Using Your iFast Global Bank Card in China (2025): A UK Traveller's Guide

The Quick Answer:

Yes, your iFast Global Bank (iFast GB) Mastercard links excellently with both Alipay and WeChat Pay. It's a fantastic, modern solution for UK travellers heading to China, allowing you to tap into the local QR code payment system with ease.

As a savvy UK traveller and iFast Global Bank customer, you're already ahead of the curve. You've chosen a digital bank designed for a globalised world. But how does this smart choice hold up in China's unique payment environment? The answer is: remarkably well.

This guide is written specifically for you. We'll show you exactly how to connect your iFast GB card to China's essential payment apps, explain the costs, and provide solutions to common issues, ensuring your trip is as smooth as your banking experience. For more general information about whether you need cash in China and how to pay for taxis, check out our comprehensive guides.

Why Link Your iFast GB Card? The Power of QR Codes

While you can use your iFast GB card at ATMs, its true power in China is unlocked when you link it to Alipay or WeChat Pay. Here's why this is a crucial step:

Join the Cashless Society: From street vendors to shopping malls, paying by scanning a QR code is the norm. Without it, you'll find yourself struggling with cash, which many smaller merchants no longer prefer. Learn more about paying for public transport and other daily expenses.
Excellent Cost-Effectiveness: iFast GB's competitive exchange rates, combined with the low fees from Alipay/WeChat Pay, make it a very economical way to spend.
Security and Control: Every transaction is logged in your iFast GB app, giving you real-time oversight of your spending.
Travel Light: Avoid the risk and inconvenience of carrying large amounts of cash.

Pre-Travel Checklist: Your Setup for Success

Before you start, gather these items. A few minutes of preparation will save you a lot of time later. This checklist is similar to what you'd need for OCBC card setup or other international cards.

Item	Requirement & Key Notes
Your iFast GB Card	Have your iFast Global Bank Mastercard details (number, expiry, CVV) ready.
Your UK Passport	You will need the physical passport for the mandatory identity verification step.
Your UK Phone Number	Your standard +44 mobile number is required to receive SMS verification codes.
Essential Apps	Download Alipay, WeChat, and ensure your iFast Global Bank App is installed and you are logged in.
A Stable Internet Connection	Wi-Fi or a data plan is needed for the setup process.

Part 1: Linking iFast GB to Alipay (Recommended First)

We suggest starting with Alipay as its registration process is typically more streamlined for international visitors.

Step 1: Download & Register Alipay

Open the Alipay app and sign up using your UK (+44) phone number. Alipay will send you an SMS to verify your number. This creates your basic account.

Step 2: Locate the "Bank Cards" Section

On the Alipay home screen, tap the "Me" icon in the bottom right, then choose "Bank Cards". Tap the blue "+ Add Card" button to proceed.

Step 3: Enter Your Card & Name Details (The Critical Step)

Input your 16-digit iFast GB Mastercard number. Below this, you must enter your name. This is the single most important step for success.

CRITICAL: Your Name Must Match Your Passport Exactly

Alipay's verification system is automated. The name you enter here must perfectly match the name on your passport.

Given Name field: Enter your First Name and all Middle Names (e.g., "DAVID ANDREW").
Surname field: Enter your Last Name (e.g., "JONES").

A mistake here is the #1 reason for verification failure. For detailed help with this specific issue, see our name mismatch troubleshooting guide.

Step 4: Complete Identity Verification

After your card is added, Alipay requires a final identity check. You will be prompted to take a clear photo of your passport's main information page. The system scans this and compares it to the name you entered. If they match, your account will be fully activated for payments. This is usually instant.

Part 2: Linking iFast GB to WeChat Pay

The process for WeChat Pay is similar, though it can sometimes feel less direct. As a backup, it's good to have both apps set up.

Step 1: Find and Activate Your "Wallet"

In WeChat, tap Me > Services. You should see an icon for "Wallet". Tap it. If it's not there, the easiest way to activate it is to have a friend on WeChat send you a "Red Packet".

Step 2: Add Your Card

From the "Wallet" screen, tap "Cards", then "+ Add a Card". WeChat will ask you to create a 6-digit payment PIN. This is your security code for all payments; choose one you'll remember.

Step 3: Enter Details and Verify

Enter your iFast GB card details and your name, following the same strict passport-matching rule as with Alipay. WeChat may perform a small, temporary verification charge on your card to confirm it's active. You may need to approve this from your iFast GB app.

Understanding the Costs: Fees & Exchange Rates

It's important to know what you're paying. The fee structure is set by the Chinese platforms (Alipay/WeChat Pay), not by iFast GB.

Cost Component	What to Expect in 2025
Fee on Small Payments	Zero fees for any single transaction under ¥200 CNY.
Fee on Large Payments	A 3% fee is charged on single transactions over ¥200 CNY.
Exchange Rate	The rate is set by the payment platform's network (Alipay/WeChat Pay), not directly by iFast GB. It's generally very competitive, much better than airport money changers.

Reinforcing Your Smart Choice

Choosing iFast Global Bank was a great decision for your international travels. It combines the security of a regulated UK bank with the low-cost benefits of modern fintech.

If you've found this guide helpful and want to get started, you can use our referral link below. Sharing it with friends or family often gives both you and the person signing up a bonus, making it a win-win.

Click Here to Get Started with iFast Global Bank

Troubleshooting Common Issues for UK Travellers

Problem: My first payment was declined.
Solution: This is common. Open your iFast GB app immediately. The bank's security system likely flagged the transaction. You should see a notification asking you to approve the payment. Tap to approve it, then try the payment in China again.
Problem: Alipay/WeChat says "Issuer Not Supported."
Solution: While rare for iFast GB's Mastercard, this can happen. The first step is to simply try again later. If it persists, it's best to rely on the app that worked (usually Alipay). This is why setting up both is a good idea. Check our unsupported card guide for more details.
Problem: Verification failed repeatedly.
Solution: The cause is almost certainly a name mismatch. Carefully remove the card from the app and re-add it, paying extremely close attention to the Given Name and Surname fields, ensuring they perfectly mirror your passport. For other setup issues, our general troubleshooting guides can help. You might also encounter SMS verification issues or payment limit problems.

Final Verdict: A Top-Tier Choice for UK Travellers

Using your iFast Global Bank card linked to Alipay is an outstanding strategy for any UK traveller in China. It's reliable, cost-effective, and integrates you seamlessly into the local payment culture.

While iFast GB is a strong primary choice, savvy travellers sometimes carry a backup. Fintech alternatives like Revolut can also be an excellent addition to your digital wallet, giving you ultimate flexibility. For a comparison of different card types, see our Visa vs Mastercard guide.