Registration and verification
Register with a phone number and verify with a code. Some accounts need a friend to scan a QR/verify; if you are new to China, ask a colleague or hotel contact. Use your real name for payments; do not buy “verified” accounts.
Payments and mini-programs
WeChat Pay can link international cards in many cases, but support varies. Mini-programs inside WeChat handle taxis, food, tickets and translations. Test a small payment and keep Alipay as backup.
Groups and privacy
Groups are useful for expat communities, but they spread rumours and scams. Don’t share passport photos, bank details or verification codes. Turn on two-factor authentication and review privacy settings.
Reality check
Verification is the hard part; buying a “verified” account is a bad idea.
Local tip: Set up two-factor authentication and a backup payment app.
Step by step
- Download WeChat.
- Register and verify.
- Set a strong password and 2FA.
- Add a payment method.
- Join only trusted groups.
- Test a small payment.
Typical costs
| Item | Cost / note |
|---|---|
| Free | |
| Payment fees | Bank-dependent |
Prices are indicative and change. Confirm with the official provider before paying.
Documents to prepare
- Phone number
- Passport for payment verification
Common mistakes
- Buying a verified account
- Sharing verification codes
- Joining scam groups
- No backup payment app
If things go wrong
- If your account is blocked, use the official appeal flow with your passport.
- If you lose your phone, freeze payments and contact support.
FAQ
Can I use WeChat without a Chinese number?
Registration/verification rules vary; a Chinese number makes it easier. Check the current process.
Is WeChat Pay the same as Alipay?
They are separate apps; many businesses accept both. Set up one as primary and one as backup.
Daily life: the field guide
Daily life in China runs on a few apps, a handful of phrases and an understanding of small social rules. You do not need fluent Chinese to be treated well; you need to make an effort.
Language and names
Learn numbers, “how much”, “where”, “thank you” and “I don’t speak Chinese”. Use a translation app for the rest. Chinese names put the surname first; use surname + title until invited otherwise. A bilingual business card and a WeChat QR make introductions easier.
WeChat and groups
WeChat is the default messaging app and a gateway to mini-programs for taxis, food and tickets. Verify your account early, use two-factor authentication and never buy a “verified” account. Groups are useful but can spread scams; do not share passport photos, bank details or verification codes.
Everyday etiquette
Queue in the marked line, stand on the right of escalators, and let passengers off the metro first. At meals, wait for the host to start and do not stick chopsticks upright in rice. Bargaining is for markets, not supermarkets. Tipping is not expected.
Quick checks
- Offline phrasebook and translation app
- WeChat verified with 2FA
- Bilingual card/QR ready
- Hotel address in Chinese
- Numbers and basic phrases practised
Printable checklist
Print this page or save it as a PDF. Tick each item before you go.
- Phone number
- Passport for payment verification
- Download WeChat.
- Register and verify.
- Set a strong password and 2FA.
- Add a payment method.
- Join only trusted groups.
- Test a small payment.
This guide is a practical summary, not an official or legal document. Rules and prices change. Use the official links below, and confirm with the relevant authority or a qualified professional.
Last verified 2026-10-29. China Handbook is independent and not affiliated with any government. Information is provided for general guidance only.