Set up two ways to pay.
Get a mobile wallet ready before you arrive. Keep a card and RMB cash as backup.
Alipay
Set up your account and an eligible international card.
See the setup steps ↓SECOND MOBILE OPTIONWeChat Pay
Prepare a second wallet if it supports your card and account.
Prepare your backup ↓WHEN YOUR PHONE CAN’T HELPRMB cash
Keep small notes for a flat battery or a failed transaction.
Plan a cash backup ↓Set up Alipay
App wording may change. Follow the current prompts in the official app.
1 · Install the official app
Use your phone’s official app store. Verify the publisher. Avoid payment links or apps sent by strangers.
2 · Create your account
Register using a phone number you can receive verification messages on. Keep access to that number during your trip.
3 · Complete requested verification
If identity verification is requested, follow the in-app process using your own travel document. Never send passport or card details to this website.
4 · Add an eligible card
Find the bank-card section and follow its instructions. Your card issuer may request authentication; check fees and limits shown before paying.
5 · Learn both payment flows
Scan the merchant’s code when instructed, or show your in-app payment code for the merchant to scan. Keep your payment code private from bystanders.
How QR payments work
Learn the steps before you’re at the counter.
Open your payment app
Choose Scan when the merchant asks you to scan their code.
No camera, card details, real QR code or money involved.
Set up a second wallet
- Open WeChat’s payment servicesComplete the current account and identity steps in the official app.
- Add a supported cardFollow the bank-card flow and check the displayed eligibility, fees and limits.
- Keep an independent backupTwo wallets on one phone will both be unavailable if the phone is lost or out of power.
If a payment fails
- Check the transaction status firstBefore retrying, check whether money was already charged. Show the merchant your actual result.
- Try your other methodAsk about cash or a card terminal. A supported card logo is useful, but acceptance varies by merchant.
- Get help through official channelsUse in-app support or your card issuer’s verified number. Use an ATM displaying your card network logo for RMB cash; check fees.