China Handbookby Mobi & Toro

Add your foreign card to WeChat Pay

WeChat is China's everyday messaging app — and with a card added, a second way to pay.

Last checked · reviewed quarterly

Photo walkthrough coming soonWe only publish steps after checking every screen on a real phone in China. Until then, use the overview below and the official links.

WeChat (微信, Wēixìn) is how people in China message each other — hotels, tour guides and new friends will often ask "Do you have WeChat?". WeChat Pay is built in, and accepts major international cards.

What you need

  • Your own mobile number (a Chinese number is not required)
  • An international debit or credit card
  • Your passport, in case WeChat asks you to verify your identity

Fees and limits

Spending limits and service fees for foreign cards are set by WeChat Pay and can change. See Limits & fees: where to check.

Official sources