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 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
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.