Please note that the information provided here is for reference purposes only. Ensure you verify any related information directly from the official resource to avoid any misinformation or understandings: https://www.mct.gov.cn/

Internet & SIM Cards

SIM Card

Visitors may bring their passports or Foreign Permanent Resident ID Cards to the service branches of telecom operators such as China Telecom, China Mobile, and China Unicom, to purchase a SIM card and activate mobile communication services in China.

Most mobile network service plans typically include a designated amount of call time and mobile data. Different operators offer a variety of plans tailored to user needs, allowing customers to select the most suitable option.

Note: The plans often offer a limited amount of data. Users can disable internet access when not using internet services. For substantial or frequent data usage, it is recommended to consult with the telecom operator to choose or subscribe to a plan with a more adequate data allowance.

Where to Buy

Airports
Many international airports in China, including Beijing Capital International Airport, Shanghai Pudong International Airport, and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, have dedicated kiosks or stores where you can purchase SIM cards upon arrival. These airport vendors typically offer tourist-friendly packages with varying data allowances and validity periods.
Mobile Operator Stores
Visit official stores or authorized retailers of major Chinese mobile operators such as China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom to buy a prepaid SIM card. You can find these stores in shopping malls, commercial districts, and tourist areas throughout China, where staff can assist you in selecting a suitable plan and activating your SIM card.

eSIM

(Suitable for short-term visitors with eSIM-compatible devices)

Phones used should support eSIM (e.g., iPhone XS or later models, some Android models).

In Chinese mainland, several models, including iPhone Air support local eSIM activation. Other models require an international eSIM provider for activation.

It is recommended to purchase a regional eSIM plan from global providers like Airalo or Nomad that includes data coverage in China before arrival, and activate it upon entry.

Which One is the Best for Tourists?

China offers various types of SIM cards, each catering to different needs and usage scenarios. Let’s explore the different categories and determine which option is best suited for tourists visiting the country.

Criteria	Types of SIM Cards	Description	Benefits for Tourists
By Form	Physical SIM Card	A plastic card that inserts directly into the phone. Available from China’s major carriers like China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom. Require registration with ID.	Wide availability from carrier stores. Required for some older phones that don’t support eSIM.
	eSIM	A digital SIM embedded directly into the phone. No physical card.	More convenient than physical SIM card. Avoids registration process with Chinese carriers. Supports latest iPhones and devices.
By Function	Data-Only SIM Card	Provides only mobile data and internet access. No voice/SMS services. Available from Chinese and international carriers.	Sufficient for tourists mostly using data and apps. More cost effective if not needing voice/SMS.
	Voice and Data SIM Card	Provides both voice calls and SMS in addition to data. Available from Chinese carriers and roaming options from HK carriers.	More full-featured option if also needing basic calling/messaging in addition to data.
	Tourist SIM Cards	Special plans targeted at tourists with higher data allowances and validity periods. Available from international roaming providers and HK carriers.	Caters plans specifically to temporary travel needs. More cost effective than standard Chinese SIMs for short stays.