What it does
China's #2 payment app, baked into WeChat. Now accepts foreign cards. Better for long stays than short trips.
How to set it up
- Download WeChat Pay (微信支付) 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
WeChat Pay lives inside the WeChat (微信) super-app. It works for payments, but WeChat is also China’s #1 messaging app — so most locals will ask you to add them on WeChat, not Alipay.
How to set up
- Download WeChat (free)
- Sign up with your foreign phone number
- Tap “Me” → “Services” → “Wallet”
- Tap “Add a card” → enter your Visa/Mastercard
- Verify with a 6-digit code
- Set a 6-digit payment PIN
Pros
- Free to use
- One app for messaging + payments
- Accepted at every modern merchant
Cons
- Slower setup than Alipay (~10 min)
- English support is partial
- No tourist-specific mini-program
- No tax refund for tourists
Sources
- WeChat Pay official: https://www.wechat.com/
- Comparison: /compare/alipay-vs-wechat-pay/
FAQ
-
Is WeChat Pay (微信支付) free?
Yes, the core features are free. -
Do I need a Chinese phone number?
No — but it helps for verification.