Alipay for Foreigners in China: The Complete 2025 Updated Guide

Introduction

Alipay is China’s top mobile payment platform, trusted by over a billion users for fast, secure, and cashless transactions. From buying groceries and paying for taxis to booking movie tickets, Alipay has become a vital part of everyday life in China. For foreigners visiting or living in China, learning how to use Alipay is more than just convenient it’s necessary to enjoy a hassle-free experience in a country that is rapidly moving toward a cashless society.

This guide will help you understand how to set up and use Alipay as a foreigner in 2025. We’ll cover everything from downloading the app and verifying your identity to linking your international bank card and making payments. Plus, you’ll get the latest updates on new features designed specifically for foreigners, ensuring you stay up-to-date and make the most of Alipay during your time in China.

What is Alipay and How Does It Work for Foreigners?

Alipay is a popular mobile payment app developed by Alibaba Group, widely used across China for a variety of transactions. It acts like a digital wallet, allowing users to pay for goods and services both online and in physical stores, transfer money, pay bills, book tickets, and more — all from their smartphones. The app is fast, secure, and convenient, making everyday payments easier without the need for cash.

For foreigners living or traveling in China, Alipay has become increasingly friendly and accessible. The platform supports multiple languages, including English, which helps non-Chinese speakers navigate the app easily. In recent years, Alipay has also started accepting international credit and debit cards, making it simpler for foreigners to link their existing bank accounts and use Alipay for payments across a wide range of merchants and services.

Using Alipay as a foreign traveler or expatriate comes with many benefits. It allows you to enjoy China’s cashless payment culture without worrying about currency exchange or carrying large amounts of cash. Alipay also provides quick payment options for taxis, restaurants, shopping, and public transportation, helping you save time and avoid language barriers. Additionally, the app’s security features protect your financial information, giving you peace of mind while making transactions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Alipay for Foreigners

Setting up Alipay as a foreigner in China is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. Download the Official Alipay AppStart by downloading the official Alipay app from trusted sources like the Google Play Store for Android devices or the Apple App Store for iPhones. Make sure to download the genuine app to avoid security risks.

2. Sign Up Using Your Phone Number or EmailOnce installed, open the app and sign up by entering your international phone number or email address. Alipay uses a real-name verification system, so you will need to provide accurate personal details. This is necessary to comply with Chinese regulations and ensure your account’s security.

3. Complete Identity Verification As a foreign user, you must verify your identity to unlock full features of Alipay. This typically involves submitting a clear scan or photo of your passport, along with your visa or residence permit. The app may take a few days to process your documents and confirm your identity.

4. Link Your Foreign Credit or Debit Card After verification, you can link an international credit or debit card to your Alipay account. Alipay supports major card networks such as Visa, MasterCard, JCB, Diners Club, and Discover. Simply enter your card details in the “Bank Cards” section of the app. Linking your card enables you to make payments directly from your foreign bank account without needing a Chinese bank card.

Using Alipay TourPass: A Special Feature for Foreign Tourists

Alipay TourPass is a prepaid digital wallet made for foreign tourists in China. It lets you use Alipay without needing a Chinese bank account, making payments easy during your trip.

To activate TourPass in 2025, just verify your passport in the app and load money using your international credit or debit card. You can add up to 2,000 RMB per week and reload as needed.

TourPass works anywhere Alipay is accepted, so you can pay for shopping, dining, and transportation smoothly without hassle.

How to Make Payments with Alipay as a Foreigner

Alipay offers multiple ways to make payments in China, especially designed to accommodate foreign users.

QR Code Payments

The most common payment method is via QR codes. When paying in stores, you can either:

• Show your personal payment code in the Alipay app for the merchant to scan.

• Scan the merchant’s payment code using your Alipay app.

Both options are widely accepted at shops, restaurants, taxis, and more.

Types of Alipay Payment Receipt Codes

Understanding the different Alipay payment codes is important for foreigners because not all support foreign cards:

• Personal Payment Receipt Code: This code is tied to individual users. It usually supports payments only from your Alipay balance or Chinese-issued credit cards. Foreign credit or debit cards are typically not accepted here because of regulatory restrictions. So, if you don’t have Alipay balance, payment via this code might fail with your foreign card.

  
  

• Merchant Payment Receipt Code: This is issued to certified merchants and usually supports linked foreign credit and debit cards. You can test your card by scanning this code and attempting a small payment (note that test payments are non-refundable). This code is the most reliable way for foreigners to pay using international cards.

  
  

• Third-Party Payment Codes: Some merchants use payment codes from third-party providers, often displaying logos like Alipay, WeChat Pay, or UnionPay. These codes generally support credit card payments — including foreign cards — making them another useful option when others fail.

What to Do if Your Foreign Card Isn’t Accepted

If your foreign card is rejected on certain payment codes, first ask the merchant if they accept other code types, such as merchant or third-party codes. Alternatively, you can use Alipay’s TourPass feature, introduced in 2025, which allows foreigners to pre-load funds on Alipay without needing a Chinese bank account. This simplifies payments and avoids card rejection issues.

Managing Your Alipay Account as a Foreigner

Once you start using Alipay, managing your account properly will make your experience smooth and secure.

Checking Your Transaction History and Balance

You can easily check your payment history and current balance right in the Alipay app. This helps you keep track of your spending and ensures all transactions are correct.

Adding Funds and Topping Up

If you use the TourPass feature or link a foreign card, you can add money to your Alipay account without needing a Chinese bank account. For those who have a Chinese bank account linked, topping up is even easier and faster through direct transfers.

Security Tips for Foreign Users

To protect your Alipay account:

• Always use a strong password and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) if possible.

• Never share your login details or verification codes.

• Keep your phone and app updated to avoid security risks.

• Log out from shared or public devices.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

If you face issues like forgetting your password, payment failures, or app glitches:

• Use the app’s password reset feature via your linked phone or email.

• For payment failures, check your card status, available balance, and internet connection.

• Contact Alipay customer support for help if problems persist.

7. Frequently Asked Questions About Alipay for Foreigners

1. Can I use my foreign credit card on Alipay? Yes, in most cases you can link a foreign credit card to your Alipay account. However, some Alipay payment codes (especially personal payment codes) only accept payments from Alipay balances or local Chinese cards. Merchant payment codes usually support foreign credit cards, but it’s not guaranteed.

2. How do I add my foreign credit card to Alipay? Open the Alipay app, go to “My” → “Bank Cards” → “Add Bank Card.” Enter your card details and make sure your card supports international payments.

3. What types of payment codes will I encounter in China? There are two main types:

• Personal payment codes: Used by individuals, usually do not accept foreign credit cards.

• Merchant payment codes: Used by certified merchants, often support foreign cards.

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4. Why can’t I use my foreign credit card on some payment codes? Personal payment codes often restrict payments to local cards or Alipay balances due to regulations on credit card cash advances, which limits foreign card use.

5. Can I use Alipay without a Chinese bank account? Yes, you can link a foreign credit card or bank account. However, you might face limitations like lower payment limits or fewer merchants accepting your card.

6. What should I do if my foreign card is not accepted on a payment code? Ask the merchant if they have a different payment code, such as a merchant or third-party code, that supports foreign cards. Alternatively, use Alipay’s TourPass feature (introduced in 2025) to preload a balance and pay without a Chinese bank account.

7. Can I withdraw cash using Alipay? No, Alipay does not allow direct cash withdrawals from foreign bank accounts. If you have a Chinese bank account linked, you can transfer your Alipay balance there.

8. Can I get a refund if I make a payment by mistake? Refunds depend on the merchant. You should contact the merchant directly for any refund requests. Alipay does not typically issue refunds itself.

9. Can I use Alipay for international purchases? Alipay mainly supports domestic payments but is expanding internationally. Some foreign merchants now accept Alipay—always confirm with the merchant first.

10. Are there fees for using a foreign credit card on Alipay? Alipay does not charge extra fees, but your card issuer may apply foreign transaction fees. Check with your bank for details.

11. How do I top up my Alipay balance without a Chinese bank account? You cannot directly top up using a foreign card. Options include:

• Using third-party services or international partners to transfer funds.

• Asking a Chinese friend or local contact to top up for you.

12. Can I use Alipay to pay for taxis or public transport? Yes, many cities accept Alipay for taxis and public transportation. Simply scan the QR code on the taxi or at transport stations.

13. Can I link my credit card to my child’s Alipay account? Yes, you can create a family account and share your credit card with your child while controlling their spending.

14. How can I scan a QR code on the same phone if I only have one device? Save or screenshot the QR code, then open the Alipay scanner, tap the album icon, and select the saved code from your gallery to scan.

15. Is Alipay safe for international users? Yes, Alipay uses strong security measures like password protection, two-factor authentication, and encryption to keep accounts safe. Always follow security best practices.

16. Can foreigners withdraw cash or transfer funds abroad? Direct withdrawals or international transfers are generally not supported. Funds can usually only be transferred within China to Chinese bank accounts.

17. How do I handle disputes or get refunds? For disputes or refunds, contact the merchant first. If unresolved, reach out to Alipay customer support for assistance.

18. What are the differences between Alipay and WeChat Pay for foreigners? Both are popular mobile payment platforms in China. Alipay is more focused on e-commerce and has better support for foreign cards, while WeChat Pay is integrated with social media and messaging but can be harder for foreigners to fully access.

025 Update: New Features and Improvements in Alipay for Foreigners

In 2025, Alipay introduced several important updates to make the app even easier and more convenient for foreigners using it in China. One major improvement is wider acceptance of foreign credit and debit cards, allowing more international cards to be used for payments across the platform.

The TourPass feature has also been improved with longer validity periods and more flexible payment limits, making it a great option for tourists who don’t have a Chinese bank account.

Alipay now supports integration with Apple Pay and other popular mobile wallets, so foreigners can link their accounts and pay more smoothly.

Lastly, the app interface has been enhanced with better English language support and improved translation tools, helping non-Chinese speakers navigate Alipay more easily than ever before.

Conclusion: Mastering Alipay for a Smooth China Experience

Using Alipay is essential for foreigners living in or visiting China. By setting up your account early, completing verification, and understanding features like TourPass, you can enjoy fast, convenient payments for everything from shopping to transportation.

Alipay makes daily life easier and safer, helping you avoid cash hassles and stay connected with China’s digital economy. Don’t wait — get started with Alipay before your trip or move to China for a smooth and stress-free experience.

For more help and personalized support, check out our detailed guide and private guided tours in Wuhan—you can click here to learn more. Also, explore official Alipay resources or ask local friends to assist you. With a little practice, you’ll master Alipay and enjoy all the benefits it offers.