Planning a trip to China? One of the most confusing things for travelers is how to pay for things once you arrive. Most locals use apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay—often you won’t even see cash being used. But these apps used to require a Chinese bank card, which made things hard for foreigners.
The good news: as of 2024 and 2025, it’s finally possible for tourists to use WeChat Pay and Alipay with international cards. But it’s not always smooth. Here’s what you need to know.
Can Foreigners Use Mobile Payment Apps in China?
Yes—but you need to set it up correctly.
Both WeChat Pay and Alipay now allow foreign tourists to link Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or JCB cards. You don’t need a Chinese phone number or bank account.
But there are limits:
- You’ll need to verify your passport in the app
- Some small stores or taxis still only take Chinese cards or cash
- Foreign cards might not work with all features (like topping up balances)
Which App Should You Use?
✅ Alipay (recommended for tourists)
- Easier setup
- More merchants accept international cards
- Built-in tourist guide, maps, and services
- English interface
🟡 WeChat Pay
- Works well, but harder to set up
- Sometimes needs a local contact to activate
- Interface is mostly in Chinese
Tip: If you’re short on time, start with Alipay.
How to Set Up Alipay for Tourists (Step-by-Step)
- Download Alipay (App Store or Google Play)
- Choose “International Version”
- Sign up using your email or non-Chinese phone number
- Tap “Tour Pass” or “Add Bank Card”
- Scan your passport
- Link your Visa/Mastercard/Discover/JCB
- You can now pay by scanning QR codes
Watch out for: Some cards don’t work on the first try—try another one or contact your bank.
Can You Still Use Cash in China?
Yes, but it’s becoming rare.
- ATMs work with major international cards
- You can exchange USD/EUR at the airport or hotels
- Small towns and markets may still accept cash
- Trains and subway machines often accept cash
Tip: Always carry about 300–500 RMB just in case.
Apps & Tools That Help
- Alipay: Most widely accepted for tourists
- WeChat Pay: Useful if you stay longer or have Chinese friends
- ATM Hunter (by Mastercard): Find international ATMs
- Currency exchange apps: Use XE or OANDA to check live rates
Warnings and Common Problems
- Card declined? Some banks block Chinese payments—call your bank before your trip
- Phone screen too dim? QR codes won’t scan easily—turn up your screen brightness
- Restaurant won’t accept your app? Ask if they take “国际信用卡” (international credit card) or show the logo (Visa, etc.)
- Alipay balance top-up won’t work? You don’t need to top up—just link your card and use “Pay with card” directly
Real Traveler Advice (2025)
From Reddit and TripAdvisor posts:
- “Used Alipay everywhere in Shanghai and Beijing in May 2025. Linked my US Passport, no problem.”
- “WeChat Pay was tricky to activate—needed help from a local. Stick with Alipay if short on time.”
- “Only place I needed cash was in a small village. Everywhere else took my card through Alipay.”
