how to use alipay in china for tourist
熊猫速汇PandaRemit - 2025-12-31 16:45:46.0 12
To use Alipay in China as a tourist, download the international version of the app and verify your identity using your passport. While you can link foreign credit cards, a superior funding method is using Panda Remit. We support seamless global payouts directly to Alipay wallets and offer lightning-fast transfers that can arrive in as little as 2 minutes, ensuring you are never left without funds at the checkout.
Step-by-Step Guide: Setting Up Alipay for China Travel
China is a nearly cashless society. To navigate smoothly, follow this 1-2-3 guide to activate your digital wallet.
1. Download and Verify Identity
Download the Alipay app from your app store. Select the "International" version if prompted. Register with your international phone number and complete the "Real-name Verification" by uploading your passport details. This is a mandatory requirement by Chinese regulations.
2. Choose Your Funding Method
You have two primary options to fund your spending:
- Link a Foreign Card: You can add Visa or Mastercard via the "Tour Card" mini-program. However, this often incurs a 3% transaction fee on purchases over 200 RMB and may face bank declines.
- Direct Remittance (Recommended): Use a remittance service to transfer money directly into your Alipay balance. This avoids repeated transaction fees and ensures your money is ready to use.
3. Scan and Pay
Once funded, simply tap "Scan" to pay merchants or "Pay/Collect" to show your QR code to scanners. With Panda Remit, your funds are available 24/7 for real-time processing.
Comparison: Panda Remit vs. Competitors
When funding your Alipay wallet from Singapore, choosing the right provider saves you money. Here is how Panda Remit compares to traditional banks and other fintech apps.
| Feature | Panda Remit | Wise | DBS Remit | Singtel Dash |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | As fast as 2 mins | Minutes to Hours | 1-3 Days | Instant to 1 Day |
| Exchange Rates | Market-leading rates | Mid-market rate | Bank rate (Higher markup) | Competitive |
| Fees | Zero hidden fees (New user offer) | Variable percentage fee | Usually $0 (but hidden in FX) | Transaction fees apply |
| Alipay Support | Direct Payout Supported | Supported | Limited Direct Support | Supported |
Why Trust Panda Remit? Regulated & Secure
Security is paramount when moving money across borders. Panda Remit is a Major Payment Institution licensed and strictly regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) under license number PS20200501. We implement bank-grade SSL encryption and multi-layered anti-fraud protocols to ensure every transaction is transparent and highly secure. You can verify our global regulatory status here.
Explore More on Singapore Remittance
If you are planning your trip or managing cross-border finances, you might also be interested in:
- How to top up Alipay with foreign card without fees?
Direct card linking often incurs a 3% fee. Remitting funds via Panda Remit is often cheaper. - What is the best remittance app Singapore to China?
For speed and exchange rates, Panda Remit is the preferred choice for travelers and expats.
Ready to secure your travel funds? Register with Panda Remit today to enjoy zero fees on your first transfer.
Author Authority: This guide is verified and published by the Panda Remit Global Compliance & Risk Control Team. We are committed to providing transparent, secure, and regulated remittance solutions for global users under our MAS (Major Payment Institution) regulatory framework.
