How Expats Can Buy a SIM Card in China

I. Should I Get a SIM Card in China When Travelling to China?

When traveling to China, it’s crucial to understand that using a local Chinese SIM card will prevent you from accessing popular social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, Gmail, Google Maps, YouTube, and similar services due to the Great Firewall of China.

Unless you want to use Bing as your main search engine, that means if you use a Chinese SIM card or local WiFi, you won’t be able to access these websites or apps.

For expats, if you prefer to keep using your current SIM card, make sure that global roaming is activated before you leave your home country. It’s wise to contact your local service provider to discuss the potential costs, as roaming can be quite expensive. Utilizing a foreign SIM card can be an effective way to bypass the Great Firewall. Typically, the Great Firewall does not apply to foreign SIM cards that are roaming in China. This allows you to access Google, Facebook, and other blocked services without needing a VPN, since the foreign SIM card relies on its home network provider, which is not subject to Chinese restrictions.

II. If You Choose to Get a Local SIM Card (mostly prepaid SIM Card) in China

While a local Chinese SIM card will limit your access to Google services and many Western social media platforms, it offers some advantages. The cost of a local SIM card is generally much lower than international roaming fees, and the signal stability is usually reliable throughout the country. Therefore, if staying connected to local networks and saving on costs is a priority, opting for a local SIM card can be a practical choice.

If you choose to get a local SIM Card in China, for those using Google services, note that none of them will work in China without a VPN. Before your trip, consider installing Microsoft Translator or other recommended translation apps, as well as exploring the translation mini-app available on Alipay. If you do not plan to use a VPN, you could set up your Gmail to forward to Microsoft Outlook to maintain email access. This preparation will ensure you have the necessary tools to navigate your communication and navigation needs effectively while in China.

It is also strongly recommended to install apps like Amap, Tencent Map, or Baidu Map for navigation, and WeChat for messaging and calling. These apps are widely used in China and can be very helpful during your stay.

III. How Expats Can Buy a SIM Card in China

When choosing a SIM card for your trip to China, it’s essential to understand the different types available and their benefits for tourists. Here’s a comprehensive overview.

A. Types of SIM Cards and Their Benefits for Tourists:

By types	Description	Benefit for Tourists
Physical SIM Card (Mostly prepaid and data-only SIM CARD)	– A traditional plastic card that is inserted directly into your phone – Offered by major Chinese carriers like China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. Requires ID (Passport) registration	– These SIM cards are widely available at carrier stores and are necessary for older phones that do not support eSIM technology
eSIM Card (Prepaid and data-only eSIM Card)	– A digital SIM embedded within your phone, eliminating the need for a physical card – Your phone needs to be compatible for eSIM – Not always the cheapest option but simply active on arrival	– eSIMs are more convenient as they bypass the in-store registration process with Chinese carriers – Can be added in your phone before you go and active on arrival

B. Physical SIM Card Purchase and Playbook to set it up:

1. Where to buy a Prepaid SIM Card

Purchasing a SIM card in China is quite simple, with various options available to meet the needs of travellers. Whether you prefer the convenience of buying a SIM card at the airport or exploring local stores for better deals, here are some common places to buy a China SIM card.

a. Mobile Operators’ Hong Kong Official Websites

Expats can purchase SIM cards for use in mainland China from Hong Kong subsidiaries of major mobile operators (China Mobile Hong Kong, China Unicom Hong Kong, and China Telecom Hong Kong) before your trip and they can ship to the place where you are living. Once in mainland China, your Hong Kong SIM card should automatically connect to the local network, providing you with the connectivity you need. But please note that Check if there are any additional data roaming charges when using the SIM card in mainland China. Here are some benefits of doing so:

• Convenience: You can buy the SIM card before entering mainland China, allowing you to be connected as soon as you arrive.
• Bypass the Great Firewall: Some Hong Kong SIM cards provide access to services typically blocked in mainland China without the need for a VPN
• Ease of Purchase: These SIM cards can often be purchased online and shipped to your location, or bought directly at Hong Kong’s major transportation hubs and stores.

b. Online Marketplace – Amazon and eBay

Consider purchasing a China SIM card online through reputable third-party platforms/marketplace like Amazon and eBay. Many sellers offer online ordering and delivery services, allowing you to receive your SIM card before your trip or have it conveniently shipped to your accommodation in China.

c. Airports

International airports in China, such as Beijing Capital International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, have dedicated kiosks or stores where you can buy SIM cards as soon as you arrive. These vendors typically offer packages tailored for tourists, with different data allowances and validity periods.

d. Mobile Operator Stores

You can visit the official stores or authorized retailers of major Chinese mobile operators like China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. These stores are commonly found in shopping malls, commercial districts, and tourist areas across China. The staff will help you select an appropriate plan and activate your SIM card.

2. Playbook to Set It Up

Purchasing a China SIM card is just the first step; here’s how to use it effectively during your trip:

Step 1: Choose a Mobile Network Provider

China has three main mobile network providers: China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. This is how most Chinese people view the three major telecom operators:

• China Mobile (中国移动): Offers the best coverage nationwide.

• China Unicom (中国联通): Slightly less coverage but uses more globally. The reputation for service is mediocre. But is the cheaper one.

• China Telecom (中国电信): Similar coverage to China Unicom. Better service, but more expensive.

Step 2: Get Your Passport Ready

Your passport is essential for the purchase and registration process.

Step 3: Register the SIM Card

Follow the instructions provided to register your SIM card using your personal information.

Step 4: Activate Your SIM Card

Insert the SIM card into your phone and follow the activation instructions provided by the service provider.

Step 5: Pay for the Phone Plan

You can pay using cash, credit cards, or online payment services like WeChat Pay or Alipay.

C. Where to buy an eSIM Card – an Alternative to physical SIM Card:

1. Where to buy an eSIM Card

It’s not always the cheapest option, but you are going to save a lot of time trying to find a sim and working out the various packages on the ground. An eSim is just like a normal SIM but without a physical product. You just download it onto your phone and it gives you access to your new data plan.

The only downside is that not all phones are compatible. Before purchasing, make sure that your device is eSIM-compatible and that your phone is unlocked.

There are some options available from various providers that you can purchase and set up before your trip.

a. Airalo

Plans: Offers multiple options such as 1 GB for 7 days ($5), 2 GB for 15 days ($8.50), 3 GB for 30 days ($11.50), and up to 20 GB for 30 days ($49).

Network: Uses China Unicom, which is compatible with most foreign devices.

Purchase: Available through the Airalo website or app. Instant delivery via email.

b. SimOptions

Plans: Options include 1 GB for 7 days ($7.90), 5 GB for 7 days ($14.90), and 10 GB for 15 days ($21.90).

Network: Typically operates on China Unicom’s network.

Purchase: Available online through SimOptions. The eSIM details are sent via email.

c. Nomad

Plans: Provides regional plans such as 20 GB for 45 days covering multiple Asian countries, including China.

Network: Supports networks in various Asian countries, ensuring good coverage.

Purchase: Can be bought through the Nomad website or app with instant email delivery.

d. Yesim

Plans: Offers plans with built-in VPN, such as unlimited data for 30 days starting at $13.

Network: Utilizes China Unicom for reliable connectivity.

Purchase: Available on Yesim’s website with instant setup instructions sent via email.

e. Jetpac

Plans: Includes options like 1 GB for 4 days ($1), 5 GB for 30 days ($16), and 10 GB for 30 days ($28).

Network: Operates on China Unicom.

Purchase: Purchase through Jetpac’s website with eSIM activation upon arrival in China.

2. How to set up eSIM Card

Step 1: Purchase

Visit the provider’s website (e.g., Airalo, SimOptions, Nomad, Yesim, Jetpac). Select a suitable plan based on your data needs and trip duration. Complete the purchase and receive the eSIM via email.

Step 2: Installation

Follow the installation instructions provided in the email. Typically, this involves scanning a QR code or entering an activation code. Ensure your device supports eSIM and is unlocked.

Step 3: Activation

Activate the eSIM upon arrival in China by following the on-screen prompts. Configure APN settings if required (usually detailed in the setup instructions).

Step 4: Usage tracking

Track your data usage through the provider’s app or website. Top-up if necessary using the provider’s platform or local payment methods like Alipay or WeChat Pay.

3. Important Considerations

• Compatibility: Ensure your device is compatible with eSIM and supports the networks used by the eSIM provider.
• VPN: Consider an eSIM with a built-in VPN (e.g., Yesim) to access blocked sites like Google, Facebook, and WhatsApp in China.
• Data Roaming Charges: Verify if there are any additional charges for data roaming within China to avoid unexpected costs.

Additional Information: The official websites of the three major mobile operators.

China Mobile: https://www.chinamobileltd.com/en/global/home.php

China Unicom: https://www.10010.com/wt_service_web/index.html#/

China Telecom: https://www.chinatelecom-h.com/en/global/home.php