How to Scan QR code in WeChat to Log In & Pay for Foreigners

Learn how to scan WeChat QR codes for logging in, adding friends, joining groups, paying with WeChat Pay, and account registration for international users.

What is WeChat QR code? Types & Functions

WeChat uses different QR code formats for specific tasks. Below is a breakdown of the most common types and their uses:

Where to Find the WeChat QR Code Scanner

The QR code scanner is easily accessible on the WeChat home screen:

1. Open the WeChat app (ensure you use the official version from App Store/Google Play).
2. Tap the + icon in the top-right corner of the chat screen.
3. Select Scan from the dropdown menu—this opens the camera scanner directly.
4. For quick access, you can also long-press the WeChat icon on your home screen (iOS/Android) to launch the scanner instantly.

How to Scan a QR Code in WeChat: Step-by-Step

Once the scanner is open, the process is the same for all code types:

1. Align the code: Hold your phone steady and center the QR code within the square frame on your screen.
2. Wait for the beep/vibration: WeChat will automatically recognize it.
3. Follow the prompt:
4. • For People: Tap "Add to Contacts" and send a greeting.
   • For Groups: Scan group QR code → tap Join Group (full groups need admin invites).
   • For Payment: Enter the amount, check the recipient's name, and enter your 6-digit payment password.
   • For Login: Tap "Confirm Login" on your phone to authorize the PC/web session.

Scanning from a Screenshot?
If someone sent you a QR code via chat or you have a screenshot:

• Open the scanner → Tap "Album" (bottom-right corner) → Select the image. WeChat will scan the code from the photo .

How to Add Friends Using QR Codes

This is the most common social use of QR codes in China. There are two ways to do this:

Credit: Wechat Official

A. Scan Someone Else's QR Code

1. Open the scanner (see Section 2).
2. Point the camera at their code.
3. Tap "Add to Contacts" and optionally edit the greeting message.
4. Wait for them to accept your request.

Credit: Wechat Official

B. Show Your Own QR Code for Others to Scan

1. Go to the "Me" tab (bottom-right).
2. Tap your Profile Photo / Name at the top.
3. Tap "My QR Code" .
4. Let your friend scan it, or tap the "..." menu to save it to your album and share it online.

How to Pay Using WeChat QR Code (WeChat Pay)

Payments are the most essential daily function for foreigners in China.

How to Activate and Use WeChat Pay

To Pay a Shop (You Scan Them)

1. Open the scanner.
2. Scan the merchant's QR code (usually printed and taped to the counter).
3. Enter the amount.
4. Type your 6-digit WeChat Pay password.
5. Tap "Pay."

To Receive Money (They Scan You)

1. Go to "Me" → "Wallet" (or "Services").
2. Tap "Money" or "Receive Money".
3. Show your personal QR code to the payer.
4. They scan it and enter the amount to send to you.

Note for Foreigners: To use WeChat Pay, you usually need to link a Chinese bank card or complete real-name verification with your passport. Some international credit cards are now supported, but functionality may be limited depending on your region .

How to Scan QR Code to Log In to WeChat (PC/Desktop/Web)

1. Visit web.wechat.com or open the desktop WeChat app (Windows/Mac).
2. A large QR code will appear on the screen.
3. Open WeChat on your phone and use the scanner to scan the code on your computer.
4. Tap "Log In" or "Confirm" on your phone—your chats will sync to the desktop.

How to Register & Log in to WeChat Without QR Code

Sign Up Without QR Code

1. Download the official WeChat app (do not use a VPN during registration).
2. Option 1: Tap "Sign up with mobile" → select your region code → enter your phone number → set a password → verify via SMS.
3. Option 2: Tap "Sign up via Facebook" → grant permission → enter your phone number → verify via SMS.
4. If prompted for QR assistance: Use "Verify via Payment Card" or "Activate WeChat Pay" to bypass it.

Login Without QR Code

• Mobile: Enter your bound phone number + account password, or use SMS verification code.
• PC/Desktop (version 3.9.5+): Select "Mobile Number Login" → enter your phone number + password → verify via SMS.

How to Sign Up for WeChat Without a Friend's QR Code

This is the #1 question from new foreign users. WeChat often asks an existing user to scan a QR code to verify your new account—if you don’t have a friend nearby, use these alternatives:

Method 1: Verify via Bank Card

1. When prompted for assistance, tap "Verify via Payment Card."
2. Enter your bank card details (Chinese or supported international cards).
3. Complete any required authentication and finish registration.

Method 2: Verify via WeChat Pay (Weixin Pay)

1. Tap "Verify and Activate WeChat Pay."
2. Follow on-screen instructions to input your information and set a payment password.
3. Complete registration.

Method 3: Standard Mobile Sign Up (No QR Needed Initially)

1. Download WeChat from the official App Store/Google Play (avoid third-party APKs).
2. Open the app → tap "Sign Up" → "Sign up with mobile."
3. Select your region code, enter your phone number, and set a password.
4. Complete SMS/phone call verification.

Note: The QR verification step usually appears after this initial setup, not during installation.

Important Registration Tips

• Do not use a VPN during registration—it may trigger security blocks.
• Always use the official version of WeChat.
• If stuck, contact WeChat Support with your mobile number and error screenshots—they typically respond within 3 working days.

WeChat Sign-Up: QR Code Assistance (If Needed)

If QR verification is mandatory, use:① Bank card verification (enter card details) ② WeChat Pay activation (set payment password). For persistent issues, submit your number and error screenshots to WeChat support (response within 3 days).

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