
To set up WeChat Pay, you'll need a WeChat account, which can be created using your phone number or email address.
WeChat Pay is a mobile payment system that allows users to make payments, send money, and earn rewards.
Download the WeChat app and follow the prompts to create your account.
WeChat is available for both Android and iOS devices.
Once you have a WeChat account, you can add a payment method, such as a credit or debit card.
This can be done by going to the "Me" tab, then selecting "WeChat Pay" and finally tapping on "Add Payment Method".
Recommended read: How to Pay via Wechat
Setting Up WeChat Pay
Setting up WeChat Pay is a straightforward process that requires some basic steps. You can download WeChat Pay from the App Store or Play Store and register using your mobile number, including international numbers.
To access the Wallet feature, navigate to "Me" > "Services" > "Wallet" in the WeChat app. If you can't find it, go to "Me" > "Settings" > "General" > "Tools" > "Weixin Pay" and Enable it.
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You'll need to provide additional details such as your name, address, and ID when adding a card to your wallet. Avoid using commas in your address.
To add a card, choose "Add Card" in the "Wallet" section and agree to the terms and conditions. You'll then need to upload a copy of your passport for verification.
Once you're verified, you can add your credit cards to your wallet by entering your card details. WeChat supports over 300 banks and a number of foreign credit cards like VISA, MasterCard, and JCB.
Here are the steps to set up WeChat Pay in a concise format:
- Download WeChat Pay and register using your mobile number.
- Navigate to "Me" > "Services" > "Wallet" or enable it through "Me" > "Settings" > "General" > "Tools" > "Weixin Pay".
- Add a card to your wallet by choosing "Add Card" and agreeing to the terms and conditions.
- Provide additional details such as your name, address, and ID, and upload a copy of your passport for verification.
- Enter your card details to add your credit cards to your wallet.
Using Without a Chinese Bank Account
If you don't have a Chinese bank account, you can still use WeChat Pay by linking a supported credit card. This option is available for foreign credit cards only, so debit cards won't work.
You can pay to vendors like mobile top-up from WeChat Pay through the connected credit card, but you can't perform general transfers, Wallet top-ups, or send red envelopes to other users from your Wallet.
Additional reading: How to Get Digital Wallet
To link a credit card, simply enter the card number, press "Next", and follow the instructions on the next pages to complete the process. Once your card and phone number have been verified, your WeChat Wallet will be active and you can use WeChat Pay.
You can pay at merchants' stores in various ways, including scanning a QR code to pay or presenting your payment code.
Here are some key things to know about using WeChat Pay without a Chinese bank account:
Add International Card
To add an international card on WeChat Pay, you'll need your identity document, a mobile phone number that can receive SMS verification codes, and your debit or credit card. The card must be in the same name as the name on your identity document.
You can use your passport as your identity document if you're from the UK. Other accepted documents include the Foreign Permanent Resident ID Card, Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents, Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents, Residence Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents, and Residence Permit for Taiwan Residents.
To get started, open WeChat and tap "Me" in the bottom right-hand corner. Then, tap "Services" and "Wallet". If you haven't already, you'll be prompted to fill in your identity information for real-name authentication.
You'll need to select "Add Bank Card" and enter the card number, select the type of card, and the issuing organization. Fill in the required card and personal information, and an SMS verification code will be sent to your phone number. Enter the code to complete the verification process.
You may also be prompted to create a 6-digit payment password. This will ensure your transactions are secure and easy to manage.
Making Payments
Making payments with WeChat Pay is a breeze. You can scan the merchant's QR code, which directly transfers money from your account to theirs.
To do this, simply scan the QR code on the device provided at the store. This method is quick and convenient.
Alternatively, you can allow the merchant to scan your QR code, which takes money from your account to theirs. To do this, tap the + icon and select "Money" option to view your WeChat Pay QR code.
WeChat Pay also offers online options, such as payments through apps like JD, Taobao, Meituan, or even the McDonald's app.
Here are the main payment methods:
- Scanning the Merchant QR code (Quick Pay)
- Allowing the Merchant to Scan Your QR Code
- Online options (JD, Taobao, Meituan, McDonald's app)
Loading Wallet Funds
Loading Wallet Funds can be done through three main methods. You can add funds directly to your WeChat Wallet from your Chinese bank account.
One of the most convenient ways is through Chinese Bank Transfer. This method allows you to spend the money using WeChat's payment gateway to debit it from the connected bank account.
Alternatively, you can request a friend or colleague to transfer money to your account using the Peer to Peer WeChat Transfer method. This transaction is free, but you won't be able to withdraw the money if you don't have a Chinese bankcard linked to your WeChat Pay.

If you don't have a Chinese bank account, this method might be a good option for you. However, be aware that you can't withdraw the money if you don't have the necessary bankcard.
Another option is Third-Party Transfer, but we don't recommend this method as it may be a scam. Some online platforms may charge a small fee for this service.
Here are the three main methods for loading wallet funds:
- Chinese Bank Transfer: Add funds directly from your Chinese bank account.
- Peer to Peer WeChat Transfer: Request a friend or colleague to transfer money to your account (free, but no withdrawals without a Chinese bankcard).
- Third-Party Transfer: Use an online platform (not recommended due to potential scams).
Making Payments
Making Payments is a breeze with WeChat Pay. You can scan the Merchant's QR code on your device to transfer money directly from your account to theirs.
WeChat Pay offers several options for making payments. You can scan the Merchant's QR code, allow the Merchant to scan your QR code, or use online options like JD, Taobao, Meituan, or even the McDonald's app.
If you're using the WeChat app on your mobile device, you can use the Official Account or Mini Program features to make payments. These features allow merchants to create a profile page or a customized website within the WeChat social site.
Additional reading: Sumup Pay App
Here are the different options for making payments with WeChat Pay:
- Scan the Merchant's QR code (Quick Pay)
- Allow the Merchant to scan your QR code
- Use online options like JD, Taobao, Meituan, or McDonald's app
- Use Official Account or Mini Program features in the WeChat app
Note that some merchants may require extra security applications and may not be approved by TenPay's risk and compliance teams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Americans use WeChat Pay?
Yes, Americans can use WeChat Pay, but they'll need to download the international version and have a Chinese bank account to access full features.
Sources
- https://www.webnots.com/wechat-pay-guide-for-foreigners/
- https://www.adyen.com/payment-methods/wechat-pay
- https://wise.com/us/blog/wechat-pay-for-foreigners
- https://www.getnomad.app/destination-guides/wechat-pay-and-alipay-payment
- https://focus.cbbc.org/how-to-set-up-an-international-card-on-wechat-pay/
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