WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay)
The payment wallet built into the WeChat app, accepted by QR code at shops, restaurants, taxis and online services across mainland China, which foreign visitors can use by linking an international bank card and verifying with a passport.
About WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay)
WeChat Pay is the payment feature inside the WeChat app, operated by Tencent's payment business Tenpay. It supports Quick Pay, QR code payment, in-app payment and payment inside Mini Programs, so it is accepted both in shops and in many apps and services. Since 2023 foreign users can link cards from international networks, and in 2026 the Beijing government listed seven supported brands: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover Global Network, JCB, Diners Club and UnionPay. Users verify their identity with a passport and can register with a non-Chinese mobile number that receives SMS codes.
Key Features
- QR Code Payments: Scan a merchant's code or show your own payment code at the counter.
- International Cards: Link a foreign debit or credit card from the supported card brands for everyday purchases.
- Mini Programs: Pay inside WeChat Mini Programs for rides, food, tickets and other services.
- Fee Waiver: Single payments under 200 yuan with an international card carry no 3% fee.
How to Get Started
- Install or update WeChat and register or sign in with your phone number.
- Open Me, then Pay and Services, then Wallet to reach Weixin Pay.
- Add a bank card under Bank Cards, enter your passport details and follow the on-screen verification.
- Set a payment password and pay by scanning a merchant QR code or showing your payment code.
With an international card, a 3% fee applies to single payments above 200 yuan, although WeChat announced a temporary waiver for new card users in 2026, so check the current terms in the app. Foreign cards can be used for purchases but not for red packets or transfers to other users. Your name and ID details must match your bank records exactly, and you may be asked to upload a passport copy.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Does WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay) work with a foreign bank card in China? Yes — WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay) accepts foreign-issued cards in China.
Is WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay) available in English? Yes, WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay) has an English-language interface.
Do I need a local phone number to use WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay)? No, an international phone number generally works for WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay).
Do I need local ID or residency for WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay)? No, WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay) doesn't require local ID or residency for visitors.