Nationwide essentials · Arriving in China
Keep your phone connected
Plan mobile data, verification messages and a fallback when your connection fails.
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Practical steps
Choose and test your landing connection
Roaming or a travel eSIM is usually the simplest way to have data immediately after landing. Install the eSIM before departure, label each line clearly and confirm which line supplies mobile data and which receives SMS. A data-only eSIM normally does not include a mainland Chinese number. If you need a local number, take your passport to an official China Mobile, China Unicom or China Telecom service point after arrival. A local number is useful, but it is not required for the main travel apps.
- Roaming
- Fastest to activate Check your carrier's China data price and fair-use limit.
- Travel eSIM
- Install before boarding Check phone compatibility, lock status, data allowance and whether tethering is included.
- Local SIM
- Passport registration required Useful for a mainland number; airport counter hours and stock are not guaranteed.
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