Heading to China soon? One thing you really don’t want to skip is setting up WeChat Pay. It’s the go-to payment method in China — from buying street food to paying for taxis, almost everywhere accepts it. Trust me, not having WeChat Pay can make things tricky, and you might even get stuck or frustrated trying to pay with cash or cards.

So here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to get your WeChat Pay ready before you arrive.

Watch This Video to See WeChat Pay Setup in Action

Step 1: Sign Up for WeChat

First, download the WeChat app and create an account using your phone number. Don’t worry if it’s not a Chinese number — foreign numbers work just fine. Just follow the sign-up prompts in the app.

Step 2: Verify Your Identity

To start using WeChat Pay, you’ll need to verify your identity. Open WeChat and go to Me > Services > Wallet. Then fill in your passport info — your name, gender, country, passport number, and dates. You’ll also need to upload a clear photo of your passport (make sure it’s fully visible and easy to read).

After that, you’ll do a quick face verification by letting WeChat scan your face through your phone’s camera. This step is important for security and to comply with local regulations.

Step 3: Add Your Bank Card

Once verified, add your bank card to WeChat Pay. Go to Wallet > Bank Cards, then enter your card number and select the card type. The good news is that WeChat Pay accepts international cards like Visa, Mastercard, JCB, and Diners Club.

Adding your card lets you pay directly, no need for cash or Chinese bank accounts.

Why Use WeChat Pay in China?

• Super convenient: No cash hassles or currency exchange needed.
• Fast payments: Just scan QR codes and go.
• Safe and secure: Your info is protected by identity checks.
• More than payments: It’s integrated with WeChat chat and services.

Tips for Travelers

• Update your WeChat app before your trip.
• Keep a backup payment option handy, just in case.
• Confirm if the merchant accepts international WeChat Pay.

Getting WeChat Pay ready before your trip will save you tons of headaches. Follow these steps, and you’ll be all set to enjoy your China travels without worrying about payments.

Need help planning your China trip? Visit Chinawink — we’re here to help you explore China like a local!