Question 1

Can I sign up for Alipay without a Chinese phone number?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Alipay accepts phone numbers from most countries and regions, so you can sign up with your own number. As long as you can receive the one-time verification code, you will be able to complete registration.

Question 2

Do I need a Chinese bank card?

Accepted Answer

No. Alipay accepts credit and debit cards from several major card networks, so you don’t need a Chinese bank card.

That said, if you’ll be working or living in China for a longer period, I do recommend getting a local Chinese bank card to avoid the extra fees that often come with international cards, and to make withdrawals and transfers easier.

Question 3

Do I need to verify my identity?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. But if you don’t verify your identity, your account may be more likely to face temporary restrictions because of unusual payments or other security checks.

Also, once your identity is verified, your payment limits will be higher, and you’ll be able to receive money from other people.

Question 4

Can I withdraw money to my overseas bank card?

Accepted Answer

No. Money in your Alipay balance can only be withdrawn to a Chinese bank card, so use your linked bank card directly whenever possible. Avoid keeping too much money in your Alipay balance; usually around RMB 200 to 300 is enough. And before you leave China, spend any remaining balance if you can, so you don’t end up with money you can’t withdraw.

Question 5

Why does my card keep failing when I try to link it?

Accepted Answer

First, make sure your card network is accepted by Alipay.

Second, make sure the name you entered, the spelling on your ID, and the information your bank has on file all match exactly.

Your card issuer also needs to verify the request. If your bank blocks the request under its own security rules, the card won’t link successfully. In that case, your best options are to contact your card issuer for support, or try a different card.

Question 6

Is Alipay safe to use?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Alipay has hundreds of millions of users in China and has been operating for more than 20 years. As a payment app, it’s widely used and trusted.

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