What it does
China's #1 payment app. Now accepts foreign Visa/Mastercard. The single most important app for any foreigner in China.
How to set it up
- Download Alipay (支付宝) from the official site.
- Create an account with your foreign phone number or email.
- Link a payment method (Visa/Mastercard usually works).
- You're ready to use it in China.
Pros
- Verified working as of our last test
- Accepts international payment methods
- English-language interface
Cons
- May require a VPN for initial setup outside China
- Some features are China-only
Alipay is the app you cannot avoid in China. Even street vendors and taxis take it. Since 2019, the app has a “Tour Pass” feature that lets you link a foreign Visa, Mastercard, or Amex — no Chinese bank account needed.
What it does
- Pays at 80M+ Chinese merchants via QR code scan
- Sends money to other users
- Books trains, flights, hotels, taxis
- Translates menus (point camera)
- Tax refund for tourists at the airport
How to set up
- Download Alipay from the App Store or Google Play
- Tap the “Tour Pass” banner on the home screen
- Enter your passport details and Visa/Mastercard
- Load 100-500 RMB to start (transaction limits increase over time)
- Done — scan any “Alipay” or “支付宝” QR code to pay
Pros
- Free to use (small 1-3% FX fee)
- English interface
- 24/7 customer support in English
- Works at virtually every merchant in China
Cons
- Initial transaction limit is ~¥500/day
- Some features require Chinese ID
- Occasional connectivity issues at small merchants
Sources
- Alipay official foreign-card guide: https://render.alipay.com/p/f/fd-jqyz6fi/index.html
- WeChat Pay guide: see /compare/alipay-vs-wechat-pay/
FAQ
-
Is Alipay (支付宝) free?
Yes, the core features are free. -
Do I need a Chinese phone number?
No — but it helps for verification.