Kunming, Yunnan

Kunming Yanrui International Travel Service Co., Ltd

How to Use WeChat Pay and Alipay

Upon arriving in China, QR codes are available at every turn, allowing you to make cash-free purchases with a quick scan.
This guide will show you how to use WeChat Pay effortlessly across cafes, high-speed rail stations, and hotel lobbies throughout China.
1. Get Your Phone Ready Before Landing
A few simple preparations before your flight will help you make smooth, cash-free payments in China from the moment you arrive:
  1. Update your WeChat app while connected to home Wi-Fi
    Ensure you're using the latest version of WeChat, as only recent updates allow you to link international cards.
  2. Set up mobile connectivity
    Install and activate a China-compatible eSIM before you travel, or plan to buy a local SIM card at the airport arrivals hall.
    You’ll need an internet connection right away to use services like WeChat Pay or Alipay — essential for booking transport, making purchases, or navigating your way around.
  3. Snap a photo of your passport’s ID page
    Occasionally, the WeChat app may prompt you to verify your identity when linking a card or making a payment.
    Having a digital copy of your passport ready on your phone allows you to respond quickly without having to rummage through your bags for the physical document.
  4. Carry a compact power bank
    On June 28 2025, China imposed a new regulation that only permits power banks that have the China Compulsory Certificate (CCC) logo on board domestic Chinese flights.
    Your phone will become your wallet, travel guide, and translator all in one.
    Keeping it charged is crucial, and a portable power bank ensures you’re never caught out, especially during long journeys or delays.
  5. Bring a spare international payment card
    Keep a backup debit or credit card in a separate place, just in case.
    If your phone battery runs out or you experience signal issues, a second card provides peace of mind, ensuring you can still make payments or access services when needed.
  6. Can Foreigners Use WeChat Pay in China?
    Yes. Since mid-2023, visitors have been able to link major international cards directly to WeChat Pay.
    No mainland bank account is required, and the wallet works in street markets, taxis, museums, and hotels.
    1. Open WeChat → Me → Pay and Services → Wallet.
    2. Tap Bank Cards, then Add a Bank Card.
    3. Enter passport number, full legal name, billing address, and card details.
    Accepted networks: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, Diners Club, Discover, and UnionPay debit.
    4. Confirm the one-time code sent by SMS or email.
    5. Set a six-digit payment PIN.
Pay Like A Local Every Day
Quick Pay sits right at the top of the Money section.
One tap reveals a personal QR code marked with a countdown timer.
Show it to the cashier’s scanner, wait for the vibration that confirms payment, and you’re done.
Small vendors usually scan your code directly using Quick Pay.
At larger stores, you’ll scan a static code on the counter instead — simply enter the amount in yuan, confirm it with your PIN, and show the green checkmark to the cashier.
After just a few uses, the routine becomes second nature — quick, reliable, and completely cash-free.
Keep Alipay Ready As a Second Line
Alipay works just like WeChat Pay and also accepts international cards, so installing it gives you an easy backup option in case one app isn’t working.

WeChat help center