How Foreigners Can Use Alipay in China (2026 Updated Guide)

Planning a trip to China? One tool you’ll want to have ready is Alipay, one of the country’s most widely used mobile payment apps. From buying street food and booking taxis to paying for metro rides and ordering food delivery, Alipay makes everyday transactions fast and cash-free. For foreign visitors, it now supports international cards and passports, making it easier than ever to access China’s digital payment ecosystem. This guide walks you through everything you need to know—how to register, verify your identity, add a payment method, and use Alipay in real-life scenarios. With just a few taps on your phone, you’ll be ready to navigate China like a local.

You might also be interested in:
⭐How to Buy Train Tickets in China
⭐How to Use DiDi in China: A Complete 2026 Guide
⭐How to Order Food in Chinese Restaurants: A Complete Guide
⭐How Foreigners Can Use WeChat Seamlessly in China
⭐Best Google Maps Alternatives for Traveling in China
⭐Apps You Can Use in China Without a VPN (2026 Guide)
⭐Countries Eligible for China Visa-Free Travel in 2026 (Updated)
⭐How to Buy Airline Tickets in China: Essential Tips & Guide

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can learn more about this in my disclosure policy.

Is Alipay Necessary for Foreigners Visiting China?

Yes. Alipay is the most practical tool for any visitor to China. With over 99% of merchants accepting it, Alipay is far more convenient than carrying cash or relying on international credit cards, which are often rejected by smaller vendors. It functions as both a secure digital wallet and a comprehensive travel assistant.

Why Choose Alipay Over Cash or International Credit Cards?

While you can bring cash, it is often “clumsy” to handle due to change and large bills. Many small vendors do not accept international credit cards, and those that do may apply extra fees.

Feature	Alipay	Cash & International Cards
Acceptance	Over 99% of shops and restaurants.	Often rejected by small vendors.
Convenience	Fast scan-and-pay; no PIN/signature for small buys.	Clumsy change; large bills are hard to use.
Currency	Real-time exchange rates; cheaper than manual exchange.	Potential extra fees; manual exchange needed.
Safety	Reduced theft risk; all spending is recorded in-app.	Stress of losing physical money.

Where Can You Use Alipay in China

Over 99% of shops, restaurants, and services accept Alipay, making it incredibly easy to get around without cash. You can use it for:

• Eating anywhere—from restaurants to snack stalls—is easy once you know how to order food.
  
• Getting around is simple, whether you’re using the subway, taxis, buses, or bike-sharing—and you can quickly buy train tickets online.
  
• Shopping at convenience stores, supermarkets like Hema, and major malls.
  
• Buying attraction tickets for places like Shanghai Disneyland or Yu Garden—just scan a code and enter.
  
• You can book hotels across all budgets, from local chains to luxury stays.
  
• Booking airline tickets for city-to-city travel only takes a moment.

Or, plan ahead—book China hotels, trains, and flights on Trip >

How Does Alipay Act as Your Pocket Travel Assistant?

Alipay is like a travel assistant in your pocket. It doesn’t just handle payments—it helps you navigate, eat, book, and translate too:

• Get around easily by using ride-hailing apps like Didi, metro/bus QR codes, and no-deposit bike rentals—all inside Alipay.
• Eat smarter by ordering takeout or reserving tables with English-friendly tools built into the app.
• Plan better with instant access to attraction tickets and hotel bookings via trusted platforms like Trip.
• Stay connected and informed by topping up your SIM card and using built-in translation (翻译) tools for photos or voice.

How Do I Set Up Alipay as a Foreigner Without a Chinese Bank Account?

Setting up Alipay as a foreigner is straightforward: download the mainland China version of the app, register using your international phone number or email, and complete real-name verification with your passport.

It is highly recommended to complete this process before arriving in China to ensure seamless payment access and avoid potential internet or verification delays upon arrival. You can also install other popular apps that don’t require a VPN.

1. How to Download and Install the Alipay App?

• What Devices Work: Alipay works best on smartphones (both iPhone and Android). You can use it on a tablet, but some features might not work properly.
  
• For iPhone/iPad Users:
  
  • Open the App Store using a non-China account
    
  • Search for “Alipay” (by Ant Group)
    
  • Tap to download
    
• For Android Users:
  
  • Use Google Play Store or your phone’s native app store (e.g., Huawei or Xiaomi’s own store)
    
  • If Google Play is blocked, visit Alipay’s official site to manually download the APK (don’t forget to allow app installs from unknown sources)

Pair your setup with a complete guide to WeChat Pay for travelers.

Which Version Should You Use?

Version	International (Alipay+)	Mainland China (Recommended)
Ease of Use	Simplistic, designed for English speakers.	Full-featured, supports English language switch.
Mini-Programs	Limited support for local services.	Full access to all travel mini-programs.
Our Verdict	Good for basic payments.	Best Choice: More powerful and reliable for travelers.

2. How to Register an Alipay Account Using an Overseas Number?

Once you’ve downloaded Alipay, here’s how to sign up:

① Launch the App
When you first open Alipay, tap “Sign Up” to begin. If you’ve already created an account, just tap “Log In.”

② Pick How to Register
You can sign up with either your mobile number or email.

• Mobile Number (Recommended): Enter your international phone number (like +1 for the U.S. or +44 for the UK). Make sure you can receive SMS, as you’ll need to enter a code to continue.
  
• Email (Alternative): Enter a valid email address like Gmail or Outlook, and use the emailed code to proceed.

③ Create a Password
Your password should be 6–20 characters long and include both letters and numbers (e.g., Alipay123). Avoid weak passwords like “123456.”

④ Enter Your Details
You’ll need to enter your full name exactly as shown in your passport (in uppercase), your nationality, and your birthdate.

✅ That’s it—you now have an Alipay account!
However, your account is still not fully verified, so there will be restrictions on payments (like a 1,000 RMB per-transaction limit). Further identity verification is needed to unlock full access.

3. How to Complete Alipay Real-Name Verification with a Passport?

To unlock full payment functions in Alipay, you’ll need to go through real-name verification. Without it, you can still make small payments, but many features will be restricted.

① How to Start
Open the Alipay app, tap “Me” at the bottom, then go to Settings → Account and Security → Identity Verification. Tap “Verify Now” when prompted.

② Choose “Passport” for Verification
As a foreign traveler, you’ll need to select Passport as your form of ID. Users from Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan can choose their regional travel permits.

③ Upload Your Passport Details
You’ll need to fill out your passport information manually:

• Full name (exactly as on your passport)
  
• Passport number
  
• Nationality
  
• Issuing country
  
• Expiry date

Then, use your phone to take a photo of your passport’s information page—make sure the text and photo are clear. Alipay might also ask you to do a face scan to confirm your identity.

④ Add Visa Info (If You Have One)
If you’ve already obtained a Chinese visa, enter the visa type, number, and expiry date. If you don’t have a visa, some services might be limited—but you can still make small purchases. If only passing through, review the 240-hour visa-free transit policy. Or check the list of visa-free eligible countries.

⑤ Submit and Wait for Approval
Double-check your details and hit Submit. Verification can take 1 to 3 business days, though sometimes it’s done in a few hours. During this time, your account stays usable—but with spending limits.

✅ Once approved, Alipay will notify you, and your account will be fully functional for all payment scenarios.

How Can Foreigners Add Money or Link Cards to Alipay?

International visitors can fund Alipay in two ways: linking an international credit card (Visa/Mastercard) for major purchases or using the Alipay “Balance” for smaller vendors. Linking a card is best for hotels and malls, while having a local friend transfer money to your balance is the most flexible way to pay street vendors and personal QR codes.

Option 1: Can I Link an International Credit Card (Visa or Mastercard) to Alipay?

Yes, linking a foreign credit card is the ideal method for larger, official transactions like booking hotels, ordering taxis, or dining at chain restaurants. However, please note that international cards often do not work at small local stalls or with personal payment QR codes.

How to Link Your Card:

• Go to the “Me” tab in Alipay → tap “Bank Cards” → tap “Add Bank Card”
  
• Enter your card info: number, expiry date, CVV, and your name (must match your verified name in Alipay)
  
• Alipay will make a tiny charge (less than 1 RMB) to verify your card.
  
• Find the 6-digit code in your bank transaction and enter it into Alipay. The charge will be refunded within a few days.

Which Cards Work Best?

• Visa is widely accepted
  
• Mastercard works in many places but may have limitations
  
• JCB is an option for Japanese users but has limited coverage
  
• American Express is rarely accepted—avoid relying on it

Know the Limits:

• Most cards have a single transaction cap of 500–2,000 RMB
  
• Some banks charge a 3% foreign transaction fee
  
• Can’t be used for: street vendors, personal transfers, or certain local features

Troubleshooting Tips:

• If the card won’t link, check that international payments are enabled
  
• Make sure your name matches exactly with your verified Alipay identity
  
• Some cards from smaller banks (especially in the U.S.) may simply not be supported

Can You Use a Debit Card?

Yes, in some cases. Visa/Mastercard debit cards might work, but success is lower compared to credit cards.

For smooth payments, read about where Alipay and WeChat differ for travelers.

Option 2: How to Add Money to Alipay via Friends or Cash?

If your international card doesn’t work everywhere—or you want to pay small vendors or use personal QR codes—this method gives you more flexibility.

① Ask a Chinese Friend to Send You Money (Best Choice)
The easiest way to fund your Alipay account is by having a local friend transfer money to you:

• Go to Alipay → tap “Pay/Collect” → select “Receive” to show your personal QR code.
  
• Your friend scans the code, enters the amount, and sends the money.
  
• Or they can just send it using your registered phone number or email.
  Once the payment goes through, the funds show up in your balance instantly.

② Recharge with Cash (More Effort + Service Fees)
If you don’t know anyone in China, you can still add money to Alipay at certain stores or banks in China:

• Convenience stores like FamilyMart, Lawson, and 7-Eleven (only at select branches)
  
• Bank branches like Postal Savings Bank of China and China Merchants Bank—bring your passport

Just tell the cashier you want to recharge Alipay (you can show them the sentence in Chinese: “我要用现金充值支付宝”), give them your account info (phone or email), and pay in cash.
Expect a 1–3% service fee, depending on the amount.

③ How Much Can You Recharge?

• Per transaction: usually 500–5000 RMB
  
• Annual cap: If your account is not verified, you’re limited to 10,000 RMB per year.
  Once verified, there’s no yearly limit on top-ups.

Which Method Is Best for You?

Method	Best For	Fees	Limits	Convenience
Link International Credit Card	Online purchases, chain stores	3% foreign transaction fee	500–2000 RMB per transaction	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Friend Transfer	All types of spending	None	No limit	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Offline Cash Top-Up	No card/friend available	1%–3%	500–5000 RMB per top-up	⭐⭐

Recommended Approach:

• Short-term travelers: Link your credit card and do a small cash top-up just in case.
  
• Long-term stays: Ask a Chinese friend to transfer money to avoid fees.

How Do I Pay Merchants and Scan QR Codes with Alipay?

You can pay with Alipay using two methods: “Scan” to read a merchant’s QR code (common for small stalls) or “Pay” to show your own barcode to be scanned (common for large stores and taxis). To make the process easier, look for the floating “Translate” button within Alipay mini-programs to turn Chinese interfaces into English instantly.

Helpful next step – Browse hotel options before you arrive in China >

1. What Are the Two Main QR Code Payment Methods?

Method A: You Scan the Merchant’s Code (Most Common)

Use this when shopping at small stalls, cafés, or vending machines.

Steps:

• Tap “Scan” on the main screen
  
• Point your camera at the merchant’s Alipay QR code
  
• Enter the payment amount or confirm what they’ve pre-filled
  
• Hit “Confirm Payment”, then use your fingerprint, face ID, or password to finish (if required)

📝 In many restaurants, you can also scan a table QR code to order and pay directly via the merchant’s mini program.

⚠️ Things to Watch For:

• Some merchants use personal QR codes—these don’t accept international credit cards, so you’ll need to pay from your Alipay balance
  
• If you see a message saying the payment method isn’t supported, it’s likely a card issue—switch to balance

This is exactly how you’ll order food in 90% of local restaurants. For instance, when I head to those hidden hot pot joints tucked away in the back alleys—the ones I’ve raved about in my guide on where to eat in Chongqing—the first thing I do is find that little code on the corner of the table. You just scan it, pick out your tripe and duck blood, and you’re done. No need to wait for a server; that’s the real way to eat like a local.

Method B: The Merchant Scans Your Code

This is common at bigger stores, chains, and in taxis.

Steps:

• Tap “Pay” on the Alipay home screen
  
• Show the merchant your dynamic payment code (a QR code + barcode)
  
• They scan it, and the money is deducted from your account automatically

⚠️ Important Notes:

• Your code updates every 60 seconds—screenshots won’t work
  
• If your internet is slow or unreliable, enable Offline Payment beforehand so you can pay even without a strong connection

2. How to Use Alipay for Metro, Bus, and Taxis in China?

Alipay manages almost all transit needs via the “Transportation” and “Didi” mini-programs. You can generate a digital transit pass for subways and buses in most cities, or hail a taxi directly through Didi without leaving the app. Note that while Didi supports international cards, most subway/bus passes require an Alipay Balance.

Need airport or intercity transport next? Start here >

🚇 Metro & Bus

Open Alipay, tap “Transportation”, and select your city to get a digital transit pass.
When boarding, just scan the QR code at the subway gate or bus entrance—listen for the “beep”, and you’re in!

🔍 Things to Know:

• This system requires a prepaid balance in Alipay—you can’t pay directly with a credit card

🚕 Ride-Hailing with Didi

Search for “Didi Chuxing (滴滴打车)” in Alipay’s homepage.
Type your destination, choose a ride (like basic or premium), and confirm your booking.
When you arrive, the fare is automatically deducted—credit cards are supported.

💡 Pro Tip:

• Link your card to enable one-click, no-password payments
  
• If there’s an issue, Didi offers English-speaking support at +86 400 000 0999

Having a working transit code is a game-changer for navigating hilly cities. I used it constantly to jump between the cliffside views and stilt houses mentioned in my list of must-do activities in Chongqing—it’s much faster than queuing for paper tickets.

3. Can I Order Food Inside Alipay?

Yes. Alipay acts as a “Super App” where you can access local services through built-in mini-programs:

🍱 Ele.me

Search for “Ele.me (饿了么)” in Alipay. Browse restaurants, place your order, and pay with Alipay at checkout.

🥡 Meituan Waimai

Do the same with “Meituan Waimai (美团外卖).” Just make sure Alipay is selected as your payment method.

These mini programs are built into Alipay, so you never need to leave the app to ride or dine.

4. How to Stay Safe While Using Mobile Payments in China?

• Never share your payment code to avoid scams or unauthorized charges.
  
• Go to “Payment Settings” to turn on extra security like fingerprint or facial recognition.
  
• Regularly check the “Bills” section to track your purchases and make sure everything looks right.

Advanced Tip: What is TourCard (Formerly Tour Pass)?

If you are having trouble linking your overseas credit card, or if you are worried about payment failures at smaller vendors, Alipay’s TourCard (previously known as Tour Pass) is your ultimate backup plan.

What is TourCard?

Simply put, TourCard is a prepaid virtual debit card issued by the Bank of Shanghai. It is specifically designed for short-term international visitors to solve the problem of not having a Chinese bank account or a local phone number.

Once activated, you effectively get a valid virtual Chinese bank card (complete with a card number, expiry date, and CVV) valid for 90 days.

Why Should You Use TourCard?

• Widespread Acceptance: It works for almost any scenario where Alipay is accepted, including Taobao (shopping), 12306 (train tickets), DiDi (ride-hailing), Meituan (food delivery), and offline spots like convenience stores, restaurants, and tourist attractions.
• Higher Success Rate: Since it acts as a “local Chinese bank card,” it avoids the transaction failures that sometimes happen when using foreign credit cards directly.
• Fund Security: Any unused balance is automatically refunded to your original payment method after the 90-day validity period expires.

How to Activate and Use TourCard (Step-by-Step)

Follow these 4 simple steps to get your temporary Chinese bank card:

1. Search: Open the Alipay app and type “TourCard” or “Tour Pass” in the search bar at the top. Tap to enter the mini-program.
2. Verify Identity: Read and agree to the terms. You will need to upload a photo of your passport for real-name verification (a standard requirement for financial services in China).
3. Top-up:
   • Enter the amount of CNY you want to load (e.g., 1,000 RMB).
   • Pay using your international credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, etc.).
   • Note: There is a 5% service fee for topping up. The system will show you the total cost in your home currency.
4. Start Paying:
   • Once the top-up is successful, a “Bank of Shanghai TourCard” will be generated and bound to your Alipay account.
   • When making a payment, simply select this TourCard as your priority payment method to scan and pay.

Important Things to Know (Read Before Use)

To avoid any confusion, please be aware of the following limitations:

• The 5% Service Fee: This is the main cost of using this service. The fee is charged every time you top up, so plan your budget accordingly.
• Consumption Only: The TourCard balance can only be used for payments to merchants. You cannot use it to transfer money to friends, send “Red Packets” (Ang Pao), withdraw cash, or buy financial products.
• Refund Policy: Generally, you cannot manually withdraw the remaining balance before the card expires. The balance will be automatically refunded to your original card after the 90-day period ends.

What are the Fees and Limits for Using Alipay in China?

Using Alipay in China involves a 3% foreign transaction fee for most international credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) on larger purchases. Additionally, unverified accounts face strict spending limits, such as a 1,000 RMB single-transaction cap. To minimize costs, use a UnionPay card or have a local friend transfer money directly to your Alipay balance, which incurs no extra charges.

How to Avoid High Service Fees on Alipay?

💰 Credit Card Fees (~3%)

• When They Apply:
  If you pay using Visa or Mastercard, your bank may charge a foreign exchange fee of 1.5% to 3%.
  
• Are There Fee-Free Cards?
  Yes! Cards from UnionPay do not charge currency conversion fees. Check with your bank before your trip.
  
• How to Avoid It:
  
  • Use credit cards for small payments only
    
  • For larger purchases, get a friend to transfer money to your Alipay or recharge with cash
    
  • Better yet, use your Alipay balance, which has no extra charges

🏧 Cash Top-Up Fees (1%–3%)

• Where You Can Top Up:
  
  • Some FamilyMart, Lawson, and 7-Eleven stores
    
  • Postal Savings Bank or China Merchants Bank (bring your passport)
    
• Fee-Saving Tips:
  
  • Recharge 500 RMB or more at once to get a better rate
    
  • If you know someone in China, ask them to transfer money to your Alipay—this method has zero fees

What are the Spending Limits for Unverified vs. Verified Accounts?

Your usage limits depend heavily on whether you have completed the Real-Name Verification process.

Action	Unverified Account Limit	Verified Account Limit
One-time Purchase	Max 1,000 RMB	No specific limit*
Daily Spending	Max 5,000 RMB	No specific limit*
Yearly Spending	Max 10,000 RMB	Unlimited
Money Transfers	Not Allowed	Fully Enabled

*Note: While Alipay does not set specific daily caps for verified users, your individual card issuer may have its own limits. High-risk or large transfers may trigger extra security checks like Face ID.

How to Stay Connected: Does Alipay Work Without Internet?

Alipay is heavily dependent on internet access, which can be a challenge for foreign visitors due to unstable public Wi-Fi or blocked services.

💡 Reliable Connectivity Options:

• Option 1: Local SIM Card (Best Value): Buy a tourist SIM from China Mobile or China Unicom for 50–100 RMB/month. This is the most reliable solution for maps and payments.
• Option 2: International Roaming: Convenient but often expensive; keep this as an emergency backup.
• Option 3: Offline Payments: You can enable offline codes in the app settings. This allows for transactions up to 200 RMB without an active connection—ideal for subways or quick buys.

FAQ: Solving Common Alipay Verification and Setup Issues

China Travel Planning Guide&FAQ