How to Use Alipay in China for Foreigners: The Complete Guide
Alipay, one of China’s leading mobile payment solutions, revolutionizes how transactions are conducted throughout the country. As a foreigner traveling or living in China, mastering Alipay can make daily transactions smoother and integrate you more deeply into the local lifestyle. This comprehensive guide walks you through the steps of setting up and using Alipay in China as a foreigner, ensuring you can navigate this digital payment landscape with ease.
Table of Contents
Step-by-Step Alipay Setup Guide
Alipay is a digital wallet developed by Ant Financial, an affiliate of the Alibaba Group. It allows users to make secure online and offline payments, transfer money, pay bills, book tickets, and even manage wealth. As of now, Alipay boasts over a billion active users, with services extending beyond China.
- Download and Install Alipay
1.1 Download the App
You can download Alipay from the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or directly from the Alipay website. Ensure it’s the official application to avoid any security issues.
1.2 Choose the Language
Initially, Alipay was predominantly in Chinese, but it has introduced English and other language options to cater to international users. Make sure to set your preferred language for easier navigation. - Register for an Account
2.1 Sign Up Using Your Phone Number
Open the app and sign up using your international mobile number. Alipay will send a verification code to this number; enter it to proceed.
2.2 Set a Login Password
Create a strong password to secure your account. You may also set a payment PIN for transactions and fingerprint authentication if your device supports it. - Verify Your Identity
3.1 Provide Necessary Documentation
Due to Chinese financial regulations, Alipay requires users to verify their identity. You will need to submit a scan of your passport and possibly additional information such as a visa or residence permit.
3.2 Wait for Verification
Identity verification might take a few days. Once verified, you’re ready to add funds and use Alipay’s services fully. - Linking a Bank Card
4.1 Link Your Bank Card
In the “Me” section of the app, find the “Bank Cards” option. Here, you can add a bank card by entering your card details. As of recent updates, nearly all mainstream foreign credit cards are also accepted.
4.2 Verify the Card
Alipay will make a small charge to your card to verify it, which will be refunded once verification is complete. - Topping Up Your Alipay Account (Optional)
5.1 Use a Chinese Bank Account
If you have a bank account in China, you can transfer money to your Alipay account directly from this account.
5.2 Ask a Friend to Transfer Funds
If you don’t have a Chinese bank account, a common method is to have a friend transfer money to your Alipay account. You can then repay them in cash or via another method. - Using Alipay for Payments
6.1 Making In-Store Payments
To pay at a store, open Alipay and show your QR code to the cashier to scan, or scan the merchant’s QR code and confirm the payment amount.
6.2 Online Shopping
When shopping online, especially on platforms like Taobao or Tmall, Alipay is integrated into the checkout process. Just choose Alipay as your payment method and confirm the transaction.
6.3 Paying Bills
Alipay allows you to pay utility bills, mobile top-ups, and even traffic fines through its app. Navigate to the relevant section and enter the details to make payments. - Managing Your Account
7.1 Review Transactions
Regularly check your transaction history in the Alipay app to monitor your spending and ensure all transactions are correct.
7.2 Maintaining Security
Always keep your app updated, and do not share your passwords or PINs. If you notice any suspicious activity, contact Alipay’s customer service immediately. - Troubleshooting Common Issues
8.1 Resetting Passwords
If you forget your login details, you can reset them via the app using your phone number or email associated with the account.
8.2 Dealing with Transaction Issues
For failed transactions or refunds, you can use the help and support feature in the app to resolve disputes or track the progress of money transfers.
Alipay Payment Methods
QR Code Payment
You can make payments by scanning the recipient’s payment code. The types of payment codes will be detailed later.
Payment Code Payment
In your Alipay app, you can find your payment code. When making a payment, simply show your payment code to the merchant, and they can scan it using a barcode scanner to complete the transaction.
Types of Alipay Payment Receipt Codes
It’s important to note that in China, you will encounter two types of Alipay payment receipt codes, along with many other codes that support Alipay payments.
Official Alipay Payment Receipt Code
Personal Payment Receipt Code
The first type is the personal payment receipt code. Please note that this code only supports payments through a credit card issued in China or your Alipay balance, and does not support credit cards. This is because it involves the risk of cashing out from credit cards. If you encounter this payment code while paying in China, unless you have a balance in your Alipay account, unfortunately, you will not be able to complete the payment using your linked foreign credit card. In this case, you can check if the merchant has any other types of payment codes available and try scanning those to make a payment.
Merchant Payment Receipt Code
The second type is the merchant payment receipt code (like the one we provided for you to try below). This code is used by certified merchants and generally supports payments via your linked foreign credit card. Whether the payment works or not can be tested by scanning the code and attempting to make a small payment. Please note that this is only for testing purposes, and the payment amount cannot be refunded.
Third Party Payment Receipt Codes
Other payment receipt codes are a bit more complicated. They are mostly provided by third-party payment service companies or banks. Some Chinese merchants use these codes because local customers may have a need to pay via credit card, and the regular Alipay and WeChat personal payment codes do not support credit card payments. Therefore, if you see a payment code with logos like Alipay, WeChat Pay, or UnionPay, it is usually a third-party payment code. These codes typically support credit card payments, including international credit cards.
FAQs for foreigners using Alipay in China
1. Can I use my foreign credit card on Alipay?
In most cases, you can link a foreign credit card to your Alipay account. However, some types of Alipay payment codes (like personal codes) only accept payments through Alipay balance or local Chinese credit cards. For merchant payment codes, you may be able to pay with a foreign card, but this is not always guaranteed.
2. How do I add my foreign credit card to Alipay?
To add a foreign credit card to Alipay, go to the “My” section of the app, tap on “Bank Cards,” and then click on “Add Bank Card.” Follow the prompts to enter your card details. Make sure your card is eligible for international payments.
3. What types of payment codes can I encounter in China?
In China, you may encounter two main types of Alipay codes:
• Personal payment codes: These are for individual users and do not support foreign credit cards.
• Merchant payment codes: These are for certified merchants and usually support foreign credit card payments.
4. Why can’t I use my foreign credit card on some Alipay payment codes?
Some personal Alipay codes only accept payments from Alipay balances or local Chinese credit cards due to regulations surrounding credit card cash advances. This is why you may not be able to use your foreign card on certain codes.
5. Can I use Alipay without a Chinese bank account?
Yes, you can use Alipay as a foreigner without a Chinese bank account by linking your international credit card or a foreign bank account. However, you may be limited in some cases, such as only being able to pay with small amounts or for certain merchants.
6. What do I do if I can’t use Alipay with my foreign card?
If you’re unable to use your foreign credit card with a specific Alipay code, check to see if there is another payment code available. Merchants often provide multiple payment options, so try asking if they have another code that accepts foreign cards.
7. Can I withdraw cash using Alipay?
No, Alipay is not designed for direct cash withdrawals from foreign bank accounts. However, you can transfer funds from your Alipay balance to a Chinese bank account if you have one, or use Alipay to make payments directly.
8. Can I get a refund if I accidentally make a payment using Alipay?
Refunds depend on the type of payment. If you made a payment to a merchant, you will need to contact them directly for a refund. In most cases, Alipay itself does not offer direct refunds for payments made.
9. Can I use Alipay for international purchases?
Alipay is primarily designed for domestic payments within China, but it has been expanding its international presence. Some international merchants and e-commerce platforms now accept Alipay for overseas purchases. You’ll need to check with the merchant to see if they support international Alipay payments.
10. Are there any fees when using my foreign credit card on Alipay?
Generally, Alipay doesn’t charge additional fees for using a foreign credit card. However, your card issuer may apply foreign transaction fees. Always check with your bank to see if they charge extra fees for international payments.
11. How do I top up my Alipay balance without a Chinese bank account?
If you don’t have a Chinese bank account, you can still use Alipay, but you cannot directly top up your Alipay balance using a foreign credit card. However, there are alternative methods:
• Using third-party services: Some third-party services or payment platforms, like Alipay’s international partners, may allow you to transfer funds into your Alipay account.
• Through a friend or local contact: You can ask a Chinese friend or someone with a local bank account to top up your Alipay balance for you.
Keep in mind that options can vary depending on your location and Alipay’s regulations at the time. Always check with Alipay or the service provider for the most current information.
12. Can I use Alipay to pay for taxis or public transport?
Yes, Alipay is widely accepted for taxis and public transport in many Chinese cities. Some taxis have a QR code on the side of the vehicle, allowing you to scan and pay directly through the app. Public transport systems in cities like Beijing and Shanghai also accept Alipay for metro rides.
13. Can I link my credit card to my child’s Alipay account for them to use?
Yes, you can set up a family account in your Alipay app for your child. This allows you to share your credit card with them for payments. You can manage the payment permissions and monitor their spending through your Alipay account, providing a safe and controlled way for your child to use the service.
14. What if I only have one phone? How can I scan the QR code displayed on the same phone?
You can save the QR code or take a screenshot of it to your phone’s photo gallery. Then, open the Alipay app’s QR code scanner, and in the scanning interface, tap the album icon in the bottom right corner. From there, you can select the saved payment code from your gallery and scan it to make the payment.
Conclusion
Alipay is more than just a payment method; it’s an integral part of daily life in China. For foreigners, understanding how to set up and efficiently use Alipay can greatly enhance the living or travel experience in China. From paying for groceries to booking cinema tickets, Alipay simplifies numerous aspects of financial transactions. By following this guide, you will be well-prepared to navigate the world of mobile payments in China, enjoying the convenience and security that Alipay offers.
I have already activated Alipay outside china and used it to pay someone from china. Can I still use Alipay when I am in china?
Yes of course, you can also try to send a small amount by scanning the QR code inside the article above to confirm.
Does Alipay charge any fee if I use the balance to make payment instead of my card? Say if I use 300 RMB from my balance to pay, will I be charged 3% transaction fee?
no it doesn’t.
Need clarification about Tour Pass vs Alipay; Tour pass is limited time use while Alipay once registered is good whenever it’s used in China and does not “expire”? Am planning trip in Nov 2025 and wanted to set up Alipay well in advance.
Hi Ben, you can use it as long as you want to.
can i setup alipay for my child but the cc is mine?
You can set up a family account for your child in your Alipay, allowing them to have their own independent account while being able to make payments using your credit card.
I cannot find the family account in my alipay app. Do I need to have my alipay verified first ?
Yes, try to verify to try again, also, it’s requested to verify to pay.
Does Alipay nft work for foreigners? (nft = near field technology). I tried for the first time in a shop recently and it didn’t. My Alipay is linked to a Chinese bank. Paying using Alipay via the QR code method and also transferring to individuals works fine – it’s just nft. Maybe I’m doing something wrong. I’m using an iphone 14 which supports nft.
Hi David,
It should work, just make sure:
I’m using an iPhone 12 mini and works fine, thus yours should work too.
We don’t have any international cart
How can we charg alipay and use it for buying
You can charge and use Alipay without an international card by:
Why make a big fuss about Alipay? Using cash is much much better,
I understand your perspective, and to some extent, I agree. Cash has its advantages, especially for those who prefer traditional payment methods. However, in certain situations, Alipay offers undeniable benefits:
Additionally, for our business transactions, we often use Alipay due to its faster processing and lower fees compared to bank transfers. Of course, bank transfers are still an option—it just comes down to personal preference.
Ultimately, both payment methods have their pros and cons, and the best choice depends on the traveler’s needs and habits. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!