How to Create a QQ Account for Foreigners (2026 Complete Guide)
๐ May 2026 | โฑ๏ธ 7 min read | ๐ International Guide
QQ is one of China's two most important instant messaging apps (the other being WeChat). Launched in 1999 by Tencent, QQ has over 500 million active users. Unlike WeChat, QQ registration is somewhat easier for foreigners โ but it still has its challenges. This guide covers everything you need to know.
โน๏ธ Did you know? You can log in to almost 90% of Chinese websites and apps using your QQ account. It is also the primary login system for Tencent Games โ one of the world's biggest gaming companies.
Why Do Foreigners Need QQ?
Contacting Chinese businesses, suppliers or friends when WeChat is not available
Logging into Chinese gaming platforms (Tencent Games, Honor of Kings, etc.)
Accessing Chinese websites that require QQ login
Joining large QQ groups (up to 3,000 members โ much larger than WeChat groups)
Using QQ Mail โ one of China's most used email services
Business networking with Chinese contacts
QQ vs WeChat โ Which is Easier to Register?
QQ registration does NOT always require another existing QQ user to scan and verify you โ unlike WeChat. However, QQ has been increasingly adding phone verification requirements and some regions may face registration difficulties. If you cannot create a WeChat account, QQ is a great alternative for contacting people in China.
Step-by-Step: How to Create a QQ Account
Download QQ App
Download the QQ app from Google Play Store (Android) or Apple App Store (iOS). The app is available internationally. Make sure you download the Chinese QQ app โ QQ International has been discontinued.
Open App and Tap Register
Open QQ and tap the Register or Sign Up button. The interface is in Chinese โ if you cannot read Chinese, check out our navigation tips below.
Enter Your Phone Number
Select your country code and enter your international phone number. QQ accepts most international numbers. Tap to get the verification code.
Enter SMS Verification Code
Enter the code sent to your phone. This confirms your number and activates your account. You may also need to complete a slider puzzle or other security check.
Set Up Profile
Add a display name, profile photo and basic information. Setting up a complete profile makes it easier for others to find and trust you on the platform.
Set a Strong Password
Create a strong password using a mix of letters, numbers and symbols. QQ accounts without strong passwords are more vulnerable to being hacked.
QQ Account Levels Explained
QQ has a unique leveling system based on account age and activity. Higher level accounts have more trust and unlock additional features:
โญ Star Level โ New accounts, basic features
๐ Moon Level โ Older accounts with more activity, higher credibility
โ๏ธ Sun Level โ Highly active accounts, maximum trust level
Higher level accounts are especially important for gaming and business use on Chinese platforms. If you need an aged QQ account with a higher trust level, contact our team.
How to Navigate QQ in Chinese
QQ International has been discontinued, so the current app is in Chinese. Here is how to make it easier to use:
Go to Settings โ turn on "Easy Mode" (็ฎๆดๆจกๅผ) or "Care Mode" (ๅ ณๆๆจกๅผ) for a simplified interface
Use Google Translate's camera function to translate the Chinese text on screen
Contact our team for a guided setup in your language
๐ก Tip: QQ groups can have up to 3,000 members โ far more than WeChat groups. This makes QQ excellent for large business communities and networking groups in China.
Common QQ Registration Issues
Phone number not accepted: Some countries face restrictions. Try a different number or contact us for help.
Cannot receive SMS: Make sure your phone can receive international SMS. Check for any SMS blocking settings.
Account blocked after registration: This often happens when using unofficial apps or violating QQ terms. Use only the official QQ app.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. QQ works internationally and you can register with a foreign phone number from most countries.
Yes. QQ has hundreds of millions of active users, especially among younger people, gamers and businesses in China.
Yes. Tencent Games โ which includes major titles like PUBG Mobile, Honor of Kings and League of Legends โ uses QQ as a primary login method.
QQ International was discontinued. The current version is the Chinese QQ app. We can guide you through setting it up and navigating it even if you do not read Chinese.
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