How to Use Alipay in China as a Foreign Visitor

Alipay (支付宝) is one of the most widely used mobile payment platforms in China. For international visitors traveling to Shanghai and other Chinese cities, setting up Alipay before your trip can make daily payments much easier.

With Alipay, you can pay for many travel-related services, including restaurants, transportation, shopping, attraction tickets, and other everyday purchases.

The good news is that international visitors can use Alipay without necessarily having a Chinese bank account. In many cases, you can register with your overseas mobile phone number and link a supported international bank card before traveling to China.

This guide explains how foreign visitors can set up Alipay and use mobile payment during their trip to China.

1. Download and Register an Alipay Account

First, download the official Alipay app from your mobile app store.

After opening the app:

1. Select your country or region
2. Register using your overseas mobile phone number
3. Follow the instructions to complete account setup

International visitors can usually complete registration using their passport information and other required details.

2. Complete Identity Verification

To access payment functions, Alipay may require identity verification.

You may need to provide:

• Passport information
• Personal details
• Additional verification information requested by the app

Make sure your passport information is accurate and your documents are clear to avoid delays during verification.

3. Link Your International Bank Card

After registration and verification, you can add a supported overseas bank card.

Alipay supports many international card networks, including:

• Visa
• Mastercard
• Diners Club International
• Discover

Available card types may vary depending on your country, bank, and Alipay’s current requirements.

To add your card:

1. Open Alipay
2. Go to the payment or bank card section
3. Select "Add Card"
4. Enter your card information
5. Complete any required verification steps

Please note that some overseas banks may decline the card connection request due to security settings. If this happens, try another card or contact your bank.

4. How to Pay with Alipay in China

After your Alipay account is ready, you can pay in China in two common ways.

Scan a Merchant QR Code

Many restaurants, shops, and service providers display QR codes for payment.

Simply:

1. Open Alipay
2. Select "Scan"
3. Scan the merchant’s QR code
4. Confirm the payment

Show Your Payment QR Code

Some merchants will scan your payment code instead.

Simply:

1. Open Alipay
2. Slect "Pay/Collect"
3. Show your payment QR code
4. Let the cashier scan it

QR-code payment is widely used in China, including restaurants, transportation services, supermarkets, and many tourist attractions.

5. What Can International Visitors Use Alipay For?

With Alipay, visitors can conveniently pay for:

• Metro, buses, and taxis
• Restaurants and cafes
• Shopping malls and convenience stores
• Attraction tickets
• Hotels and travel services
• Shared bicycles and other daily services

Preparing Alipay before arrival can make your travel experience in China smoother and more convenient.

6. Common Problems When Using Alipay

My International Card Cannot Be Added

Possible reasons include:

• Your bank blocks overseas mobile payment verification
• Your card type is not supported
• Additional security verification is required

Solutions:

• Try another international card
• Contact your card issuer
• Check the latest requirements inside the Alipay app

Identity Verification Failed

If verification does not work:

• Check that your passport information is correct
• Upload clear document images
• Try again later if there is a temporary system issue

Do I Need a Chinese Bank Account?

No, not necessarily.

Many international visitors can use Alipay by linking a supported overseas bank card. However, available functions may vary depending on your account status, card issuer, and payment requirements.

7. Alternative Payment Options for International Visitors

Besides Alipay, international visitors can also consider:

• WeChat Pay
• International credit cards
• Cash (RMB) as a backup option

For most travelers visiting major cities such as Shanghai, preparing at least one mobile payment method before arrival is highly recommended.

8. Using Alipay During Your Trip in China

Once your Alipay account is ready, it can help you handle many daily travel needs in China more easily.

Transportation

Alipay can be used for public transportation in many Chinese cities, including Shanghai.

Visitors can use Alipay to access transportation services such as:

• Metro rides
• Bus payments
• Taxis and ride-hailing services

In Shanghai, you can activate transportation services through the Transport section in Alipay, then use your phone to pay for metro and other public transportation.

Daily Travel Expenses

Besides transportation, Alipay is widely used for:

• Restaurants and cafes
• Shopping malls and convenience stores
• Attraction tickets
• Hotels and travel services
• Shared bicycles and other everyday services

Preparing Alipay before your arrival can make exploring China much more convenient.

Booking Shanghai Experiences with OohMyGuide

Once your payment method is ready, you can also conveniently plan and book your Shanghai experiences online with OohMyGuide.

From must-see attractions to local experiences, OohMyGuide helps international visitors explore Shanghai with easy booking options, including:

• ERA Acrobatic Show Tickets
• Shanghai Private Tours
• Airport and Train Station Transfers
• Huangpu River Cruise Experiences
• Chinese Dining Experiences

Prepare your payment method before your trip and enjoy a smoother Shanghai travel experience with OohMyGuide.