Can foreigners ( non chinese) use Alipay HK?

Question

Hi, can a foreign tourist from Europe register and use Alipay HK for payments in Hong Kong?

In a similar way that is now possible with the chinese Alipay version?

I tried to register on Alipay HK but it requires a Hong Kong number. I tried logging in via TaoBao but then it still asks for a HK number. Is there a way around this?

Answer

Alipay HK is a separate platform from the mainland Chinese Alipay and is specifically designed for residents and users in Hong Kong. Unlike the mainland version, which allows foreign users to register with international bank cards in some cases, Alipay HK has stricter requirements, including a Hong Kong mobile number and a local bank account or card for full functionality.

Key points regarding foreign tourists using Alipay HK:

Registration for Alipay HK requires a Hong Kong phone number. This is used for identity verification via SMS and cannot be bypassed.
Alipay HK also requires linking a Hong Kong-issued debit or credit card for payments. International cards from outside Hong Kong generally cannot be used.
Even if you log in using Taobao credentials, Alipay HK will still prompt for a local HK number and card to activate payment features.

Possible alternatives for foreign tourists:

Mainland Alipay (Chinese version): Some Alipay features in Hong Kong accept international cards, but usage may be limited, and most merchants prefer Alipay HK.
WeChat Pay HK: Another popular mobile payment option in Hong Kong, though it also generally requires a Hong Kong phone number and local bank account.
Cash or credit card: Hong Kong widely accepts Visa, Mastercard, and UnionPay, so carrying a credit card is a convenient alternative for tourists.

In summary, as a European tourist, you cannot fully register and use Alipay HK for payments without a Hong Kong phone number and local bank card. There is currently no official way around these requirements. Your best options are to use international credit cards, cash, or the mainland Alipay app if supported by specific merchants in Hong Kong.