How to set up Alipay before your trip to China

Last reviewed October 2026

Almost everything in Hainan, from street food to taxis, is paid by scanning a QR code. Cash still works, but many small vendors don't keep change. Set up both Alipay and WeChat Pay before you leave (for WeChat Pay, see this guide).

Step 1: call your bank (2 weeks before)

Many failed payments aren't Alipay's fault. The bank blocks them.

1. Call your card issuer or use its app to allow overseas and online transactions.
2. Tell them: "I'm traveling to China and will pay through Alipay and WeChat Pay."
3. Make sure you can receive verification texts (OTP / 3-D Secure) abroad. Keep your home SIM in your phone.
4. Bring two cards from different banks.

Which cards work: Alipay and WeChat Pay both accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB and Discover / Diners Club. Whether a payment goes through still depends on your bank, so bring two cards from different banks.

Step 2: set up Alipay (1–2 weeks before)

1. Download the official Alipay app: App Store · Google Play.
2. Register with your home phone number and enter the text code.
3. If asked to verify your identity, upload your passport. Your name and passport number must match the passport exactly.
4. Go to the bank cards section (in the "Account" or "Me" tab) and add your card.
5. Enter the code your bank sends you.
6. Make a test payment: test Alipay and WeChat Pay with ¥1.

A linked card only means the card was saved. Only a real payment proves it works.

Safety

Only use the official app. Never give anyone your password, payment PIN, verification codes, card number, CVV or passport photos, including people offering "setup help".

For the full official picture: the People's Bank of China guide to payment services in China covers bank cards, mobile payments, cash and more.

Next: fees and limits · what to do when a payment fails

Source: China Services Info: using foreign bank cards for mobile payments.