China has become so technologically advanced that payments are almost always made through apps. Alipay is one of the most widely used mobile payment platforms in China, making everything from shopping to ride hailing effortless. As such, knowing how to use Alipay (and other apps) has become a must, before embarking on your trip to China, and this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Note: This guide covers the essential features needed for your vacation to China. It doesn’t cover all the features in Alipay, as some features such as linking a bank account is not accessible to those without a Chinese passport or phone number.
In this Alipay Guide
Download and Set Up Alipay
1. Download the App
Alipay is available for both iOS and Android. Search for “Alipay” in the App Store or Google Play and download the official app.
2. Register an Account
You can sign up using a Chinese phone number, or if you’re a foreign user, you can use an international number.
- Open the app and tap “Sign Up”
- Enter your phone number and verify it via SMS
- Set up a login password
3. Verify Your Identity
To unlock all features, you need to verify your identity. This usually involves uploading a passport photo and entering some basic personal details. However, foreigners can skip this step as the most essential features of the app are usable without verifying your identity. Foreign passports are also not accepted on Alipay, so foreigners have no way of doing this as well.
How to Make Payments with Alipay
Linking a Bank Card
Before you can make payments with Alipay, you’ll have to add a debit or credit card in the app. This is because without a bank account, this is the only payment method in Alipay that foreigners can use.
- Go to Account > Bank Cards > Add Card
- Enter your card details and billing information
- Complete verification (may require a code sent to your bank-registered phone number)
1. Scan-to-Pay (QR Code Payments)
Most stores and restaurants in China display an Alipay QR code at checkout.
- Open Alipay and tap “Scan”
- Point your camera at the merchant’s QR code
- Enter the amount (if required) and confirm payment
In the scan page, you can also upload an image of the
2. Show Your Payment Code
Some merchants scan your QR code instead of you scanning theirs.
- Open Alipay and tap “Pay”
- Show the QR code to the cashier to scan
You can also change the bank card you wan to use before showing the cashier your QR code.
Other Useful Features
1. Public Transport Payments
You can use Alipay to pay for metro rides, buses, taxis, and bike-sharing services.
- Go to Transport and activate the appropriate transit card
- Scan your phone at metro gates or on buses
2. Mini Programs
Similar to Wechat, you can also access mini programs on Alipay. A quick and easy way is by typing in the search bar on the homepage, and click on mini program.
You can also access useful and commonly used mini programs on by clicking “More” on the home page. Some useful ones include Didi for ride hailing and translation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do you need a Chinese bank account to use Alipay?
No you don’t need a Chinese bank account to use Alipay. You can link foreign credit or debit cards to make payments in China, as long as the cards allow you to make transactions in China.
Is Alipay or Wechat better?
Both apps have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. In terms of making payments and accessing mini programs, both are great. However, Wechat is the messaging platform that the Chinese use, so it’s more of a all-in-one app, allowing you to make payments and acts as a communication tool.
Read also: How to use Wechat
Is Alipay necessary in China?
Alipay and Wechat are the most common modes of payment in China. Cash is still accepted but many shops may not have enough change for you as not many people use cash hence knowing how to use Alipay or Wechat will make your life easier.
