A Foreigner's Guide to WeChat QR Codes
The 3 QR Code Scenarios You Need to Master in China
Last updated: June 29, 2025
3 Essential WeChat QR Code Scenarios
1. Scan a Merchant's QR Code
This is the most common action. You use your phone's camera to scan a code provided by the business.
For Payments (Scan-to-Pay)
Manually enter the amount to pay for goods or services.
For Services (Mini-Programs)
Scan to launch a service like ordering food, renting a power bank, or following a brand.
2. Show Your Payment QR Code
You present your personal payment code for the merchant to scan with their device.
Merchant Scans You (Scan-and-Go)
The payment amount is automatically deducted. No manual entry needed.
3. Share Your Personal QR Code
Allow others to scan your code to add you as a friend or send you money.
To Add Friends (Social)
The primary way to connect with new people on WeChat.
To Receive Money
Others can scan this to transfer money to your wallet.
Pro Tip: The Fastest Way to Access QR Functions
Forget navigating inside the app. Use this shortcut.
The quickest way to handle almost any WeChat transaction is to long-press the WeChat icon on your phone's home screen. A shortcut menu will pop up instantly.
- My QR Code: Choose this to show your personal code for adding friends or receiving money.
- Scan: Choose this to scan a merchant's code for payment or to open a Mini-Program.
- Pay: Choose this to show your payment code for the merchant to scan.