Planning a trip to China and wondering what Changi Pay is or how it works with Alipay+? Built into the Changi App, Changi Pay lets Singaporeans make seamless, cashless payments in China; no local SIM or bank account needed.

It is accepted by many Alipay+ merchants in China and beyond, including Malaysia and Macau. Changi Pay offers a secure, hassle-free way to pay abroad. Simply top up via PayNow to enjoy zero foreign transaction fees and competitive exchange rates.

Paying overseas with Changi Pay is a breeze. Here's your quick guide to using the Changi App for payments in China:

Setting up your Changi Pay account

1. Download the Changi App from the App Store or Google Play.

2. Tap ‘Wallet’ on the bottom navigation menu.

3. Tap the ‘+’ icon to activate your Liquid account.

4. Complete Singpass verification and set a wallet PIN or biometric login.

5. Top up via PayNow QR or virtual payment address (VPA). You’ll need a Singapore-registered mobile number to complete setup.

Making payments with Changi Pay

Wondering how to pay in China as a foreigner? At checkout, let the merchant know you’ll be paying via Alipay+ ("Zhi Fu Bao" / 支付宝).

• If the merchant scans your QR code: tap ‘Show my QR code’ in the ‘Pay’ section.

• If the merchant presents a QR code: tap ‘Scan QR’ using the in-app camera.

Transactions are displayed in SGD for clarity.

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Spending limits to take note of

• Max top-up per transaction: S$999

• Max wallet balance: S$5,000

• Annual spending cap: S$30,000

Here’s why Changi Pay is the best solution:

• Accepted at over 10 million Alipay+ merchants in China

• No foreign transaction fees, even for large payments

• Entirely English interface with no need for a Chinese SIM or ID

• Quick setup with PayNow and Singpass verification

• Safe and secure: Biometric login options

• Travel rewards: Earn S$25 Changi e-Vouchers for every S$500 overseas spend (Until 30 September 2025)

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Card acceptance is limited

In China, credit cards are not widely accepted, even in major cities. With Changi Pay, you can pay confidently using QR codes at millions of local merchants, just like the locals do.

Cash is no longer king

Cash is often discouraged, with some merchants even refusing it. ATMs charge withdrawal fees, and carrying large amounts isn’t ideal. Changi Pay offers a safer, more seamless alternative for everyday spending in China.

» READ MORE: Your essential guide to buying a SIM Card in China

App setup and language barriers

Setting up WeChat Pay or Alipay as a foreigner can be confusing—most interfaces default to Mandarin and require local bank or mobile credentials. The Changi App skips the hassle with a user-friendly, English-based experience made for Singapore residents.

Hidden fees with other wallets

With Changi Pay, you enjoy zero transaction fees and better value on every purchase. However, exchange rates are only confirmed at the point of payment.

The rate is based on the Alipay+ network rate and will appear live when you scan the Alipay+ merchant’s QR code—so you’ll see the exact exchange rate before completing your transaction.

If you're travelling to China, Changi Pay is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to pay like a local. It offers unbeatable convenience, clear pricing, and zero foreign transaction fees—all while keeping your spending secure and under control.

Plus, with perks like Changi e-Vouchers, you’re rewarded simply for using it abroad.

Ready to travel smarter? Download the Changi App and activate Changi Pay before your next trip.

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