Accessing reliable mobile connectivity in China as an international visitor requires a bit of preparation, as the country’s telecom infrastructure is different from many others. To avoid high roaming charges for your trip to China, it's essential to have a local SIM card or a data plan suited to your needs. Alternatively, a global eSIM can offer a convenient solution without the need for a physical card.

China Travel SIM Cards

China travel SIM cards are designed for short-term visitors and generally offer competitive rates for both local calls and data. These SIM cards can be purchased at airports, retail stores, or online before arrival. They usually include a set amount of data and local minutes. These SIMs typically provide:

• Data, voice, and SMS plans, with some plans focusing more on data.

• Short-term validity periods, typically ranging from 7 to 30 days.

• Easy activation processes, often activated immediately or within a few hours; however, some may require identity verification.

• English-language support, available at major airports and retail stores in larger cities, though it may be limited in smaller towns or rural areas.

When selecting a SIM card for China, consider your data needs, trip duration, and budget. Most providers offer packages ranging from 1GB to 10GB of data for a week-long plan. For longer stays or heavier data usage, plans offering 20GB or more are available. 

Remember to check your device’s compatibility with Chinese networks. The primary bands used by Chinese carriers are Band 3, Band 8, Band 20, and Band 38, so ensure your phone supports these bands to avoid any connection issues.

Alternatively, you can visit our eSIM China page or read our guides on Best eSIM for China and Roaming Charges for China.

Prepaid SIM Cards for China

Chinese prepaid SIM cards are a popular option for tourists. They are easily available without requiring a long-term commitment. The major Chinese telecom providers, including China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom, offer prepaid cards that can be purchased at retail stores across the country. Be sure to carry your passport for registration. These cards typically provide both data and talk time. If you have higher data needs or plan on making international calls, it’s best to verify the rates beforehand.

China Mobile Data Plans for Tourists

Mobile data plans in China are tailored to meet the needs of both short-term visitors and those staying longer. Depending on the duration of stay, visitors can choose from a range of plans to suit their mobile data requirements.

For those staying a short time, a 7-day unlimited data plan might be ideal, providing enough data for everyday activities such as navigation, communication, and browsing. Longer-term visitors can opt for 30-day plans with larger data limits or unlimited options. Some plans also include extras like discounts on popular attractions or access to local apps. It's helpful to consider your expected data usage, and whether you'll have Wi-Fi access in accommodations or public areas to limit data consumption.

Although physical SIM cards have been the standard for international tourists in China, a global eSIM like Roamless is changing how tourists access reliable mobile connectivity. eSIMs offer several benefits that can be more convenient than traditional SIM cards:

• Activate in advance: Set up your eSIM before you leave home, ensuring you have immediate data access as soon as you arrive in China.

• No need to buy a SIM card: Skip buying a physical SIM at the airport or local stores and start your trip right away.

• Flexible plan options: Switch between different data plans digitally, which can be useful when visiting different regions or neighboring countries.

• Free up your physical SIM slot: Keep your physical SIM card slot available for other needs, such as using a local SIM for specific services.

• Eco-friendly: Choose an eSIM to help reduce plastic waste associated with traditional SIM cards.

• Future-ready: eSIM technology is becoming the standard for global connectivity, providing more flexibility and convenience.

Upon arriving in China, a travel eSIM ensures you're connected to the mobile internet immediately. You won’t need to look for SIM cards or navigate through complicated contracts. Instead, you can quickly access essential apps like translation tools, maps, and messaging services to help you settle in.

Best SIM Cards for China Travel

Several SIM card options are available in China. The choice depends on your needs for coverage, convenience, and budget:

• China Mobile: Known for extensive coverage across urban and rural areas.

• China Unicom: Offers competitive pricing, particularly in larger cities like Beijing and Shanghai.

• China Telecom: Known for strong coverage in specific regions, such as western China.

• International SIMs (eSIM): An increasingly viable option for tourists, offering convenience without needing to swap cards.

Chinese SIM Cards: What You Need to Know

Before purchasing a SIM card in China, keep in mind a few important details:

• Data allowance: Ranges from 1GB to unlimited, depending on the plan.

• Validity period: Typically 7, 15, or 30 days.

• Network coverage: Major providers include China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom.

• Additional features: Some offer voice/SMS, while others are data-only.

• Price: Varies significantly based on features and duration.

For example, a 7-day plan with 2GB might cost around ¥100, while a 30-day unlimited plan could be priced at ¥300 or more. Keep in mind that some "unlimited" plans may have speed restrictions after a certain data limit.

While traditional SIM cards are still common, Roamless eSIM offers distinct advantages for visitors exploring China:

• No expiration: Stay as long as you like, whether you're making a brief stop in Beijing or traveling across multiple cities.

• Instant activation: Start using mobile data the moment you land in China, without any delays.

• Multi-trip convenience: Perfect for those visiting China frequently or planning multi-city trips.

• Space efficiency: Keep your physical SIM slot open for other local SIM cards, especially useful for extended stays.

• Eco-friendly: Reduce plastic waste and support environmentally-conscious travel.

Roamless eSIM is a great fit for visitors to China who value convenience and technology, offering an easy, flexible, and efficient way to maintain a mobile internet connection while minimizing the limitations of traditional physical SIM cards.

China SIM Card Costs

Costs for SIM cards in China are generally affordable, and here's an overview to help you plan your budget:

Short-term plans (7 days)

• 1GB to 3GB data: ¥30 to ¥80

• Ideal for light users or short visits

Long-term plans (30 days)

• 5GB to unlimited data: ¥100 to ¥300

• Suitable for longer stays or those who require more data

Provider landscape

• Major carriers: China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom

• Budget-friendly MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) may offer more competitive rates

Cost-saving tips

• Pre-order your SIM card online to avoid higher prices at the airport

• Consider a travel eSIM for instant activation and potential savings

Factors to consider

• Your typical data usage

• Length of stay

• Coverage requirements (urban vs. rural areas)

By taking these factors into account, you can find the most suitable and cost-effective mobile solution for your trip to China, ensuring you have reliable connectivity without overspending.

How to Buy SIM Cards in China

To purchase a SIM card in China, follow these simple steps:

1. Bring your passport: You’ll need it to register the SIM card.

2. Visit a carrier store or mobile shop: SIM cards are available at most telecom stores, airports, or mobile retail shops.

3. Choose a prepaid plan: Select a plan based on your data and call needs.

4. Register your SIM: Provide your passport details for registration.

5. Activate your SIM: The SIM will be activated either instantly or within a few minutes.

Disclaimer: Make sure to have your passport ready, as it is required for SIM card registration in China.

eSIMs: A Digital Alternative to Physical SIMs

eSIMs are revolutionizing travel connectivity, offering several advantages over traditional physical SIM cards:

• Instant activation: Purchase and set up your plan before you even land in China.

• Multiple profiles: Keep your home number active while using a local data plan.

• No physical swapping: Eliminate the risk of losing tiny SIM cards.

• Environmental benefit: Reduce plastic waste from disposable SIMs.

For visitors with eSIM compatible devices, this technology provides a convenient way to access mobile internet connection in China without the challenge of physical SIM management.

For more information, you can check out our guide on eSIM Compatible Phones.

SIM Card, Pocket WiFi or eSIM for China?

Visitors to China have three main options for mobile internet access: SIM cards, Pocket WiFi, and eSIMs. Each comes with its own benefits and limitations:

Pocket WiFi

• Lets you connect several devices at once.

• Works well for families or small groups.

• Needs to be carried and charged regularly.

• Daily data limits may apply depending on the provider.

SIM Cards

• Can be used directly in unlocked phones for calls and data.

• Often a budget-friendly choice for longer stays.

• Requires a passport for registration.

• Only works on one device.

eSIMs

• Activated digitally with no need to insert a physical SIM.

• Useful for unlocked phones that support eSIM.

• Ideal for flexible use across different countries.

• Not available on all devices, especially older models.

The best option depends on how long you’re staying, what devices you use, and how much data you need. 

SIM Card for Shanghai

Shanghai, one of China’s most lively cities, offers plenty of options for SIM cards. When selecting a SIM card for your stay, consider these key factors:

• Strong coverage in urban areas

• High-speed data for navigation and real-time transit updates

• Sufficient data allowance for sharing your experiences on social media

Most major providers offer excellent coverage in Shanghai, but it's worth checking user reviews for performance in specific areas you plan to visit, such as The Bund, Nanjing Road, or Xintiandi.

Alternatively, you can also check our eSIM Shanghai page.

Will my phone work in China?

To use a SIM card or a global eSIM in China, your phone must be unlocked and compatible with the local network bands. Most modern smartphones, including recent iPhone models and Samsung Galaxy devices generally work well with Chinese networks. Before your trip, make sure your device is unlocked and supports the LTE or 5G frequencies used by major carriers in China. If you're using an iPhone 11 or newer, or a Samsung Galaxy from the S series, you’re unlikely to face any compatibility issues.

FAQs

Where to buy a SIM card for China?

SIM cards are available at major airports in China, as well as at retail stores and mobile shops across the country. 

Do I need to register my SIM card with my passport?

Yes, all SIM cards in China require passport registration.

Is 5G available for tourists in China?

Yes, major Chinese carriers offer 5G coverage in most cities, and many tourist SIM plans include access to 5G networks.

Can I use an eSIM in China?

Yes, but only international travel eSIMs work in China, as local carriers don’t fully support eSIM for foreigners.

Sources:

https://english.shanghai.gov.cn/en-MobileServices/20231214/aa9cb3290ab84bbbbd60d0b74c27fdfb.html

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

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

https://www.chinaunicom.com.hk/en/global/home.php