1: Download the app. Available on iOS and Android app stores worldwide. Search for "Alipay" (not the Chinese version "支付宝").

Step 2: Register with your phone number. International numbers are supported. You'll receive an SMS verification code.

Step 3: Add your credit card. Go to Me → Bank Cards → Add Card. Visa, Mastercard, and JCB cards are accepted. You may need to verify with your bank.

Step 4: Complete identity verification. This requires your passport. Go to Settings → Account and Security → Identity Verification. Upload a photo of your passport page.

Important: Some features require a Chinese bank account, but basic payments work fine with international cards.

Setting Up WeChat Pay

WeChat Pay (微信支付) is integrated into the WeChat messaging app, which most people in China use for communication. Having both apps ensures you're covered everywhere.

Step 1: Download WeChat and register with your phone number.

Step 2: Enable WeChat Pay. Go to Me → Services → Wallet. If you don't see this option, try receiving a small red packet (hongbao) from someone — this can activate the payment feature.

Step 3: Add your card. In Wallet, tap Cards → Add a Card. International cards are supported since mid-2023.

Step 4: Verify your identity with passport photos.

Tip: WeChat Pay activation can be finicky for foreigners. If it doesn't work immediately, try again after 24 hours or ask a Chinese friend to send you a small transfer.

How to Pay

Once set up, paying is refreshingly simple:

1. Merchant scans you: Open your payment QR code (Alipay: tap "Pay" on the home screen; WeChat: Me → Services → Money → Payment Code). The merchant scans your code with their device.

2. You scan the merchant: Tap "Scan" in the app, point your camera at their QR code, enter the amount, and confirm.

For small purchases under ¥1,000, payments are usually password-free.

Practical Tips

Always carry some cash as backup. While most vendors accept mobile payments, rural areas and very small businesses sometimes don't. Carry ¥200-500 in cash just in case.

Exchange rates are competitive. Both apps use the interbank rate, which is typically better than what you'd get at airport exchange counters.

Transaction limits. International cards have a per-transaction limit of around ¥6,500 (approximately $900). For larger purchases, you may need to split the payment.

Notify your bank. Before traveling, let your credit card issuer know you'll be making purchases in China. This prevents your card from being blocked for suspicious activity.

Battery anxiety is real. If your phone dies, you can't pay. Carry a portable charger — you can rent them at most convenience stores and restaurants through the apps themselves.

What About Cash?

Technically, businesses are required to accept cash, but in practice, many vendors — especially taxi drivers and small food stalls — may not have change. If you must use cash, try to carry small bills (¥10, ¥20, ¥50).

The Bottom Line

Set up Alipay before your trip and WeChat Pay as a backup. Between the two, you'll be able to pay for virtually anything in China. The days of fumbling with unfamiliar currency are over — your phone is now your wallet.