Creating a Baidu account without a Chinese phone number can be challenging, but it’s not entirely out of reach. Many users worldwide aim to access Baidu’s services, particularly those seeking to increase visibility on China’s largest search engine.

If you want your website to appear in Baidu search results, setting up an account is a crucial first step. The registration process involves several stages, including submitting your website to Baidu Webmaster Tools. This step ensures your site becomes accessible to Chinese users and shows up in local search queries.

Beyond indexing your site, having a Baidu account opens access to a variety of features and tools. Before you can take advantage of them, though, you’ll need to follow a few straightforward steps to complete your registration.

What is Baidu 

Baidu is a leading search engine developed exclusively for the Chinese market. Much like Google or Bing, it indexes websites and online businesses, but its interface and results are entirely in Chinese, catering specifically to users in China.

Since most Chinese internet users rely solely on Baidu for web browsing, many international business owners aim to register on the platform. Having a presence on Baidu enables them to tap into the enormous Chinese online market and significantly expand their digital reach within the region.

Baidu Account Types You Can Create for Your Business

When setting up a Baidu account for your business, it’s essential to select the appropriate account type that aligns with your marketing objectives. Keep in mind that not every account allows the same level of content creation or promotional tools.

Standard Baidu User Account

Anyone can create a basic Baidu account, which grants access to the company’s full range of online services, much like a Google Account in the Western world. With this account, you can log in to Baidu’s official platform and take advantage of its built-in tools.

For instance, a standard account enables you to utilize Baidu Webmaster Tools (Ziyuan) and Baidu Analytics (Tongji), which serve similar functions to Google Search Console and Google Analytics. These features enable you to submit sitemaps, monitor site indexation, and analyze traffic from Chinese users.

In addition, a standard Baidu account gives you access to services like Baidu Cloud and Baidu Maps for business listings, discussion forums, and other related platforms.

Baidu Advertising (PPC) Account

Like other major search engines, Baidu offers a range of advertising solutions for its users. This type of profile is commonly known as Baidu Tuiguang. It grants access to Baidu’s full advertising suite, including search ads, display campaigns, Brand Zone placements, and more.

With a Tuiguang account, you can launch keyword-targeted pay-per-click campaigns, focus on specific audience segments, and monitor conversions. However, unlike a regular user account, a PPC account requires official verification, such as submitting a business license and other supporting documents, along with an upfront deposit.

Although the setup process is more involved, having an advertising account allows you to reach China’s vast search audience and place your ads prominently at the top of Baidu’s first page of search results.

Steps to Create a Baidu Account Outside China

If you want to create a Baidu account outside China without using a Chinese phone number, there’s a workaround that can help you get started.

Download the QQ App

A crucial part of learning how to make a Baidu account is downloading the QQ App. This app plays a key role in helping you register for a Baidu account when you don’t have access to a Chinese mobile number. Once installed, QQ can provide a virtual Chinese number, allowing you to bypass Baidu’s usual phone verification step.

This workaround enables you to register your Baidu account internationally. Just install the app, follow the instructions in the guide, and you’ll be on your way to accessing Baidu’s range of services, even from abroad.

Download the QQ Mail App

If you don’t have a Chinese phone number, you can still create a Baidu account by using the QQ Mail App. This app offers an alternative registration method that helps you bypass the need for a local mobile number. Just install QQ Mail on your device and follow the in-app instructions to complete your Baidu sign-up process.

By using QQ Mail, you can quickly and easily set up your Baidu account and unlock access to its full range of features with no Chinese phone number required.

Changing Baidu Settings

To register a Baidu account without a Chinese phone number, you’ll need to adjust a few settings. Once you’ve downloaded both the QQ App and QQ Mail App, as explained earlier, open the Baidu app and head to the “Settings” option located in the bottom right corner.

From there, go to “General Settings” and tap on “Account Security.” Under this section, select “Mobile Number,” choose your country code from the list, and enter your international phone number (make sure to leave out any spaces or dashes).

Hit “Next” to receive a text message with your verification code. Enter the code in the given field—and just like that, your Baidu account setup is complete!