How to set up an Alipay account for tourists?
Jul 09, 2025 am 01:35 AMThere are three ways for tourists to use Alipay in China: First, use the overseas version of "Tourist Mode", and after downloading the App, registering and binding an international credit card can realize the basic payment function; second, bind an international credit card to recharge and consume balances, but may be limited by exchange rate conversion and some services are not available; third, ask local friends to assist in registering a complete account, which can unlock more functions but requires trusting the assistant. Overall, the overseas version of the application can meet short-term travel needs, and can further expand the scope of use when staying for a long time or having local help.
If you're a tourist in China and want to use Alipay, you'll find it's not as straightforward as for locals—but it's still doable. The key points are: you need a foreign phone number, a Chinese ID (which tourists don't have), or a local bank account linked to the app. But there are worksarounds that let you access basic features.

Use Tourist Mode (Alipay Overseas Version)
Alipay has an overseas version specifically designed for international users. This is the easiest way for tourists to get started.

- You can download the Alipay app from the App Store or Google Play.
- During registration, choose your country and enter your foreign phone number.
- No Chinese ID or local bank card is required for basic usage like scanning QR codes for payments.
- Some merchants offer special promotions for overseas users, so keep an eye out.
This version supports top-ups via international credit cards, though not all services (like ride-hailing or certain coupons) may be available.
Bind an International Card for Top-Up and Payment
Once you're in the overseas version of Alipay, you can link an international credit or debit card.

- Supported cards include Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
- You can top up your Alipay balance using the card and then pay with that balance at stores, restaurants, etc.
- Be aware of currency conversion fees—Alipay usually handles this automatically, but the rate may vary depending on your card issuer.
You might also see some restrictions based on your location or card type, so test it with a small amount first.
Ask a Local Friend to Help Set Up a Full Account
If you have a local contact, they can help you set up a more fully functional Alipay account.
- They can register you under their phone number and add your foreign ID during verification.
- Once verified, you can bind an international card or even apply for a digital prepared card (like Wise or Revolut) to act as a local-style payment method.
- This gives you access to more features like public transport payments or online shopping within the app.
Just make sure you trust the person helping you, since they'll technically have access to your account unless you change the login details afterward.
Basically, tourists can't open a full Alipay account without local documents, but the overseas version works well enough for most travel needs. If you're staying longer or have local help, you can go further. Either way, it's worth setting up before hitting the streets—it makes daily life here much smoother.
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