Do eSIMs Work in China? Everything Travelers Need to Know (2025)

Yes, eSIMs do work in China, and you can use your eSIM-enabled device there. Foreign eSIMs can even bypass China's Great Firewall, giving you access to Google, WhatsApp, and other blocked services without needing a VPN. This makes eSIMs an ideal connectivity solution for travelers visiting China who want unrestricted internet access.

The confusion about eSIMs in China stems from the fact that most Chinese phones don't support eSIM technology, but this doesn't affect foreign travelers using eSIM-enabled devices. Whether you have an iPhone, Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, or other eSIM-compatible device, you can stay connected throughout your China trip.

In this guide, we'll explain exactly how eSIMs work in China, detail how foreign eSIMs bypass internet restrictions, and provide practical advice for travelers with eSIM-enabled devices.

Understanding eSIMs and China's Digital Landscape

Before diving into the specifics of using eSIMs in China, it's important to understand both the technology itself and China's unique internet environment.

China's Internet Regulations: The Great Firewall Explained

China maintains what's commonly known as the "Great Firewall", a sophisticated system of internet controls and censorship that restricts access to many foreign websites and services. This system affects all internet connections routed through Chinese telecommunications infrastructure.

Commonly blocked services in China include:

• Google services (Search, Gmail, Maps, Drive, etc.)
• Social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X, etc.)
• Messaging apps (WhatsApp, Telegram, etc.)
• International news sites (New York Times, BBC, etc.)
• Streaming services (YouTube, Netflix, etc.)
• Productivity tools (Dropbox, certain VPNs, etc.)

For travelers, this creates significant challenges in staying connected with familiar services and accessing important information.

eSIM Support in China

There's considerable confusion about eSIM support in China. Let's clarify the key facts:

1: eSIM-enabled devices work perfectly in China: If you have an eSIM-compatible phone or tablet from outside China, it will function normally in China. The device itself faces no restrictions.

2: Most Chinese phones don't support eSIMs: Phones sold within China (regardless of brand) typically don't include eSIM functionality. This applies to both domestic Chinese brands and international brands sold in the Chinese market.

3: Chinese carriers have limited eSIM support: China's major carriers (China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom) have begun supporting eSIM technology, but primarily for Chinese citizens with proper identification. Tourist eSIM options from these carriers are extremely limited.

4: The iPad 10th Generation was the first Apple device sold in China with eSIM support: In a notable shift, the iPad 10 (Wi-Fi + Cellular) became the first Apple device sold in China to include eSIM functionality, with China Unicom as the supported carrier.

Practical Guide: Using eSIMs for Your China Trip

Before You Travel: Preparation Steps

Verify device compatibility

• Ensure your device supports eSIM technology
• Check that your device is unlocked for international use
• Verify compatibility with Chinese network bands (most modern phones are compatible)

Purchase and install your eSIM before departure

• Buy your China eSIM while you still have reliable internet
• Follow the provider's installation instructions
• Complete activation but don't enable the plan yet

Download essential apps

• Install all necessary apps before arriving in China
• Consider offline maps (Maps.me, Google Maps offline)
• Download translation apps (Google Translate offline package)
• Install messaging apps you'll need

Prepare backup options

• Download a reliable VPN as a backup (ExpressVPN, Astrill, etc.)
• Save important addresses and contact information offline
• Consider a physical SIM as a secondary option if your device supports it

Note: Due to local restrictions, users physically located in Mainland China are currently unable to purchase new eSIM plans through the Nomad app or website. However, there are no restrictions on adding data add-ons to an existing Nomad eSIM plan if you've already activated a plan before entering China. You can top up your plan and continue using it without reinstallation. To ensure uninterrupted service, we recommend purchasing and activating your eSIM before arriving in China.

Frequently Asked Questions About eSIMs in China

Can I use my smartphone's eSIM (iPhone or Android) in China?

Yes, all eSIM-enabled smartphones work in China, including both iPhones and Android devices like Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, and other eSIM-compatible models. Your device will function normally in China with either international roaming through your home carrier or a travel eSIM.

Do eSIMs really bypass the Great Firewall?

Foreign eSIMs (like those from international travel eSIM providers) typically bypass the Great Firewall because they route your internet traffic through servers outside China. However, Chinese carrier eSIMs are subject to the same restrictions as regular Chinese SIM cards.

Will my eSIM-only phone work in China?

Yes, eSIM-only phones like US iPhone 14/15/16 models work perfectly in China when using either international roaming or a travel eSIM. The lack of a physical SIM slot doesn't affect functionality in China.

Can I Purchase a Nomad eSIM While in Mainland China?

Nomad eSIM plans cannot be newly purchased from within China due to local internet restrictions. However, if you’ve already installed a Nomad eSIM on your device before entering China, you’ll still be able to use the plan without issues. Additionally, there are no restrictions on purchasing add-ons for existing Nomad plans, meaning you can top up your data while in China as long as your eSIM is active.

Can I buy an eSIM from Chinese carriers as a tourist?

Currently, Chinese carriers offer limited eSIM options for tourists. While China Unicom has begun supporting eSIMs for some devices (like the iPad 10), tourist-friendly eSIM packages from Chinese carriers are not widely available. Foreign travel eSIMs remain the most practical option for most visitors.

Nomad eSIM for China: Unrestricted Connectivity

Skip the SIM card swaps and bypass China's internet restrictions effortlessly with Nomad's travel eSIM. With data plans starting from just $0.98/GB, you can stay connected without the high costs of roaming or the limitations of local networks.

Because Nomad’s eSIM routes your connection through international servers, you’ll have access to Google, WhatsApp, YouTube, and other essential services that are normally blocked in China—no VPN required. It's a simple, reliable solution for travelers who want unrestricted internet on arrival.

Need help choosing the right data plan? Use Nomad’s Data Calculator to find your ideal option in under a minute.

Still deciding whether a VPN is necessary for your trip? Read our full guide to using VPNs in China to see when it might be helpful.

Pro tip: Purchase and install your eSIM before departure to ensure you're connected the moment you land!