Alipay Setup Guide for Foreigners

Complete step-by-step guide to set up and use Alipay in China

Last updated: June 29, 2025

Tourist Friendly

6 steps

10-15 min

NEW: Direct International Card Binding! Alipay now supports direct binding of international cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Amex, etc.) for foreign users. You need a valid passport for identity verification to unlock this feature.

Why Choose Alipay?

🌍 Tourist Features: Special "Tour Pass" designed for foreigners with offline payment support
💳 Direct Card Binding: Now supports direct binding of international cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Amex, etc.)
🚇 Transportation: Easy QR code payments for buses and metro systems
🗺️ Local Services: Integrated maps, translation, and local discovery features
🔒 Secure & Fast: Enhanced identity verification for better security and faster transactions

Step-by-Step Setup Process

Download Alipay App

Get the official Alipay app from your app store

Search "Alipay" in App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android)
Download the official blue Alipay app (by Ant Group)
Install and open the app
Select "English" as your preferred language

Pro Tip: Make sure you download the official Alipay app, not third-party versions.

Create Alipay Account

Tap "Sign Up" on the welcome screen
Enter your international phone number (with country code)
Verify with SMS code sent to your phone
Set a secure 6-digit payment password
Complete basic profile information (name, country)
Accept terms and conditions

Pro Tip: Your international phone number will be your primary login method.

Complete Identity Verification

Verify your identity to unlock full features

Go to "Me" > "Settings" > "Account Security"
Select "Identity Verification"
Upload a clear photo of your passport (information page)
Take a selfie following the on-screen instructions
Wait for automatic verification (usually 1-5 minutes)
Receive confirmation notification

Pro Tip: Identity verification is now mandatory for foreign users and unlocks international card binding.

Add International Bank Card

Link your Visa, Mastercard, or other international cards

Go to "Me" > "Bank Cards & Payment" > "Payment Methods"
Tap "Add Card" and select "International Card"
Enter your card details (number, expiry, CVV)
Confirm billing address (must match your card)
Complete 3D Secure verification if prompted
Set this card as your default payment method

Pro Tip: Alipay now supports major international cards: Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express, Discover, and Diners Club.

Set Up Tour Pass (Optional)

Activate special tourist features for easier payments

Look for "Tour Pass" on the main screen or in "More Services"
Select your country/region
Choose a prepaid amount (100-2000 RMB recommended)
Top up using your international card
Activate the Tour Pass for offline payments

Pro Tip: Tour Pass allows payments even without internet connection and offers better exchange rates.

Test Your Setup

Make a small test payment to confirm everything works

Find a store that accepts Alipay (look for the blue Alipay logo)
Open Alipay and tap "Scan" to scan the merchant QR code
Enter payment amount if required
Confirm payment with your 6-digit password or biometric
Check for successful payment confirmation and receipt

Pro Tip: Start with a small purchase (10-20 RMB) to test the system. Most convenience stores accept Alipay.

🎉 Great! You've Set Up Alipay Successfully!

You're now ready to use Alipay across China. Here are some useful tips for getting the most out of Alipay:

Enjoy seamless payments with your international card - no need for cash exchanges
Explore the "Tour Pass" features for offline payments and better exchange rates
Use Alipay for public transportation - it's widely accepted across China
Try the built-in translation feature when shopping at local stores
Consider also setting up WeChat Pay for maximum coverage

Want to set up other payment methods?Back to Mobile Payment Guide