eSIM in China: Your 2025 Travel Guide

Are you traveling to China in 2025? Staying connected is essential, and eSIMs are the easiest way to do that without hunting for local SIM cards or dealing with language barriers.

This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to use an eSIM in China, whether you have an iPhone or an Android. No tech skills are needed!

📲 What is an eSIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM that lets you activate a cellular plan without a physical SIM card. Perfect for travelers who want:

• Instant connectivity

• No roaming charges

• Easy setup in minutes

🇨🇳 Can You Use eSIMs in China?

Yes — but with some limitations:

• Some providers are blocked or slow due to China's internet firewall.

• To ensure fast, unrestricted internet access, many travelers choose eSIMs with built-in VPNs or plans outside China, like Airalo, Nomad, or Holafly.

✅ Step-by-Step: How to Set Up an eSIM in China

Step 1: Check Device Compatibility

• iPhone: Models from iPhone XS and newer support eSIM

• Android: Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy S20, S23, S24, A55 and up, Oppo, and newer Xiaomi devices

📌 Tip: Go to Settings > About > EID — if you see an EID, your phone supports eSIM.

Step 2: Choose an eSIM Provider

Trusted eSIMs for China in 2025:

• Airalo (Nihao Mobile)

• Nomad

• Holafly

• UBIGI

✅ Pick one based on:

• Data allowance

• VPN availability

• Price per GB

Step 3: Purchase and Receive QR Code

• After payment, you’ll get a QR code (or activation code) via email or in-app.

• Some providers offer direct install via the app.

Step 4: Add eSIM to Your Phone

On iPhone:

1. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan

2. Scan the QR code or enter activation manually

3. Label the new eSIM (e.g., “China Travel”)

4. Choose data-only or set it as primary if needed

On Android:

1. Open Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Add Carrier

2. Scan QR or use activation code

3. Activate the new eSIM profile

Step 5: Enable Data Roaming & Test

• Toggle Data Roaming ON (don’t worry, there are no roaming fees if using eSIM data)

• Open a browser or YouTube to test the connection

🔒 Optional: Use a VPN

China’s firewall blocks Google, WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, etc.
➡️ Use eSIMs with built-in VPN or install apps like ExpressVPN or NordVPN before arriving.

💡 Pro Tips

• Save your eSIM QR code as a PDF for backup

• Turn off your physical SIM’s mobile data to avoid roaming charges

• Install the eSIM before your flight (you can activate it once you land)

🧳 Final Thoughts

Using an eSIM in China is easy, secure, and affordable in 2025. With the right provider and setup, you’ll be connected from the moment you land — no stress, no SIM hunting. Click here to find the best eSIM for China in 2025.