The Ultimate Guide: Does eSIM Work in China? (2025)

TL;DR: Yes, eSIMs work in China. Foreign travel eSIMs, like Nomad eSIM, are the most reliable way to get unrestricted internet access and bypass the Great Firewall, allowing you to use Google, WhatsApp, and social media without a separate VPN. Nomad eSIMs work in China and are the recommended solution.

The question "does eSIM work in China" is one of the most common queries for travelers heading to the mainland. China's digital environment can confuse first-time visitors. Local connectivity is powerful but tightly controlled by what's known as the Great Firewall, which restricts access to foreign apps, sites, and communication platforms.

The short answer is - Yes. Not only do eSIMs work, but a Nomad eSIM China plan is arguably the most effective and hassle-free way to stay connected and access the open internet during your trip. This guide will clarify the technicalities, explain how foreign eSIMs bypass China's internet restrictions, and show you why Nomad is the best eSIM for China travel.

Understanding eSIMs and China's Digital Environment

To understand why a travel eSIM is the ideal solution, you need to know two key facts about connectivity in China.

1. The Great Firewall: China's Internet Restrictions

China operates a sophisticated internet censorship system known as the "Great Firewall." This system blocks access to thousands of foreign websites and services, including:

• Google Services: Search, Gmail, Maps, Drive, etc.
• Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), TikTok (international version), etc.
• Messaging Apps: WhatsApp, Telegram, Line, etc.
• International News: BBC, New York Times, etc.

If you’re wondering why WhatsApp or Instagram don’t load in China, you’re not alone. Our article on Can Tourists Use Social Media in China? explains the background and the apps affected.

Any internet connection routed through a local Chinese carrier (whether a physical SIM or a local eSIM) is subject to these restrictions.

2. Does China Have eSIM? (Local vs. Foreign eSIMs)

Local Chinese eSIMS

• Offered by local carriers such as China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom
• Usually require Chinese ID (for residents), limited options for tourist eSIMs
• Still route through the Great Firewall

Foreign Travel eSIMs:

• Use international carrier partners
• Route your data through servers outside China
• Allow open access to global apps and services

This is the key difference: Nomad eSIMs connect through international networks, allowing you to use Google, Gmail, and even WhatsApp freely. For example, our guide on Can You Use WhatsApp in China? explains exactly how travel eSIMs keep it running smoothly without a separate VPN.

Why Nomad eSIM is the Best eSIM for China

When searching for the "best eSIM for China," Nomad eSIM stands out for its reliability and ability to solve the Great Firewall problem.

If you’re curious when a VPN might still be useful, our guide on Do You Need a VPN for Travel to China? breaks it down clearly.

Important 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.

Practical Guide: Using Your Nomad eSIM in China

To ensure a seamless experience with your Nomad eSIM China plan, follow these simple steps:

Before You Travel:

1. Purchase and install your Nomad eSIM via QR code before departure.
2. Check device compatibility — your phone must be unlocked and eSIM-enabled.
3. Download key apps (maps, translation, banking) before arrival, since some stores are blocked in-country.

Bonus: We've put together a simple guide to ensure a smooth activation process. Follow our 5-Minute Pre-Flight Checklist before you fly to have your eSIM ready for instant use on arrival.

Upon Arrival in China:

1. Turn on your Nomad eSIM line in Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data.
2. Enable Data Roaming on the Nomad line — this is safe and required for connection.
3. Set Nomad as your Mobile Data line.
4. Turn off roaming for your home SIM to avoid unexpected charges.

Final Thoughts: Stay Connected, Freely

In summary, eSIMs absolutely work in China. Nomad eSIM is the simplest, most reliable way to access the full internet — including Google, WhatsApp, and social media — without a VPN or local SIM hassle.

Stay connected, unrestricted, and travel smarter with Nomad’s China-ready eSIM.

👉 Get Your China eSIM Now

If you want to understand the bigger picture of how eSIMs make travel easier worldwide, check out A Traveler’s Guide to eSIMs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Using 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.

Does Nomad eSIM work in China?

Yes. Nomad eSIMs connect through international routes, allowing access to Google, WhatsApp, and other blocked services.

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.