App Store: If you are using an iOS device, go to the App Store. For Android users, visit the Google Play Store. Search for “WeChat” in the search bar. Make sure to download the official WeChat app. In some regions, you might find the international version of WeChat, which has similar functions but may be more user - friendly for non - Chinese speakers initially.

Installation: Once you click the “Download” or “Install” button, wait for the app to be downloaded and installed on your device. The process is similar to installing any other app on your smartphone.

Phone Number or Email: You can register for a WeChat account using your international phone number or an email address. If you choose to use your phone number, enter the country code followed by your phone number. For example, if you are from the United States, the country code is +1. Then, follow the prompts to receive a verification code via SMS. If using an email, enter a valid email address and create a password.

Verification: After entering the required information, WeChat will send a verification code. Enter this code in the app to complete the registration process. In some cases, you may also need to set up a profile, including adding a profile picture, choosing a username, and writing a short introduction about yourself.

Activating WeChat Pay: Open the WeChat app. Tap on “Me” at the bottom right corner, then select “Services” and then “Wallet”. If “Wallet” is not visible, go to “Me” > “Settings” > “General” > “Features” and enable it.

Identity Verification: To use WeChat Pay fully, you need to verify your identity. You can do this by submitting a photo of your passport and filling in some personal details. Make sure the photo of your passport is clear and all the information is legible.

Adding a Foreign Card: WeChat Pay now supports several international cards such as Visa, Mastercard, JCB, Diners Club, and Discover. After setting up your wallet, tap “Bank Cards” > “Add a Card”. Enter your card details, including the card number, expiration date, and CVV code. You may also need to enter your billing address. Complete the SMS verification (this works with foreign numbers as well), and set a 6 - digit payment password.

Changing the Language Settings: In the WeChat app, go to “Settings”. Under “General”, select “Language”. Here, you can choose from a variety of languages, including English, Spanish, French, and many others. Set your preferred language, and the app interface will be displayed in that language.

Message Translation: If you receive messages in Chinese and don't understand them, WeChat has a translation feature. For version 8.0.56 or above, go to “Settings” > “General” > “Translation”. Toggle on the feature and set your desired language. WeChat will then automatically translate incoming messages. If you prefer manual translation, open the chat window, long - press the message in the foreign language, and select “Translate” from the options that appear.

Unable to Link Card: Sometimes, when trying to link a foreign card to WeChat Pay, you may encounter errors. This could be due to incorrect card information entry or issues with the card issuer. Double - check that you have entered the card number, expiration date, and CVV code correctly. If the problem persists, contact your card issuer to ensure that they support international transactions with WeChat Pay. In some cases, your card may not be supported yet, and you may need to consider alternative payment methods.

Payment Restrictions: WeChat Pay has certain restrictions for foreign card users. For example, international cards may not support features like sending red envelopes or making person - to - person transfers in all cases. If you are trying to perform a transaction that is not supported, you will see an error message. In such situations, you can only use WeChat Pay for everyday purchases within the Chinese mainland as per the available options.

Transaction Fees: While WeChat Pay itself does not charge foreign users fees for transactions, your card issuer may apply fees. Since 2023, for single transactions under 200 RMB, WeChat Pay waives the transaction fee. For single transactions above 200 RMB, a 3% transaction fee may be applied. If you request a refund for a transaction, the transaction fee will be reimbursed in proportion to the refunded amount. Check with your card issuer for their specific fee structure.

Verification Code Not Received: If you don't receive the verification code during the registration or when linking a card, first, check your spam or junk folder in case the message was misclassified. Also, make sure that your phone number or email is entered correctly. If the problem persists, try registering or linking the card at a different time, as there could be temporary network issues. You can also contact WeChat support for assistance.

Identity Verification Rejected: If your identity verification using your passport is rejected, check that the photo you uploaded is clear, the information on the passport is legible, and all the details you entered match the passport exactly. Resubmit the correct information and photo if necessary.