Does China Have eSIM?

Does China Have eSIM? Yes, though regional differences play a large role. While the difference may not seem significant, you can connect to a mobile network without the physical card using an embedded digital SIM, eSIM is what we mean here. The simple answer to the question “Does China Have eSIM?” is to review each region separately since eSIM works differently in each part of Mainland China and Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan.

Current Status of eSIM in Mainland China

It can be cautiously stated that the answer for Does China have eSIM? is “yes” in mainland China, but it is primarily for wearables like Huawei Watch and Apple Watch. Some smartphones have eSIM capabilities as well, although limited eSIM options are available and usually require a Chinese id. Due to these regulations there is often difficulty for travelers to obtain a local eSIM in China.

eSIM Access in Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan

On the other hand, both locals and tourists can enter freely and completely in Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. Prepaid and postpaid eSIM plans for smartphones and wearables are offered by numerous carriers, and activation is simple and quick. For practically all devices, the answer to the question “Does China Have eSIM?” is unambiguously “yes.”

Differences Between Domestic Chinese eSIMs and International eSIMs

Domestic eSIMs in China require real name registration with a local ID and are bound to local carriers, subject to internet use for China’s large firewall. International ESIMs of suppliers such as Airalo, Holly, Nomad, and Baztel can be purchased online before traveling, can be immediately activated, and are often the best options for tourists who are looking for an easy way to keep in touch.

Feature	Domestic Chinese eSIM	International eSIM
Availability	Limited, mainly for locals and certain devices	Available to anyone worldwide
ID Requirement	Requires real-name registration with a Chinese ID or residence permit	No local ID required
Activation Process	Usually in-person at a carrier store	Online, instant activation
Supported Devices	Mostly smartwatches, limited smartphone support	Wide range of smartphones, tablets, and wearables
Internet Access	Subject to China’s Great Firewall (restricted sites)	May bypass some restrictions depending on provider and network
Best For	Local residents with compatible devices	Tourists and short-term visitors
Examples	China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom	Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, Baztel

Mobile Carriers Offering eSIM in China

eSIM availability in China is tied to the country’s three major telecom operators—China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. While all three offer eSIM services, they are primarily targeted at local residents, with limited options for tourists.

Carrier	eSIM Availability	Target Devices	ID Requirement	Access for Tourists
China Mobile	Mainly for wearables; limited smartphone support	Apple Watch, select Android smartwatches	Chinese ID required; in-person activation	Not generally available
China Unicom	For wearables and select smartphones, trial programs in some areas	Apple Watch, Huawei Watch, some smartphones	Real-name registration with Chinese ID	Limited; international eSIM recommended
China Telecom	For wearables and limited smartphone models	Apple Watch, select Android smartwatches and phones	In-store activation with Chinese ID	Not easily accessible

Devices Supporting eSIM in China

In China, the use of eSIM is determined by both your device model and where you want to use it. eSIM is mainly intended for wearables such as the Apple Watch, Huawei Watch, and some Samsung Galaxy Series watches in mainland China. Mobile operator restrictions to maximize smartphone eSIM access, and eSIM support generally depends on an individual carrier sponsorship or pilot program. Conversely, eSIM, while introduced and available, remains limited at the carrier level in Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan all eSIM services supported and easy and quick activation for residents and visitors on iPhones, iPads, and many Androids. 

Device Category	Examples	eSIM Availability in Mainland China	eSIM Availability in Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan
Apple Devices (iPhones & iPads)	iPhone XR and newer, iPad Pro (3rd gen+), iPad Air (3rd gen+), iPad mini (5th gen+)	Limited; mainly for Apple Watch. iPhone eSIM activation restricted.	Fully supported for iPhones and iPads
Android Smartphones	Samsung Galaxy S20+, S21+, Z Flip, Huawei P-series & Mate-series, Xiaomi Mix models, Google Pixel (3+)	Very limited; some models may support eSIM via trials	Broadly supported by local carriers
Smartwatches & Wearables	Apple Watch Series 3+, Huawei Watch 3, Samsung Galaxy Watch	Widely supported with carrier plans	Fully supported

How to Get an eSIM in China

Does China Have eSIM? Yes—but how you get one depends on whether you’re using a Chinese carrier in Mainland China or an international travel eSIM. Below are the practical paths, steps, and tips.

Applying for an eSIM Through a Chinese Mobile Carrier

If you’re asking, does China have eSIM? Through local operators, the answer is generally yes for wearables and limited for smartphones.

Who can apply for it: Mostly anyone who has a Chinese ID (or long-term permit); Often tourists can’t get any onshore plans with eSIM.

Where to apply for it: in person at selected retailers of China Mobile, China Unicom or China Telecom (other plans availability depends on city and shop)

What you’ll need:

• Valid Chinese ID/residence permit for real-name registration
• Unlocked, carrier-supported device
• Payment method (and sometimes a small eSIM profile fee)

Typical steps:

1. Check with the carrier for device support (smartwatches have broad support; smartphone eSIM is limited)
2. Go to a participating store (you could also check websites) and complete real-name registration.
3. Get the eSIM QR code (or carrier app) for installing the profile.
4. Install and activate the profile on your device; test calls/data.
5. Be aware of internet rules: Browsing using the eSIM is subject to the internet rules of China (Great Firewall).

Good to know: Policies can differ by province and even by store. Some pilots exist for smartphones, but availability is not guaranteed.

Purchasing an International Travel eSIM Before Entering China

If you’re a visitor wondering, Does China Have eSIM? your easiest option is an international travel eSIM that works in Mainland China.

Who it’s for: Tourists and short-stay business travelers.

How to choose:

• Comparing providers (e.g. Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, Baztel).
• Check coverage (Mainland China), data allowance, validity, tethering and refund policy.
• Confirm your device is unlocked and supported for eSIM.

Typical steps:

1. Buy online from your chosen provider; select a China or regional (e.g., Asia) plan.
2. Receive the QR code via email or app.
3. Install the eSIM at home (Settings > Add eSIM) but delay activation if your plan starts counting at first connection (varies by provider).
4. On arrival, enable the eSIM, switch Mobile Data to the eSIM line, and turn on Data Roaming.
5. Enter APN if instructed by the provider and run a quick speed test.

Notes & limits:

• Most international eSIMs roam on local Chinese networks; speeds and latency can vary.
• Access to blocked sites typically remains restricted; you may still need a VPN if permitted by local law and policy.

Online eSIM Activation and Setup in China

Whether you go domestic or international, the activation steps are similar. This applies regardless of how you answer Does China Have eSIM?—with a local plan or a travel eSIM.

iPhone/iPad (iOS):

1. Settings > Cellular/Mobile Data > Add eSIM (or “Add Cellular Plan”).
2. Scan the QR code or use the activation code.
3. Choose Primary/Secondary line roles (voice, SMS, data).
4. Set the Data line to your China or travel eSIM and enable Data Roaming.
5. If provided, enter APN and restart the device.

Android (steps vary by brand):

1. Settings > Connections/Network > SIM Manager (or similar).
2. Add eSIM and scan the QR code or enter details manually.
3. Select default for mobile data and enable Data Roaming.
4. Add APN if required and restart.

Apple Watch & other wearables:

• For Apple Watch: iPhone Watch app > Cellular > Set Up Cellular (carrier support needed).
• For Huawei/Samsung watches: use the brand’s companion app and follow the carrier’s instructions.

Troubleshooting tips:

• Make sure your device is unlocked and supports the eSIM for your area.
• Return after installation; If the data is not started, then turn on flight mode.
• Double-check APN values; remove old/unused eSIM profiles if you’ve hit a limit.
• Temporarily disable VPN during activation if the QR won’t provision.
• Keep the QR code and activation details—you may need them if you reset the phone. 
• Some carriers require a new QR for reinstallation.

eSIM Regulations in China

When Does China Have eSIM? When asking, it is also important to understand the strict rules of use. In mainland China, eSIM services are governed specifically by the smartphone government policies that emphasize real name registration, identity confirmation, and compliance with local internet laws.

Chinese Government Policies and Real-Name ID Requirements for eSIM

The Chinese government requires real name registration for all SIMs and ESIM services. This means that users must provide a valid Chinese ID card, residence permit or approved travel document before activating ESIM with domestic carriers such as China Mobile, China Unicom or China Telecom. For tourists, it usually limits access to local ESIMs, making international trips more practical alternatives.  The “Does China Have eSIM?” answer is therefore “yes,” but only if you meet the ID rules or use an overseas provider.

Data Privacy and Internet Restrictions for eSIM Users

China has strong internet governance policies, commonly known as the Great Firewall, which governs both eSIM and physical SIM users. Regardless of whether you have an eSIM or a physical SIM, websites, apps, and online services that are considered restricted remain blocked, unless you access them with government-approved means. Your mobile data usage through your eSIM is also subject to local monitoring and compliance policies. For travelers using an international eSIM while in China, understand that even though you are not bound to a contract through a local carrier, you are still exchanging data through a Chinese network, and are subject to these internet restrictions.

Step-by-Step Guide: Activating an eSIM in China

Does China Have eSIM? Yes—but activation steps differ for Chinese residents and international visitors. Follow the paths below to get up and running smoothly.

Activation Process for Chinese Residents

If you’re a resident wondering, does China have eSIM? via local carriers, the answer is yes—mainly for wearables and, in some regions, for select smartphones. Real-name (ID) verification is required.

Before you start

• Make sure your phone has eSIM support and is unlocked.
• Check availability with China Mobile, China Unicom or China Telecom in your city.
• Have China ID or residence permit ready. 

Steps

1. Verify device compatibility with your chosen carrier (smartwatch support is common; smartphone eSIM may be limited or city-specific).
2. Visit a participating carrier store (most activations are in person).
3. Complete real-name registration using your Chinese ID/residence permit.
4. Get the eSIM QR code (or activation via the carrier’s app/portal).
5. Install the eSIM profile
   • iPhone/iPad: Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data → eSIM → Add Scanning QR.
   • Android: Settings → Network and Internet/Connection → Sim Manager → eSIM → Add Scanning QR.
6. Set defaults:Choose the new line for mobile data; keep your existing line for voice/SMS if needed.
7. Activate and test:Toggle mobile data on, place a test call/SMS if applicable, and browse.
8. For wearables:
   • Apple Watch: iPhone Watch app → Cellular → Set Up Cellular (follow carrier prompts).
   • Huawei/Samsung watches: Use the brand’s companion app and select your carrier plan.

Notes

• Internet access follows local rules (Great Firewall).
• eSIM QR codes are often single-use; store them securely.
• If you reset your phone, you may need a new QR from the carrier.

Activation Process for International Visitors

For travelers asking, “Does China have eSIM?” The easiest path is an international travel eSIM that works in Mainland China and can be set up entirely online.

Before you fly

1. Pick a provider (e.g., Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, or Baztel). Compare coverage in Mainland China, data size, validity, hotspot support, and refunds.
2. Check your phone:It must be unlocked and eSIM-capable.
3. Buy your plan and save the QR code/activation code offline (PDF/screenshot).

Install & activate

1. Install the eSIM (either at home or upon landing—check when billing starts).
   • iPhone/iPad: Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data → Add eSIM → Scan QR → Label it “China eSIM.”
   • Android: Settings → Network/Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR.
2. Set the data line to the travel eSIM and enable data roaming on that line.
3. Enter APN if provided by your provider (usually under Access Point Names).
4. Upon arriving: Replace flight mode, automatically select the phone’s partner network (usually China Unicom/China Telecom), or select it manually.
5. Test data (speed test, maps, messaging). You can keep your home SIM for calls/SMS if you want to and just disable its data to avoid roaming charges.

Troubleshooting

• No data? Restart the phone, toggle Airplane Mode, ensure Data Roaming is on, try manual network selection, and re-enter APN.
• Provisioning failed? Temporarily disable the VPN and rescan the QR; ensure stable Wi-Fi.
• iMessage/FaceTime: If the phone number won’t register, use the Apple ID email instead.
• Blocked sites: Even with an international eSIM, access is subject to local internet rules.

Advantages and Limitations of eSIM in China

While China has ESIM, the use depends on whether you are a resident or whether you are a passenger. There is no need for eSIM flexibility, double SIM capacity, and physical SIM change, but there are subject to government rules, restrictions on unit support, and regional accessibility.

Aspect	Advantages	Limitations
Convenience	No physical SIM required; instant activation via QR code or app.	Local activations often require in-person visits and real-name registration.
Dual SIM Support	Use two numbers (e.g., local + home) in one device.	Some Chinese carriers limit eSIM to wearables or specific phones only.
Travel-Friendly	International eSIMs work upon arrival; easy plan switching.	Local networks still follow Great Firewall restrictions on internet access.
No Card Damage Risk	Eliminates risk of losing or damaging a physical SIM card.	Coverage and support can vary by city or province.

FAQs

1. Can I Use My Foreign eSIM in Mainland China?

Yes, you can use an international eSIM in China if it supports the Chinese network. Providers such as Baztel, Airalo, and Nomad offer schemes that work on arrival. However, Internet use will still be subject to China’s large firewall.

2. Do I Need a Chinese ID to Buy an eSIM?

Yes, for domestic eSIMs from Chinese carriers, a valid Chinese ID is required due to real-name registration laws. Tourists usually cannot buy a local eSIM without this.

3. Is eSIM Available for Prepaid Plans in China?

Prepaid eSIM in China is generally not available for tourists through local carriers. Instead, most visitors opt for prepaid international eSIMs purchased online before arrival.

4. Does eSIM Work with WeChat, Alipay, and Other Local Apps?

Yes, as long as you have an active internet connection, whether through a local or international eSIM, these apps work. Some features in eSIM China plans may require a Chinese number for full access.

5. Can I Access the Internet Without a VPN in China Using eSIM?

Yes, but content is filtered under China’s Great Firewall. Whether you use a local or international eSIM in China, certain sites and apps will be restricted without a VPN.

Conclusion

The future of eSIM in China looks promising but will still be influenced by government rules, real-name ID requirements, and internet restrictions. As more devices support eSIM and demand grows, Chinese carriers may expand smartphone eSIM in China beyond just wearables. However, Mainland China eSIM access will likely remain limited for visitors. For residents, getting a domestic eSIM in China from official carriers is the most dependable choice. For tourists and short-term travelers, buying an international eSIM for China from providers like Baztel, Airalo, Holafly, or Nomad before arriving offers quick activation, easy setup, and avoids in-store registration.