Alipay Singapore: How to use Alipay on your trip to China
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E-payments are becoming a norm in China, so if you’re heading there for work or fun, you’ll likely need to use digital payments for your expenses.
Heard the rumours? Mastercard and Visa are like myths in China, and you need a local WePay or Alipay account—something not everyone has easy access to. And flashing cash might get you some side-eye!
So, it’s no surprise that one of the top questions before heading to China is, “How do I pay as a Singaporean?”
In this blog, we’ll cover how to use Alipay and how to set up Alipay in Singapore.
Alipay for foreigners: What is Alipay Singapore
For foreigners like us, the first thing we Google is “Alipay for foreigners”.
In short, Alipay is a digital wallet that stores all your payment info electronically. It’s like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and WeChat Pay, but way more popular in China.
You can either:
- Transfer money to another digital wallet, or
- Link your bank account to the Alipay app and fund your wallet.
How to use Alipay in China?
By scanning QR codes!
To pay someone, scan their QR code and the payment is sent instantly. To receive payments, people scan your QR code.
Everything in the Alipay ecosystem has a unique QR code—individuals, merchants, even payment points.
The QR code system is so pervasive that it’s part of daily life in China. People scan QR codes for coffee, food, and ride-sharing.
In fact, the QR code is so common that there are complaints of discrimination against the non-tech-savvy.
Can foreigners use Alipay?
Yes, foreigners can totally use Alipay in China! The only twist is the setup and topping up process, which is a bit different from the locals.
Remember, Alipay is a digital wallet. The only twist is how you fund it. Typically, folks link their Chinese bank accounts to top up their Alipay wallets.
Can foreigners use Alipay without Chinese bank account?
Absolutely! You just need to top up Alipay with foreign credit card, and you’re good to go!
How to top up Alipay with foreign credit card?
Before we talk about how to top up alipay with foreign credit card, let’s first walk you through how to set up Alipay in Singapore.
How to set up Alipay in Singapore?
- Download Alipay app on your device.
- Hit that “Sign Up” or “Register” button.
- Add your mobile number, email address, and other required details.
- Create a secure password for your Alipay account.
- Confirm your account by entering the verification code sent to your mobile or email.
- Next up, you’ll need to verify your identity. Just upload your passport and do a quick face verification.
- Follow the steps: scan your passport, let it fill in automatically, and then click “Submit”.
Once you’re all set, dive into how to top up Alipay with foreign credit card.
How to top up Alipay with foreign credit card?
Technically, it’s more about linking your foreign credit card to your Alipay wallet than topping it up.
- After registering for your Alipay account in Singapore, the next step is to add a credit or debit card.
- Simply scan your card, or manually input your card number, type, expiry date, and CVV2.
And voilà, you’re all set!
How to add your amaze card to Alipay?
If you’ve got an amaze card, just follow these three easy steps:
- Set up your Alipay account.
- Add your amaze card to Alipay.
- Scan the Alipay QR code to make payments.
Easy peasy!
Other things to take note of…
VPN is fantastic, but there’s a catch
Yes, we all need to vault over the Great Firewall of China with a VPN. But when it comes to adding your card to Alipay or WeChat Pay, it’s not so awesome. Your VPN could cause a network error. So, if you’re planning to top up your Alipay in China, make sure to switch off that VPN!
Align your SIM card for smooth Alipay registration
If you’re having trouble registering your Alipay account, chances are it’s your phone number playing tricks on you. Just remember, your SIM card needs to match your local number. Got a China SIM card? Register your Alipay or WeChat Pay with your China mobile number. Using a Singapore SIM card? Then register with your Singapore number.
How to top up Alipay – Alternative ways
Feeling a bit jittery about relying on just one credit or debit card? No sweat! Here are some handy solutions:
- Pack a few different cards – you never know when one might throw a tantrum and refuse to work. Having backups is always a smart move.
- Have a friend help out – give them some RMB cash to deposit into their bank, then they can transfer the funds to you through Alipay. It’s not perfect, but it works in a pinch if you can find someone willing to lend a hand!
Alternative payments to Alipay – WeChat Pay and cash
Sure, Alipay is popular, but sometimes WeChat Pay steals the spotlight. Better set up WeChat Pay or bring some cash along—it’s widely accepted too!
Before you go…
Planning a trip to China? Don’t forget to snag an amaze card!
After you sign up, simply link your bank credit or debit card to amaze and then add your amaze card to Alipay.
With amaze card, by Instarem, you get to save while you travel with fantastic foreign exchange rates and rewards on all your overseas spending.
Sign up via the Instarem app and start using amaze instantly! It’s totally free.
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