Using WeChat Pay & Alipay in China for Medical Tourism: A Quick Guide

1. Why You Need Mobile Payments

China has transitioned to near‑cashless daily life—most shops, hospitals and services expect payment via QR codes. Credit cards may not always work. Both WeChat Pay and Alipay now support linking international cards, making them essential for a smooth medical trip.

2. Setting up WeChat Pay

• Download WeChat from App Store or Google Play and register with your international phone number. WanderChina+1
• In the app, go to “Me → Wallet/Pay” and link your Visa, Mastercard, JCB or other accepted international card. Infocode+1
• Complete identity verification (upload passport etc.) if you want higher spending limits. Unlock China+1
• To pay: either scan the merchant’s QR code or present your own QR code for scanning.

3. Setting up Alipay

• Download Alipay (official international version recommended) and register with your international phone number. Travel Of China+1
• Under “Bank Cards” link your international credit or debit card. No Chinese‑bank account required. Unlock China+1
• You can also use Alipay’s “Tourist” wallet or similar features for foreign visitors. China Travel Destination
• Use the QR code payment method the same way as for WeChat.

4. Which to Use – WeChat or Alipay?

Both are widely accepted. Some hospitals or clinics may support one better than the other. It’s safest to install both apps so you’re prepared. Baba goes China!+1
If you’ll be paying hospital bills, pharmacy invoices or daily‑life expenses, having both platforms covers you well.

5. Key Tips for Medical Tourism

• Link your card before travel to avoid delays on arrival.
• Check your card’s foreign‑transaction/ conversion fees.
• Make sure your phone works in China and you can receive OTP/SMS.
• Save a small balance and test with a small payment first.
• Keep a backup payment method (credit card, cash) in case of connectivity issues.
• Understand the spending limits applicable for foreign‑linked cards.
• At medical facilities: confirm that the hospital accepts QR‑payments (WeChat Pay/Alipay) and ask about payment workflow.