How to set up an Alipay account as a foreigner?

Mobile payments have made cash almost obsolete in major Chinese cities, with Alipay (known as Zhifubao in Chinese) leading the way as China's top mobile and online payment service. Here’s how you can set up and use Alipay:

1. Download the Alipay App
   • Visit https://m.alipay.com or your favorite app store to download the latest version.
   • Sign up using your mobile phone number. Alipay will send a confirmation code via SMS for verification. Set a password when prompted.
2. Navigate to the "Me" Section
   • Open the app and tap on "Me" at the bottom right corner.
   • Tap on "My Account". If you haven't added a card before, tap "Add Card" next to the "My Cards" section.
3. Set Your Payment Password
   • In the "My Account: Cards, Membership" section, set a six-digit payment password. This password will be used for online payments.
4. Add Your Bank Card
   • Tap "Add Now" under "My Cards".
   • Enter your Chinese bank card number. Alipay will automatically display your bank's name.
   • Fill in your name and other required information. For international Visa/Mastercard credit cards, follow the prompts.
5. Verification
   • Verify your identity by entering your personal information exactly as registered with your bank.
   • Alipay will send a confirmation code to your registered phone number. Enter this code to link your bank card to Alipay.
6. Final Steps
   • Your bank card will now be visible under "My Cards". You can use it to make purchases across China.
   • To pay, simply tap the "Pay" button to generate your personal QR code for scanning by retailers or friends.
7. Complete Setup
   • Enter your transaction password (set during step 3) and fill in any additional required details, including SMS verification.