Important Precautions for Using Alipay (For International Travelers)

In Guide April 5, 20263 min read

Alipay itself does not require a VPN to work properly in China (payments, scanning, transport, etc.).
However, if you need to access services like Google, Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, you must install a reliable VPN before you arrive (test it before departure).
Some hotel or airport Wi‑Fi networks may block VPNs. Consider having international roaming data or an eSIM as a backup.

Not all merchants accept linked international cards. Small street vendors, individual stalls, or some scenic spot QR codes may only accept Mainland Chinese bank cards or Alipay balance. In these cases, payment will fail.
Backup options:
- Always carry 500–1,000 RMB in cash – many places still accept cash.
- Ask a friend or hotel staff to transfer money to your Alipay account (you give them cash), but this relies on trust.
- Use Alipay mainly at chain stores, large malls, well‑known restaurants, and ride‑hailing services.

For single transactions above 200 RMB, Alipay usually charges a 3% fee on international cards. Small payments (≤200 RMB) are fee‑free.
Exchange rate: Alipay uses rates from partner banks (e.g., Bank of Shanghai). These are slightly less favorable than direct Visa/Mastercard rates, but the difference is small. For large purchases, you can compare before paying.
Suggestion: Use Alipay for small expenses. For big payments (e.g., hotels, flights), if the merchant accepts direct international credit card swiping, that may be more cost‑effective.

Never screenshot or share your “Payment Code” (the QR code you show to pay). This code refreshes every minute, but if someone else gets a screenshot, they could scan it and take money without your confirmation.
Enable security locks: Go to “Me” → “Settings” → “Payment Settings” → “Security Lock” to turn on features like “Large amount payment verification” or “Night protection”.
If your phone is lost, immediately ask a friend or hotel staff to call 86-571-28011180 to freeze your account.

After completing identity verification, your passport information is linked to Alipay. Always carry your physical passport while traveling in China because:
- Hotels, train ticket checks, and some scenic spots require your passport for verification.
- If Alipay flags an unusual transaction (e.g., large payment), customer support may ask you to verify using your passport.
Recommendation: Keep a clear photo of your passport info page and visa page on your phone as a backup.

Investment and credit services (e.g., Jiebei, Huabei) are generally not available to users without a Chinese ID card.
Bike sharing (e.g., Hello, Meituan Bike): Some services require a Chinese ID card for verification or a large deposit. Foreigners may not be able to use them. Instead, use Alipay’s “Transport” feature to take taxis, buses, or subways.
Transferring money to individuals: You can transfer to other Alipay users, but if the recipient has a Mainland Chinese account, you may be asked for additional identity verification. Small transfers usually work fine.

If a transaction paid with your international card is refunded, the money goes back to your card, but the service fee is usually not refunded (some banks may refund it – check with your card issuer).
Refunds can take up to 30 days. Keep transaction records and refund receipts.
If a merchant refuses a refund or you have a dispute, call 12315 (China consumer complaint hotline – some English service available) or use the “Complaint” feature inside Alipay.

Keep your phone number active: Critical actions (large payments, password changes) require SMS verification codes. Get a local Chinese SIM card (China Mobile/Unicom/Telecom) or make sure your international roaming can receive SMS.
Battery & data: QR code payments depend on mobile internet. Carry a power bank and ensure you have mobile data (Wi‑Fi coverage is not universal).
Know the two scanning situations:
- If the merchant shows a printed QR code → you use Alipay’s “Scan”.
- If you show your payment QR code → the merchant scans you with their gun‑type scanner.
Tipping: China has no tipping culture, and Alipay has no “tip” function. No extra payment is expected.