Planning a trip to China? eSIMs not only work, they're one of the easiest ways to stay online and access blocked services without a VPN.

eSIM technology does function in China, and if your phone supports it, you can stay connected using an international eSIM. These eSIMs allow travelers to access Google, WhatsApp, and other commonly blocked platforms, without relying on a VPN. That’s why global eSIMs are becoming the preferred choice for international visitors looking for unrestricted mobile internet in China.

Many travelers get confused because phones sold within China often don’t support eSIM. However, this limitation doesn’t apply to tourists using eSIM-ready phones from outside the country. Whether you're using an iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, or Google Pixel, a compatible eSIM can help you stay online across your entire journey.

In this article, we’ll break down how eSIMs operate in China, how they allow you to bypass local restrictions, and what practical steps you should take to ensure seamless internet access during your trip.

Understanding How eSIMs Work in China’s Restricted Internet Environment

Before you set up your eSIM for China, it’s important to understand the country's digital landscape and how strict internet controls may affect your connection.

The Great Firewall of China – What You Need to Know

China uses a nationwide internet censorship system known as the Great Firewall. This digital barrier limits access to many global platforms and online services by filtering or blocking traffic through its domestic telecom infrastructure.

As a result, internet users in China, both locals and travelers, may find it difficult to connect to international websites and apps using standard local networks.

Common Services Blocked in Mainland China:

• Google services (Search, Gmail, Maps, YouTube, Drive)
• Social media apps (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X)
• Messaging platforms (WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal)
• News websites (BBC, New York Times, CNN)
• Streaming services (Netflix, YouTube, Spotify)
• Cloud & productivity tools (Dropbox, Google Docs, many VPNs)

What This Means for Travelers

For international travelers, these restrictions can severely impact your ability to:

• Stay in touch with family or work
• Access real-time maps, email, or cloud storage
• Stream entertainment during your trip
• Use essential tools like Google Translate or WhatsApp

By using an international eSIM, your data is routed through servers outside of China — helping you bypass these restrictions and maintain access to the platforms you rely on daily.

How eSIM Support Works in China: What Travelers Should Know

Understanding how eSIMs are supported in China can be confusing, especially with the mix of local device limitations and carrier restrictions. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you prepare:

1. eSIM-Ready Devices from Abroad Work Without Issues

If you're bringing a smartphone or tablet that supports eSIM and was purchased outside of China, you can use it normally within the country. There's no hardware or software restriction preventing you from activating or using an international eSIM.

2. Phones Sold in China Often Lack eSIM Capability

Most mobile devices sold inside China, including both local brands and globally known models like iPhone or Samsung, usually do not come with eSIM functionality enabled. This applies even if the same model supports eSIM in other countries.

3. Chinese Mobile Networks Offer Limited eSIM Access

China's major carriers such as China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom have started rolling out eSIM services, but access is typically limited to local residents who register with a valid Chinese ID. eSIM options for foreign tourists from these providers are either unavailable or extremely restricted.

4. Apple’s iPad 10 Marked a Shift in eSIM Availability

In a notable move, the iPad 10th Generation (Wi-Fi + Cellular) became the first Apple device officially sold in China that includes eSIM functionality. This launch was supported exclusively through China Unicom, signaling a small but important step toward wider eSIM acceptance.

Practical Tips: How to Prepare Your eSIM Before Traveling to China

Getting your eSIM ready before your trip to China is crucial for a smooth and connected travel experience. Follow these steps to make sure everything works once you land.

Step 1: Check Your Device for eSIM Compatibility

Make sure your phone or tablet supports eSIM technology

Confirm that your device is unlocked for international use

Check if your device supports China’s mobile network bands (most recent models from Apple, Samsung, and Google do)

Step 2: Buy and Install Your China eSIM in Advance

Purchase your eSIM early while you have stable internet, we recommend checking out our China eSIM plan here

Carefully follow the installation instructions provided by the eSIM provider

Activate the eSIM profile, but do not enable the data plan until you arrive in China

Step 3: Download All the Apps You’ll Need

Install necessary apps before entering China, as some may not be accessible once you're there

Use offline map apps like Google Maps (offline mode) or Maps.me

Download Google Translate and preload offline language packs

Set up messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, or any other communication tools you plan to use

🔗 Need an eSIM for China? Explore our China eSIM options, fast activation, no roaming fees, and access to all your favorite apps without a VPN.

Plan for Backup Options Before You Travel

Even with a working eSIM, it's smart to prepare alternative options in case of unexpected issues during your trip to China. Here’s what to do:

Backup Essentials to Consider:

• Install a trustworthy VPN app such as ExpressVPN or Astrill, in case you experience connectivity issues or restrictions
• Save important addresses, phone numbers, and travel info offline — don’t rely solely on cloud access
• Bring a physical SIM card as a backup if your device has a dual SIM slot and supports traditional SIMs

Frequently Asked Questions About Using eSIMs in China

Can I use my phone’s eSIM (iPhone or Android) in China?

Yes. If you own an eSIM-compatible smartphone, including iPhones or Android devices like Samsung Galaxy or Google Pixel, you can use your eSIM in China without issues. Whether you activate it through international roaming or choose a travel eSIM from eSIM86, your device will connect normally.

Do international eSIMs bypass the Great Firewall?

Yes, they do. Travel eSIMs provided by services like eSIM86 route your internet traffic through international servers. This helps bypass China's internet restrictions, allowing access to Google, WhatsApp, Facebook, and other blocked platforms. Keep in mind that Chinese carrier eSIMs follow local censorship and are subject to the same filtering as local SIM cards.

Will an eSIM-only phone work in China?

Absolutely. Devices like the iPhone 14, 15, or 16 (which only support eSIM and lack physical SIM slots) work perfectly when paired with a travel eSIM. You can use eSIM86’s China eSIM with no compatibility issues.

Can I buy an eSIM from eSIM86 while already in Mainland China?

Yes, but with an important note. While some eSIM providers are blocked in China, eSIM86.com is currently accessible if you have internet access inside the country. This means travelers who are already in China can still purchase a travel eSIM from us, as long as they can reach our website.

To avoid potential delays or connection issues, we still recommend that you buy and activate your eSIM86 plan before your trip. However, if you're already in China and need data urgently, you can visit esim86.com and complete your purchase online.

Can tourists buy eSIMs directly from Chinese mobile carriers?

Currently, Chinese mobile networks offer very limited eSIM access for tourists. While China Unicom supports eSIM on select devices (like the iPad 10), most foreign travelers will not be able to activate a local eSIM without a Chinese ID. For this reason, international travel eSIMs from eSIM86 are the most reliable and accessible option for visitors.