Mainland App Real-Name Verification Guide: Using the Home Return Permit to Verify Alipay/WeChat/Amap

In mainland China, many apps require real-name verification to use them to the fullest — buying high-speed rail tickets, setting up mobile payments, using transit codes, and booking doctor appointments all require identity verification. For Hong Kong residents, the most commonly used verification document is the Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macau Residents (Home Return Permit). Here's how to verify your identity in each app:

Before You Start

• Original Home Return Permit (you'll need to take photos / scan both sides)
• Phone: A mainland China phone number is recommended, as some features require SMS verification codes (see the SIM card guide)
• Facial recognition: Most verification processes require "face scanning," so make sure you're in a well-lit environment

Alipay Real-Name Verification

1. Open Alipay → tap "My" at the bottom right → "Settings" (or "Account & Security")
2. Tap "Real-Name Verification" → select "Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan Residents" (Home Return Permit)
3. Enter your Home Return Permit number and name (must match the document exactly)
4. Upload photos of the front and back of your Home Return Permit
5. Complete facial recognition verification — approval is either instant or after a review period

WeChat Real-Name Verification

1. Open WeChat → tap "Me" → "Services" → tap "⋯" in the top right corner
2. Tap "Real-Name Verification" → select document type "Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macau Residents"
3. Enter your Home Return Permit details and name
4. Link a bank card (required in some cases) or complete facial recognition
5. Once done, you can use WeChat Pay (mainland China version)

Amap (Gaode Maps) and Other Apps

Some features in Amap (such as ride-hailing and membership services) also require real-name verification. The process is similar: Settings → Account Security → Real-Name Verification → select Home Return Permit → face scan. Other apps (12306, Meituan, etc.) follow the same general process — just select "Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macau Residents" and fill in your details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I verify without a mainland China phone number?

Some apps allow you to receive verification codes on a Hong Kong number, but most mainland services require a mainland China number for full verification (especially when linking a mainland bank card). It's recommended to get a mainland SIM card first.

Will my data be leaked after verification?

Real-name verification is a legal requirement in mainland China (under the Cybersecurity Law), and your data is stored by the platform. Verifying on reputable, established platforms is relatively safe.

Do I need to re-verify when my Home Return Permit expires?

When you get a new Home Return Permit (the number stays the same but the validity period changes), you'll usually need to update your verification details. Just look for the "Update Document" option in the app.

Want to know how to use payment apps? Check out the Alipay guide and the WeChat guide.