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Mobile Payment in China - Popular but New for Foreigner Tourists
Mobile payment has become incredibly popular in China, but for foreign tourists, it can be a new and exciting experience.
In the past, using WeChat or Alipay as a foreign traveler in China posed challenges as it required a local SIM card for identity verification and could only be linked to a Chinese bank account. This caused inconvenience and trouble for many foreign tourists.
However, since July 2023, both Alipay and WeChat have relaxed their restrictions. They now allow registration with foreign mobile phone numbers and the binding of foreign bank cards, including VISA, Mastercard, Discover Global Network (including Diners Club), and JCB. This update offers greater convenience to foreign tourists visiting China, enabling them to enjoy the services provided by these mobile payment platforms.
Why Mobile Payment Popular in China
- Convenience: Alipay and WeChat Pay offer a convenient way to make payments using your smartphone, eliminating the need to carry cash or credit cards.
- QR Code-based Payments: Mobile payment in China is often based on QR code scanning, allowing quick and easy transactions at physical stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
- Integration with E-commerce: Mobile payment apps are seamlessly integrated with various e-commerce platforms, enabling smooth online shopping and food ordering experiences.
- Offline-to-Online (O2O) Services: Mobile payment apps provide access to a wide range of services, such as ride-hailing, food delivery, ticket booking, and hotel reservations, making it a comprehensive solution for offline-to-online transactions.
By embracing mobile payment in China, foreign tourists can enjoy the convenience, flexibility, and efficiency of this widely adopted payment method, enhancing their overall experience during their visit.
How to Use Wechat Pay in China?
Step 1. Download
Download or Update to the latest version from app stores like the Apple App Store or Android's Google Play Store.
Step 2. Sign Up & Login In
After downloading and installing WeChat on your mobile phone, you can sign up for WeChat with the following ways:
- Sign up with mobile
Open the WeChat app and tap Sign Up > Sign up with mobile > choose your region code, enter your mobile, and set a password.
- Sign up via Facebook
Open the WeChat app and tap Sign Up > Sign up via Facebook, and then WeChat will redirect to Facebook to request permission to log in to WeChat. Then, choose your region code, enter your mobile, and set a password.
You can log in to WeChat via the following methods:
- Mobile + WeChat password (after linking a mobile number)
- Mobile + SMS verification code (after linking a mobile number)
- WeChat ID + WeChat password (after setting a WeChat ID and password)
- Email + WeChat password (after linking an email address)
- Voiceprint (after enabling and setting Voiceprint)
- QQ ID + QQ password (after linking a QQ ID)
- Facebook ID + Facebook password (after linking a Facebook account)
Note: If you've set a WeChat password, you can log in with your WeChat ID/linked email address/linked QQ ID and WeChat password.
Step 3: Add International Card
1: Find Weixin Pay
- Tap Me - Services - Wallet
If you cannot find the options above, you can activate Weixin Pay in one of the following way.
- At the bottom, tap Me - Settings - General - Tools - Weixin Pay. Tap Enable.
2: Fill in your identity information and add a card
- In Wallet, tap Add a Card. Read the Weixin Pay User Service Agreement and Privacy Policy and tap Agree.
- Follow the steps on the screen to fill in your identity information. Tap Next to add your card. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the process.
Tips: If you use your passport to verify your identity, you will get a notification asking you to upload a copy of your passport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What documents can I use to set up Weixin Pay?
A:
- Passport or People's Republic of China Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card
- Mainland Travel Permit or Residence Permit for Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR and Taiwan Residents.
Q: Do l need a Chinese Mainland (+86) phone number?
A: No. You can use your international phone number as long as it can receive SMS verification codes.
Q: What kind of transactions does Weixin Pay currently support for international cards?
A: Currently, international cards can be used for everyday purchases within the Chinese Mainland. However, international cards do not support certain features such as red packets and money transfers etc. Please refer to the payment page for specific instructions.
Q: Is there a transaction limit? How is the exchange rate calculated?
A: There is a limit of 6,500 RMB for single transactions, a cumulative limit of 50,000 RMB for monthly transactions, and a cumulative limit of 65,000 RMB for yearly transactions. The exchange rate will be calculated based on the exchange rate of the card organization and the issuing bank of your international card.
Q: Are there any transaction fees?
A: Yes. However, transaction fees are waived for single transactions under 200 RMB. A 3% transaction fee will be applied for single transactions above 200 RMB. If you request a refund for a transaction, the transaction fee will be reimbursed in proportion to the refunded amount. Please refer to the payment page for details.
How to Use Alipay in China?
Step 1. Download
Download or Update to the latest version from app stores like the Apple App Store or Android's Google Play Store.
Step 2. Sign Up & Log in
- Open the app
- Tap on the "Sign Up" or "Register" button to start the registration process.
- Enter your mobile phone number (registering with a foreign phone number is acceptable) and tap on the verification button to receive a confirmation code via SMS.
- Enter the confirmation code you received to verify your mobile number and follow the prompts to complete the registration.
Step 3: Add International Card
- Open the Alipay APP and click "Me" in the lower right corner.
- Tap "Bank Cards - Add Bank Card".
- Enter the bank card information, including card number, card type, card issuer (Visa/Mastercard/JCB), expiration date and CVV code.
- Finally, set the 6-digit payment password to complete the card binding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I pay with international bank cards using Alipay?
Consumers can add international bank cards to their Alipay accounts and pay for daily purchases within the Chinese mainland. International bank cards do not support person-to-person transfers, sending or receiving red packets, wealth management services, insurance services, or other financial services.
How do I know the exchange rate of the transactions made with international bank cards on Alipay?
The exchange rate for International bank card is provided by the card scheme and issuing bank to which your card belongs. Please refer to the billing statement of your bank card.
How to Use QR Code Payment in China?
Once you have registered and linked your bank card to your Alipay and WeChat Pay accounts, using electronic payment in China becomes incredibly simple and convenient. These mobile payment platforms offer a user-friendly interface and intuitive features that streamline the payment process.
Option 1: Scanning the QR CODE Displayed by the Shops
- Open the app on your mobile device, and find the “scan” button which is usually on the upper right corner.
- Scan the merchant's QR code using the app's scanning feature.
- Review the payment details displayed on your screen.
- Confirm the payment by using your fingerprint, facial recognition, or entering your payment password.
- Receive a payment notification once the transaction is successful.
Option 2: Show Your QR CODE to Merchants
- Open the WeChat Pay or Alipay app on your mobile device.
- Locate your personal QR code within the app, usually found in the "Payment" or "Wallet" section.
- Show your QR code to the merchant by letting them scan it with their scanner.
- The merchant will input the payment amount on their device.
- Once the transaction is successful, both you and the merchant will receive payment notifications.
Additionally, you can use these apps for online shopping, bill payments, ticket bookings, and more.
It's important to note that while both Alipay and WeChat Pay accept international bank cards, the acceptance may vary depending on the specific card and merchant. It's advisable to check with your bank and the mobile payment app for compatibility and any potential transaction limits or fees.
Where Can I Use QR CODE Payment during China Tour
During your China tour, you can use mobile payment at various establishments and for different services. Here's a brief list of places where mobile payment is commonly accepted:
- Retail Stores: Supermarkets, convenience stores, department stores, and boutiques.
- Restaurants and Cafes: From local eateries to international chains, many food establishments accept mobile payment.
- Transportation: Use mobile payment for taxis, ride-hailing services, buses, and some metro systems.
- Street Vendors and Markets: Street food stalls, small vendors, and open-air markets often accept mobile payment.
- Tourist Attractions: Popular tourist sites, museums, and theme parks often provide mobile payment options.
- Hotels and Accommodations: Many hotels, hostels, and guesthouses accept mobile payment for room fees.
- Online Shopping: Use mobile payment to make purchases on e-commerce platforms and apps.
- Entertainment and Leisure: Cinemas, theaters, sports stadiums, and leisure facilities often support mobile payment.
- Transportation Services: Bike-sharing, car-sharing, and scooter rental services often have mobile payment options.
Alipay or WeChat Pay?
Alipay and WeChat Pay are indeed popular mobile payment platforms in China, offering similar functionalities. Here are a few considerations to help you choose between the two:
- Availability: WeChat is primarily a social media app with extensive features for communication and networking. If you have Chinese friends or contacts, using WeChat can be advantageous as it allows for seamless messaging, voice calls, and video calls. Additionally, WeChat is widely used for various services like booking hotels, transportation, and other travel-related activities. On the other hand, Alipay is more recognized and accepted for mobile payments in some Southeast Asian countries, such as Thailand and the Philippines. If you plan to travel to those destinations, having Alipay may offer added convenience.
- Ease of use: Both Alipay and WeChat Pay have user-friendly interfaces. You can easily register using your phone number and link your overseas bank account. Both platforms facilitate payments for a wide range of purposes, including dining, transportation, shopping, food delivery, and online shopping.
In the end, your choice between Alipay and WeChat Pay will depend on your specific needs and the destinations you plan to visit. If you have Chinese contacts or plan to use WeChat's extensive features, WeChat Pay may be a more suitable choice. Conversely, if you are traveling to countries where Alipay is widely accepted, having Alipay can enhance your payment convenience in those locations.
Other Payment Apps Available in China
In addition to Alipay and WeChat Pay, there are other payment apps available in China. Here are a few notable ones:
- UnionPay: UnionPay is a leading payment network in China and widely accepted at various merchants.
- JD Pay: JD Pay is the payment platform of JD.com, one of China's largest e-commerce platforms.
- Baidu Wallet: Baidu Wallet is the mobile payment service provided by Baidu, China's leading search engine.
- Apple Pay: Apple Pay is available in China and allows users with compatible Apple devices to make payments using their linked credit or debit cards. It is widely accepted at merchants that support contactless payments.
It's important to note that while these payment apps are available, Alipay and WeChat Pay dominate the market and are widely accepted.
Other Payment methods in China
Pay in Cash - Change may not Be Available
Cash payment is still widely accepted in China, and the main denominations of the Chinese currency, Renminbi (RMB), are 50 cents, 1 yuan, 2 yuan, 5 yuan, 10 yuan, 20 yuan, 50 yuan, and 100 yuan. If you need to obtain RMB cash, here are a few options:
- Bank Exchange: You can exchange your local currency into RMB at banks either in your home country before traveling to China or after arriving in China. If you can make electronic payments, it is recommended to exchange a small amount of RMB in cash, such as 1000-2000 RMB or 100-200 US dollars.
- Currency Exchange Counters: In China, you can find currency exchange counters at airports, major train stations, and some hotels. However, be cautious of the exchange rates and potential service fees, as they may not always be as favorable as those offered by banks.
- ATMs: Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are widely available in China Destinations, especially in large cities. Most ATMs accept international debit and credit cards, allowing you to withdraw RMB directly from your account.
It's important to note that change may not always be readily available, especially for larger bills. In some cases, vendors may prefer exact change or may ask you to pay with a smaller denomination bill. To avoid any inconvenience, try to carry a combination of larger and smaller bills.
Pay by Credit/Debit Cards - Mainly in Big Cities for Large Spending
Credit and debit cards are increasingly accepted in major cities and larger retailers in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xian, and Hong Kong. International cards like Visa, Mastercard, and UnionPay are commonly accepted, but it's best to confirm with the establishment beforehand. However, in smaller towns, local markets, and traditional establishments, card acceptance may still be limited. It's advisable to carry some cash as a backup, especially in rural areas or less touristy destinations. When making card payments, you may need to enter a PIN instead of providing a signature. Inform your bank about your travel plans and inquire about any foreign transaction fees to ensure smooth card usage.
Frequent Asked Questions about China Payment Methods
- Are mobile payment apps widely accepted in China?
Yes, mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in China, including at physical stores, restaurants, online platforms, and for various services like transportation and entertainment.
- Can I use mobile payment apps in China without a Chinese bank account?
Yes, as a visitor, you can use mobile payment apps in China without a Chinese bank account for basic functions like scanning QR codes and making payments. However, some features, such as transferring money or accessing certain services, may require a Chinese bank account.
- Are there transaction limits for mobile payment apps in China?
Each mobile payment app may have its own transaction limits, which can vary depending on factors like user verification and account type. These limits can be daily, monthly, or per transaction.
- Can I use Alipay or WeChat Pay outside of China?
Alipay and WeChat Pay have expanded their acceptance outside of China, particularly in popular tourist destinations. However, acceptance may vary, so it's advisable to check with the merchants or service providers in your destination country.
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