Alipay QR Codes and How to Use Them 2024

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There are 4 different Alipay QR code, pay/receive, transport and merchant's QR code, discover how to use those QR code like locals

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QR code payment solution for transferring money in China

Alipay QR Payment is a ubiquitous method of payment in China. Alipay allows you to make seamless and secure payments in China.

Whether you want to collect money from customers or complete a transaction with a merchant, Alipay QR code payment solution can help you out.

As an Alipay user, I have multiple payment options: I can initiate payments at various merchants, rent scooters, bikes, pay utilities, power banks, and more, and even access government services like public transportation.

The process of getting and paying through Alipay is fairly simple. There are payment QR code, money receiving QR code (money will be saved in my Alipay balance for payment and can make payment in the future by choosing to pay through my Balance, and voila!) and transportation QR code.

These codes helped me make secure purchases all across China.

How to set up Alipay system to make QR Code Payments

Setting up the Alipay payment process is really easy. All you have to do is to install the Alipay app on your mobile phone.

alipay for foreigners

Once installed, create an account by providing the necessary details and linking a preferred payment method.

You can choose between two payment types: a Chinese bank account or an international credit card.

alipay for foreigners
alipay supported card type

For security reasons, you can only link a Chinese bank account to Alipay directly. So if you are travelling to China from other parts of the world then choose the international credit card option.

Once set up, you can make payment directly using your payment QR code by choosing your preferred payment method, note that Balance is an optional function if you already linked you Alipay with your bank card, because only Chinese mainland bank cards can be used to withdraw or recharge your Balance in Alipay.

I Just installed AliPay, how can I make QR payment with it in China?

There are two ways to pay someone using the Alipay payment method. Let the vendor scan you, or you can scan the vendor.

Merchant Scans Your QR Code

Most stores will scan your QR code and the payment will automatically transfer from your account to the vendors’.

This payment option requires you to present your QR code to the vendor.

To make a payment through this option you need to choose the ‘Scan’ option on the Alipay app.

You Scan a Static Barcode

The other way is usually applicable for smaller shops. These shops have a static barcode that can be scanned to make payments.

All you have to do to make the payment is scan the QR code, type in the total transaction amount, and send it to the vendor.

To make a payment through this option you need to choose the ‘Pay’ option on the Alipay mobile application.

Types of Quick Response Code

There are different types of QR codes that you can scan depending on the vendor. These QR codes can be divided into four types:

Merchant QR Code (Static): This is a fixed QR code generated by a seller. Customers scan this code to make payments and input the payment amount. It simplifies transactions for small businesses and individuals.

Consumer QR Code (Dynamic): Dynamic QR codes allow sellers to input the transaction amount for each purchase and scan consumer’s payment code in Alipay using scan machine.

Quick Response Code for Websites: Alipay also provides QR codes for websites. When users scan these codes, they are directed to a specific web page, often used for promotions or information.

QR code for transport: Alipay also provides QR code for bus and metro. You can generate your own transport QR code opening the Transport tab in the app, which will be discussed in details below.

Alipay QR Codes

How to get an Alipay bus and metro QR-code

Here is how you can get an Alipay digital bus QR code!

  1. Open Alipay and click on “Transport”. 📲

  2. On the top, you can select your city. 📍

  3. Click on “View”. 🚌

  4. Select the bus card you need. 🚌

  5. Check the little circle first ✅ and then click “Agree and obtain card”.

  6. Enter your payment password 🔢

  7. Done!!! 🥳Click “Use now” and you will see your QR code.

  8. Now you can use this QR code for bus transportation in China. 🇨🇳

  9. Scan this QR code when you get on the bus.

Once you have your QR ready, you can use it to travel on local busses and metros that accept Alipay QR code payment.

In some cities like Beijing, you might need to scan the QR code twice. Once when you step onto the bus and then again when you disembark from the bus. Generating a QR code can make traveling through the city a breeze.

Bottom line

QR code payment solutions like Alipay and WeChat come in really handy when traveling in China.

However, be prepared to face some communication and technical issues with payments.

These issues are less common in larger cities but you may face more difficulties in smaller cities across the country.

Nonetheless, Alipay QR code payments are a secure and hassle-free way to make payments in China, especially if you prefer to travel with little cash.

Alternatives to Alipay include WeChat Pay, Cash, international credit cards, choose which payment method is right for you. If you haven’t sign up Alipay, check our comprehensive guide on Alipay signup and it’s payment solution specifically for expat in China.

Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance.

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