Yes, foreigners can use WeChat Pay now — no Chinese bank account needed. Along with Alipay, it's how nearly all day-to-day spending happens in China, so it's worth setting up before your trip.
How to set up WeChat Pay (before you fly)
- Install WeChat and create an account.
- Go to Me > Services (or Wallet) and choose to add a bank card.
- Enter an international Visa/Mastercard and verify with your passport.
- Do this at home on reliable Wi-Fi — setup and verification are easier before you land.
What you can pay for
Taxis and Didi, metro and buses, restaurants and street food, shops, tickets — you scan a merchant's QR code (or show yours) and pay instantly. China is largely cashless, so this is essential for a smooth trip.
You'll need mobile data
WeChat Pay needs a live internet connection to work — you can't count on Wi-Fi at a food stall or taxi. A China travel eSIM gets you online the moment you land. And because our China eSIM routes internationally, WeChat works alongside Google, WhatsApp and Maps without a VPN.
Set up Alipay too
Carry both as a backup. Here's how to use Alipay as a foreigner.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners use WeChat Pay in China?
Yes. WeChat Pay now lets international visitors bind a foreign Visa, Mastercard or other supported card and pay by QR code across China — no Chinese bank account required. You verify with your passport and add your card in the app.
How do I set up WeChat Pay as a tourist?
Install WeChat, create an account, then go to Me > Services (or Wallet) > add a bank card and enter an international card. You'll verify your identity with your passport. Set this up before you fly, while you have easy internet access.
What can I pay for with WeChat Pay?
Taxis and Didi, metro and buses, restaurants, street food, shops, convenience stores and tickets — essentially all everyday spending in China, which is overwhelmingly cashless and QR-based.
Do I need mobile data for WeChat Pay?
Yes. WeChat Pay needs a live connection to generate and scan payment QR codes. A travel eSIM gives you data from the moment you land, so you can pay anywhere without relying on Wi-Fi.
Should I set up Alipay as well?
It's a good idea to have both as a backup, since occasionally one card works where the other doesn't. See our guide on using Alipay as a foreigner.
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