GoChinaGuideGoChinaGuide

Apps & Payments

How to Register WeChat Pay as a foreigner?

Foreigners without a Chinese bank card can now easily use WeChat Pay by linking their international credit or debit cards (such as Visa, Mastercard, or JCB).

Updated February 23, 2026

Here are the detailed steps as of 2026:

1. Download and Register WeChat

  1. Download WeChat from the App Store or Google Play.
  2. Register using your international mobile number (a Chinese number is not required).
  3. Complete the security verification as prompted.

2. Identity Verification and Card Linking

  1. Access the Wallet: Open WeChat, tap "Me" (bottom right) -> "Services" -> "Wallet".

Note: If you don't see "Services," go to Settings -> General -> Tools to enable "WeChat Pay."

  1. Add a Card: Tap "Cards" -> "Add a Bank Card".
  2. Verify Identity: * Follow the prompts to enter your Passport or Permanent Resident ID information.
  • Upload a photo of your passport and complete the face-scanning process if requested.
  1. Enter Card Details: Input your Visa, Mastercard, or JCB card number, expiration date, and CVV code.
  2. Finalize: Enter the verification code (OTP) sent to your phone by your bank.

3. Using WeChat Pay in China

  • Payments: To pay at a restaurant or shop, tap the "+" icon at the top right of the home screen -> "Scan" to scan the merchant's QR code, or tap "Money" to show your own QR code for the merchant to scan.
  • Fees and Limits:
  • Fees: Transactions of 200 RMB or less are generally fee-free. For transactions over 200 RMB, a 3% fee is charged by WeChat. (Your home bank may also charge a foreign transaction fee).
  • Limits: Typical limits are 6,000 RMB per transaction, with a cumulative monthly limit of 50,000 RMB and an annual limit of 60,000 RMB.

⚠️ Important Tips

  • Functional Limits: Linking an international card allows you to pay merchants (restaurants, shops, taxis). However, you cannot send "Red Packets" (Hongbao), transfer money to individuals, or "Top Up" your WeChat Balance. These features still require a Chinese bank account.
  • Backup Option: It is highly recommended to also set up Alipay. It follows a similar process for international cards and is widely accepted as a backup if WeChat Pay encounters any issues.