The Complete Guide to Registering for Alipay: Easy, Convenient, and Usable in China and Worldwide
Alipay is one of the major financial transaction platforms in China and one of the country’s most popular digital wallets. It is an essential app and digital wallet if you plan to travel to China. Learning to use Alipay for payment purposes will ease transactions between China’s merchants and customers. Thus, it is essential for businesses and merchants in Thailand to set up systems that support Alipay payments, as Chinese tourists are the top visitors to Thailand. According to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, in the first quarter of 2024, Chinese tourists ranked number one with 1.7 million visitors, followed by Malaysia, Russia, South Korea, and India. Don’t miss out on this opportunity and use Alipay now! Start accepting payments through it, this article provides simple steps on how to get started.
A Detailed Guide to Registering for Alipay
- How to Activate Alipay
1. Download the Alipay application to your mobile phone.
2. Open the Alipay app and accept the personal terms of use.
3. Change the country code to Thailand (+66), enter your phone number and verify your identity.
4. Click 'Next', then agree to the terms of service and privacy policy.
5. Wait for the OTP (one-time password) via SMS to verify your identity, then enter it correctly.
6. The system will ask if you wish to use the international version of Alipay. Click 'Yes' to complete the registration process. 
- How to Verify Your Identity on Alipay:
1. Once you've completed the registration, re-enter the app and click the Me button located in the bottom-right corner where you will be directed to your account page.
2. Choose Real-Name Verification, then click Verify Now.
3. Enter the required information matching your passport details in the form, and click Submit.
4. Next, you’ll be prompted to scan your physical passport for further verification. Go to Passport Chip & Face Verification, then click Start Verification to scan your passport, and then your face. After completing all the steps, review the information and click Verify.
- Setting Up Your Alipay Payment PIN
The next step in the registration process is to set a security PIN for added security during payments. This PIN will be required every time you make a payment.
1. Click on 'Me', then go to 'Payment Settings.' When the payment window appears, click 'Set'.
2. Create a six-digit PIN, click “OK” to confirm, before re-entering the PIN for confirmation. Your PIN setup is now complete.
Can Thai People Pay with Alipay? What are the Advantages?
In the past, Alipay has had some limitations, such as requiring a China phone number or credit cards for linking and activation. Fortunately, Alipay has improved to be more user-friendly, allowing Thai users to access a wider range of functions and enjoy greater convenience.
· Thai credit cards can now be linked to Alipay for both domestic and international payments, depending on the issuing bank.
· It can also be connected to other e-wallet apps in Thailand, such as True Money, SCB Easy and many others, allowing for seamless changes between different services.
· Makes online shopping from China more convenient for Thai users.
· Makes spending in China easier for Thai users, reducing the need to carry cash or exchange currencies.
What are the benefits to businesses that accept Alipay
Accepting Alipay payments for businesses and merchants in Thailand is a worthwhile investment. If your primary customer base consists of foreign tourists—especially Chinese tourists—registering for Alipay payment services can be highly beneficial for your business:
· Thai businesses that accept Alipay have the opportunity to reach more Chinese customers, potentially boosting sales and increasing profits. Familiarity with Alipay also potentially encourages Chinese tourists to spend more when they see that a shop supports payments through the app.
· Businesses can track all transactions securely, reducing the risk of counterfeit banknotes.
· Eliminates the hassle of currency exchange. As Alipay payments are fast and straightforward, tourists can make payments via their smartphones instantly, resulting in quicker purchasing decisions.
· Accepting Alipay payments sets your business apart, enhancing credibility and professionalism, which could help in attracting more customers.
What are the benefits to businesses that accept Alipay?
If you want to stay ahead of the competition and improve your sales, adapting to consumer payment behaviors is crucial. Businesses in tourist areas, in particular, can benefit from accepting payments from a larger group of foreign customers, driving higher profits. Alipay payment services provided by GHL allow your business to process payments quickly and securely, as well as offer multiple other payment channels to ensure seamless and secure financial transactions. Thus, meeting the convenience needs of customers and setting a higher standard for payments in your business. To learn more about how Alipay can help boost your business’s sales, contact us today.
For more information or to get started with Alipay through GHL, please contact us at 0-2440-0111 or click here.