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ina’s digital landscape is a dynamic realm where technology seamlessly integrates into daily life. At the forefront of this digital revolution is Alipay, a mobile payment platform that has become an integral part of transactions in the country.
For everyone in China, visitors and residents alike, mastering the use of Alipay is not just convenient but essential, as many places have moved to exclusively accepting mobile payments – no cards or cash. More than 80% of the nation’s daily transactions and payments are made through mobile apps, everything from groceries and taxi fares to food deliveries, train tickets, and even plane tickets. The best news is, Alipay is making its features increasingly more accessible to international travelers exploring China, providing them with a window into the vast digital landscape of Chinese applications and technology.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of setting up and using Alipay in 2025. (This article has been updated to reflect the changes announced by Alipay’s Ant Group in March 2024).
Installing the Alipay app
Alipay app is available from both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. We recommend installing and setting up the app on your phone before you enter China, so you are set to go once you land.
The Alipay app is currently only available in Chinese and English. If you are installing the app outside of China, the app automatically switches to the international version, with English as the default language.
Registration
Verification
According to changes announced in March 2024, you may spend up to 2,000 USD per year without having to register your ID. For transactions over 500 USD, you will be required to provide an ID to verify your Alipay account, so please have your passport or ID card handy.
Once you register and verify your account with Alipay, your annual transaction limit is increased to 50,000USD, with single transactions limited to 5,000 USD.
Verification
There are two main options to link your bank card with Alipay. One is a direct method, i.e., pay-as-you-go, that charges your card directly via the app. The second is a prepayment system called TourCard which is specifically designed for short-time visitors. This allows you to place funds in your Alipay account. Both options are available to international visitors with non-Chinese bank accounts. Read on to find out which suits your needs best.
There are two main options to link your bank card with Alipay. One is a direct method, i.e., pay-as-you-go, that charges your card directly via the app. The second is a prepayment system called TourCard which is specifically designed for short-time visitors. This allows you to place funds in your Alipay account. Both options are available to international visitors with non-Chinese bank accounts. Read on to find out which suits your needs best.
Verification
Yes. Alipay is regarded as a secure & safe payment platform. By following best practices for digital security on your end, you can enjoy a safe and secure experience while using Alipay for your payment needs.
Yes. Alipay is regarded as a secure & safe payment platform. By following best practices for digital security on your end, you can enjoy a safe and secure experience while using Alipay for your payment needs.
Yes. Alipay is regarded as a secure & safe payment platform. By following best practices for digital security on your end, you can enjoy a safe and secure experience while using Alipay for your payment needs.
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