Curious about how to use WeChat Pay as a foreign tourist? This guide has all the answers!

Starting from July 2023, WeChat now allows you to register with an international phone number and link a foreign bank card! Whether you’re from Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, or any other part of the world, you can now pay with WeChat just like the locals.

Why WeChat Pay is Essential for Foreigners in China

Want to navigate China like a local? Setting up WeChat Pay is essential! Here’s why:

  • Cashless Society 💳: China is largely a cashless society. Without electronic payment options, navigating everyday transactions can be challenging. However, once you set up WeChat Pay, you can fully enjoy the convenience it offers.
  • Wide Acceptance 🛒: While some small shops or street vendors might not accept Alipay, almost everyone accepts WeChat Pay.
  • Easy Self-Ordering 🍜: Many restaurants use WeChat Mini Programs for ordering and payment, allowing you to easily place orders without needing to speak with staff who may not know English.
  • All-in-One Communication Tool 📱: WeChat is not just for payments; it’s also the primary communication tool in China. With nearly everyone on WeChat, it’s your key to staying connected and integrating into local life.

Supported Foreign Bank Cards:

💳VISA

💳MasterCard

💳JCB

💳Diners Club

💳 Discover

Step-by-Step Guide to Registering and Using WeChat Pay:

Step 0: Download the WeChat App

Download the WeChat app from the App Store or Google Play.

Step 1: Register with an International Phone Number

  1. Open the app and register using your international mobile number.
  2. Provide your full name, region, mobile phone number, and a password.
  3. Agree to the Terms of Service and click “Accept and Continue.”

Step 2: Authentication

  1. Click “Authenticate”: Start by clicking “Authenticate” and solving a puzzle to confirm you’re not a bot.
  2. Enter the Verification Code: You’ll receive a 6-digit verification code via SMS. Enter the code and submit it to complete your registration.

Special Cases:

  • Occasionally, WeChat’s security system may trigger additional verification steps. This can include:
    • Verifying your identity by linking a bank card.
    • Asking another verified WeChat user to scan a QR code on your phone.
  • The QR code scan by another user is the most challenging method . If needed, you can find third-party agents online to assist with this step.
  • Triggers for these security measures may include factors like your phone’s system language, SIM card, or Wi-Fi network being linked to China. It is advisable to register your WeChat account from home to avoid these issues.
  1. Go to “Me” > “Services” > “Wallet” > “Cards” > “Add Bank Card.”
  2. Enter your foreign bank card information and set a 6-digit payment password.

Step 4: Complete the Registration

  1. Once you see the “Completed” message, your foreign bank card has been successfully linked.
  2. You can now view the linked card in the wallet section.

Supported Use Cases:

You can use your linked foreign bank card for a variety of services, including:

  • WeChat Mini Programs: Covering e-commerce, dining, travel, duty-free shopping, convenience stores, and more.
  • Transportation: Use WeChat Pay for various transportation services.
  • Popular Services: Pay for services like Ele.me (food delivery), Hema (supermarket), 12306 (train tickets), and Didi (ride-hailing).

Unsupported Use Cases:

Currently, foreign bank cards do not support financial services such as:

  • Wealth management
  • Transfers
  • Red packets (Digital Money Gifts)
  • Mobile top-ups

Tips:

WeChat Mini Programs offer a wide range of services without the need to download additional apps. For example, most restaurants in China use WeChat Mini Programs for menu browsing and ordering.