When it comes to AI tools like OpenAI and ChatGPT, using them in China is not a simple matter, especially when it comes to recharging API credits or subscribing to Plus. Many people are confused and don't know how to bypass those payment restrictions. The biggest problem faced by users in mainland China is that OpenAI does not officially support direct payments in RMB or with domestic bank cards, so they have to rely on some indirect methods to get it done. Today, I will talk about this topic based on my own and my friends' experiences to help everyone understand the process. Let's take it step by step, starting with why virtual cards are needed, then recommending some reliable options, and finally teaching you how to buy USDT for recharging. Don't worry, I'll try to speak plainly and avoid complicated tutorials.
OpenAI/ChatGPT Recommendations: PokePay, VCard, BinPay, Crydit, WasabiCard, Dupay
Why is it so troublesome for domestic users to recharge OpenAI? Simply put, OpenAI's payment system is mainly aimed at international users and supports credit cards, but domestic cards are often blocked. Coupled with some policy factors, it's impossible to transfer directly using Alipay or WeChat. Therefore, everyone has turned to virtual credit cards, especially those that support cryptocurrency recharges. These cards essentially use stablecoins like USDT to "open a card," and then use this virtual card to bind payment on the OpenAI official website. The benefits are obvious: security, stability, and they won't be easily blocked. Moreover, it avoids the risk of being maliciously reported and taken offline like some platforms that support direct RMB recharges. For example, previously WildCard and BinGoCard were reported and shut down because they supported RMB recharges, leaving users' funds stuck inside, unable to withdraw.
So, what specific cards should be used? For recharging OpenAI and ChatGPT, I personally recommend cryptocurrency cards because they are discreet and less likely to cause issues. Currently available options include PokePay, VCard, BinPay, Crydit, WasabiCard, and Dupay. The common feature of these cards is that they can only be opened and used for consumption through USDT recharges, without directly touching RMB. This may sound a bit convoluted, but it's actually quite straightforward to operate. Why recommend these? Because they have received good feedback in the domestic user community, with high success rates, and they won't suddenly disappear like some unreliable platforms. Especially the OpenAI/ChatGPT recommended: PokePay, VCard, BinPay, these are the ones I and my friends have used, and after binding to OpenAI, recharging API credits is super stable. For example, I used PokePay last time to recharge some credits, and the process took just a few minutes, with the card number generated directly for subscribing to ChatGPT Plus, and there were no issues at all.
Now let's talk about how to obtain USDT. This step is crucial because these virtual cards require USDT to recharge the balance. The best way to buy USDT in China is through reliable exchanges like OKX, Binance, HTX, and Gate. These platforms support buying coins with RMB, but for safety, I recommend using bank transfers or Alipay to buy and then convert to USDT. Avoid using small exchanges directly, as they can be risky.
The specific USDT purchase links are here: OKX USDT Purchase, Binance USDT Purchase, HTX USDT Purchase, Gate USDT Purchase. I usually use OKX because the interface is user-friendly and easy for beginners. The USDT purchase tutorial is actually super simple: just click on the USDT purchase link, and it will take you to the USDT page of the exchange. First, register and log in (you can use your phone number or email, just remember to complete real-name verification), then select the amount of USDT to purchase and pay with RMB according to the prompts on the page. After buying, don't rush to withdraw; you need to use the "Withdraw" function to transfer USDT to your virtual card platform. For example, if you chose VCard, copy its USDT recharge address, paste it into the withdrawal section of the exchange, confirm the network (usually TRC20 or ERC20), and the fees are low, arriving in just a few minutes. Once it arrives, the virtual card platform will automatically convert it into card balance, and you can generate a card number to recharge OpenAI.
The benefits of using this method are not only security but also flexibility. For instance, if you want to recharge OpenAI API credits, first store enough USDT (like $50) in the virtual card, then go to the OpenAI official website, click "Billing" to add a payment method, and enter the virtual card number, expiration date, and CVV, and you're good to go. Subscribing to ChatGPT Plus is the same, with a monthly fee of $20 deducted directly. In contrast, those platforms that support direct RMB recharges, while convenient, carry too much risk; after WildCard and BinGoCard went offline, users' feedback for help was useless. Cryptocurrency cards are much more stable and won't be easily targeted.
That said, it's not without risks. Pay attention to exchange rate fluctuations when buying USDT, and don't buy too much at once; check user reviews when choosing card platforms. The ones I recommend, like Crydit or WasabiCard, have low fees and quick customer service responses. Also, Dupay is suitable for large recharges. Overall, this method has allowed me to use OpenAI for several years, from API development to daily chatting, without major issues. If you're just starting out, don't panic; try with a small amount first, like buying $10 worth of USDT to practice.
Just a reminder: cryptocurrency is volatile, so calculate the fees carefully when recharging. Domestic policies are also changing, so keep a low profile. I hope this sharing helps you, and if you have any specific questions, feel free to ask me. In short, with these tools, the door to the world of OpenAI is wide open!