How to purchase a local SIM card or data package in China?
1. Main Telecommunication Operators in China
China has three mainstream operators with nationwide coverage and stable service: - China Mobile: The widest network coverage, suitable for traveling in remote areas. - China Unicom: Fast 4G/5G speed, suitable for urban use; some packages support international roaming. - China Telecom: Balanced overall performance, suitable for long-term stay users.
2. Purchase Channels and Procedures
(1) Airport Purchase - Recommendation Level: ★★★★☆ - Location: Arrival halls of major international airports such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu. - Advantages: 24-hour service, multi-language support (English/Chinese), plug-and-play. - Package Examples: - 7-day package: 10GB data + 100 minutes of calls, about 80-120 yuan. - 30-day package: 30GB data + 300 minutes of calls, about 150-200 yuan.
(2) Operator Service Halls - Recommendation Level: ★★★★★ - Process: 1. Bring your original passport (mandatory!) and copies of your visa/entry stamp page. 2. Fill out the real-name registration form (provide your address in China, which can be your hotel address). 3. Choose a package and pay (cash, credit card, Alipay/WeChat supported). - Notes: In some cities, prior reservation may be required (via the operator's app or phone consultation).
(3) Convenience Stores or Authorized Shops - Recommendation Level: ★★★☆☆ - Location: 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson convenience stores, or street-side authorized agent shops. - Package Types: Mostly prepaid cards (no contract required); self-real-name authentication needed (via the operator’s app or website).
(4) Online Purchase (Preparation in Advance) - Recommended Platforms: Taobao, JD.com, Klook (international platform). - Advantages: Can be mailed in advance to your hotel or picked up at airport lockers. - Notes: Confirm that the package supports activation with a foreign passport.
3. Real-name System Requirements
- Legal Requirement: All SIM cards must undergo real-name registration. Foreigners need to provide:
- Original passport
- Valid visa or entry stamp page
- Contact address in China (e.g., hotel address)
- Processing Time: About 10-15 minutes (fastest at service halls).
4. Package Selection Suggestions
| Demand Type | Recommended Package | Price Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Short-term tourism (7 days) | China Unicom "Traveler Package": 15GB data + no calls | 80 yuan |
| Long-term stay (30 days) | China Mobile "Global Pass": 50GB data + 200 minutes | 200 yuan |
| High-frequency caller | China Telecom "Unlimited Chat Card": 20GB data + 500 minutes | 150 yuan |
5. Activation and Usage
- Insert SIM Card: Confirm that your phone is unlocked (supports Chinese frequency bands: GSM/TD-LTE/FDD-LTE).
- Real-name Authentication: Some prepaid cards require uploading passport information via the operator’s app (if purchased at convenience stores).
- Recharge: Through Alipay/WeChat, "China Mobile/Unicom/Telecom" apps, or purchasing recharge cards at convenience stores.
6. Notes
- Network Restrictions: Google, Facebook, and other international applications cannot be used within China. It is recommended to download a VPN in advance (for legal use).
- Customer Support: China Mobile (10086), China Unicom (10010), China Telecom (10000), with some English support available.
- Backup Solution: Rent a portable Wi-Fi (airport or online booking), suitable for group sharing.
