How to Open a Bank Account in China and Use Alipay & WeChat Pay as a Foreigner or Taiwanese Visitor

In today’s China, cash is nearly obsolete—locals use Alipay and WeChat Pay for everything. For foreigners and visitors from Taiwan, this can be confusing at first. Thankfully, using these apps is now much easier, even without a Chinese bank account. This guide shows you how.

Why You Need Mobile Payments in China

In today’s China, cash is rarely used, and even credit cards may not work in many local shops, taxis, or restaurants. Alipay (支付宝) and WeChat Pay (微信支付) dominate the payment landscape — from street food to high-end hotels.

If you’re a foreigner or a Taiwanese traveler, you may be wondering:

• Can I open a Chinese bank account?

• Can I use Alipay or WeChat Pay without one?

• What if I’m only visiting for a short time?

This guide will answer all your questions, step by step.

Part 1: Opening a Bank Account in Mainland China

If you’re staying in China for more than a few weeks, opening a local bank account is extremely helpful — and often necessary for full Alipay/WeChat functionality.

Who Can Open an Account?

Foreign passport holders and Taiwanese citizens can open a bank account in China if they meet these basic conditions:

• Have a valid passport (or 台胞证 for Taiwan residents)

• Hold a Chinese visa (tourist, student, work, or business)

• Can provide a local mobile phone number

• Are physically present at the bank

Recommended Banks:

• Bank of China (BOC) – popular among foreigners

• ICBC – wide ATM coverage

• China Construction Bank (CCB)

• Agricultural Bank of China

Some cities are more foreigner-friendly (e.g., Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu), and some branches may have English-speaking staff.

Documents Needed:

• Passport (or Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan residents)

• Chinese phone number

• Valid visa or entry stamp

• Proof of address (sometimes)

Tip: Visit larger bank branches (not small local ones) for better service and faster processing.

Part 2: Using Alipay & WeChat Pay Without a Chinese Bank Account (Short-Term Travelers)

Good news! As of recent updates, both Alipay and WeChat Pay now support international bank cards. You can use them for most payments, even without a Chinese bank account.

Supported Cards:

• Visa

• MasterCard

• JCB

• Discover

• Diners Club

• Some international debit cards

How to Set Up Alipay (for Foreigners & Taiwan Visitors):

1. Download the Alipay app

2. Tap “Tour Pass” or go to the “Me” tab → “Bank Cards”

3. Add your international credit/debit card

4. Complete identity verification with passport or 台胞证

5. You’re ready to scan QR codes and pay!

You can also top up a prepaid wallet via “Tour Pass” for 90-day use (minimum ~$50 USD).

How to Set Up WeChat Pay:

1. Download WeChat

2. Go to “Me” → “Services” → “Wallet”

3. Link your international credit card

4. Verify your identity with a passport or 台胞证

5. Done! You can now pay at shops, restaurants, taxis, etc.

Note: Some small vendors may still only accept payments linked to Chinese bank accounts. In that case, ask for help or carry some cash.

Part 3: Using Alipay or WeChat Pay With a Chinese Bank Account

If you’ve successfully opened a bank account, link it directly to:

• Alipay: Go to “Me” → “Bank Cards” → Add card → Enter bank info

• WeChat Pay: Go to “Wallet” → “Cards” → Add bank card

This unlocks full features, such as:

• Transfers between users

• Taxi-hailing

• Online shopping (e.g., Taobao, JD.com)

• Utility payments and more

Mobile Number Tips

You’ll need a mainland China phone number (starting with +86) to receive verification codes. You can buy:

• A prepaid SIM card at major airports or stores

• A temporary number with passport/台胞证

You can’t activate WeChat Pay or Alipay with a foreign number.

Tax & Limit Notes

• Foreigners using international cards may face FX fees

• Tour Pass (Alipay) may have limits like ¥10,000 per 90 days

• Some services (like fund investment or red envelopes) require a Chinese ID, so may be restricted

Common Problems & Fixes

• Use Alipay’s Tour Pass if you’re on a short trip

• Open a Chinese bank account for longer stays or easier use

• Always carry a bit of cash as backup (especially in rural areas)

• Download both apps in advance and test linking cards before your trip

Summary

With a little setup, foreigners and Taiwan visitors can use mobile payments just like locals. Once you’re set up, you’ll enjoy fast, easy, and safe payments — anytime, anywhere in China.

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