How to Install a China eSIM: iPhone, Android and First-Time Setup

This guide covers how to install an eSIM for China in about 10 minutes — but you need to do it before your flight. After you activate your eSIM on landing, data starts flowing within 60 seconds. Start by purchasing a plan online, then scan the QR code on your iPhone or Android. Set up dual SIM mode to keep your home number active for SMS while the eSIM handles data. This guide walks you through compatibility checks, iPhone and Android setup, APN configuration, hotspot tethering, and common troubleshooting fixes. For official device lists, visit Apple Support. The GSMA maintains eSIM technical specifications.

If you’re new to eSIM technology entirely, GSMA’s eSIM specification explains the specification — a SIM profile embedded in your device’s chip that can be rewritten over the air without swapping physical cards. If this is your first time using a travel eSIM, the first-time section below covers the five mistakes that cause most failures.

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Is Your Phone Compatible? eSIM Compatibility Checklist for China

Before you spend any money on an eSIM plan, confirm that your device works with eSIM technology in China. Here is how to check your phone’s eSIM compatibility for China. Below is the full list of compatible phones — both iPhone and Android — that work with China eSIMs.

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: Mainland-China iPhones ship with dual nano-SIM and no eSIM hardware — mainland models end in “CH/A”. The exception is eSIM-only hardware such as the iPhone Air. Hong Kong and Macau iPhones were dual nano-SIM up to the iPhone 16 generation and only gained eSIM with the iPhone 17 line. So the phone you buy matters as much as the model number:

Where the iPhone was bought	iPhone 13 / 14 / 15 / 16	iPhone 17 line	iPhone Air
Mainland China (CH/A)	No eSIM — two nano-SIM slots	Dual nano-SIM on most models	eSIM only
Hong Kong / Macau	No eSIM — two nano-SIM slots	eSIM + nano-SIM	eSIM only
US, Europe, most of Asia	eSIM + nano-SIM (US models eSIM-only from iPhone 14)	eSIM + nano-SIM	eSIM only

The 10-second test: open Settings → General → About and scroll to the bottom. If there is an EID line, the phone has eSIM hardware. If there is no EID, no travel eSIM will install on it, whatever the model name says — you need a physical SIM or a pocket WiFi device instead. This is the fastest way to settle the “will my iPhone work in China” question, and it beats checking model numbers.

eSIM compatibility on iPhone doesn’t require a specific iOS version for the China use case — any iPhone with eSIM hardware running iOS 12.1 or later can add a 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, 6, 6a, 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 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’ll 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 let you enter your phone model or IMEI to confirm support before purchase — Roami’s free eSIM trial includes this check at no cost. For the full model-by-model breakdown, our eSIM compatibility list covers every supported iPhone, Samsung, and Pixel generation.

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 isn’t 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 an eSIM for China online before your trip? Yes — and you should. You should buy your eSIM online before your trip to avoid airport queues. Every major provider sells 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 the cheapest option at each size.

A few options at a glance:

Provider	Price Range (7 days)	VPN Included	Best For
Roami	$1.99-$39.99	International routing	Reliability across regions
Saily	$20-$45	Virtual Location	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’re using Roami — this gives you 20% off your first 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 eSIM for China page covers all available options.

Step 2: Install the eSIM Profile Before You Fly

Install the eSIM profile while you’re 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’re inside China’s Great Firewall.

Here is the general installation flow — the QR code setup process takes under a minute — 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” — don’t leave it as “Secondary”
7. Set the 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 APN settings entry if auto-config fails.

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

Provider	APN	Username	Password	Notes
Roami	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 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’re editing the correct line.

Step 4: Check Your Plan’s Routing Before You Leave

Do you need to sort out your routing before arriving in China? Yes. Choose and install your plan before you fly — provider dashboards, app store listings and activation guides are all easier to reach from outside mainland networks, and swapping plans after arrival is far harder.

This applies even if your 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’re 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 how routing paths differ with an eSIM and how the Great Firewall interacts with each one, read the list of what the firewall blocks.

Step 5: Enable Data Roaming

Data roaming must be turned on for the 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 eSIM line > Toggle “Data Roaming” on

On Samsung: Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > Tap the eSIM > Toggle “Data Roaming” on

On Pixel: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Tap the 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 an eSIM for China Step by Step

The iPhone eSIM setup flow is consistent from iOS 12 through iOS 20. Follow this installation step by step for iPhone. 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’ll 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 eSIM
   • Default for iMessage and FaceTime: your home SIM (or both)
8. Tap “Continue”

Configuring the 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 doesn’t 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 doesn’t 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 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 eSIM as your preferred SIM for data

APN configuration (Pixel):

1. Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Tap the 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’re determined to use a Huawei phone with Roami, 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’ll need a physical SIM from China Unicom (sold at airport counters) or a pocket WiFi rental.

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How to Set Up Dual SIM: Home SIM + China eSIM

Dual SIM setup is where most travelers make mistakes. Using your home SIM alongside an eSIM for China in a dual-SIM setup is the recommended approach for most travelers. Assign the 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 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 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 eSIM > Toggle “Use SIM” ON > Toggle “Data roaming” ON
4. Tap “Mobile data” at the top > Select the 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 eSIM during the call

If your home carrier supports Wi-Fi Calling and you enabled it before departure, the call will route over the 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 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 can’t receive those codes. Keep the home SIM active with data roaming turned off. The China travel 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 Your China eSIM

Data roaming must be enabled for any travel eSIM to function. Always enable data roaming for your eSIM before your flight lands — this isn’t optional. The eSIM connects to a local carrier (China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom) as a roaming partner of the eSIM provider’s home network. Without data roaming, the phone will not allow data traffic over that connection.

For pricing and plan comparisons, see the buy-now against buy-on-arrival comparison. If you have never used an eSIM before, the first-time section above covers trials, reinstall and support.

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

1. Find your 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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What Are the APN Settings for Each eSIM Provider?

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

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 isn’t available)

Roami’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 doesn’t 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 eSIM) are sometimes grayed out or invisible. This happens when the primary line (your home SIM) is active. Workaround:

1. Settings > Cellular > Tap the 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 eSIM APN fields should become editable
5. Enter the APN, then re-enable your home SIM

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Can You Use Your China eSIM as a Hotspot?

Can you use an eSIM for China 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
Roami	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 eSIM’s data connection exclusively. If you have dual SIM configured with your home SIM for voice, hotspot data will still route through the 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 — Roami and Saily consistently perform best for tethering.

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Can You Use an eSIM for China 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). To use an eSIM across multiple devices, enable hotspot tethering instead of trying to clone the profile — you can’t have the same eSIM profile 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 after activation

Once your eSIM is working, complete your WeChat and Alipay setup — 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’ll 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. Getting a Chinese phone number with eSIM is not available from most travel providers. Since your eSIM is data-only and doesn’t include a phone number, you’ll 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 doesn’t 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 data 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’re 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’ll need in China, including DiDi (ride-hailing), Pleco (dictionary translation), Trip.com (train tickets), and how each interacts with the Great Firewall, read the WhatsApp behaviour by routing type.

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Topping up mid-trip

Running out of data in the middle of a China trip is inconvenient. Here is how to top up your eSIM data mid-trip if you run low — plan ahead, because the provider’s website may be blocked, and you can’t easily buy more data without a working connection.

Automatic Top-Up

If you’re using an eSIM for China provider with auto top-up, 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 won’t 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 don’t 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 can’t 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’ll 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. Common activation problems caused by the Great Firewall include blocked provider websites. 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 doesn’t 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’re on a stable WiFi or cellular connection during installation (don’t 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 isn’t configured correctly, or data roaming is off.

Fix:

1. Check data roaming is ON for the 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 — check your plan’s routing details

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 — check your plan’s routing details
3. Open your VPN app and connect to a Hong Kong, Singapore, or US server
4. If you don’t 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 your plan includes extra security software, 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. don’t delete the profile if you can’t 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 the escalation path to support.

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Checking phone support in two minutes

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 is not a mainland-China iPhone without eSIM (mainland models are dual nano-SIM, except the iPhone Air and iPhone 17e); Hong Kong and Macau iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max do support eSIM
• Running the latest OS version available for your device
• eSIM slot isn’t already occupied by a different eSIM profile that you need

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

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Can I Install China eSIM at the Airport on Arrival?

Technically yes, but it’s 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 won’t have one, so you can’t 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 can’t 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: The golden rule: install at home before departure. Don’t wait. 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’re online within 60 seconds.

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Choosing the Best China eSIM Plan with VPN

To choose the best plan with international routing, compare Saily, Jetpac, and Roami. If you want a single solution that handles both connectivity and Great Firewall routing, pick a provider with built-in routing (Saily’s Virtual Location or Jetpac’s VPN) or Hong Kong routing (Roami).

Providers with Built-In International Routing

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

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

• Holafly: Runs on China Mobile’s network. Access to blocked services is inconsistent, so keep a separate VPN as backup. The unlimited data option is popular among heavy users.

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.

• Nomad: No VPN. Data routes through Singapore, so Google and WhatsApp work without a separate app, but there is no built-in VPN.

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

How to 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’re 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 the promo codes and refund windows.

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First Time Installing an eSIM? Start Here

If you have never installed an eSIM, two facts matter before the step-by-step above. An eSIM is a digital SIM profile stored on a chip inside the phone — you download it once and it stays until you delete it. And on this trip it is your data line only: your home SIM keeps handling calls and the SMS codes that banks and apps send.

If the phone in your pocket has never held an eSIM, run the compatibility check above first, then come back. Everything after that is a two-minute install, and the four things that actually go wrong are below.

Install an eSIM on the phone you will actually carry

The most expensive mistake is installing the profile on the wrong handset. Many travelers set up a new China eSIM on a tablet or an old phone at home, then discover at the airport that the profile cannot be moved — most providers bind an activation to the first device that scans it, and a reinstall is treated as a new activation.

Install on the phone that will be in your pocket for the trip, do it on home Wi-Fi, and leave the line switched off until you land. If you need connectivity on a second device, install a second China eSIM there rather than trying to clone the first.

Install a China eSIM where you still have Wi-Fi

The install itself takes about two minutes, but it needs a working connection and a reachable provider site. Do it at home, not in an arrivals hall where the provider’s own domain may be the thing you cannot reach. If the phone is carrier-locked, unlock it first: how to install a China eSIM stops mattering when the handset refuses the profile outright.

What First-Time Buyers Get Wrong

Five mistakes account for most of the support tickets this page gets, and beginners make all five. None of them are technical.

• Buying after landing. You need working internet to download the profile, and airport Wi-Fi usually wants an SMS verification you cannot receive yet. Buy and install at home.
• Installing the wrong profile. Providers that sell “China + Hong Kong” often issue two profiles in one order. Scan the one labelled for mainland China; keep the other for the border crossing.
• Leaving the eSIM as the default voice line. Set the eSIM as data and your home SIM as voice, or bank verification texts stop arriving exactly when you need them.
• Assuming every China eSIM routes the same way. A locally routed eSIM behaves like a Chinese SIM: Google, WhatsApp and Instagram stay closed. The routing method, not the brand, decides that.
• Testing the night before. Three days of runway is what lets you catch a carrier-locked handset or a QR code that never arrives.

The four things it cannot do

Three limits decide your setup more than any provider comparison:

• No calls or SMS on a data-only plan. That includes the verification codes your bank, airline or booking app sends. A dual-SIM arrangement, with the home SIM left active for SMS, is the only reliable fix.
• No Chinese number unless you deliberately buy one. A +86 number is needed for food delivery, some bike-share accounts and a few mini-programs — not for maps, payments or messaging.
• No unrestricted hotspot on every plan. Unlimited products often cap tethering (Holafly at about 1GB a day); if you plan to work from a laptop, check the hotspot terms before buying.

Free trials and refund windows

Trying before committing is the single best defence against a wasted purchase, and the rules differ more than the prices do.

Provider	Free trial	Refund window	Condition
Roami	Yes — 100MB trial	No fixed window	Full refund if the eSIM does not work
Holafly	No	7 days	Unused plans only
Airalo	No	30 days	Uninstalled and unused only
Nomad	No	30 days	Uninstalled; used plans judged case by case
Ubigi	No	14 days	Not activated
Saily	No	14 days	Unused plans only

Two practical notes. A refund window is measured from purchase, not from your trip, so a plan bought two months early can expire before you fly. And “unused” usually means the profile was never installed — scanning the QR code to test it can void the refund, which is exactly why a free trial is worth more than a generous-looking guarantee.

Are There Promo Codes for China eSIM?

Discounts move constantly, so treat this as a starting point rather than a price list:

• Provider codes: Roami’s WEB20 takes 20% off China plans; Airalo and Ubigi offer roughly 10% to new users through referral links; Holafly’s newsletter signup usually carries 10%.
• Seasonal sales: the reliable windows are Chinese New Year, summer and Singles’ Day (11 November), when flash discounts of 15–20% appear in provider apps rather than on their websites.
• The bigger lever is tier size. Moving from 5GB to 20GB often halves the per-gigabyte price, which beats any coupon on the same tier.

Deleting and reinstalling: the rules

Usually yes, and without paying again — the plan stays active on the provider’s system even after the profile leaves your phone. Deleting the profile does not cancel the purchase.

Method 1, the provider app. Open the app, find the China plan under active or past plans, and tap reinstall. This is the only method that works when the original QR code was single-use.

Method 2, the original QR code. Scan the same code again from another screen or a printout — fine for most providers, but Nomad and a few others issue single-use codes.

Method 3, support. If both fail, ask for a reissue. Reissues are normally free; a small handling fee of $1–3 occasionally applies.

The practical precaution is free: screenshot the QR code before you delete anything, and install the provider’s app before you travel so a reinstall is one tap instead of an email thread.

Getting Help: China eSIM Support Contacts

When something breaks the evening before a flight, the channel matters more than the brand.

Provider	Fastest channel	Typical response	Watch out for
Roami	In-app live chat, 24/7	1–2 minutes	—
Airalo	In-app chat	10–30 minutes to reach a human at peak	Chatbot first
Holafly	WhatsApp, 24/7	1–3 hours	Email replies take 12–24 hours
Nomad	In-app chat, 24/7	5–15 minutes	—
Ubigi	Email or ticket	24–48 hours	No live chat at all
Saily	Email and in-app chat	Up to 24 hours	Chat is business-hours only

Three things shorten any support thread: include the order number, screenshot the exact error, and state the device and the step you were on. “Unable to complete activation on an iPhone 16 Pro, after scanning the QR code” gets a fix; “it does not work” gets a checklist.

Setup questions travelers ask

How to Get an eSIM in China Before You Fly

Buy a China plan from a provider that sells one, install the profile while you still have reliable home Wi-Fi, enable data roaming for that line, and keep your home SIM active for calls and SMS. The profile is what you buy; the installation is a two-minute step you do once. Arriving with it already installed is the whole point, because airport Wi-Fi is the worst place to discover a QR code that will not scan.

Does an eSIM Work in China Without a VPN?

It depends entirely on the routing method, not on the brand. An eSIM that sends your data out through an international gateway reaches Google and WhatsApp without a VPN app; an eSIM that routes locally behaves like a local SIM and does not. Providers rarely put this on the price card, so check the routing description before buying — our gateway question explained explains how to tell the two apart.

Why Does My China eSIM Show No Service After Landing?

In order of likelihood: data roaming is off for that line, the phone is still holding the local network from before landing, or the profile never finished installing. Toggle airplane mode for thirty seconds after landing, confirm roaming is on for the eSIM, and set the network selection to automatic. If the SIM list shows no China eSIM at all, the profile did not install and needs reinstalling from the original QR code.

How Early Should I Install an eSIM?

Three days before departure is the practical answer, and earlier is fine. The profile can sit installed and inactive for weeks, because most China plans only start counting validity when the phone first connects to a Chinese network. What you are buying with those three days is not coverage but repair time: a carrier-locked handset, a missing QR email or a failed download is fixable at home and unfixable at the gate.

Which China eSIM Is Best for a First Trip?

The one that removes decisions at the airport: international routing included, so Google and WhatsApp work without a VPN, and automatic carrier switching, so you never open network settings after landing. Everything else — tier size, per-gigabyte price, unlimited or not — is a budget question you can settle before you fly. Our post-landing reports from travelers scores the ten most common options on exactly those two criteria.

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 Roami
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 (don’t 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:

• don’t install the eSIM after arrival — install at home
• don’t disable your home SIM — you need it for SMS verification codes
• don’t forget to turn off data roaming on your home SIM — roaming charges can be extreme
• don’t delete the eSIM QR code email until you return from your trip
• don’t 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 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 the apps to install before flying 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 data failure outside cities covers 25+ specific error messages and edge cases.

And if you’re still deciding which provider to choose, start with the long answer on Chinese eSIM policy for the full landscape — compatibility, pricing, coverage, and provider comparisons across the entire market.

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Last updated: September 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.