Alipay in China: A Foreigner’s Guide to Going Cashless

If you’ve ever been to China or are planning a visit, you’ve likely heard of Alipay. This mobile payment app, used by nearly every Chinese citizen, is more than just a convenient tool—it’s an essential part of daily life. For foreigners, understanding and using Alipay can make everything from buying groceries to hailing a taxi seamless and stress-free. So, how does it work, and how can you set it up as a foreigner in China?

What is Alipay?

Alipay (支付宝, Zhīfùbǎo) is a mobile payment app launched by Alibaba in 2004. Think of it as China’s version of PayPal, but with a much wider reach. In China, Alipay isn’t just for online shopping—it’s used for almost everything, including restaurants, transportation, shopping, and even utility bills. Since cash is becoming rare in urban areas, having Alipay is almost a necessity for daily transactions.

Why Foreigners Need Alipay

For many visitors and expats, traditional payment methods like international credit cards aren’t widely accepted in China. Without Alipay (or its competitor, WeChat Pay), navigating the country’s cashless system can be tricky. Whether you’re exploring big cities or remote towns, Alipay ensures you’re not left stranded without a way to pay. Plus, using Alipay often comes with perks like exclusive discounts and cashback deals.

Setting Up Alipay as a Foreigner

Now that you know why Alipay is essential, let’s dive into how to set it up as a foreigner in China. While the process might seem daunting, it’s actually quite simple once you follow a few key steps.

Step 1: Download the Alipay App

First, head to the App Store or Google Play and search for “Alipay.” Once downloaded, you’ll be prompted to choose your language. Good news—Alipay offers an English interface, making the app user-friendly for foreigners.

Step 2: Sign Up and Verify Your Identity

After opening the app, you’ll need to sign up with your phone number. Alipay accepts foreign numbers, so you can use your home country’s phone number if you haven’t yet switched to a Chinese SIM card. Once you’ve entered your number, you’ll receive a verification code via SMS to complete the registration.

Next, you’ll need to verify your identity. This step requires a valid passport. Navigate to the “Me” section of the app, select “Account Settings,” then “Real-name Verification,” and follow the instructions to upload a clear photo of your passport.

Step 3: Add a Payment Method

Here’s where things get a bit tricky. Alipay primarily works with Chinese bank accounts, but as of recently, foreigners can link international credit or debit cards. To do this, go to “Bank Cards” in your profile, and select “Add a Card.” You’ll need to fill in your card details, including your name, card number, and expiration date.

Note that while adding foreign cards is supported, some services within Alipay may still require a Chinese bank account. If you’re staying long-term, it may be worthwhile to open a Chinese bank account for complete access to all features.

Using Alipay in China: Making Your First Payment

Once you’ve set up Alipay and linked a payment method, it’s time to put it to use. Whether you’re paying for a meal, groceries, or a taxi ride, Alipay makes it incredibly simple to go cashless. Here’s how to get started with your first payment:

Step 1: Scan to Pay

In most places, you’ll see a QR code at the checkout counter. To make a payment, simply open the Alipay app, tap the “Scan” button, and point your phone’s camera at the QR code. The app will immediately recognize the code and display the amount you need to pay. After confirming the amount, tap “Pay,” and you’re done!

Step 2: Let Them Scan You

Alternatively, some stores and restaurants will ask to scan your QR code. In this case, tap on the “Pay” button in the app, and your personal payment QR code will appear. The cashier will scan your code, and the payment will process instantly.

Step 3: Hailing a Ride or Paying Bills

Alipay isn’t just for in-person purchases—it can also be used for things like paying your utility bills or hailing a taxi. Within the app, you’ll find options for various services. For example, to hail a ride, you can tap on the “Taxi” feature, select your destination, and pay directly through the app once the ride is complete.

Bonus Tips for Foreigners

• Use Alipay for Discounts: Many shops and restaurants offer special discounts or cashback rewards when you use Alipay. Keep an eye out for promotional deals in the app.
• Keep a Backup Payment Method: While Alipay is accepted almost everywhere, it’s still a good idea to carry a backup payment method (like cash or a card) just in case.
• International Transfers: Alipay now allows cross-border payments, so you can send money to family or friends back home, making it easier to manage international finances.

With Alipay in your pocket, navigating China’s cashless society is a breeze. It’s more than just a payment tool—it’s your gateway to a more convenient, connected life in China!