How to use WeChat Pay to help Foreigner visiting China: A Guide 2024 (2024)

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  • January 24, 2024
  • Travel

Contents

Introduction:

On July 20, 2023, the official WeChat team announced a comprehensive upgrade to their services for international bank card users. From now on, foreigners who bind their international cards with WeChat Pay can use mobile payments at a vast majority of merchants in mainland China, including dining, transportation, hotels, and supermarkets. Moreover, international card users can now enjoy various payment methods such as QR code scanning, mini-program payments, password-free deduction, and in-app payments. If you’re a tourist or a business visitor, a mobile phone is all you need to roam freely in mainland China. So, how do you use international travel cards and relevant passports? This guide is tailored for tourists looking to navigate China effortlessly with WeChat Pay.

WeChat Pay: Quick Setup in 4 Steps

Step 1: Download the WeChat APP

  • You can download or update your WeChat APP to the latest version on your mobile phone. Register with your phone number or sign in.

How to use WeChat Pay to help Foreigner visiting China: A Guide 2024 (1)

Step 2: Where to find WeChat Pay?

  • Go to: Tap “Me” – “Services” – “Wallet”.

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Step 3: If you can’t find the options, you can activate WeChat Pay.

  • At the bottom, tap “Me” – “Settings” – “General” – “Features” – “WeChat Pay”.
  • In the top corner, tap “+” then tap “Scan” to scan the following QR code.
  • This way, you can enable it.

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Step 4: Fill in your passport and add a VISA or other bank card.

  • In “Wallet,” tap “Add a Card”. Read the “WeChat Pay User Service Agreement” and “Privacy Policy” and tap “Agree”. Follow the steps on the screen to fill in your identity information. Tap “Next” to add your card. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the process.
  • Binding overseas bank cards, currently supports bank cards issued by mainstream overseas bank card organizations, such as Visa, Mastercard, Diners Club, Discover, etc.

Tips: If you use your passport to verify your identity, you will receive a notification asking you to upload a copy of your passport.

Where Can You Use International VISA in Mainland China

Firstly, WeChat Pay can be used in dining, transportation, malls, supermarkets, hotels, and virtually everywhere catering to every resident in China. In other words, everyone can use WeChat Pay. For instance, present payment code to pay, scan QR code to pay, mini-program payment, APP payment. China has many beautiful cities and places you must want to visit (like the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the Bund in Shanghai). When you use WeChat Pay, it can help you easily navigate every corner of China.

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Passport and Chinese Mobile Phone: Using WeChat Pay APP

If you plan to travel or do business in China, the best solution is to buy a mobile phone in mainland China and perform real-name authentication. This way, whether you are traveling or doing business, you can use your Chinese phone number to solve many issues. You’ll need it for essential tasks such as protecting yourself against theft, hailing taxis, and calling for police assistance. In these situations, the latest WeChat Pay comes in very handy. And last but not least, remember, the one thing you absolutely must not lose is your mobile phone. Of course, if you happen to be traveling in China and lose your passport, you can refer to our previous articles on how to seek help from the police in China to resolve this issue.

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New Visa-Free Policy

Recently, in an effort to stimulate the post-pandemic recovery of the tourism industry, the Chinese government announced a new visa-free policy. China will implement a unilateral visa-free policy for citizens of six countries, including France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia. Additionally, China has expanded the transit visa-free policy to 54 countries, including Norway. Individuals holding passports from these countries coming to China for business, tourism, family visits, or transit for no more than 15 days, may enter without a visa. This new policy provides unprecedented convenience for international travelers, significantly lowering the threshold for visiting China. If you plan to travel or conduct business in China, you can enjoy the convenience brought by this policy. Coupled with WeChat Pay, your journey in China will become even more effortless and enjoyable. Please make sure to check the latest visa requirements and policies to ensure your travel plans comply with the regulations.

China, a land shrouded in mystery and graced with breathtaking beauty

China, a land shrouded in mystery and graced with breathtaking beauty, beckons travelers from across the globe not only to feast their eyes on its majestic vistas but also to forge valuable business connections. This vibrant nation offers a tapestry of ancient traditions and modern innovations, where every visit promises a wealth of unforgettable experiences and opportunities.

For those planning an extended stay in China, obtaining a real-name authenticated Chinese mobile phone is a wise choice. Not only does it offer connectivity and convenience, but it also helps mitigate potential inconveniences in case of a lost phone. Furthermore, it facilitates smoother business negotiations and enhances social encounters, allowing you to network effortlessly within this dynamic economic landscape.

Remember, China’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities are waiting to be explored. Your time here is not just a vacation; it’s a deep dive into a diverse world where ancient rituals coexist with futuristic skylines. So, seize the opportunity, embark on your adventure, and experience the marvels of China. Revel in the harmony of tradition and innovation, connecting with locals and international minds alike, with the ease and convenience of WeChat Pay at your fingertips. From the Great Wall to the Silk Road, from cutting-edge business districts to time-honored tea houses, China’s multifaceted essence will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind.

Conclusion:

China, one of the most beautiful countries in the world, is easily navigable with WeChat Pay. Of course, if you are very fond of China, you might also consider registering a Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise (WFOE). GWBMA warmly welcomes you, and you are welcome to visit China!

Please read this article: How to use Alipay app to help Foreigner visiting China?

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How to use WeChat Pay to help Foreigner visiting China: A Guide 2024 (2024)

FAQs

How to pay in China as a foreigner in 2024? ›

In China, cash payments are only accepted in RMB, and currencies such as USD, GBP, and EUR, are not accepted. We recommend using Alipay and preparing/withdrawing 200–500 RMB as a backup. It's also advisable to carry one or two bank cards in case Alipay cannot successfully be used.

Can US citizens use Alipay in China? ›

Find out more about our full end to end payment solutions

Is it possible to use Alipay without a Chinese bank account? Yes, Alipay has a feature for non-Chinese users called Tour Pass. This is a 90-day service that allows foreigners, particularly tourists, to use Alipay with international banking information.

How to activate WeChat Pay? ›

Set up WeChat Pay from your profile under the “Me” tab, then select “Services”. Enter your card information to link your China bank account or international bank card to your WeChat account. Tick the checkbox to agree to the User Agreement and tap on “Next”. Set a payment pin for your WeChat Wallet.

Can I use WeChat Pay in the US? ›

You can only use WeChat Pay in the US if you have a bank account registered in China, Malaysia, South Africa or Hong Kong.

How do I pay someone in China from the US? ›

Bank or Wire Transfer

International bank or wire transfers are a popular choice for businesses to send global payments due to their common usage and effectiveness. All major banks in China, as well as every other country, utilize the SWIFT code system for secure international bank transfers between bank accounts.

Which is better, Alipay or WeChat Pay? ›

WeChat Pay may be better if the majority of your income is earned and spent in China, and you are looking for an online payment system that integrates into China's most popular social media platform. But if global convenience for financial services is a priority for you, consider Alipay.

How to pay for things as a tourist in China? ›

Scanning QR codes with a mobile pay app has become the most common way to pay in mainland China. BEIJING — Foreign visitors to China can now spend up to $2,000 a year using the mobile app Alipay without having to register their ID, the app operator said Friday.

How to set up Alipay for foreigners? ›

After downloading the Alipay app, signing up, and linking an international bank card of major card networks, overseas travelers can start their mobile payment journey in China and pay like a local. Download and registerDownload Alipay App, enter your mobile phone number, tap “Next” to register.

Is WeChat Pay safe? ›

WeChat Pay adheres to stringent regulatory requirements both in China and across other operational territories. Compliance with standards such as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) ensures that WeChat Pay meets international security benchmarks.

Can I use WeChat Pay without a Chinese bank account? ›

By binding Visa, Mastercard or JCB credit card through regular card-binding methods, users who don't have mainland bank cards can use WeChat Pay in WeChat Wallet's merchants and cooperative brands in e-commerce, O2O, travel, trip, including JDcom, Ctrip, Qunar, Didi, Air China, China Railway Corporation (12306).

Why can't I use WeChat Pay? ›

However, WeChat Pay can only be used by customers who register their account in Mainland China, Hong Kong or Malaysia - so you're out of luck if your WeChat was set up here in Singapore.

How to change WeChat Pay to China? ›

To do this, tap "Me" -> "Wallet" -> "..." (in the top right corner) -> "Switch Wallet Region" and choose China.

How can foreigners pay for things in China? ›

Scanning QR codes with a mobile pay app has become the most common way to pay in mainland China. BEIJING — Foreign visitors to China can now spend up to $2,000 a year using the mobile app Alipay without having to register their ID, the app operator said Friday.

Can I use WeChat without a Chinese number? ›

Convenience: A virtual mobile number allows you to sign up for WeChat from anywhere in the world, even if you don't have a local phone number.

Can non Chinese people use WeChat? ›

Can Foreigners Sign Up for WeChat? Foreigners can also sign up for a free account, but they need to get their account verified by an existing WeChat user. Of course, not all countries have access to WeChat.

Can someone in China pay me through PayPal? ›

Both Chinese citizens and non-Chinese citizens (such as foreigners living or traveling in China) alike can sign up for a PayPal individual account and use it to make purchases from overseas, and receive & send payments throughout the world².

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