How to Use Alipay in China as a Foreigner in 2026(Step-by-Step Guide)

Wondering how to use Alipay in China as a foreigner in 2026  without a Chinese bank account? Read our step-by-step guide to link your foreign credit card easily.

Foreign visitors can use Alipay international account in China with:

• A passport
• An international mobile number
• A Visa, Mastercard, JCB, or other supported bank card

The setup process takes approximately 10–15 minutes and should be completed before arriving in China.

Step 1: Download Alipay

Search for Alipay in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Before installing, verify that the developer is:
Alipay (Hangzhou) Technology Co., Ltd.
Download and install the official application.
After installation, open the app and select English as the interface language if prompted.

Step 2: Create an Alipay International Account

Open Alipay and tap Sign Up now.
Select your country code and enter your mobile phone number.
Examples:
United States: +1
United Kingdom: +44
Tap Next. Alipay will send a verification code by SMS. Enter the verification code to continue. Once the code is accepted, your Alipay account will be created.
At this stage, the account exists but cannot yet be used for full payment functions.

Step 3: Verify Your Passport

Open:
Me → Settings → Account and Security → Identity Information → Identity Verification
Select: Passport
Prepare your passport and upload:
-> Passport photo page
-> Personal information page
Follow the on-screen instructions.
Some users may also be asked to complete a facial verification process. After submission, wait for approval.
Most users receive verification within a few minutes, although longer processing times are possible.

Step 4: Add an International Bank Card

Open: Me → Bank Cards → Add Bank Card
Enter:
-> Card number
-> Expiration date
-> Security code (CVV)
-> Cardholder name
Alipay may request additional verification from your bank. Depending on your bank, this could include:
-> SMS verification code
-> Banking app approval
-> One-time password
-> Complete the verification process.
After successful verification, the card will appear in your Alipay wallet. Your account is now ready to make payments.

Step 5 (Payment Option 1): Display Your Payment Code

This is the payment method most commonly used in: Supermarkets,Convenience stores,Restaurants,Shopping malls.
Open Alipay. Tap: Pay
A payment QR code will appear. Show the QR code to the cashier.
The cashier scans your code and the payment is processed automatically.
A confirmation screen will appear once the payment is complete.

Step 6(Payment Option 2): Scan a Merchant QR Code

This method is commonly used by: Street vendors,Small restaurants,Local shops,Market stalls,Open Alipay.
Tap: Scan
Point your camera at the merchant’s QR code. If the merchant requires you to enter the amount manually:
Enter the payment amount. Confirm the amount. Tap Pay.
Wait for the payment confirmation message before leaving.

Where Can You Use Alipay?

Alipay is accepted in most cities throughout China.
Common usage scenarios include: Restaurants,Coffee shops,Bubble tea stores,Convenience stores,Shopping malls,Didi rides,Metro systems,Bus systems,Tourist attractions,Hotels,High-speed train tickets.
In major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, and Chengdu, many visitors can complete their entire trip without using cash.

Summary

To use Alipay in China, create an account, verify your passport, and add an international bank card.
Once configured, Alipay can be used for transportation, restaurants, shopping, hotels, and most daily purchases throughout China.
For most foreign visitors, Alipay should be installed and tested before boarding the flight to China.