How to Use Alipay as a Foreigner (Both Inside & Outside China) – 2025 Guide

Alipay (支付宝) is one of the most widely used mobile payment platforms in China, offering fast, secure, and convenient cashless transactions. For travelers, expats, and international users, using Alipay has become increasingly accessible—but it still comes with some limitations and important steps to follow.

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This guide explains how to use Alipay as a foreigner, both while traveling in China and from abroad, including registration, topping up, linking cards, and key features.

📲 What Is Alipay?

Alipay is a digital wallet app developed by Ant Group, a subsidiary of Alibaba Group. It’s used for:

Mobile payments (QR code scanning, in-store purchases)

Online shopping (e.g., Taobao, Tmall, JD)

Utility bill payments

Food delivery, transportation, booking services, and more

🧳 Can Foreigners Use Alipay in 2025?

✅ Yes, foreigners can use Alipay, both with and without a Chinese bank account.

As of recent updates, Alipay has made international access easier by:

Allowing foreign phone numbers

Supporting international bank cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, etc.)

Offering a Tour Pass feature for short-term users

🛠️ How to Set Up Alipay as a Foreigner (Step-by-Step)

🔹 Step 1: Download Alipay

Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android)

Search for Alipay (支付宝)

Download and install

💡 Make sure you get the official version by Ant Group

🔹 Step 2: Sign Up with Your Passport & Foreign Phone Number

Open the app and click “Sign Up”

Use your non-Chinese mobile number (e.g., U.S., UK, etc.)

Set a secure login password

Once you’re in, go to:

Profile > Settings > Account & Security > Real-name Verification

Choose passport or foreign national ID

Upload a photo of your passport and complete facial verification

🔹 Step 3: Add a Payment Method

Option A: Link a Foreign Bank Card

You can add:

Visa

MasterCard

JCB

Discover

Diners Club

Go to:

Me > Bank Cards > Add Card

Note: Not all merchants support foreign cards, so this may have limitations.

Option B: Use Alipay Tour Pass (For Short-Term Visitors)

Alipay Tour Pass is ideal for tourists staying in China up to 90 days.

Tap “Tour Pass” in the app

Load RMB (Chinese Yuan) into a prepaid card via international credit/debit cards

Minimum load: ¥100 (~$14)

Maximum load: ¥10,000 (~$1,400)

Valid for 90 days

You can use Tour Pass at any Alipay-supported merchant, including metro stations, taxis, shops, and restaurants.

🔐 After 90 days, unused funds are automatically refunded to your card.

🌍 Can I Use Alipay Outside China?

Yes—but with limitations.

✅ What You Can Do:

Online shopping on Alibaba platforms (Taobao, AliExpress, Tmall)

Top up your account using Tour Pass or linked card

Send money within Alipay (to other users)

Receive payments (if you’re a seller or freelancer with Alipay)

🚫 What You Can’t Do (Without a Chinese Bank Account):

Access some local services like ride-hailing apps (Didi) outside China

Link some Chinese-only services or merchants

Use Chinese ID–required features (e.g., mainland train ticket bookings)

🧾 Topping Up Your Alipay Balance (Without Chinese Bank Account)

If you don’t have a Chinese bank account, you can still top up via:

Tour Pass (prepaid wallet)

Foreign cards (with restrictions)

Ask a friend in China to send you RMB via Alipay transfer

💡 Tip: Join WeChat or Alipay exchange communities online for help topping up from trusted users.

🛡️ Is Alipay Safe for Foreigners?

Yes. Alipay uses:

2FA (Two-factor authentication)

Real-name ID verification

Transaction history and fraud protection

However, always:

Enable account recovery options

Use a secure phone number and email

Avoid logging in on public or shared devices

🧠 Common Questions from Foreign Users

🔹 Can I use Alipay with just a passport?

Yes—passport verification is accepted for foreigners without Chinese ID.

🔹 Can I receive money from Chinese users?

Yes, once your account is verified, you can receive RMB from other Alipay users.

🔹 Does Alipay work with PayPal?

No, PayPal cannot be linked to Alipay directly.

🔹 Can I open a Chinese bank account as a foreigner?

Yes, but it depends on the city and bank. You’ll typically need a Chinese phone number, residence permit, and a valid reason for staying (e.g., work, school).

🧭 Alipay vs. WeChat Pay for Foreigners

Feature Alipay WeChat Pay

Foreign Card Support Yes (Tour Pass & Visa/MC) Yes (selective)

Better for Tourists ✅ Yes Limited without local ID

Merchant Coverage 95%+ acceptance in China Similar, especially for food

International Use Slightly better than WeChat Some features China-only

✅ Final Thoughts: Should You Use Alipay as a Foreigner?

Yes—Alipay is the best mobile wallet for foreign visitors or users doing business with China. It’s now more foreigner-friendly than ever, and with tools like Tour Pass and foreign card support, you don’t need a local bank to benefit from China’s cashless lifestyle.

Whether you’re in Shanghai, New York, or Berlin, Alipay is a valuable tool for travel, commerce, and digital payments.