Foreigners Paying in China: 2025 Essential Updates
Last updated: June 29, 2025
Summary
This guide covers the latest changes for foreigners paying in China in 2025, including new card support, eKYC improvements, and more. Real tips from Reddit, YouTube, Xiaohongshu, and expat forums included!
What's New in 2025?
- Wider support for foreign cards: More Visa/Mastercard options now work on WeChat Pay and Alipay
- Easier eKYC: Passport + selfie approval is faster and more reliable
- Airport top-up kiosks: Now in more cities, making it easier to add funds
- UnionPay QuickPass expansion: More malls and stores accept foreign NFC cards
- Better English support: Both apps now offer improved English UIs
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | WeChat Pay | Alipay | UnionPay QuickPass |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Card Support | Yes | Yes | Some cards |
| eKYC Speed | Fast | Fast | N/A |
| English UI | Improved | Improved | N/A |
| Top-up at Airport | Yes | Yes | N/A |
| NFC Payments | No | No | Yes |
Step-by-Step: Setting Up in 2025
1. WeChat Pay
- Download WeChat, register, verify with passport
- Add your Visa/Mastercard (HSBC, Wise, Revolut, SG/MY cards work best)
- Complete eKYC (passport + selfie)
- Test with a small payment at the airport
2. Alipay
- Download Alipay, register, verify with passport
- Add your Visa/Mastercard
- Complete eKYC
- Try topping up at airport kiosks if card fails
3. UnionPay QuickPass
- Some foreign Visa/Mastercards (e.g. UOB, HSBC) support UnionPay NFC
- Use for malls, Starbucks, Uniqlo
- FX spread ~2.5%
4. Cash
- Exchange at Bank of China counters on arrival
- Keep ¥200-500 for emergencies
Real Traveler Stories
| User | Experience |
|---|---|
| Redditor | "My Wise card worked on WeChat Pay in Shanghai, but not in a rural town—always keep cash!" |
| Expat Forum | "Alipay now supports most foreign cards, but some US cards still have issues." |
| Xiaohongshu | "Airport kiosks are a lifesaver for topping up Alipay." |
Common Issues & Solutions
- Card not accepted? Try another card or use Wise/Revolut for top-up
- App in Chinese? Change language in Settings
- Merchant says 'not supported'? Use cash or ask a local friend
Safety & Security
- Both WeChat Pay and Alipay use advanced encryption
- Always double-check the merchant's QR code
- Never share your payment password
FAQ
Q: Can I use my foreign phone number?
A: Yes, register with your +65, +60, +1, etc. number
A: Yes, register with your +65, +60, +1, etc. number
Q: What about refunds?
A: Refunds are processed quickly, but may take 1-3 days
A: Refunds are processed quickly, but may take 1-3 days
Q: Can I send money to friends?
A: Yes, but P2P transfers may require extra verification
A: Yes, but P2P transfers may require extra verification
Final Tips from a Travel Buddy
- Always keep a backup card and some cash
- Test your payment apps at the airport
- Don't be shy—ask locals for help!
You Might Also Like
Using WeChat Pay in China (2025 Guide)
Step-by-step guide for foreigners using WeChat Pay in China. Setup, card linking, and real traveler tips.
Using Alipay in China (2025 Guide)
Step-by-step guide for foreigners using Alipay in China. Setup, card linking, and real traveler tips.
How to Pay in China as a Foreigner
Complete 2025 guide to all payment methods for foreigners: WeChat Pay, Alipay, UnionPay, and more.
How Singaporeans Can Pay in China Using OCBC App
Step-by-step guide for Singaporeans using OCBC to pay in China. UnionPay, Alipay+, and more.