Stepping off the plane in Shanghai with a dead phone is no fun, especially in a country where so much daily life runs through an app. A China eSIM gets you online the moment you land, no SIM-swapping at the airport and no surprise roaming bills.
Why use an eSIM in China
An eSIM is a digital SIM you install before you fly. You keep your home number active for calls and texts, and use affordable local data on the side. There's no plastic card to lose, no kiosk queue, and you can set everything up from your couch days before departure.
- Instant delivery by email, ready before you travel
- Keep your existing number for WhatsApp and 2FA
- No expensive roaming charges
- Switch plans without hunting for a shop
Get your China eSIM in 30 seconds
Instant delivery, 4G/5G speeds, no roaming bills.
View China plans →Networks & coverage
China has three nationwide operators: China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. Together they deliver strong 4G everywhere and expanding 5G across major hubs. Expect fast, reliable speeds in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, with solid coverage in tourist regions like Xi'an and Chengdu. Our eSIM connects to the best available partner network automatically.
How to get connected
1. Buy your China eSIM online and check your email for the QR code. 2. Install by scanning the QR under your phone's cellular settings (do this on Wi-Fi before you leave). 3. Activate by enabling data roaming for the eSIM line when you arrive, and you're online.
How much data do you need
- Light (1-3 GB): maps, messaging, occasional browsing for a short trip.
- Medium (5-10 GB): daily social media, navigation, and photo uploads over a week or two.
- Heavy (15 GB+): streaming, hotspot, and video calls for longer stays.
Many travellers add a plan with a VPN-friendly route in mind, since some Western apps are restricted on local networks.
Good to know
- Currency: Renminbi (Chinese yuan, CNY)
- Capital: Beijing
- Language: Mandarin Chinese
- Time zone: China Standard Time (UTC+8)
- Famous places: the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City in Beijing, and the Terracotta Army in Xi'an
FAQ
Is my phone compatible? Most phones from the last few years support eSIM, including recent iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel models. Check for an eSIM option in your settings before buying.
When should I install it? Install at home on Wi-Fi a day or two before departure. Activation happens automatically once you land and switch on data roaming for the eSIM.
Can I keep my WhatsApp number? Yes. Your WhatsApp stays tied to your original number, which remains active on your physical SIM while the eSIM handles data.
Get your China eSIM in 30 seconds
Instant delivery, 4G/5G speeds, no roaming bills.
View China plans →