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Diagnosis result

GDPR is blocking face verification

What's happening

In Europe, the US, and some other regions, GDPR and similar privacy laws block the biometric face-scanning step. Instead of the face-scan option, Alipay shows only 'Bind a Chinese bank card' — which you can't do as a tourist. This is a known limitation for EU/US users.

Steps to fix it

  1. 1Option 1 — Wait until you land: Complete passport verification after you arrive in China. The face-scan option becomes available on Chinese networks. This is the simplest approach.
  2. 2Option 2 — Switch to mobile data: Turn off Wi-Fi and use your cellular data connection instead. Some carriers' data routing is not GDPR-blocked and the face scan may appear.
  3. 3Option 3 — Contact Alipay support: Go to the in-app Help Center, tap 'Contact Us', and explain you're in Europe and face scan isn't available. Manual document review is available for some accounts.
  4. 4Important: Complete verification before departure if at all possible. An unverified account has severely restricted spending limits (often under ¥1,000 total).

Backup options

  • •WeChat Pay has the same GDPR limitation — same workarounds apply.
  • •If you land unverified, prioritize verification from your hotel on Chinese Wi-Fi before making any large payments.

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