How to Use Alipay to Pay
When traveling or living in China, learning to use Alipay is one of the most important and convenient things to do. It’s like your e-wallet, usable almost everywhere. This guide will show you the simplest steps to quickly set up and start using Alipay.
How to Register Alipay and Use Alipay
Download Alipay
iPhone users search for “Alipay” in the App Store. Android users search for “Alipay” on Google Play. Please choose the official app, developed by Ant Group/Alibaba.
Register an Account
Open the Alipay app after downloading. Register using your mobile phone number. Alipay registration supports both Chinese and international mobile phone numbers. Enter the verification code to complete registration.
Switch Language
You are now on the app’s main interface. At the bottom of the main page, tap “Me.” Then click Settings → General → Language/Region. Select your language. Alipay supports translation into 16 languages, including Chinese, English, French, and German.
Complete Identity Verification
Return to the main interface. Tap “Me” in the bottom right corner → Settings.
Account & Security → Idenity Information. Fill in your real information as required. Select “Passport” as your document type. Enter the information from your passport. After exiting basic information verification, proceed with photo and facial verification.
Link an International Bank Card
Alipay supports foreigners linking international credit cards; a Chinese bank card is not required. Click “Me” → “Bank Cards” → “Add Card” and add your Visa, Mastercard, JCB, or other allowed card. Verify your card through your bank’s authentication process.
Your Alipay account is now verified with your real name and linked to your bank card. You can use it for payments.
How to Pay with Alipay
There are three main ways to pay with Alipay. One is by scanning the merchant’s QR code for receiving payments. Another is for the merchant to scan your payment QR code. The third is if your phone has NFC, you can directly use “Tap to Pay.”
Scanning the Merchant’s QR Code
To scan a merchant’s payment QR code, go to the homepage and tap “Scan” at the top. Point your camera at the merchant’s QR code. After a successful scan, enter the amount you need to pay. Then tap “Pay.” Make sure you understand the amount you need to pay before tapping “Confirm.” Finally, enter your six-digit payment password to complete the payment.
Merchant Scanning Your Payment Code
Open Alipay and go to the homepage, then tap “Pay/Collect.” Your payment QR code will be displayed. The merchant will scan your payment code using a barcode scanner or other scanning device. Once the payment success page appears, the payment is complete.
NFC Payment
If your phone has NFC functionality, you don’t even need to turn it on. If the merchant has an NFC payment device, you can simply tap your phone against their NFC device to complete the payment when they ask for payment.
In China, payment passwords are no longer limited to numbers. You can use your face or palm print to make payments. These are all very convenient payment methods.
Precautions for Using Alipay
Functionality Limitations
You cannot use features such as red envelopes, transfers, and change top-ups.
Transaction Limits
The maximum transaction limit is RMB 5,000 per transaction. The daily fee-free transfer limit is RMB 20,000.
Transaction Fees
Transactions under RMB 200 are free of charge. For transactions exceeding RMB 200, a 3% fee will be charged (refunded proportionally upon refund).
Exchange Rate Calculation
Settlement uses the real-time exchange rate of international card organizations or issuing banks.
Conclusion
Now you know how to pay with Alipay. Take your phone and confidently explore in China! Of course, smooth payment is just the foundation of a perfect trip. Traveling in China, you might also need to know which old streets hold the most authentic local flavors. How to avoid crowds and appreciate the most famous attractions. Or how to book a unique cultural experience.
This is where we can help you go further. As a travel platform focused on serving international travelers, we not only provide these essential pre-trip guides but also strive to plan a more in-depth exploration of China for you.
Click to contact us to discover featured routes designed by local experts and get real-time travel tips. Let us help you upgrade a standard sightseeing tour into an immersive journey of Chinese cultural discovery. Wishing you a pleasant and unforgettable trip in China!
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