WeChat QR Code Guide: How to Log In, Pay, and Add Friends

WeChat QR codes are an essential feature for travel and daily life in China, used for everything from logging in and adding friends to making payments and joining groups. In this guide, we'll break down the different types of WeChat QR codes and show you step-by-step how to use them.

What Is WeChat QR Code?

WeChat QR codes come in various formats depending on the specific task.

How to Find the WeChat QR Code Scanner?

You can easily access the QR code scanner right from the WeChat home screen:

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

How to Scan WeChat QR Codes?

Once the WeChat QR code scanner is open, the process is the same for all code types.

1. Align the code: Hold your phone steady and align the QR code within the square frame on your screen.
2. Please wait until you hear a beep or feel a vibration: The WeChat QR code will be recognized automatically.
3. Follow the prompts:

• For contacts: Tap 'Add to Contacts' and send a greeting.
• For groups: Scan the group QR code → 'Join Group' tab (Groups that are full require an invitation from the admin).
• For payment: Enter the amount, confirm the recipient's name, and then enter your 6-digit payment password.
• To log in: Tap 'Confirm login' on your phone to approve the PC/web session.

👉How to scan using a screenshot?
If you received a QR code via chat or have a screenshot: Open the scanner → Tap "Album" (bottom right) → Select an image. The WeChat QR code will be automatically recognized from your photo.

How to Add Friends via WeChat QR Code?

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

Source: WeChat Official Account

Method 1. Scan the Other Person's QR code

1. Open the scanner.
2. Point your camera at the other person's WeChat QR code.
3. Tap 'Add to Contacts' and edit the greeting message as needed.
4. Please wait until the other person accepts your request.

Source: WeChat Official Account

Method 2. Show Your QR code for the Other Person to Scan

1. Head over to the 'Me' tab in the bottom right corner.
2. Tap your profile photo/name at the top.
3. Tap 'My QR Code'.
4. Have a friend scan it, or tap the '...' menu to save it to your album and share it online.

How to Pay with a WeChat QR Code (WeChat Pay)?

For foreigners staying in China, making payments is the most essential part of daily life.

1. How to Activate and Use WeChat Pay?

2. Paying at Merchants (Scan QR code)

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

3. Receiving WeChat Pay (Other person scans)

1. Go to 'Me' → 'Wallet' (or 'Services').
2. Tap 'Money' or 'Receive Money'.
3. Show your QR code to the person making the payment.
4. The other person scans it and enters the amount to send to you.

How to Log in with a WeChat QR code (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 with your desktop.

How to Sign up for and Log in to WeChat Without a QR code?

How to Sign up for WeChat Without a QR Code?

1. Download the official WeChat app (do not use a VPN when signing up).
2. Option 1: Tap 'Sign up with mobile' → Select country code → Enter mobile number → Set password → SMS verification.
3. Option 2: Tap 'Sign up with Facebook' → Grant permissions → Enter phone number → SMS verification.
4. If a WeChat QR code assistance request pops up: use 'Verify Payment Card' or 'Activate WeChat Pay' to skip it.

Logging in Without a WeChat QR Code?

• Mobile: Enter your linked mobile number + account password, or use an SMS verification code.
• PC/Desktop (version 3.9.5+): Select 'Log in with phone number' → Enter your phone number and password → Verify via SMS.

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

This is the most frequently asked question by new international users. WeChat often asks existing users to scan a WeChat QR code to verify a new account. If you don't have any friends nearby, try the alternatives below.

Method 1: Authenticate with a Bank Card

1. On the assistance request screen, tap 'Verify with Payment Card'.
2. Please enter your bank card details (Chinese cards or supported international cards).
3. Complete all the necessary verifications to finish your registration.

Method 2: Verify with WeChat Pay

1. Tap 'Verify and Activate WeChat Pay'.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to enter your information and set up your payment password.
3. Complete your sign-up.

Method 3: Standard Mobile Phone Sign-up (No Initial QR Code Required)

1. Download WeChat from the official App Store/Google Play (do not use third-party APKs).
2. Open the app → Tap 'Sign up' → Tap 'Sign up with phone number'
3. Select your country code, enter your mobile number, and set your password.
4. Complete SMS/phone verification.

Important Notes When Signing up

• Please do not use a VPN when signing up. This may trigger a security block.
• Always use the official version of WeChat.
• If you get stuck, please contact WeChat customer support with your phone number and a screenshot of the error. You can usually expect a response within 3 business days.

Support for QR Code Verification When Signing up for WeChat (If Needed)?

If WeChat QR code verification is required, please use the following method:

① Bank card verification (enter card information)

② Activate WeChat Pay (set payment password).
If the problem persists, please submit your phone number and a screenshot of the error to WeChat customer support (you'll get a response within 3 days).

WeChat QR Code Tips for Singaporean Users

• Please do not use a VPN while signing up - this may trigger a security block.
• Always use the official version of WeChat (third-party APKs are prohibited).
• If you get stuck, please contact WeChat customer support with your phone number and a screenshot of the error. You can usually expect a response within 3 business days.
• Do not post QR codes on public websites - there is a security risk.

WeChat QR codes are the key to mobile life in China, connecting everything from payments and transportation to logging in. They're a must-have feature for travellers, too—with just a simple scan, you can unlock a world of convenience during your trip.