The short version

Set up Alipay first, then WeChat Pay as a second option. Overseas visitors can link supported international cards; you do not generally need a mainland Chinese bank account for this route. Acceptance depends on your card, account checks and the merchant.

Keep your home number available for verification texts, and carry a physical card and some small-denomination renminbi as backup.

Before you fly

  1. Download the official apps. Use your phone’s trusted app store. Register using your own number and make sure you can receive verification texts abroad.
  2. Add a card in Alipay. Look for Me → Bank Cards → Add Card. Follow the in-app prompts to enter your card and complete any identity or bank verification.
  3. Set up WeChat Pay. Look for Me → Services → Wallet. Menu names can vary. New WeChat accounts may need an additional security check.
  4. Complete the requested identity checks. Have your passport ready and match your details carefully. Allow several days in case verification takes longer.
  5. Make a small purchase after arrival. Confirm that the charge succeeds. A linked card does not guarantee every type of payment will work.

Understand the fees

Read the total on the payment screen.

Published guidance describes no platform service fee on eligible international-card transactions of ¥200 or less, and a standard 3% service fee on the full transaction when it exceeds ¥200. Promotions and exceptions can apply; your card issuer may also charge foreign-exchange fees.

For example, a ¥300 purchase with a 3% platform fee adds ¥9, not ¥3. Check the displayed fee before confirming. Account limits vary, so arrange large payments with the merchant in advance.

Two ways to scan

You scan the merchant

Choose Scan, scan the merchant’s QR code, check the name and amount, and confirm. Show the successful payment screen if asked.

我扫你 wǒ sǎo nǐ · I’ll scan you

The merchant scans you

Open your payment code and present it to the cashier. Treat that code as sensitive: do not share screenshots of it.

你扫我 nǐ sǎo wǒ · You scan me

Who scans whom?Both are normal ways to make a merchant payment.
YOU SCAN
You
ScanMerchant
QR code

Check the recipient and amount, then confirm.

我扫你wǒ sǎo nǐ
THEY SCAN
You
Payment codeMerchant
Scanner

Show your live payment code to the cashier.

你扫我nǐ sǎo wǒ

Concept diagram, not an app screenshot. Never share your payment-code screenshot.

When a payment fails

Check your internet connection and card status. Try your other wallet or a different card. If your bank declines the transaction, contact the bank rather than repeatedly retrying.

International cards are primarily for merchant purchases. Personal transfers, balance top-ups and red packets may be unavailable. Do not rely on sending money to a friend as a test.

Keep cash for smaller purchases. International-card terminals are not universal; ATMs displaying your card network’s logo can be a backup, subject to bank fees and limits.

A few common questions

Do I need a Chinese phone number?

An overseas number can be used for registration, subject to the app’s current verification requirements. Keep it able to receive SMS while abroad.

Should I install both wallets?

It is useful to have a second option if a merchant or a card does not work with the first one.

Sources & editorial notes

Adapted and edited from the original Chinese preparation guides provided to nihao China. App screens, eligibility and fees can change; check the official service before travelling.