In this Alipay Guide
Download and Set Up Alipay
1. Download the App
Alipay is available for both iOS and Android. Search for “Alipay” in the App Store or Google Play and download the official app.
2. Register an Account
You can sign up using a Chinese phone number, or if you’re a foreign user, you can use an international number.
- Open the app and tap “Sign Up”
- Enter your phone number and verify it via SMS
- Set up a login password
3. Verify Your Identity
To unlock all features, you need to verify your identity. This usually involves uploading a passport photo and entering some basic personal details. However, foreigners can skip this step as the most essential features of the app are usable without verifying your identity. Foreign passports are also not accepted on Alipay, so foreigners have no way of doing this as well.
How to Make Payments with Alipay
Linking a Bank Card
Before you can make payments with Alipay, you’ll have to add a debit or credit card in the app. This is because without a bank account, this is the only payment method in Alipay that foreigners can use.
- Go to Account > Bank Cards > Add Card
- Enter your card details and billing information
- Complete verification (may require a code sent to your bank-registered phone number)
1. Scan-to-Pay (QR Code Payments)
Most stores and restaurants in China display an Alipay QR code at checkout.
- Open Alipay and tap “Scan”
- Point your camera at the merchant’s QR code
- Enter the amount (if required) and confirm payment
In the scan page, you can also upload an image of the
2. Show Your Payment Code
Some merchants scan your QR code instead of you scanning theirs.
- Open Alipay and tap “Pay”
- Show the QR code to the cashier to scan
You can also change the bank card you wan to use before showing the cashier your QR code.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do you need a Chinese bank account to use Alipay?
No you don’t need a Chinese bank account to use Alipay. You can link foreign credit or debit cards to make payments in China, as long as the cards allow you to make transactions in China.
Is Alipay or Wechat better?
Both apps have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. In terms of making payments and accessing mini programs, both are great. However, Wechat is the messaging platform that the Chinese use, so it’s more of a all-in-one app, allowing you to make payments and acts as a communication tool.