The general process for activating ChatGPT Plus (i.e., membership) in Mainland China is as follows:

1. Preparation ✔️

VPN/Proxy Tool
Users in Mainland China need to access the OpenAI official website via a stable VPN (e.g., ExpressVPN, NordVPN, etc.).

Register an OpenAI Account
You can register with an email (e.g., Gmail) and phone verification code. After successful login, click "Upgrade to Plus".

2. Choose a Payment Method

A. WildCard Virtual Credit Card (Recommended)

WildCard is a virtual VISA card designed for Chinese users, supporting Alipay/WeChat top-up, making the process convenient.

  1. Register WildCard: Enter your phone number (+86), input the verification code to register. It is recommended to use the invitation code "LEIXUE" for a discount.
  2. Activate the card and top up: Choose a 1-year or 2-year plan (approx. $11.99–16.99). It is recommended to top up at least $25 initially, covering the $20 monthly fee and pre-authorization.
  3. Bind to OpenAI: On the ChatGPT website, click "Upgrade to Plus", copy the payment page link, and paste it into WildCard's "One-Click Upgrade" → Complete the purchase. You can also manually enter the WildCard card number/expiry date/CVV to upgrade.
  4. Auto-Renewal: After recharging in the WildCard backend, the Plus subscription will renew automatically, making it hassle-free each month.

B. iOS/Google Gift Cards (Backup Option)

  • iOS Users: Use a US-region Apple ID, purchase a US App Store gift card, and subscribe within the ChatGPT iOS app.
  • Android Users: Similarly, use a US-region Google Play gift card to subscribe within the official Android app.

C. Agent/Buying Group Method

Some third-party platforms offer agent purchasing or shared Plus account services. These carry security and compliance risks; please evaluate carefully if you choose this option.

3. Practical Process Summary 👨‍💻

  1. Install VPN → Open chat.openai.com → Log in to your account → Click "Upgrade to Plus".
  2. Option 1: Log in to WildCard → Paste the payment page link or manually enter card details → Complete the Plus subscription after payment.
  3. Option 2: Subscribe via a US-region gift card within the mobile app.
  4. After successful subscription, you can switch to the GPT-4 model and enjoy membership features.

4. Tips 🛎️

  • Billing Address & Country: If entering card details manually, the billing address should match the one in your WildCard backend, otherwise it may be rejected.
  • Pre-authorization Reminder: When first binding WildCard, a $5 pre-authorization charge may be deducted and refunded later. Please ensure sufficient balance.
  • Subsequent Renewals: Ensure sufficient balance in WildCard before the renewal date for automatic renewal; no repeated steps are needed.

✅ Summary

For most users in Mainland China, the WildCard virtual credit card is currently the most convenient and highest success rate purchasing method. The iOS/Android gift card method is suitable for users with overseas accounts. If you need a detailed tutorial or specific operational guidance, I can help explain further.