Alipay, owned by Ant Group, is a popular digital payment platform in China that allows users to make secure and convenient mobile payments. Whether you're an expat living in China or planning to visit, setting up Alipay is essential for seamless shopping, dining experiences, and even transportation services. 

In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of setting up Alipay, step-by-step.  

As always, for Maxxelli Clients, we will work with you to set this up following the bank account establishment.

1. Open your smartphone's app store (App Store for iOS or Google Play Store for Android).

2. Search for "Alipay" in the search bar.

3. Tap on the Alipay app from the search results.

4. Click "Download" or "Install" to begin the installation process.

1. Open the Alipay app on your smartphone.

2. Select your preferred language (English is available) to navigate more comfortably.

3. Tap on "Sign Up" or "Register" to create a new account.

4. Choose your region or country and input your mobile phone number.

5. Verify your phone number by entering the verification code sent to your device.

6. Create a secure password for your Alipay account.

7. Fill in your personal information, including full name, email address, and any other required details.

8. Set up a security verification method (e.g., facial recognition, fingerprint, or PIN) to protect your account.

1. Open the Alipay app and go to the "Me" section (usually located at the bottom right corner).

2. Select the "Bank Cards" option within the personal profile settings.

3. Tap on "+ Add Card" and select your bank's name from the list.

4. Enter your bank card number, its expiration date, and the CVV code (3-digit code typically found on the back of your card).

5. Click "Next" and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the card verification process.

6. Once verified, your bank card will be successfully linked to your Alipay account.

A common challenge is your name.  It needs to be written exactly as it is at the bank, which sometimes creates confusion depending how the bank typed your name into their system.  

- LAST NAME first name middle names
- LASTNAMEFIRSTNAMEMIDDLENAMES
- last name first name middle names
- first name middle names LAST NAME

This is not an issue for Chinese Characters, but does create confusion with the alphabet. 

1. From the "Me" section, tap on "Balance" or "Finance" to find the equivalent of a digital wallet in Alipay.

2. To add money to your Alipay account, click on "Top Up" or "Add Funds."

3. Choose your preferred method of adding money (e.g., bank transfer). Follow the instructions given, and the funds will be deposited into your Alipay Balance.

4. Explore other Alipay features such as utility bill payments, mobile phone top-ups, or managing investments.

- Use Alipay for mobile payments by scanning QR codes at participating merchants' or service providers' locations.

- Discover and take advantage of promotions, discounts, and cashback offers available within the Alipay app.

- Explore additional features, such as transfer money to other Alipay users locally or internationally (e.g., through the "Transfer to Friends" feature).

- Customize your Alipay app settings based on your preferences (e.g., receipt notifications, privacy settings).

Setting up Alipay is a crucial step for anyone living or visiting China.  With Alipay, you can seamlessly make mobile payments, access a wide range of services, and unlock exclusive deals. Get started and embrace the future of digital transactions with Alipay today!