How to use Alipay in Russia

The convenience and speed of transfers make the Alipay payment system more popular every year. But not everyone in Russia and other countries knows about its advantages and features of use. In this article we will tell you in detail how to go through the process of Alipay registration despite possible restrictions, and how to become an active user.

What is Alipay and why does one need it?

It is a leading Chinese payment system developed by Alibaba Group. It allows you to make payments and transfer funds over the Internet. It is demanded both in China and abroad.

Advantages for foreign users:

• Convenience and simplicity. The system allows you to pay for purchases in Chinese online stores (Taobao, AliExpress and others) in a few clicks. At the same time, there is no need to travel to another country, as you can download the app from any country.
• Multifunctionality. In China you will have access not only to online shopping, but also to online payment of fines, taxi, tickets, as well as contactless offline payment by QR codes.
• Payment security. Alipay uses advanced technology to ensure payment security and personal data protection.
• Access to the Chinese market. This is an indispensable tool for those who do business with Asian companies.

The main functions include:

• Online payment for goods and services;
• Tracking the history of transactions, managing the account and setting security parameters;
• Top up with various methods, including bank cards and other payment systems;
• Other functions: renting power banks and vehicles, selecting air and rail tickets, buying health insurance, ordering food, booking a table in a restaurant, communication with friends, receiving bonuses.

How to create an Alipay account: step-by-step instructions

Creating an account on the platform is relatively simple, but it's important to note that some features may be limited for non-Chinese users. However, basic features, such as online payment, are available to most users.

To register on Alipay, you'll need: a bank card, an ID, and a contact number. If you don't want to use your personal phone number, you can buy a virtual one on the SMS-Activate platform.

How to create an account with a virtual number?

1. Register or authorize on the SMS-Activate website, top up your balance and enter Alipay in the search line.
2. Choose the necessary quantity of numbers, time of use, country, operator, verification method. The purchased numbers and then the codes will appear on the Activation page.
3. Find the Alipay app in the App Store (for iOS) or Google Play Store (for Android) and download it.
4. Open the file and click the “Sign Up” button.
5. Enter the number you purchased and click the “Send Code” button.
6. Enter the code received in the sms in the corresponding field. Done!

Adding your bank card to Alipay

After successful registration you need to add your bank card. Alipay supports various payment systems, including Visa, Mastercard, Diners Club International, JCB, Discover, UnionPay, but, unfortunately, does not accept Russian cards.

If you have a Chinese card, follow the instructions to add it:

1. Open the Alipay app and log in to your account.
2. Tap on the icon with the little man in the bottom right corner of the screen.
3. Select the “Bank Cards” section and come up with a payment password.
4. Enter card data: card number, expiration date, verification CVV-code.
5. Confirm adding a card.

If you don't have a Chinese card, you can top up your account with the help of friends, through intermediary sites or online cards. You can also download the TourPass Alipay mini-app for tourists, which allows you to bind a foreign card. But to do this you will need an issued visa.

How to use Alipay in Russia and other countries

You can use Alipay for various purposes.

• To pay for purchases online, you must first confirm your identity, provide your passport information and take selfies. Later, when making an order, you will only have to choose Alipay as a payment method.
• To use it in offline stores, there should be an Alipay icon on the cash register or storefront. If there is one, open the app and scan the QR code.
• To transfer money to another person, choose “Transfer”, enter the recipient's phone number or Alipay ID and amount, and confirm the transfer.

Frequent problems and their solutions

When using the application, some problems may occur. Let's consider the most common of them, as well as ways of their solution.

1. Registration errors:
   • Invalid phone number: make sure there are no spelling mistakes.
   • SMS-code is not received by a virtual number: check the Internet connection and try again with another number (the money for the previous one will be returned to your balance).
   • Documents for identity verification are not accepted. Try to upload the document after some time, technical failures are possible.
2. Problems with adding a card:
   • Card can't be added: make sure that Alipay accepts your payment system and that you are using exactly the Chinese card. Otherwise, contact the tech support.
   • Incorrect data: check that you enter the number, expiration date and CVV code correctly.
3. Security issues:
   • Complete full verification.
   • Do not deposit a large amount of money at once to avoid suspicion and getting banned.
   • Create a complex password consisting of letters, numbers and special characters.
   • Change your password regularly to protect your account from hacking.

Answers to Frequent Questions

May I register an Alipay account without a Chinese phone number?

Yes, but the functionality will be severely limited. But even with a Chinese virtual contact, you need a local card to get full access. As a solution, you can register at Alipay's TourPass.

What banks are supported for working with Alipay in Russia?

Cards of Visa, Mastercard, Diners Club International, JCB, Discover, UnionPay, but in case of the last one only Chinese banks are supported.

How to deposit funds to my Alipay account?

With a Chinese card or cryptocurrency, through intermediaries (websites and people) or virtual cards.

What commissions are charged for transfers?

For amounts up to 500,000 rubles (about $5000), the commission can be 4% with a minimum top up amount of 100 yuan.

How safe is it to use Alipay?

The platform uses modern data encryption technologies. However, it is still important to take precautions and regularly check your account for suspicious activity.

Thus, following our recommendations, you will be able to successfully buy a virtual number, create an Alipay account and start enjoying all its benefits in Russia or any other country right now.