Alipay has become one of the most convenient ways to pay for goods and services in China — from subway tickets to street food. This guide is specially designed for foreigners who wish to set up and use Alipay without a Chinese bank account or phone number.

📌 Section 1: What You Must Know Before Registration

✅ 1. Required Documents

• Valid Passport: Must be original and have at least 6 months of validity from the date of registration. The name must exactly match the one on your bank card and mobile number.
• International Bank Card: Accepted types include Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Discover, Amex, or UnionPay International. U.S./Canadian cards may require address verification.

✅ 2. International Phone Number

You do not need a Chinese (+86) number. Any international number that receives SMS (e.g., +1, +44, +852) is acceptable. Used for:

• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
• Transaction notifications

✅ 3. Technical Requirements

• Device: iOS 14+ / Android 8+
• Stable Internet connection
• Payment Password: A 6-digit code that is unique per account

✅ 4. Limits & Fees

• Daily Limit: ¥10,000 (~$1,370)
• Monthly Limit: ¥50,000 (~$6,850)
• Annual Limit: ¥200,000 (~$27,400)
• Fees: 3% cross-border fee above ¥200, $0.05 card binding fee, 1.5%–2% currency conversion

🔧 Section 2: How to Set Up Alipay

🟦 Step 1: Download and Register

Search “Alipay” in your app store. Tap “Sign Up” and choose the International Version.

🟦 Step 2: Add Bank Card

Tap “Add Now” and follow the on-screen instructions to enter your card and personal details.

❓ Section 3: Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What documents are accepted for verification?

• Valid Passport (with 6+ months validity)
• PRC Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card
• Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong/Macao/Taiwan Residents
• Residence Permit for Hong Kong/Macao/Taiwan Residents

Q2. Is a China phone number required?

No. Any international mobile number that receives SMS is acceptable. Include your country code (e.g., +1, +852).

📞 Contact Alipay (24/7 Hotlines)

• Mainland: +86 95188
• Overseas: +86 0571-26886000
• Hong Kong: +852 2245-3201
• HK Mainland Line: 400-103-2826