Booking with the WeChat Mini Program
WeChat Mini Programs are how most Chinese hospitals handle appointments. The system works for foreigners too — you just need your passport and a little patience with identity verification.
Before you start
- Install WeChat and set up an account (you'll need a phone number; a Chinese number simplifies payments).
- Have your passport ready — name and number must match exactly.
- Plan to start 1–3 days before your intended appointment: foreign identities need manual review.
Step-by-step
- Find the Mini Program. In WeChat, open the search bar and type the hospital's name (Chinese or English). Look for the official hospital Mini Program (verified badge).
- Register as a patient. Add a "patient" profile with your real name and passport number. Choose "Passport" as the ID type when offered.
- Wait for identity review. Foreign registrations typically go through manual verification — this is the step that takes 1–3 days, so do it early.
- Pick a department and doctor. Browse by specialty (if you need help matching, see our specialty guide), then choose a date and time slot.
- Pay the registration fee. Confirm the appointment by paying online (WeChat Pay / Alipay, or linked international card where supported).
- Show up and check in. On the day, bring your passport, go to the self-service kiosk (自助机) or the department desk, and check in to join the queue. Without kiosk check-in you may be marked as absent.
Common issues and fixes
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| ID type "passport" not shown | Contact the hospital's international department; they can register you manually. |
| Verification takes too long | Email/call the international department with your passport scan to speed it up. |
| Can't pay with foreign card | Pay at the hospital on arrival, or ask the international dept to book without prepayment. |
| Mini Program is Chinese-only | Use a translation app over the interface, or fall back to the 114 platform / hospital English desk. |
Still stuck? Every major hospital has an international department that will happily book for you and prepare your record in advance. WeChat is convenient, but it's not the only door.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need WeChat Pay to book?
Usually yes for online payment, but some hospitals let you book and pay on arrival. WeChat Pay now supports some international cards for setup.
Can I use my passport for every hospital?
Most public hospital Mini Programs accept passports, but the verification process varies. If a hospital rejects passport registration, use the 114 platform or contact the international department.
What if I miss my appointment?
Some hospitals charge a small no-show fee or mark your record. If plans change, cancel in the Mini Program as early as possible.