If you’re planning a trip to China, Alipay is one of the most useful apps you can install before departure. It allows many international visitors to make mobile payments, pay for transportation, shop and access various travel services using their smartphone.
Short answer: many tourists can use Alipay in China by registering with their international phone number and linking an eligible international payment card.
Installing Alipay together with a reliable China eSIM makes traveling around China much more convenient.
Top China eSIMs
What Is Alipay?
Alipay is one of China’s largest digital payment platforms. Millions of businesses accept it for everyday purchases, including restaurants, cafés, taxis, hotels, convenience stores and tourist attractions.
For many travelers, paying with a QR code quickly becomes the easiest way to make purchases in China.
Why Should Tourists Use Alipay?
Using Alipay means you don’t have to rely entirely on cash or physical bank cards.
- Pay at restaurants.
- Shop in stores.
- Pay for taxis.
- Use public transportation where supported.
- Purchase attraction tickets.
- Pay in convenience stores.
- Scan merchant QR codes.
Can Foreign Tourists Register?
Yes.
International visitors can create an Alipay account using their own mobile phone number. Depending on your country, additional identity verification may be requested.
| Feature | Available for Tourists? |
|---|---|
| Create an account | Yes |
| Use international phone number | Yes |
| Link eligible international cards | Yes |
| QR code payments | Yes |
| Merchant payments | Yes |
| Travel services | Many are available |
Can You Link an International Bank Card?
Many international visitors can link eligible Visa, Mastercard and other supported cards directly within Alipay.
Supported cards, transaction limits, fees and available features may change over time, so check the latest information before traveling.
Do You Need a Chinese Bank Account?
No.
Many tourists can use Alipay without opening a Chinese bank account by linking an eligible international payment card.
Will Alipay Work with a Travel eSIM?
Yes.
Alipay works over both WiFi and mobile data. A travel eSIM provides the internet connection needed to use the application.
You do not need a phone number on your eSIM to use Alipay.
Recommended China eSIM Settings
| Setting | Recommended Value |
|---|---|
| Mobile Data | China eSIM |
| Calls | Primary SIM |
| SMS | Primary SIM |
| Data Roaming | ON |
| Primary SIM Roaming | OFF |
| Automatic Data Switching | OFF |
| Network Selection | Automatic |
| APN | data.esim if required |
How to Set Up Alipay Before Your Trip
- Download the Alipay app.
- Create your account.
- Verify your mobile number.
- Complete any required identity verification.
- Link an eligible payment card.
- Test the app before departure.
- Install your China eSIM.
What If Alipay Doesn’t Work?
If you cannot use Alipay after arriving:
- Verify your internet connection.
- Select the China eSIM for Mobile Data.
- Enable Data Roaming.
- Restart your phone.
- Verify APN data.esim if manual configuration is required.
- Check whether your payment card is successfully linked.
- Confirm your account verification is complete.
Can You Keep Your Home SIM?
Yes.
Most Dual SIM phones allow you to keep your primary SIM active for calls and SMS while using your China eSIM for mobile data.
Your Alipay account remains linked to your existing mobile number.
Travel Tips for Using Alipay
- Set up your account before departure.
- Carry one physical payment card as a backup.
- Keep a small amount of cash for emergencies.
- Monitor your mobile data usage.
- Save important travel documents offline.
- Carry a power bank for your phone.
Related China Travel Guides
- China eSIM
- WeChat for Tourists
- Best eSIM for China
- How to Use China eSIM
- China APN Settings
- How to Access Gmail in China
- VPN for China Travel
- The Great Firewall of China Explained
FAQ
Can tourists use Alipay in China?
Yes. Many international visitors can register for Alipay and link eligible international payment cards.
Do I need a Chinese bank account?
No. Many tourists can pay using eligible international cards linked to Alipay.
Can I use Alipay with a travel eSIM?
Yes. A travel eSIM provides the internet connection needed for Alipay.
Do I need a Chinese phone number?
No. Most visitors can register using their existing international mobile number.
Do I need Data Roaming enabled?
Yes. Enable Data Roaming on your China eSIM. If manual APN configuration is required for NoveSIM, use data.esim.
Should I set up Alipay before traveling?
Yes. Setting up your account, verifying your identity and linking your payment card before departure saves time after arriving in China.
Final Recommendation
Alipay is one of the most useful apps for international visitors to China. Setting it up before departure allows you to pay at millions of businesses without relying on cash.
Install Alipay and your China eSIM before your trip, enable Data Roaming after arrival, keep your eSIM selected for mobile data and use data.esim if manual APN configuration is required. Together, they provide a smooth payment and connectivity experience throughout your journey.