Preparations#
- An Android device with Google services installed
- Stable VPN software
- A Google account that is not restricted or locked to a specific region
- A UnionPay credit card or debit card
- (Possibly) a scanned copy of your ID card
- Patience and willingness to wait
Account Region#
Currently, the regions that support UnionPay card payments include Hong Kong, Macau, and some Southeast Asian countries (such as Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, etc.). Although Hong Kong and Macau are considered high-cost regions, they are also the most stable. Other low-cost regions may have various risks. Therefore, I recommend choosing the Hong Kong region.
You can check the countries or regions that support UnionPay cards on this page:
- Select the region.
- Click on "Credit card or debit card" below.
- If "UnionPay" appears, it means that the region supports UnionPay payments.
Getting Started#
You cannot bind a UnionPay card on the web version of the Play Store. Some of the following steps need to be done in the Google Play App.
Open your VPN and select a node in the region you want to bind to. Enable global proxy.
Go to the Play Store, log in, click on your profile picture, and select "Payment methods":
Under "Payment methods," add a credit card or debit card:
Here, we will use a China Merchants Bank debit card as an example (already bound):
Enter the card number and the mobile number registered with the bank (remember to include "+86!"). Receive the verification code. In theory, this completes the binding process!
(For credit cards, the process is similar. Just enter the expiration date and security code.
(If you need to enter a Hong Kong address, you can enter any address.
Common Issues#
The issuing bank has declined this transaction.
Go to your bank's app or branch and enable overseas payment settings.
Additional verification is required.
(You may also receive an email from Gmail indicating that your account has been restricted. Don't worry, let's see how to resolve it.)
Click on the first image, "Form," to go to this page: Resolve account payment issues
Follow the instructions and go to the form. Fill in your personal information, including the previously prepared ID card photos. Note that both the front and back sides of the ID card need to be submitted. This is where I made a mistake before (only submitting the portrait side).
(For mainland Chinese users in the Hong Kong and Macau regions, you can use your ID card, passport, or Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macau as valid local identification documents.
As shown in the images, upload the national emblem side (front) and the portrait side (back) respectively.
Wait for the verification, but it shouldn't take too long (remember to check email notifications).