How to Use WeChat Pay in China: A Complete Guide for Foreigners (2025)

While Alipay is fantastic for commerce, WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay) is the heartbeat of daily life in China. Integrated directly into WeChat, China’s ubiquitous social media app, WeChat Pay allows you to pay for everything from high-end dinners to shared bikes while staying connected with everyone you meet.

1. Why You Need WeChat Pay as a Tourist

• All-in-One Ecosystem: No need to switch apps. You can chat with your hotel, book a taxi (via the Didi Mini-program), and pay for lunch all within WeChat.
• Mini-Programs: Many restaurants now only provide menus through WeChat Mini-programs. Having WeChat Pay active makes these digital-only experiences seamless.
• Social Gifting: Experience Chinese culture by sending or receiving “Red Packets” (Hongbao) with local friends.

2. Step-by-Step: Setting Up WeChat Pay

2.1 Step 1: Download WeChat and Sign Up

1. Download WeChat from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Sign up with your international mobile number.
3. Security Note: WeChat requires an existing user to “verify” new accounts for security. Ask a friend or your hotel staff to scan your QR code to complete your registration.

2.2 Step 2: Accessing the “Services” (Wallet) Section

1. Open WeChat and tap on the “Me” tab.
2. Look for “Services” (previously called “Wallet”).
3. If you don’t see it, go to Settings > General > Tools and enable “Weixin Pay” or have a friend send you a small Red Packet to activate the wallet entry.

2.3 Step 3: Linking Your International Bank Card

1. Inside Services, tap on “Wallet” and then “Cards“.
2. Tap “Add a Card” and enter your Visa, Mastercard, or JCB details.
3. Identity Verification: You must complete the “Real-Name Verification.”

• Upload your Passport photo.
• Enter your details exactly as they appear on your passport.
• Complete the Face Recognition process.
• Tip: Once verified, you can use WeChat Pay for most transactions under 200 RMB without any service fees.

3. Field Guide: How to Pay Using WeChat

3.1 Method A: Scanning the Merchant’s QR Code

This is standard for most restaurants, taxis, and independent shops.

1. Tap the “+” icon at the top right of the WeChat home screen.
2. Select “Scan“.
3. Scan the vendor’s QR code (usually green for WeChat).
4. Enter the amount in RMB and confirm with your 6-digit payment PIN.

3.2 Method B: Showing Your Payment Code

This is used in supermarkets, brand-name stores, and subway stations.

1. Tap the “+” icon at the top right.
2. Select “Money“.
3. Show your QR code/barcode to the merchant’s scanner. The amount will be deducted automatically.

4. Troubleshooting & Pro Tips

200 RMB Threshold: Remember that transactions over 200 RMB incur a 3% fee. For large purchases, check if the merchant accepts physical credit cards to save on this fee.

Mini-Program Power: Use the search bar in WeChat to find “Didi” (Ride-hailing) or “Meituan” (Food delivery). These work perfectly once your WeChat Pay is linked.

Offline Access: WeChat Pay’s “Payment Code” can often work for a short time even without a strong internet connection, which is a lifesaver in crowded areas or subways.

Essential Phrases for WeChat Pay:

Phrase (English)	Pinyin	Meaning
I use WeChat Pay	Wo yong weixin	Let the vendor know your app choice.
Can I scan you?	Wo sao ni ma	Asking to scan their code.

 

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