AlipayHow to Use Alipay in China as a Foreigner

Alipay’s payment services for international visitors are now widely available across China. The system covers almost all major tourist, business, and daily-life cities nationwide. As long as you are physically in mainland China, you can use Alipay to scan QR codes and make mobile payments in most cities, enjoying the same convenience as local users.

For many foreign travelers, mobile payment is one of the biggest concerns before visiting China. The good news is that Alipay offers a temporary and foreigner-friendly solution, even if you do not have a Chinese bank account.

Can Foreigners Use Alipay Without a Chinese Bank Card?

Yes. Alipay allows short-term visitors to China to use its services through a “Foreign Tourist Payment Service”, which can be activated using a passport and an overseas bank card.

You do not need a Chinese ID card or a local bank account.

How to use AlipayHow to Set Up Alipay in China (Step-by-Step)

To use Alipay as a foreigner, follow these steps:

1. Passport Verification

Complete real-name verification using your passport.
A Chinese ID card is not required.

2. Link an Overseas Bank Card

Bind an internationally issued bank card, such as:

  • Visa

  • Mastercard

  • International UnionPay cards issued outside China

Both credit cards and debit cards are supported.

3. Start Paying with Alipay

After successful verification, you can scan QR codes and pay at Alipay-supported merchants, including:

  • Restaurants and cafés

  • Shops and supermarkets

  • Taxis and ride-hailing services

  • Convenience stores and daily expenses

In major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and other tourist destinations, Alipay is accepted almost everywhere.

Important Things Foreign Tourists Should Know

Before using Alipay in China, keep the following points in mind:

  • This service is designed for short-term visitors only.
    Activation must be completed within mainland China.

  • The account balance can only be used for payments.
    Functions such as money transfers, investments, or Yu’e Bao (Alipay savings products) are not available.

  • Long-term residents should consider a different solution.
    If you live in China long-term, applying for a Permanent Residence ID for Foreigners (Chinese “Green Card”) allows access to full Alipay services.

What If You Have Problems During Verification?

Occasionally, foreign users may encounter difficulties during the setup or verification process. If this happens, you can get help through:

  • Alipay offline service counters, commonly found at:

    • Airports

    • High-speed railway stations

    • Large shopping malls

  • Alipay customer service hotlines:

    • 95188 (Chinese service)

    • +86-571-2688-6000 (English service)

On-site staff are usually experienced in helping foreign tourists complete the process.

Practical Advice from a Local Tour Guide

Based on years of experience guiding foreign visitors in Beijing, confusion about mobile payments is extremely common. Many travelers worry that China has become “cashless” and that they will not be able to pay.

In reality, Alipay is the most convenient mobile payment option for foreigners, but it is not the only one. Cash and bank cards still exist, yet mobile payment remains the fastest and most widely used method in daily life.

If you plan to travel independently, especially for dining, shopping, and transportation, setting up Alipay in advance will significantly reduce stress and inconvenience during your trip.