2026 Alipay Guide - Avoid 3% Fee, How to Set up, foreigner tips & resolve issues

Alipay applies a 3% transaction fee on payments exceeding RMB 200 when users pay with foreign-issued bank cards.

Bear in mind that this 3% fee is charged by Alipay and is separate from any additional foreign transaction fee, overseas service fee, or currency conversion markup that may be charged by your bank or card issuer.

You can bypass the 3% fee by paying using your Alipay balance, which you can fund via a Mainland China bank account or by receiving a transfer from a trusted local contact. Some people suggested asking the hotel personnel to transfer it to you, you give them cash. When paying, check the payment screen and switch the source from Visa or Mastercard to Alipay Balance.