China payments for tourists
How foreigners can use Alipay and WeChat Pay in China
Set up mobile payment before you land, link a foreign card, and keep the right backup options for taxis, restaurants, hotels, and trains.
Short answer
- Install both Alipay and WeChat before your trip.
- Link a Visa or Mastercard in each app if possible.
- Keep 500-1000 RMB cash as emergency backup.
- Do not assume foreign credit cards work at small shops.
Setup before departure
Alipay
- • Install Alipay International
- • Verify identity if prompted
- • Add your foreign card
- • Test a small payment when you arrive
WeChat Pay
- • Install WeChat
- • Complete account setup
- • Add card under Wallet
- • Use it when merchants prefer WeChat
Backup
- • Bring one Visa/Mastercard
- • Carry some RMB cash
- • Enable international transactions
- • Keep bank support contacts offline
Which should you use?
| Alipay | Most tourist payments, transport, restaurants, shops | Some features may require identity verification |
|---|---|---|
| WeChat Pay | Small merchants, social payments, mini programs | Account setup can be stricter |
| Cash | Emergency backup and small edge cases | Many merchants prefer QR payments |
| Foreign card | Hotels, higher-end restaurants, airports | Weak coverage at local merchants |
FAQ
Can foreigners use Alipay in China?
Yes. Many visitors can link an overseas Visa or Mastercard and pay by QR code.
Can foreigners use WeChat Pay?
Yes, but setup can vary by country, card issuer, and account verification state.
Do I still need cash?
Yes. Carry a small emergency amount, even though mobile payment is the default in most places.
Which app should I set up first?
Start with Alipay, then add WeChat Pay as a backup because some small merchants prefer it.