Just an update on the Alipay/WeChat bank lists linked above.
I have a card from a bank not among the two dozen or so on the Alipay list. And as in the past, when I tried to add the card and do real name verification today, I only got the option to add a Chinese ID number. No go. So the list is probably accurate.
But my bank is among the 71 banks now on the WeChat list. And I just put in my name exactly as the bank has it, along with the card and phone numbers, did a couple of confirmation texts, and voilá, in less than two minutes I was set. Got a confirmation text from my bank confirming I had linked the card. No need for passport copy, entry stamp, or other hassle. So simple it was a shock. And it means the list of 71 banks probably is good for foreigners on WeChat.
It certainly looks like WeChat at least has simplified the process considerably. Last time I tried this several months ago I gave up after a run-around of endless confirmations and error messages.