How to Register for Alipay: A Complete Guide

Alipay is China’s leading mobile payment platform and one of the world’s largest digital payment systems. Whether you’re planning to visit China or conduct business there, having an Alipay account is essential since many places have moved to exclusively accepting mobile payments. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to register for Alipay:

Prerequisites

Before you start, you’ll need:

• A valid phone number (international numbers are accepted)
• A valid ID document (passport for international users)
• An international credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Diners Club, Discover, or UnionPay)

Step-by-Step Registration Process

1. Download the Alipay App

• For mobile devices: Visit the Apple App Store or Google Play Store
• Search for: “Alipay” (make sure to download the official app by Ant Group)
• Install the app on your device

Pro tip: Install and set up the app before traveling to China for a smoother experience upon arrival.

2. Create Your Account

1. Open the Alipay app
2. Tap “Sign Up” or “Register”
3. Select your region: Choose your country/region from the dropdown menu
4. Enter your phone number: Include your country code (e.g., +1 for US, +44 for UK)
5. Verify your number: Enter the SMS verification code sent to your phone
6. Set a password: Create a secure password for your account
7. Accept terms: Agree to Alipay’s privacy policy and user agreement

3. Identity Verification

According to March 2024 updates:

• Unverified accounts: Can spend up to $2,000 USD per year
• For transactions over $500 USD: ID verification is required
• Verified accounts: Annual limit increases to $50,000 USD (single transaction limit: $5,000 USD)

To verify your identity:

1. Go to “Settings” → “Account and Security”
2. Select “Identity Verification”
3. Upload clear photos of your passport or ID document
4. Follow the prompts to complete verification (usually takes less than 24 hours)

4. Add a Payment Method

You have two main options for international users:

Option 1: Direct Card Linking

1. Navigate to: “Me” → “Bank Cards” → “+” (add card button)
2. Set payment password: Create a 6-digit payment password
3. Add your card: Either scan your card or manually enter details
4. Supported cards: Visa, Mastercard, Diners Club, Discover, JCB, UnionPay
5. Complete verification: Follow prompts to verify your card

Option 2: TourCard (Prepaid Option)

1. Search “TourCard” in the Alipay search bar
2. Activate TourCard: Follow registration prompts
3. Verification required: Have your passport ready
4. Top-up limit: Maximum 10,000 CNY for 180 days
5. Service fee: 5% charge for each top-up
6. Supported cards: Visa, Mastercard, Diners Club, JCB

5. Set Language to English

To change the interface language:

1. Go to: “Me” → Settings (gear icon)
2. Select: “General”
3. Choose: “Language”
4. Select: “English”
5. Save: Changes will apply immediately

How to Use Alipay for Payments

QR Code Payments

Two methods:

1. Show your QR code: Tap “Pay/Receive” → Show your code to merchants
2. Scan merchant’s QR: Tap “Scan” → Point camera at merchant’s QR code

Online Payments

• Select Alipay at checkout on supported e-commerce platforms
• You’ll be redirected to the Alipay app to complete payment
• For desktop purchases, scan the displayed QR code with your phone

Important Limitations for International Users

Transaction Restrictions

• Minimum transaction: 10 CNY (~$1.40 USD)
• Peer-to-peer transfers: Not available for international cards
• Red packets and some financial services: Limited to Chinese bank card holders
• Supported transactions: Merchant payments, online shopping, transportation, food delivery

Geographic Availability

• Fully supported: Mainland China
• Limited features: International usage varies by region
• Not available: Some countries (check current restrictions)

Additional Features

Mini-Programs

Access services directly within Alipay:

• Didi (ride-hailing): Book taxis without separate app
• Travel bookings: Trains, flights, hotels
• Food delivery: Order meals directly
• Utility payments: Pay bills and services

Security Features

• Two-factor authentication: Enable for enhanced security
• Transaction notifications: Real-time payment alerts
• Dispute resolution: Built-in buyer protection system
• Account monitoring: Track all transactions and spending

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Card Not Working

• Try a different international card
• Ensure your bank allows international transactions
• Contact your bank to authorize China transactions
• Consider using TourCard as an alternative

Verification Delays

• Allow up to 72 hours for ID verification
• Ensure passport photos are clear and well-lit
• Check that personal details match exactly
• Contact Alipay support if issues persist

Language Issues

• Download the international version outside China
• Change language settings as described above
• Some features may only be available in Chinese

Closing Your Account

To delete your Alipay account:

1. Go to: “Settings” → “Account and Security”
2. Select: “Account Cancel”
3. Follow prompts: Complete the cancellation process
4. Data deletion: All personal details will be erased