Alipay is the fastest way to pay in China — but setting it up with a foreign passport can feel tricky. This guide walks you through it in minutes.
Download Alipay from the App Store or Google Play. The international version works with foreign cards and passports; you do not need a Chinese phone number to register.
Open Alipay and sign up with your email or phone number. Go to Settings → Account → Real-name verification and choose "Foreign passport". Upload a clear photo of your passport and follow the face-verification prompt.
Add a Visa, Mastercard, or other international card in the "Bank Cards" section. Alipay converts payments automatically. Some small merchants only accept the Chinese RMB wallet, but most accept international cards.
If verification fails, check that your passport photo is sharp and the name matches exactly. If your card is declined, try another card or enable international payments in your bank's app. If you hit a payment limit, complete additional verification.
No. You can register Alipay with your foreign phone number or email.
Yes. Alipay supports international cards, and you can pay at most merchants that display the Alipay QR code.
Yes. Alipay is one of the most widely used payment apps in China and uses strong encryption and fraud protection.