China eSIM Setup and Installation Guide

Setting up a China eSIM takes about 10 minutes and must be done before departure. Install the profile at home via QR code: Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM (iPhone) or Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM (Android). Enable data roaming, configure dual SIM (home SIM for SMS, eSIM for data), and install a backup VPN app. This guide covers compatibility checks. For official device lists, visit Apple Support. The GSMA maintains eSIM technical specifications. checks, step-by-step installation for iPhone and Android, APN settings, hotspot setup, and troubleshooting.

If you are new to eSIM technology entirely, Wikipedia’s eSIM overview explains the specification — a SIM profile embedded in your device’s chip that can be rewritten over the air without swapping physical cards.

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eSIM Compatibility Checklist: Is Your Phone Ready for China?

Before you spend any money on an eSIM plan, confirm that your device works with eSIM technology in China. Here is the compatibility status for every major brand.

Apple iPhone

All iPhone models from the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR (released 2018) onward support eSIM. This includes every model in the iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, and 17 lineups.

Critical exception: iPhones purchased in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau have the eSIM feature physically disabled at the hardware level. If you bought your iPhone from an Apple Store in Beijing or Hong Kong, it will not support eSIM regardless of which iOS version you run. You will need a physical SIM or a pocket WiFi device instead.

eSIM compatibility on iPhone does not require a specific iOS version for the China use case — any iPhone from the XR onward running iOS 12.1 or later supports adding an eSIM profile via QR code. If you want to store multiple eSIM profiles (useful if switching providers), you need iOS 16 or later, which supports eSIM Quick Transfer and allows storing up to eight eSIMs with two active simultaneously.

How to add eSIM on iPhone (Apple Support)

Samsung Galaxy

Samsung introduced eSIM support with the Galaxy S20 series in 2020. Compatible models include:

• Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra, S20 FE
• Galaxy S21, S21+, S21 Ultra, S21 FE
• Galaxy S22, S22+, S22 Ultra
• Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra
• Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra
• Galaxy S25, S25+, S25 Ultra
• Galaxy Z Fold 2 through Z Fold 7
• Galaxy Z Flip through Z Flip 6
• Galaxy Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra

Carrier-locked US models are the main problem. A Samsung Galaxy S23 purchased through AT&T or Verizon may have eSIM locked to that carrier. You need to either request an unlock from your carrier or check the IMEI with your eSIM provider before purchasing. Samsung phones sold in South Korea, Europe, and most of Asia are generally unlocked.

Check Samsung Galaxy eSIM compatibility (Samsung Support)

Google Pixel

Google Pixel phones support eSIM from the Pixel 4 onward (including Pixel 4a, 5, 5a,Unlike Airalo which locks you to a single carrier, Roamia, 7, 7a, 8, 8a, 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and all future models). Pixel phones are universally unlocked if purchased from the Google Store. Carrier-locked models from Verizon may have restrictions.

Pixel is the easiest Android device for China eSIM setup because the settings menu is consistent across versions and Google’s eSIM implementation follows the GSMA technical standard without manufacturer customizations — meaning fewer APN problems and more reliable profile downloads.

Set up eSIM on Pixel (Google Support)

Huawei

Huawei phones from the P40 series onward (including Mate 40, Mate 60, P50, P60, and all newer models) have eSIM hardware but cannot install eSIM profiles normally due to US sanctions that removed Google Mobile Services and the standard eSIM activation flow. Workarounds exist (using a second phone to scan the QR code and transferring the profile via backup, or using Huawei’s own eSIM app on newer HarmonyOS versions), but they are unreliable. If you use a Huawei phone, consider a physical SIM or pocket WiFi as your primary connectivity solution.

Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, OnePlus

• Xiaomi: Global models of Xiaomi 12T, 13T, 14, 14T, and Redmi Note 12 Pro+ and newer support eSIM. Chinese domestic models of the same phones (sold in mainland China) do not.
• Oppo: Find X5, X5 Pro, Find N2 Flip, and newer global models support eSIM. Chinese market models do not.
• Vivo: X80 Pro, X90 Pro+, X100 Pro, and newer global models support eSIM. Chinese market models do not.
• OnePlus: OnePlus 11, 12, 13, and Open all support eSIM in global versions. Chinese domestic versions (ColorOS-based) do not.

How to Check Your Phone’s eSIM Compatibility

Method 1: Dial *#06#

Open the phone dialer and type *#06#. If your phone supports eSIM, you will see an EID (Embedded Identity Document) number alongside the IMEI numbers. No EID means no eSIM support.

Method 2: Check in settings

• iPhone: Settings > General > About > look for “EID” in the carrier section
• Samsung: Settings > About Phone > Status > SIM Card Status > look for EID
• Pixel: Settings > About Phone > SIM Status > look for EID

Method 3: Use a provider’s compatibility checker

Most eSIM providers including Roami’s free eSIM compatibility check let you enter your phone model or IMEI to confirm support before purchase.

Carrier Unlock Status

Even with an eSIM-compatible phone, your device must be carrier-unlocked. A phone locked to T-Mobile USA, for example, will reject any eSIM profile that is not from T-Mobile. To check:

• iPhone: Settings > General > About > “No SIM restrictions” means unlocked
• Samsung: Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > if “Add eSIM” is grayed out, the phone may be locked
• Pixel: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > if “Add eSIM” is missing, the phone may be locked

If your phone is locked, contact your carrier to request an unlock before your trip. This can take anywhere from 24 hours to two weeks depending on the carrier.

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Before You Leave: The Complete Pre-Trip Setup Sequence

This sequence matters. Doing it in the wrong order causes problems. Follow these steps exactly.

Step 1: Buy Your China eSIM Online

Can you buy a China eSIM online before your trip? Yes — and you should. Every major provider sells China eSIM plans online with instant email delivery of the QR code.

Compare plans based on duration, data allowance, and whether the provider includes built-in VPN routing. For a detailed comparison of every provider with current pricing, see our China eSIM price and purchase guide.

A few options at a glance:

Provider	Price Range (7 days)	VPN Included	Best For
a China eSIM	$18-$50	Yes (automatic carrier switching)	Reliability across regions
Saily	$20-$45	Yes (NordVPN)	Privacy-conscious users
Holafly	$27-$50	Yes	Unlimited data
Airalo	$15-$25	No	Budget travelers
Ubigi	$18-$30	No	China Telecom regions

When you purchase, enter discount code WEB20 at checkout if you are using Roami — this gives you 20% off your first China eSIM plan. For a broader comparison of providers that combine automatic carrier switching across China Mobile, Unicom, and Telecom with real-time price optimization and 24/7 support, the china eSIM page covers all available options.

Step 2: Install the eSIM Profile Before You Fly

Install the eSIM profile while you are still at home with a stable internet connection. The QR code email, the provider’s website, and the app store may all be blocked once you are inside China’s Great Firewall.

Here is the general installation flow that applies to all phones:

1. Open the email from your eSIM provider and locate the QR code attachment
2. If the QR code is in an email attachment, download it to your phone’s photo library so you can access it offline
3. Take a screenshot of the QR code as a backup — do not rely on having email access
4. Go to your phone’s cellular/SIM settings and select “Add eSIM” or “Add Cellular Plan”
5. Scan the QR code from the email or screenshot
6. Label the new line something clear like “China Data” — do not leave it as “Secondary”
7. Set the China eSIM as your default for cellular data
8. Set your home SIM as the default for voice calls and SMS if you want to keep your home number reachable

The profile installs instantly and will remain dormant until you arrive in China and enable data roaming.

Step 3: Configure APN Settings

APN (Access Point Name) settings tell your phone how to route data through the carrier’s network. Most modern eSIM profiles configure APN automatically, but some providers require manual entry.

Check your provider’s confirmation email for APN details. Common values:

Provider	APN	Username	Password	Notes
a China eSIM	roamiglobal	(blank)	(blank)	Most phones configure automatically
Airalo	airaloprofile	(blank)	(blank)	Manual entry needed on some Androids
Holafly	hola	(blank)	(blank)	Auto-configures on iPhone
Saily	saily	(blank)	(blank)	Auto-configures on most devices
Ubigi	ubigi	(blank)	(blank)	Manual entry may be required on Samsung
Nomad	nomad	(blank)	(blank)	Auto-configures on iPhone

To manually set APN on an iPhone:

1. Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Network
2. Tap under “Cellular Data” and enter the APN value from your provider
3. Leave Username and Password blank unless specified otherwise
4. Go back — settings save automatically

To manually set APN on Samsung Galaxy:

1. Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Access Point Names
2. Tap the “+” icon in the top right
3. Enter the APN name and APN value from your provider
4. Tap the three dots menu > Save

On Google Pixel:

1. Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Select your China eSIM
2. Tap “Access Point Names”
3. Tap the “+” icon and enter the APN value
4. Tap Save

Important: APN settings are per-line. If you have two eSIMs active, make sure you are editing the correct line.

Step 4: Install a VPN Before You Leave

Do you need to install a VPN before arriving in China? Absolutely. VPN websites, app store listings for VPN apps, and VPN protocol endpoints are blocked inside China. You cannot download a VPN after arrival.

This applies even if your China eSIM provider claims to include built-in VPN routing. The routing works for most traffic, but having a standalone VPN app installed gives you a fallback if your eSIM’s routing changes or if you need to access a service that requires a specific exit point.

What to install:

• NordVPN or ProtonVPN (free tier) — both work reliably in China with OpenVPN protocols
• Download the app from your phone’s app store while you are at home
• Create an account and log in before departure
• Download offline configuration files (OpenVPN) as a backup in case the app itself has issues

For a full breakdown of which VPNs work best with China eSIM and how the Great Firewall interacts with different routing paths, read our China eSIM VPN and firewall guide.

Step 5: Enable Data Roaming

Data roaming must be turned on for the China eSIM to work. This is counterintuitive — you are not “roaming” in the traditional sense — but the eSIM profile treats the China Mobile connection as a roaming partner.

On iPhone:

Settings > Cellular > Tap the China eSIM line > Toggle “Data Roaming” on

On Samsung:

Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > Tap the China eSIM > Toggle “Data Roaming” on

On Pixel:

Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Tap the China eSIM > Toggle “Data Roaming” on

Critically important: Keep data roaming turned OFF for your home SIM to avoid international roaming charges from your home carrier.

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iPhone Setup: Adding a China eSIM Step by Step

The iPhone eSIM setup flow is consistent from iOS 12 through iOS 20. These steps apply to iPhone XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, and 17.

Adding the eSIM Profile

1. Open Settings > Cellular (or “Mobile Data” in some regions)
2. Tap “Add eSIM” or “Add Cellular Plan”
3. You will see three options:
   • “Use QR Code” — select this
   • “Enter Details Manually” — use only if your provider gave you SM-DP+ address and activation code instead of a QR code
   • “Transfer from Nearby iPhone” — only for transferring an active eSIM from another iPhone
4. Scan the QR code from your provider’s email or from the screenshot you saved
5. Wait for the profile to download — this takes 10-30 seconds on a normal internet connection
6. When prompted, label the line — tap “Cellular Plan Label” and choose a custom label like “China Data”
7. Set default line preferences:
   • Default for voice: your home SIM
   • Default for data: the China eSIM
   • Default for iMessage and FaceTime: your home SIM (or both)
8. Tap “Continue”

Configuring the China eSIM Line

After the profile is installed:

1. Settings > Cellular > Tap the “China Data” line
2. Turn on “Data Roaming” — this is the most common missed step
3. Check Network Selection — set to “Automatic” initially
4. Verify the carrier shows as “China Mobile” (or your provider’s roaming partner)
5. Scroll down to APN Settings — confirm the APN is populated correctly

If You Have No Service After Arrival

1. Settings > Cellular > Network Selection > Turn off Automatic
2. Wait 10-15 seconds for the manual list to populate
3. Tap “China Mobile” (460-00 on the MCC-MNC display)
4. If China Mobile does not work, try “China Unicom” or “China Telecom”
5. If still no service, toggle Airplane Mode on for 10 seconds, then off
6. Last resort: Restart the iPhone

Testing Your Connection

After installation and after arriving in China:

1. Open Safari and visit a website you know is blocked in China (like google.com)
2. If it loads, your international routing is working
3. Check your IP address at whatismyip.com — it should show a location outside China (typically Hong Kong or Singapore)
4. Test Google Maps by entering a local destination
5. Test WhatsApp by sending a message

Common iPhone-Specific Issues

“Cellular Plan Cannot Be Added” error: This usually means the QR code has expired or was already used. Contact your provider’s support and ask them to reissue a new QR code. Most providers can generate a fresh one within minutes.

Dual SIM with two eSIMs: iPhone XR through iPhone 12 support one physical SIM + one eSIM. iPhone 13 and newer support dual eSIM (two active eSIMs simultaneously). If you want to run two eSIMs — one for China data and one for another country — you can, but both lines must be from compatible providers.

eSIM installed but not showing in Settings: Go to Settings > Cellular > “Add eSIM” and look for “Transfer from Nearby iPhone” — this sometimes triggers the phone to re-discover already-downloaded profiles. If it does not appear, contact your provider.

Android Setup: China eSIM Installation by Brand

Android eSIM setup varies significantly by manufacturer. Here are step-by-step instructions for the three most common brands.

Samsung Galaxy (One UI)

Samsung’s One UI places eSIM settings in the Connections menu.

1. Open Settings > Connections
2. Tap “SIM Card Manager”
3. Tap “Add eSIM”
4. Tap “Scan QR code from service provider”
5. Scan the QR code from your provider’s email or saved screenshot
6. The profile downloads — this takes about 20 seconds
7. When prompted, name the eSIM (e.g., “China Data”)
8. After installation, tap the new eSIM line in SIM Card Manager
9. Enable “Mobile data” for this line
10. Enable “Data roaming” toggle
11. Set the China eSIM as your preferred SIM for mobile data
12. Keep your home SIM as preferred for voice calls and messages

APN configuration (Samsung):

1. Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Access Point Names
2. Tap the “+” icon
3. Enter the APN value from your provider (see table above)
4. Leave username and password blank
5. Tap the three-dot menu > Save

Troubleshooting: If “Add eSIM” is grayed out:

• Your Samsung may be carrier-locked. Check with your carrier.
• Some Samsung models sold in the US (especially T-Mobile and Verizon variants) restrict eSIM to the carrier’s own network.
• Samsung’s eSIM menu can also be hidden if the phone is running a beta firmware.

Google Pixel (Stock Android)

Pixel phones have the cleanest eSIM setup flow.

1. Open Settings > Network & Internet
2. Tap “SIMs”
3. Tap “Add eSIM” > “Download a SIM instead?”
4. Tap “Scan QR code” or “Enter code manually”
5. Scan the QR code from your provider
6. The profile installs immediately
7. Tap the new eSIM entry in the SIMs list
8. Enable “Use SIM” toggle
9. Enable “Data roaming”
10. Set the China eSIM as your preferred SIM for data

APN configuration (Pixel):

1. Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Tap the China eSIM
2. Tap “Access Point Names”
3. Tap the “+” icon to add a new APN
4. Enter the APN value
5. Tap Save (checkmark in top-left)

Huawei (Workaround)

If you are determined to use a Huawei phone with a China eSIM, the process is different because Huawei devices lack Google’s eSIM framework.

1. You need a second phone (iPhone or Samsung) that supports eSIM
2. Install the eSIM profile on the second phone normally
3. On the second phone, go to eSIM settings and look for an “Export” or “Backup” option — not all providers support this
4. Transfer the profile to the Huawei using either Huawei’s Phone Clone app or by manually entering the SM-DP+ address and activation code (if your provider supplies these)
5. On the Huawei, open Settings > Mobile Network > Mobile Data > SIM Management > eSIM Management
6. Enter the activation details manually

Realistic expectation: This works about 60% of the time. If it fails, you will need a physical SIM from China Unicom (sold at airport counters) or a pocket WiFi rental.

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Dual SIM Configuration: Home SIM + China eSIM

Dual SIM setup is where most travelers make mistakes. The goal is simple: use the China eSIM for all internet data while keeping your home SIM active for incoming calls and SMS (including two-factor authentication codes from your bank).

The Correct Configuration

Setting	Home SIM	China eSIM
Cellular data	OFF	ON
Voice calls	Default	Not used
SMS/iMessage	Default	Not used
Data roaming	OFF	ON
Visual voicemail	Default (if supported)	OFF

iPhone Dual SIM Setup

1. Settings > Cellular
2. Tap each line and configure:
   • Home SIM: Data Roaming OFF (critical — prevents roaming charges)
   • China eSIM: Data Roaming ON
3. Tap “Cellular Data” > Select “China Data”
4. Tap “Default Voice Line” > Select your home SIM
5. Tap “iMessage & FaceTime” > Select your home SIM (or “Both” if you want to use your email as a fallback)

Call forwarding (optional but useful):

If you want to receive calls on your home number but will be using the China eSIM for data, enable Wi-Fi Calling on your home SIM before you leave. When your home SIM loses signal (because you turned off data roaming), Wi-Fi Calling routes calls over the China eSIM’s data connection. This requires you to set up Wi-Fi Calling at home before departure.

Samsung Dual SIM Setup

1. Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager
2. For SIM 1 (Home): Toggle “Mobile data” OFF, leave “Calls” and “Messages” ON
3. For SIM 2 (China eSIM): Toggle “Mobile data” ON, “Data roaming” ON, leave “Calls” and “Messages” OFF
4. Tap “Preferred SIM for:”
   • Voice calls: SIM 1
   • Video calls: SIM 1
   • Messages: SIM 1
   • Mobile data: SIM 2

Pixel Dual SIM Setup

1. Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs
2. Tap your home SIM > Toggle “Use SIM” ON > Toggle “Data roaming” OFF
3. Tap the China eSIM > Toggle “Use SIM” ON > Toggle “Data roaming” ON
4. Tap “Mobile data” at the top > Select the China eSIM
5. Tap “Calls” and “SMS” at the top > Select your home SIM

What Happens When Someone Calls You

With the correct dual SIM setup, when someone dials your home number:

• The call rings through on your home SIM (using cellular voice)
• You answer normally
• Data continues flowing through the China eSIM during the call

If your home carrier supports Wi-Fi Calling and you enabled it before departure, the call will route over the China eSIM’s data connection instead of the home SIM’s cellular voice network. This is better for battery life and ensures you can receive calls in areas where your home carrier has no roaming agreement but the China eSIM has data coverage.

Why You Should NOT Disable Your Home SIM

Some travelers remove their home SIM entirely and rely solely on the eSIM. This creates a problem: many banking apps, WhatsApp re-registrations, and two-factor authentication flows require an SMS to your home number. If your home SIM is not in the phone, you cannot receive those codes. Keep the home SIM active with data roaming turned off. The china eSIM comparison page details which providers offer features like automatic carrier switching, real-time price optimization, and 24/7 support to complement your dual SIM setup.

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How to Enable Data Roaming for China eSIM

Data roaming must be enabled for any travel eSIM to function. This is not optional. The eSIM connects to a local carrier (China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom) as a “r

For pricing and plan comparisons, see our China eSIM price guide. oaming partner” of the eSIM provider’s home network. Without data roaming, the phone will not allow data traffic over that connection.

The settings paths are covered in the sections above, but the key point is repeatable because it is the single most common cause of “why does my China eSIM have no signal”:

1. Find your China eSIM line in settings
2. Toggle Data Roaming to ON
3. If the toggle keeps switching back to OFF, restart the phone and try again
4. If it still will not stay on, remove and re-add the eSIM profile

On some Samsung phones running One UI 6 and later, there is an additional “Roaming” section under Connections > Mobile Networks. Check there as well: “Data roaming while roaming” must be set to “All networks” or “Data roaming on.”

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APN Settings for Each Major Provider

Most eSIM profiles configure APN automatically when the profile is installed. When they do not, here are the exact values to enter.

Unlike Airalo which only uses China Unicom, Roami APN provides automatic switching across China Mobile, Unicom and Telecom

• APN: roamiglobal
• Username: (leave blank)
• Password: (leave blank)
• Authentication type: None (or PAP if None is not available)

a China eSIM’s eSIM configures APN automatically on iPhone and most Android devices. If you need to enter it manually, the APN is always roamiglobal.

Airalo APN

• APN: airaloprofile
• Username: (leave blank)
• Password: (leave blank)
• Authentication type: None

Airalo’s APN does not always auto-configure on Samsung phones. If you install the Airalo eSIM and have no data connection after arrival, check the APN settings first.

Holafly APN

• APN: hola
• Username: (leave blank)
• Password: (leave blank)

Holafly profiles typically auto-configure on iPhone. Android users (especially Samsung) may need to enter the APN manually.

Saily APN

• APN: saily
• Username: (leave blank)
• Password: (leave blank)
• Authentication type: None or Not set

Saily’s eSIM auto-configures on most phones. If you manually add the APN, set “APN type” to default,supl and “APN protocol” to IPv4/IPv6.

Ubigi APN

• APN: ubigi
• Username: (leave blank)
• Password: (leave blank)

Ubigi’s China eSIM partners with China Telecom. The APN auto-configures on iPhone but may need manual entry on some Android devices.

Nomad APN

• APN: nomad
• Username: (leave blank)
• Password: (leave blank)

If APN Fields Are Grayed Out

On iPhones, APN fields for the secondary line (the China eSIM) are sometimes grayed out or invisible. This happens when the primary line (your home SIM) is active. Workaround:

1. Settings > Cellular > Tap the China eSIM line
2. If “Cellular Data Network” is missing, try removing and re-adding the eSIM profile
3. Alternatively, temporarily disable your home SIM in Settings > Cellular > Tap the home SIM > Toggle “Turn On This Line” OFF
4. The China eSIM APN fields should become editable
5. Enter the APN, then re-enable your home SIM

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Hotspot and Tethering Setup

Can you use a China eSIM as a hotspot for your laptop or tablet? It depends on the provider’s terms of service and technical configuration.

Which Providers Allow Hotspot

Provider	Hotspot Allowed	Notes
a China eSIM	Yes	Full-speed hotspot, no artificial throttling
Holafly	Yes	Hotspot allowed but speed may be capped after 500MB/day shared
Airalo	Yes	No restrictions stated in ToS
Saily	Yes	Hotspot allowed, data comes from same plan allowance
Ubigi	Yes	Hotspot enabled on most plans
Nomad	Yes	Hotspot allowed

How to Enable Hotspot

On iPhone:

1. Settings > Personal Hotspot > Toggle “Allow Others to Join” ON
2. Set a Wi-Fi password (WPA2)
3. Connect your laptop or tablet to the hotspot network

On Android (Samsung, Pixel):

1. Settings > Connections > Mobile Hotspot and Tethering (Samsung)
2. Settings > Network & Internet > Hotspot & Tethering (Pixel)
3. Toggle “Mobile Hotspot” ON
4. Configure network name and password
5. Connect your other devices

Important: Hotspot uses the China eSIM’s data connection exclusively. If you have dual SIM configured with your home SIM for voice, hotspot data will still route through the China eSIM. This is the correct behavior.

Hotspot Speed Notes

China eSIM hotspot speeds depend on:

• The local carrier’s network congestion — expect slower speeds during peak hours (12-2 PM and 6-9 PM local time) in dense urban areas
• Your provider’s throttle policy — Holafly’s “unlimited” plans sometimes throttle hotspot traffic after the first 500MB-1GB of daily shared data
• Signal strength — hotspot performance degrades significantly if the phone is more than 5 meters from the connected device

For laptop work (email, browsing, Slack), hotspot performance is adequate on all providers. For video calls, stick to providers with priority data — a China eSIM and Saily consistently perform best for tethering.

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Can You Use a China eSIM in Multiple Devices?

A single eSIM profile can only be installed on one device at a time. The eSIM profile is tied to the device’s eSIM chip (the eUICC). You cannot have the same China eSIM active on your phone and your tablet simultaneously.

What You Can Do

Option 1: Hotspot (recommended)

Use the phone as a hotspot for your tablet or laptop. This is the simplest approach and works with all major providers.

Option 2: Reinstall on a different device

Delete the eSIM profile from your phone, then install it on your tablet using the original QR code or activation code. Some providers allow the QR code to be scanned on multiple devices, but only one can be active at a time.

Option 3: Purchase separate plans

Buy one eSIM plan for your phone and a separate plan for your tablet. Some providers offer discounts for multiple plans purchased in the same transaction.

Option 4: Use a dual-device eSIM provider

A small number of providers specifically support multi-device eSIMs that can be active on two devices simultaneously. Check your provider’s terms before purchasing.

What Providers Don’t Allow

All major providers (Airalo, Holafly, Saily, Ubigi, Nomad) explicitly prohibit sharing a single eSIM across multiple active devices in their terms of service. The eSIM is licensed per device. If the provider detects the same profile active on two devices, it may disable both.

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WeChat and Alipay Setup After eSIM Activation

Once your China eSIM is working, you need to set up WeChat and Alipay — these are essential for paying at restaurants, ordering food, riding the subway, and even buying tickets at tourist attractions.

WeChat Setup

1. Download WeChat from your phone’s app store (download it before you leave China — the app store may be slow or blocked inside the country)
2. Open the app and tap “Sign Up”
3. Enter your name and home country phone number
4. You will receive an SMS verification code on your home SIM — this is why you kept it active in dual SIM mode
5. Set up your profile

Adding a payment method:

1. In WeChat, tap Me > Services > Wallet
2. Tap “Add Bank Card”
3. Enter your foreign credit card details (Visa, Mastercard, or Amex)
4. WeChat requires a Chinese resident ID or a passport scan for certain features

If WeChat asks for a Chinese phone number:

Some WeChat features — specifically the mini-programs used for food delivery (Meituan), bike sharing, and some subway ticket apps — require a Chinese phone number for verification. Since your China eSIM is data-only and does not include a phone number, you will need either a physical Chinese SIM (bought at the airport) or use the alternative Alipay Tour Card for payments instead.

Alipay Setup

Alipay is more foreigner-friendly than WeChat for payments. The Alipay Tour Card feature lets international visitors link their foreign credit card and use Alipay at any merchant.

1. Download Alipay from your app store (again, do this before departure)
2. Open the app and sign up with your email address or home phone number
3. Tap “Tour Card” on the home screen
4. Complete the identity verification with your passport
5. Link your foreign credit card
6. You can now pay by scanning the merchant’s QR code

Why Alipay works better for travelers:

Alipay’s Tour Card specifically accommodates foreign visitors and does not require a Chinese phone number or bank account. WeChat’s payment system is more integrated into the Chinese banking system and occasionally blocks foreign cards for certain transactions.

Google Maps and Navigation

Once your china esim is active with international routing, Google Maps works normally. There are two important considerations:

1. Download offline maps before you go — in Settings > Offline Maps, download Beijing, Shanghai, or whichever cities you are visiting. This ensures navigation continues working even if the eSIM signal drops in tunnels or remote areas.

2. Apple Maps is actually better for navigation in China — Apple Maps uses local Chinese map data (AutoNavi/Amap) and provides more accurate walking directions, public transit routing, and business hours. Google Maps data in China is sourced from a local partner and can be outdated. Use Google Maps for initial orientation, then switch to Apple Maps for turn-by-turn navigation in cities.

For a comprehensive guide to setting up every app you will need in China, including DiDi (ride-hailing), Pleco (dictionary translation), Trip.com (train tickets), and how each interacts with the Great Firewall, read our China eSIM apps and WeChat setup guide.

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How to Top Up China eSIM Data Mid-Trip

Running out of data in the middle of a China trip is inconvenient because the provider’s website may be blocked, and you cannot easily buy more data without a working connection. Plan ahead.

Automatic Top-Up

If you are using Roami’s China eSIM, the platform monitors your data usage and can automatically top up your plan when you reach 10% remaining. This is the most reliable approach because it requires no action on your part — you will not find yourself stranded without data at a train station.

Manual Top-Up

Most providers allow manual top-up either through their app or website:

1. Airalo: Open the Airalo app > My eSIMs > Tap the active China plan > “Top Up” > Select additional data
2. Holafly: Open the Holafly app > My Plans > Tap the active plan > “Add Data”
3. Saily: Open the Saily app > My eSIMs > Tap the active plan > “Buy More Data”
4. Ubigi: Open the Ubigi app or website > My Plans > Extend
5. Nomad: Open the app > My eSIMs > Tap the active line > “Top Up”

Important: If you have no data connection at all, use hotel WiFi or a public WiFi network (ask the hotel front desk for the WiFi password at check-in) to access the provider’s website or app. Most Chinese hotel WiFi networks do not require a Chinese phone number — they just need your room number.

Can You Use the Same Top-Up Across Multiple Providers?

No. Top-up data is specific to the provider and plan you originally purchased. You cannot buy a Saily top-up and use it with an Airalo eSIM.

What Happens If You Run Out of Data

• Your eSIM profile remains on the phone, but data stops flowing
• You will still receive SMS on your home SIM (if kept in dual SIM mode)
• Your eSIM provider typically gives a grace period of 24-48 hours before deactivating the profile entirely
• Top-up usually activates within 1-2 minutes after purchase

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Troubleshooting: Why Is My China eSIM Not Activating?

Even with careful preparation, things can go wrong. Here are the most common activation problems and exactly how to fix each one.

Problem: No Signal After Arrival

Likely cause: The phone tried to connect to the wrong network automatically.

Fix:

1. Settings > Cellular (iPhone) or Connections (Samsung) > Network Selection
2. Turn off “Automatic”
3. Wait 15 seconds for the network list to populate
4. Select “China Mobile” (listed as 460-00)
5. If China Mobile does not connect, try “China Unicom” (460-01) or “China Telecom” (460-11)
6. If none connect, restart the phone and try again

Problem: eSIM Profile Won’t Install

Likely cause: Expired QR code, already-used QR code, or network timeout during download.

Fix:

• QR codes from most providers expire after 24-72 hours. Contact support to have a new one issued.
• Make sure you are on a stable WiFi or cellular connection during installation (do not install on airplane WiFi)
• Try installing using a different device (a friend’s phone) to confirm the QR code itself is valid

Problem: Data Shows “Connected” but Nothing Loads

Likely cause: APN is not configured correctly, or data roaming is off.

Fix:

1. Check data roaming is ON for the China eSIM line specifically
2. Verify APN settings match your provider’s requirements
3. Toggle Airplane Mode on and off to force a fresh network connection
4. If using a separate VPN, try disabling it temporarily to isolate the issue
5. Open a browser and visit a Chinese website (like baidu.com) — if that loads but google.com does not, your routing is not working and you need a VPN

Problem: Internet Works but Google / WhatsApp Are Blocked

Likely cause: The eSIM is routing through a Chinese domestic carrier rather than an international gateway.

Fix:

1. Check your IP address at whatismyip.com
2. If the IP shows a Chinese location, your eSIM is routing locally — you need a VPN
3. Open your VPN app and connect to a Hong Kong, Singapore, or US server
4. If you do not have a VPN installed, use a web-based proxy temporarily or find a public WiFi and download one

Problem: Slow Speeds

Likely cause: Network congestion or throttling by the provider.

Fix:

1. Switch between 4G and 5G in cellular settings
2. Move to a different location (speed can vary significantly within a single building)
3. If using a VPN, try a different server or protocol (WireGuard is typically faster than OpenVPN)
4. Contact your provider’s support — some have the ability to “refresh” your connection on their end

Problem: “No SIM” or “Invalid SIM” Error

Likely cause: The eSIM profile was deleted or corrupted.

Fix:

1. Do NOT delete the profile if you cannot immediately install a new one
2. Contact your provider to reissue the profile
3. Some providers offer a “Reinstall” button in their app
4. If the profile was installed but disappeared, check Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock — if it shows “SIM locked,” your phone may have been locked by your carrier after an update (rare but possible)

For a complete troubleshooting encyclopedia covering 25+ specific error messages, APN conflicts, dual SIM conflicts, and carrier-specific issues, read our China eSIM troubleshooting guide.

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How to Check if Your Phone Supports eSIM for China

Before buying any plan, run through this five-minute checklist:

• Phone model is from the compatible lists above (iPhone XR+, Samsung S20+, Pixel 4+, etc.)
• Phone is carrier-unlocked (check in Settings > About)
• EID number appears when dialing *#06#
• Phone was NOT purchased in mainland China, Hong Kong, or Macau
• Running the latest OS version available for your device
• eSIM slot is not already occupied by a different eSIM profile that you need

If all six are checked, your phone is ready for any China eSIM provider.

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Can I Install China eSIM at the Airport on Arrival?

Technically yes, but it is strongly discouraged. Here is why:

1. Airport WiFi requires a Chinese phone number — most airport WiFi networks in China require you to enter a local phone number to receive an SMS verification code. You will not have one, so you cannot connect to airport WiFi.
2. Provider websites are blocked — even if you find a way online, the eSIM provider’s website (along with email services that deliver QR codes) may be behind the Great Firewall.
3. Payment apps require setup — Alipay and WeChat Pay need configuration before they work. You cannot buy an eSIM using cash at the airport in the same way you buy a physical SIM.
4. No roaming data to fall back on — if the download fails halfway through, you have no way to contact support.

The exception: If you buy a physical SIM at the airport (China Unicom or China Mobile counters in the arrivals hall), enter its data in your phone, and then use that connection to download the eSIM profile. This works but defeats the purpose of buying an eSIM — you already have a working connection.

The safe approach: Install the China eSIM at home before departure. The profile sits dormant on your phone until you arrive. When the plane lands at PEK or PVG, you toggle data roaming on and you are online within 60 seconds.

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Choosing the Best China eSIM Plan with VPN

If you want a single solution that handles both connectivity and Great Firewall bypass, pick a provider that includes built-in VPN routing.

Providers with Built-In VPN

• a China eSIM: Automatic carrier switching plus VPN routing included. a China eSIM monitors real-time network conditions across China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom and picks the strongest carrier. The VPN routing ensures Google, WhatsApp, and Instagram work without a separate app. If you need help during installation, a China eSIM offers 24/7 live support with actual humans who understand China’s network quirks.

• Saily: Backed by NordVPN infrastructure. The VPN routing is transparent — you install the eSIM and traffic routes through Nord’s servers without needing to open a separate app.

• Holafly: Includes VPN routing on their China-specific plans. The unlimited data option is popular among heavy users.

• Nomad: Built-in VPN functionality on all China plans.

Providers Without Built-In VPN

• Airalo: No VPN. You need to install a separate VPN app before departure. Airalo is cheaper but requires more setup steps.

• Ubigi: No VPN. Reliable connection to China Telecom’s network, but you must handle VPN separately.

How We Choose

The best plan depends on your tolerance for setup complexity. If you want one purchase, one QR code, and everything works — including Google — pick a provider with built-in VPN routing. If you are comfortable installing a separate VPN app and configuring it, you can save money with a data-only provider.

Price considerations and plan comparisons across all providers are covered in our China eSIM price and purchase guide.

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China eSIM Installation Summary: The Complete Checklist

Print this or save it before you leave.

Before departure (at home, on WiFi):

1. Check phone eSIM compatibility (model + unlock status + EID)
2. Purchase eSIM plan online — use code WEB20 if buying from a China eSIM
3. Receive QR code via email — save screenshot to phone
4. Install eSIM profile via Settings > Add Cellular Plan
5. Label the line “China Data”
6. Configure APN if your provider requires manual entry
7. Set China eSIM as default data line
8. Set home SIM as default voice/SMS line
9. Enable data roaming for China eSIM, disable for home SIM
10. Download and install a backup VPN app
11. Download offline Google Maps for your destination cities
12. Save screenshots of eSIM QR code, APN settings, and provider support contacts
13. Download WeChat and Alipay apps (do not need to fully set up until arrival)
14. Free trial available — test with a free eSIM to confirm routing works before buying a full plan

After arrival in China:

1. Turn off Airplane Mode
2. China eSIM should connect to China Mobile automatically
3. If no connection: Settings > Network Selection > Manual > Choose China Mobile
4. Test Google Maps, WhatsApp, and a browser
5. If Google is blocked: enable VPN app
6. Set up WeChat (needs SMS to home SIM)
7. Set up Alipay Tour Card (needs passport and foreign credit card)
8. Test hotspot if you plan to tether a laptop or tablet

Critical mistakes to avoid:

• Do NOT install the eSIM after arrival — install at home
• Do NOT disable your home SIM — you need it for SMS verification codes
• Do NOT forget to turn off data roaming on your home SIM — roaming charges can be extreme
• Do NOT delete the eSIM QR code email until you return from your trip
• Do NOT assume all apps work without testing — verify Google Maps and WhatsApp within the first hour after arrival

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What’s Next

If your China eSIM is installed and working, the next step is making sure you have all the essential apps configured so you can navigate, pay, communicate, and book travel inside China.

Read our China eSIM apps and WeChat guide for detailed instructions on setting up Alipay Tour Card, WeChat Pay, DiDi ride-hailing (the English version works), Pleco dictionary, and Trip.com for train tickets.

If you ran into any issues during setup, the China eSIM troubleshooting guide covers 25+ specific error messages and edge cases.

And if you are still deciding which provider to choose, start with the complete China eSIM guide for the full landscape — compatibility, pricing, coverage, and provider comparisons across the entire market.

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Last updated: July 2026. Prices and plan details are subject to change. Always verify the latest APN settings and plan terms on your provider’s website before departure.

See Apple Support for eSIM-compatible devices. The GSMA defines global eSIM standards.