


How does Alipay verification work for foreigners with a passport?
Jul 08, 2025 am 02:05 AMAlipay allows foreigners to verify accounts with a passport but with limitations. To proceed, users need a valid passport, a local phone number, and personal details in Chinese. The steps include uploading a passport photo and a selfie holding the passport. However, account functionality may be restricted, such as lower payment limits and limited access to certain services like ride-hailing apps. Common issues during verification include blurry photos, mismatched names, and language settings, which can be avoided with clear images and accurate input. If verification is delayed, rechecking the selfie and waiting a few hours often helps. Users can later upgrade their verification using a Chinese ID for full access.
Alipay verification for foreigners using a passport is straightforward but has a few key steps and limitations. Here’s how it works, what you need to know, and some tips to avoid common issues.

Passport Verification Is Supported, But With Limits
Alipay does allow foreigners to verify their accounts using a passport, especially in recent years as China encourages digital payments for international visitors. However, there are a couple of important things to note:

- Limited Functionality: If you register with a passport, your account may be restricted compared to those verified with a Chinese ID. For example, payment limits might be lower, and certain features like credit services or investment tools could be unavailable.
- Not All Features Are Available: Some services, such as ride-hailing apps or certain online shopping functions, might not fully support passport-verified accounts.
If you're just visiting short-term, this setup should work fine. But if you plan to stay long-term or want full access, consider getting a Chinese ID later on.
What You Need for Passport Verification
To go through the process, make sure you have the following ready:

- A valid passport
- A local phone number (China-based SIM card helps)
- Access to basic personal information like birthdate and name in Chinese (if available)
The actual steps are simple:
- Open Alipay and go to your profile.
- Choose "Real-name Verification."
- Select "Overseas Users" or "Passport" option.
- Upload a photo of your passport's main page.
- Take a selfie holding your passport for identity confirmation.
You’ll usually get a result within minutes, though sometimes it can take up to 24 hours.
Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
A few hiccups often come up during the process:
- Blurry photos: Make sure the passport image is clear and all text is readable. Natural lighting and a flat surface help.
- Mismatched names: Use the exact spelling from your passport. Sometimes middle names cause confusion—just follow the format in your passport.
- Language settings: Set your app language to English or Chinese, depending on which you’re more comfortable with. The process is similar either way.
- Slow approval: If it takes longer than expected, double-check that your selfie clearly shows your face and passport details.
If you hit a wall, try again after a few hours. Sometimes the system updates automatically.
Keep in Mind: You Can Upgrade Later
If you eventually get a Chinese ID (for example, through a work or student visa), you can upgrade your real-name verification. This usually unlocks higher transaction limits and more features.
Just go back into your Alipay settings, request a change in real-name info, and upload your new ID. It might require customer service assistance, but it’s doable.
That’s basically how Alipay passport verification works for foreigners. It’s not perfect, but it gets the job done for most travelers and expats who aren’t yet eligible for a Chinese ID.
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