WeChat & Alipay Real-Name Verification for Foreigners ： Fix Restrictions & Unlock Payments

Step-by-step guide for foreigners to verify WeChat & Alipay with a passport, unlock transfers/red packets, and fix common restrictions. Includes required documents, bank card tips (China debit card needed), and customer service contacts.

Tags:

• China Mobile Payments
• WeChat Pay
• Alipay
• Real-Name Verification
• Foreigners in China

Foreigners using WeChat and Alipay in China must complete real-name verification to unlock all functions. Below are the full verification procedures and solutions for function restrictions.

Pursuant to the Measures for the Administration of Online Payment Services by Non-Bank Payment Institutions of China, all online payment users must complete real-name verification. Unverified accounts will be restricted from core functions including transfer, withdrawal, and red packets, with a daily consumption limit of up to RMB 1,000.

Foreign users must complete verification for both apps using a valid passport. Unverified accounts will gradually have functions restricted and cannot meet daily payment needs.

II. WeChat Real-Name Verification

1. Documents required

- Valid passport (clear photo of the information page, full corners, no reflection, no editing)

- China domestic debit card or Visa/MasterCard international credit card under your own name

- Mobile phone number capable of receiving SMS verification code (Chinese or overseas number)

2. Official path

- Recommended: Me → Services → Wallet → Payment Management (··· in top right corner) → Real-Name Verification

- Alternative: Me → Settings → Account & Security → Real-Name Verification

3. Steps

- Select "Passport" as ID type

- Enter name and passport number exactly as on your passport; upload passport page

- Complete facial verification (even lighting, blink/nod as prompted; some require lip-reading verification)

- Bind bank card and enter SMS verification code

- Set a 6-digit payment password to finish verification

WeChat official notice:

- Binding only an international credit card allows payments only — no transfers, withdrawals or red packets.

- Unlock all functions by binding a China domestic debit card (ICBC and CMB have the highest approval rates).

- Accounts in high-risk regions may need additional proof of residence  

1. Documents required

- Valid passport (photos of information page + entry stamp page)

- China domestic debit card under your own name (high-level verification cannot be completed with only an international credit card)

- Regular mobile number (Chinese number recommended; add country code for overseas numbers)

2. Official path (Alipay guidelines)

Log in to Alipay → Me → Settings → Account & Security → Real-Name Verification → Verify Now.

Select "Non-Mainland of China", fill in name, passport number, document expiration date, date of birth, and submit.

3. Steps

- Choose "Bank Card Verification" or "Facial Verification"

- Bind a China domestic debit card (name on passport must match name on bank card)

- Alipay sends a small amount (<1 yuan) to your card; enter the amount after 1–2 days to verify

- All functions unlocked after manual review

Alipay official notice:

- If passport number is shorter than 8 digits, add leading zeros.

- Names longer than 20 characters only support verification with CMB and CCB cards.

- Unverified accounts allow small balance payments only — no withdrawals or transfers.

IV. Restrictions After Verification: 4 Common Causes & Solutions

1. Cause: Inconsistent ID information (mismatched names, expired passport, blurry photos)

Solution: Check and correct verification info, re‑upload clear documents. Renew expired passport and re-submit for review.

2. Cause: Improper bank card binding (only international card, or card not in your name)

Solution: WeChat – add a China domestic debit card. Alipay – switch to your own domestic card. Unbind non‑personal cards and re-verify.

3. Cause: Abnormal account activity (frequent cross-border logins, large/unknown transfers)

Solution: Go to "Security Center" in WeChat/Alipay, submit passport photo and facial verification, explain purpose, and contact customer service for manual review (1–3 working days). Avoid frequent device switches and large transfers.

4. Cause: Abnormal network (overseas login, use of illegal VPN)

Solution: Disable illegal VPN, use mainland network or legal international roaming. Overseas users may activate Chinese carrier roaming. Then contact customer service to lift restrictions.

V. Key Tips

1. Update real-name verification information in WeChat and Alipay **1 month before your passport expires**.

2. For restriction issues, contact official support:

 - WeChat: 95017

 - Alipay: 95188

State your foreign identity and provide passport materials for manual assistance.

South African Teacher Detained in China After Fatal Accident, Faces 3-4 Years

A South African expat teacher is detained in China following a fatal accident, potentially facing 3-4 years imprisonment. The victim's family is seeking compensation, which can influence sentencing. Case highlights legal risks for foreigners.

Tags:

• China Legal Cases
• Expat Legal Issues
• South African Expats
• Accidental Death Compensation
• Foreign Detention China

A South African teacher living and working in China has been detained after being linked to a fatal accident, with reports indicating he could face several years behind bars if found guilty.

Francois Van Zyl de Kock is currently being held while Chinese authorities continue their investigation into the incident, which resulted in the death of a local resident. 

Early indications suggest that the potential sentence could range from three to four years' imprisonment, depending on the outcome of the case and the court's findings.

Alongside the criminal proceedings, the victim's family is also seeking financial compensation — a process that commonly forms part of cases involving accidental death in China.

Detained as investigation continues

Details surrounding the accident have not been fully disclosed, but officials are understood to be examining the circumstances to determine the level of responsibility. 

Under Chinese law, foreign nationals are subject to the same legal procedures as citizens, and detention during serious investigations is not unusual.

Sources familiar with the matter say the South African teacher has been cooperating with authorities while awaiting further legal steps.

Family faces anxious wait

Back home, his family is said to be deeply concerned and is working to secure legal assistance in China. 

The distance, language barriers and differences in legal systems have made the situation particularly difficult to manage.

The case has also drawn attention among South Africans working abroad, many of whom rely on host country legal processes that differ significantly from those at home.

Compensation could influence outcome

Legal experts note that in China, cases involving accidental death often include negotiations with the victim's family over compensation. 

While this does not replace criminal liability, reaching a settlement can sometimes be taken into account during sentencing.

The final judgment will depend on the court's assessment of the evidence, the degree of negligence involved and whether any agreement is reached between the parties.

Awaiting next court steps

For now, Van Zyl de Kock remains in custody as the legal process moves forward. No official trial date has been publicly confirmed.

The South African authorities have not released a detailed statement but are typically informed when citizens are detained abroad and may provide consular support where possible.

The case serves as a reminder of the serious legal and personal consequences that can follow traffic- and negligence-related incidents overseas, where unfamiliar laws and procedures can quickly turn an ordinary day into a life-changing event.

Source:https://www.citizen.co.za/news/sa-teacher-detained-in-china-following-fatal-accident/

Shanghai American School Early Childhood Open Day ： Pre-K & Kindergarten Tour

Tour SAS's Reggio Emilia-inspired Pre-K & Kindergarten on March 14. For parents of children aged 3-5 next year. Meet teachers, explore classrooms, learn about admissions. Space is limited.

Tags:

• Shanghai
• International School
• Early Childhood Education
• Reggio Emilia
• Open Day
• Pre-Kindergarten

Are you wondering how to inspire your child's natural curiosity?

Do you want an early learning experience that builds joy, independence, and confidence?

Choosing the right place for your child to begin their educational journey is a big decision with many options.

At Shanghai American School, the Early Childhood program includes both Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten, creating a thoughtful and supportive pathway for young learners as they grow and develop.

The Pre-K program is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, a philosophy rooted in inquiry, exploration, and collaboration.

This foundation helps children build the skills, confidence, and love of learning they need for a successful transition into Kindergarten.

Let's explore what makes Early Childhood education at SAS special.

What is the Reggio Emilia Approach?

Reggio Emilia originated in northern Italy and is considered one of the most influential early childhood education philosophies in the world.

It recognizes that children are naturally curious, capable, and eager to understand the world around them.

Reggio Emilia-inspired classrooms emphasize:

• Respect for each child's individuality and strengths

• Inquiry-based learning driven by student questions and interests

• Connection, collaboration, and communication

Teachers do not simply deliver information. Instead, they design learning environments that inspire investigation, guide discovery, and help children build deeper understanding through hands-on experiences and meaningful conversations.

At SAS, Pre-K students' curiosity leads the learning journey, and their confidence grows along the way.

From Pre-K to Kindergarten

The skills children develop in SAS's Reggio-inspired Pre-K program provide an essential foundation for Kindergarten learning.

Through purposeful play, project-based learning, and guided exploration, students build early language, social, and problem-solving skills while learning how to express their ideas and work with others.

In Kindergarten, students move into a more structured learning environment where they continue to grow in literacy, numeracy, and independent learning.

Because they have already developed confidence, curiosity, and a sense of responsibility in Pre-K, they are well prepared to take this next step.

This intentional progression supports both academic readiness and social-emotional development, helping children feel secure, capable, and excited about learning.

What Makes Early Childhood Education at SAS Different?

Empowerment Through Exploration

Children are encouraged to ask questions, make observations, and investigate topics that interest them, building habits of curiosity and lifelong learning.

Multi-Age Learning in Pre-K

Pre-K classrooms bring together children from both PK3 and PK4 grades, creating a multi-age environment where students at different developmental stages learn from one another. This research-backed approach strengthens social skills, nurtures empathy, and builds a strong sense of community.

Engaging Learning Spaces

Classrooms are designed as safe, stimulating environments that encourage independent exploration, creative thinking, and growing responsibility.

Celebrating Diversity

At SAS, each child's unique strengths, interests, and cultural background are honored, ensuring every student feels seen, valued, and supported.

Community-Centered Approach

Learning extends beyond the classroom. Teachers, students, and families work together as partners in the educational journey, building strong connections between home and school.

Discover Early Childhood at Shanghai American School

Curious about SAS Early Childhood? Scan the QR code to reserve your spot at the Pre-K and Kindergarten Open Day on March 14. Tour classrooms, meet SAS teachers, and experience the learning environment in action.

What to Expect During Your Visit

During your visit, you and your child will:

• Explore and play in Pre-K and Kindergarten classrooms and playgrounds

• Meet SAS Early Childhood teachers, leadership team, and the SAS Eagle mascot

• Learn how SAS supports language development, independence, and student wellbeing

• Ask questions about curriculum, admissions, and life at SAS

The event is designed for both parents and children who will be 3 to 5 years old next school year, and young learners are encouraged to explore alongside you.

Space is limited to ensure an engaging and interactive experience, so early registration is recommended.

What SAS Parents Say About the Early Childhood Program

"SAS encourages parents to get deeply involved in our children's learning experiences and to engage with the staff. This way we are able to learn all the details of our daughter's school life, from her lunch menu to her reading buddy. We discuss these topics at the dinner table, which helps keep our family closely connected." 

– Yolanda Qian

"SAS's Pre-K program teaches young children to explore, perceive and observe nature, and stimulate children's own desire for knowledge. SAS develops the habit of early reading, as well as children's sports, music, and artistic abilities. SAS also helps children to develop good study and lifestyle habits." 

– Sabrina Ye

"The Pre-K teachers teach the kids the correct way to deal with all kinds of situations they could encounter in daily social interactions. When my youngest first started school, he didn't know how to deal with conflicts with classmates. His homeroom teacher taught him how to distinguish between big and small problems, and how to solve them." 

– Jacqueline Ding

Addresses

Shanghai American School Pudong

1600 Lingbai Lu, by Renmintang Lu, Pudong District 凌白路1600号, 近人民塘路

Shanghai American School Puxi

258 Jinfeng Lu, by Beiqing Gonglu, Minhang District 金丰路258号, 近北青公路

---

▼For more news, click 'Read more' (阅读原文) below.

Shanghai Total Lunar Eclipse March 3 ： Viewing Times, Red Moon, Lantern Festival

See the total lunar eclipse in Shanghai on March 3 (Lantern Festival). Viewing is 19:04-20:03. A rare 'red moon' event that won't align with the festival again until 2072. Ideal evening timing for families.

Tags:

• Shanghai
• Lunar Eclipse
• Astronomy Events
• Lantern Festival
• Family-Friendly

Shanghai Can Watch the Full March 3 Lunar Eclipse During Lantern Festival—Miss It and You'll Wait Another 46 Years

Watching the moon on the night of the Lantern Festival is a tradition that has lasted for generations. But this year, the familiar full moon will briefly "disappear" from view—because the only total lunar eclipse of the year is set to arrive right on the festival, turning the moon into a striking coppery-red "red moon" above the lights of the city.

Check our latest video on China Visa and foreign-related knowledge!

Follow our channel for updates 👇

According to forecast, the eclipse will begin on the evening of March 3. As the event unfolds, the moon's unusual color is expected to pair visually with red lanterns in the streets and white tangyuan in bowls at home, creating a rare moment where a celestial event and a folk celebration overlap.

A Lantern Festival coincidence that won't come again for decades

Shi Wei, an associate research curator at the Shanghai Astronomy Museum, described the alignment as a natural coincidence between astronomical calendars and the motion of celestial bodies—one that is difficult to encounter. He noted that the last time the Lantern Festival coincided with a total lunar eclipse was March 4, 2007, and the next such match will not happen until March 4, 2072.

Shi explained that a total lunar eclipse occurs only when the Sun, Earth, and Moon line up precisely, allowing Earth to block the sunlight that would otherwise shine directly on the Moon. In this event, the Moon passes into Earth's shadow, and the eclipse progresses through seven stages: penumbral eclipse begins, partial eclipse begins, total eclipse begins, greatest eclipse, total eclipse ends, partial eclipse ends, and penumbral eclipse ends.

For many observers, the highlight is the totality phase, when the Moon is completely inside Earth's umbra. This phase is forecast to run from 19:04 to 20:03, lasting about 58 minutes.

"Time-friendly" viewing—and why Shanghai stands out

One of the biggest advantages around this eclipse is that the key viewing window falls in what many consider an ideal evening period, rather than deep into the night. Shi compared it with the 2007 Lantern Festival eclipse, which happened after midnight, making viewing conditions far less convenient.

Online reactions echoed that sentiment. Some commenters said it finally feels like a lunar eclipse people can enjoy without staying up late, while others recalled waiting late into the night in past years and still not seeing the "red moon" they hoped for.

This year, much of China is expected to witness a phenomenon known as "moonrise with eclipse"—meaning the Moon will already be partially eclipsed when it rises. The reason is that partial eclipse begins at 17:49, and by the time the Moon appears above the eastern horizon, it will already be "missing a bite," with Earth's shadow covering part of it.

Shi noted that most areas in China will not be able to see the entire event, and the farther west you are, the less of the eclipse you can watch. Shi added that—with the exception of Fuyuan County in Heilongjiang's far northeast—most places in the country won't catch the full sequence. Shanghai, by contrast, has an advantage because the Moon rises earlier there, meaning the city can basically watch the eclipse from start to finish.

With a rare timing on the Lantern Festival, a long gap until the next repeat in 2072, and a viewing window that fits the evening, the message being shared is simple: look up! Don't watch it alone: send the reminder to your family and friends, and look up together.

Source: 新闻坊

Get daily news, tips, and events in Shanghai

Connect with expat communities and industry experts

For the latest jobs&policy updates, scan the code below to follow AnyJob! 

If you have any questions about China visa applications (work visa, company registration and more), please contact our visa consultant Freya.

Click "Wow" if you like this article