Roaming in China: Costs, eSIMs, and staying connected in 2026

Does roaming in China work with a foreign phone?

Yes, most foreign phones can roam in mainland China through networks like China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom. Your home carrier connects you to a local network and charges international roaming rates, while access to apps like Google, WhatsApp, and Instagram depends on how your data is routed.

A more affordable option is Saily’s eSIM for China, a prepaid eSIM from Nord Security, the company behind NordVPN, offering in-app installation and coverage in 200+ destinations. 

Before traveling, check two things: how much roaming will cost and whether your favorite apps will work.

Which Chinese networks will your phone roam on?

In mainland China, your phone connects to China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom, depending on your carrier’s roaming agreements. China Mobile has the widest rural coverage, China Unicom is common in major cities, and China Telecom also serves areas with older CDMA infrastructure.

Your phone usually selects a network automatically, but you can switch manually in your settings. Most modern smartphones sold in the US, UK, and Europe support the 4G and 5G bands used in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.

Do you have to turn off mobile data in China?

No, you don’t have to turn off mobile data in China, but it’s best to disable data roaming until you’ve activated an international roaming plan or pass. Otherwise, background activities like app refreshes, automatic photo backups, podcast downloads, and map updates can quietly use up data and leave you with an unpleasant surprise on your next phone bill.

Here’s how to turn off data roaming on your phone:

• iPhone: Go to “Settings” > “Mobile data” > “Mobile data options” > “Data roaming” and switch it off.

• Android: Go to “Settings” > “Network & internet” > “SIMs” > “Roaming” and switch it off.

If you’re using a travel eSIM, you can keep data roaming turned off on your home SIM and select the eSIM as your mobile data line instead. That way, you can stay connected without worrying about unexpected roaming charges from your regular carrier.

How much does roaming in China cost in 2026?

Roaming in China can cost around US$12 per day with a major US carrier, while pay-as-you-go rates can easily add up to hundreds of dollars over a two-week trip. How much you end up paying depends on your carrier, your mobile plan, and how much data you use.

Most carriers offer three ways to pay for international roaming:

• Included roaming allowance: Some plans include international data, calls, or texts at no extra cost, although speeds and allowances may be limited.

• Daily roaming pass: You pay a fixed fee for each day you use your phone abroad, usually with access to your regular plan’s benefits.

• Pay-as-you-go roaming: You pay separately for data, calls, and texts. This can get expensive quickly, particularly if you’re using maps, streaming videos, or scrolling through social media.

To learn how much popular mobile carriers charge for roaming in China in 2026, check the table below:

Note: Prices checked against carrier information available in October 2026. US carriers charge in USD; UK carriers charge in GBP. Rates and eligibility may vary by plan.

For travelers who mainly need mobile data, a prepaid travel eSIM can be a cheaper alternative to daily roaming passes. Saily, for example, offers 5 GB for 30 days in China for US$15.99, compared with US$168 for 14 days of Verizon TravelPass. To better understand what you’re paying for, check out our guide on how roaming charges work.

How much does AT&T roaming in China cost?

AT&T roaming in China costs US$12 per day for the first line with its International Day Pass, and you’re only charged on days you use your phone. Additional lines on the same account cost US$6 per day each when used on the same calendar day. The pass lets you use your regular plan’s data, calls, and texts rather than giving you a separate allowance for China. AT&T also caps daily pass charges at 10 days per line per billing cycle.

If you don’t need a daily pass, AT&T offers pay-as-you-go roaming at US$4 per minute for calls, US$1 per outgoing text, and US$2.05 per MB of data. That last rate is particularly steep: using just 100 MB would cost US$205. Keep in mind that AT&T connects through Chinese networks, and access to apps like WhatsApp, Google, and Instagram may depend on how your roaming traffic is routed.

How much does Verizon roaming in China cost?

Verizon roaming in China costs US$12 per day per line with TravelPass, which activates when you use mobile data, make or answer a call, or send a text. The pass includes unlimited calls, texts, and data, with 5 GB of high-speed data per day. Once you reach that limit, you can keep browsing at reduced 3G speeds until your next daily session.

For longer trips, Verizon offers an International Monthly Plan for US$100 per line, including 20 GB of high-speed data, unlimited texts, and 250 calling minutes. This is worth considering if you’re staying for more than a week, since TravelPass charges add up quickly. For example, using TravelPass every day during a 14-day trip would cost US$168, compared to US$100 for the monthly plan.

How much does T-Mobile roaming in China cost?

T-Mobile includes international roaming data in China on eligible postpaid plans at no extra cost, with high-speed data allowances ranging from 5 GB to 30 GB depending on your plan. Once you’ve used your high-speed allowance, you can continue browsing at reduced speeds of up to 256 Kbps. That’s generally enough for basic messaging and emails, but video calls and other data-heavy activities may struggle.

If you need faster data, T-Mobile offers International Passes starting at US$10 for one day with 2 GB of high-speed data. Longer options include US$50 for 10 days with 15 GB or US$75 for 30 days with 30 GB, all including unlimited calling. Without a pass, calls in China generally cost US$0.50 per minute, while Wi-Fi Calling over hotel Wi-Fi is free for calls to US numbers on eligible plans.

Does giffgaff roaming work in China?

Yes, giffgaff roaming works in China, but it’s not included in your regular goodybag plan. Instead, standard pay-as-you-go rates apply: £0.20 per MB of data, £1 per minute for making or receiving calls, and £0.30 per outgoing text. Incoming texts are free.

These charges can add up quickly. For example, using just 100 MB of data per day for maps, messaging, and occasional browsing would cost £140 over a week. Fortunately, giffgaff also offers China-specific travel data add-ons: 1 GB for £12, 5 GB for £24, or 10 GB for £36, each valid for 30 days.

Before traveling, make sure you have enough credit in your giffgaff account for any pay-as-you-go usage. You can also enable the £45 monthly credit spend cap in your account settings to avoid unexpected charges. Just remember that this cap is turned off by default.

Does Voxi roaming work in China?

Yes, VOXI roaming works in China, but China isn’t included in its regular roaming destinations, so you’ll need a Global Roaming Pass or pay standard out-of-plan rates. The pass costs £16 for 8 days with 2 GB of data, 100 minutes, and 100 texts, or £26.60 for 15 days with 4 GB, 200 minutes, and 200 texts. Standard roaming charges for China are £0.12 per MB of data and £0.60 per minute for calls to the UK or within China.

Keep in mind that VOXI’s unlimited social media benefit doesn’t apply in China, and popular apps like Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp are generally blocked on local networks anyway. To avoid unexpected charges, consider turning off data roaming on your VOXI line and using a prepaid travel eSIM for mobile data instead.

Do EU roaming rules apply in China?

No, EU roaming rules don’t apply in China. The EU’s "roam like at home" policy covers EU and EEA countries, plus Ukraine and Moldova, but not China. This means your carrier will charge its international roaming rates instead.

Mobile operators in Germany, France, Spain, and Italy typically offer international roaming passes or charge per MB of data used. Before traveling, check your carrier’s rest-of-world roaming rates, rather than its EU roaming page. Some operators also disable data roaming outside Europe by default, so you may need to activate it before your trip. If you’re worried about the cost of staying connected while traveling, a prepaid travel eSIM may be a more affordable option.

Why is mobile data in China different from other destinations?

Mobile data in China is subject to government internet restrictions, meaning many familiar apps won’t load even with a strong signal. China’s 4G and 5G networks offer excellent coverage and speeds, but internet filtering limits which services you can access. The main questions are which apps are blocked, whether international roaming can bypass these restrictions, and if you’ll need a virtual private network (VPN).

Which apps are blocked on mobile data in China?

Google services, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, X, YouTube, and many Western news websites are blocked on mainland China’s local mobile networks. Instead, travelers can use alternatives like WeChat, Baidu Maps, Alipay, Didi, and Apple Maps.

Since Gmail, Google Maps, and Google Drive may also be inaccessible, accessing accounts and completing certain verification steps can become tricky. Download offline maps, booking confirmations, and translation packs before your trip to avoid unnecessary headaches.

Does international roaming get around the Great Firewall in China?

International roaming can bypass China’s Great Firewall if your carrier routes internet traffic through its home network rather than directly through China’s internet infrastructure. However, this depends on your carrier and its roaming partners, and access isn’t guaranteed.

Carriers rarely disclose their exact routing arrangements, which can also change during your trip. If you need reliable access to blocked websites and apps, it’s best to arrange a suitable VPN before traveling rather than rely on roaming alone.

Do you need a VPN for roaming in China?

Yes, most travelers need a VPN to access Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, and other blocked services in China, unless their roaming provider routes traffic outside the country. Since downloading VPN apps can be difficult once you arrive, it’s best to install one, log in, save your server details, and test the connection before departure.

The Saily Ultra plan includes NordVPN, NordPass, NordLocker, and Incogni, alongside unlimited mobile data in 121+ destinations. Saily also offers built-in security features, including virtual location options across 115+ locations, an ad blocker, and web protection, all managed through the same app as your data plan.

Does eSIM roaming work in China?

Yes, eSIM roaming works in China on compatible phones, and a prepaid travel eSIM is often cheaper than roaming with major carriers. Instead of paying daily roaming fees, your cell phone connects to a local Chinese network using a prepaid data bundle.

Install your eSIM before departure because downloading it in China may be difficult due to internet restrictions. Saily makes setup easy with in-app installation, so there’s no need to scan QR codes or enter activation codes at the airport. 

Which phones support eSIM roaming in China?

Most iPhone XS and newer models, Google Pixel 3 and newer models, and recent Samsung Galaxy S and Z phones support eSIM roaming. However, some devices purchased in mainland China, including iPhones, lack eSIM support.

To check your phone, dial *#06# and look for an EID number, or go to “Settings” > “Mobile data” and check for an “Add eSIM” option. Your phone must also be carrier-unlocked to use a third-party eSIM. For more details, see our guide to eSIM-compatible phones.

How does Saily compare with other travel eSIMs for China?

Saily is an affordable option for international travelers, offering prepaid data plans backed by Nord Security, the company behind NordVPN. Its built-in security features add an extra layer of protection, while Holafly stands out for unlimited data and Airalo offers a wide range of plans. 

Which Saily plan is best for a trip to China?

Choose the Saily China Country plan if you’re only visiting China, the Asia & Oceania Regional plan for a multi-country trip, or Saily Ultra if you want unlimited data and airport lounge access.

• China Country plan: Best for a short city break in Beijing, Shanghai, or elsewhere in China, with prepaid data bundles.

• Asia & Oceania Regional plan: Ideal for travelers visiting China alongside other Asian destinations, with one eSIM covering multiple countries.

• Saily Ultra plan: Suited to longer trips, frequent travelers, or those working remotely. It offers unlimited data in 121+ destinations, including 30 GB at high speed before slowing to 1 Mbps. It also includes airport lounge access, fast-track services, priority 24/7 support, and automatic monthly renewal, with the option to cancel anytime. You can also compare it with other international SIM cards with unlimited data.

How much does a Saily eSIM plan for China cost?

Saily China eSIM plans start at US$4.49, while Asia & Oceania Regional plans start at US$4.99. Saily Ultra is billed monthly.

For a week of maps, messaging, and occasional browsing, a small data bundle should be enough. Daily video calls or hotspot use will require more data. You can compare Saily eSIM for China plans and top up directly in the app without installing a new eSIM.

What security features does Saily include for travelers in China?

Saily includes virtual location options across 115+ locations, an ad blocker, and web protection in the same app as your data plan. These features help reduce tracking, unwanted ads, and exposure to malicious websites, which is especially useful when connecting to public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes, and hotels.

Developed by Nord Security, the company behind NordVPN, Saily also offers an Ultra plan that bundles NordVPN, NordPass, NordLocker, and Incogni for additional protection.

Should you buy a local SIM card in China?

A local SIM card from China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom is worth considering if you’re staying several weeks and need a Chinese number for apps like Alipay, Didi, or delivery services. You’ll need your passport for in-person registration at an official carrier store or airport counter, including those at Beijing Capital, Shanghai Pudong, and Guangzhou Baiyun airports (check availability beforehand).

Prepaid plans typically offer monthly data bundles with optional calls and texts. However, local SIMs are subject to China’s internet restrictions, so blocked apps will still require a working VPN.

Can a Hong Kong SIM card roam in mainland China in 2026?

Yes, Hong Kong SIM cards can roam in mainland China and route some data through Hong Kong, allowing access to otherwise blocked websites. Popular options include China Mobile Hong Kong (CMHK) and CSL cross-border prepaid SIMs, available at Hong Kong retailers and selected airport outlets.

These plans typically include a fixed data allowance for mainland China, with reduced speeds or additional charges once it’s used up. You’ll generally need to buy and activate the SIM before entering mainland China, making a travel eSIM a more convenient alternative. If you’re visiting both destinations, consider an eSIM for Hong Kong.

How do you make phone calls in China?

You can make calls in China through carrier roaming, Wi-Fi calling, or apps like WeChat. Carrier roaming is useful for regular calls but may incur per-minute charges, while Wi-Fi calling lets you call over an internet connection, often at lower rates. App-based calls are generally the cheapest option.

Most travel eSIMs are data-only, so you’ll need a calling app or a separate phone number add-on.

Can you use WhatsApp, FaceTime, or WeChat to call from China?

WeChat calls work on Chinese networks, while WhatsApp is blocked and FaceTime availability is restricted. A working VPN may help with access, although FaceTime audio can sometimes connect over hotel Wi-Fi.

WeChat is also widely used for payments, taxi bookings, tickets, and restaurant orders. Set it up before departure, as registration sometimes requires verification by an existing user. Learn more about using WhatsApp in China.

What kind of coverage and speed can you expect while roaming in China?

China offers strong 4G coverage nationwide and widespread 5G in major cities. Roaming speeds often depend more on your carrier’s limits than the local network itself. Daily roaming passes may slow your connection after a set allowance, while travel eSIMs generally provide full available speeds until your data runs out.

Coverage is also generally reliable indoors, on metro systems, and along high-speed rail routes, including many tunnels.

Is 5G available to roaming users in China?

Yes, 5G roaming is available in major Chinese cities if your phone supports local frequency bands and your carrier allows 5G access. Coverage is particularly extensive in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Hangzhou.

If you’re stuck on 4G, your phone, roaming agreement, or plan restrictions may be responsible. Fortunately, 4G is usually fast enough for maps, messaging, and video calls.

Where does mobile coverage drop in China?

Mobile coverage can be patchy in remote parts of Tibet, Xinjiang, and Inner Mongolia, particularly in mountainous and desert areas. Travelers trekking through Tiger Leaping Gorge, driving along the Silk Road, or visiting Tibet’s Everest Base Camp may experience signal loss.

China Mobile generally offers the widest rural coverage, but it’s still worth downloading offline maps and saving important addresses in Chinese characters before heading off the beaten path.

Tips for planning roaming in China

Before heading to China in 2026, a little preparation can save you from expensive roaming charges and connectivity headaches. Here’s what to check before departure:

• Buy your eSIM in advance. Choose and install your travel eSIM before flying, so you’re ready to connect when you land.

• Test your VPN. Download, log in, and test your VPN at home, since accessing VPN services in China can be tricky.

• Choose the right data bundle. Maps and messaging use relatively little data, but streaming, video calls, and hotspot sharing can eat through your allowance.

• Keep your home number active. Leave your regular SIM enabled for bank verification texts, but turn off its data roaming to avoid extra charges.

• Set up mobile payments. Install WeChat and Alipay, link your payment card, and check that everything works before departure.

• Download offline essentials. Save maps, hotel addresses in Chinese, booking confirmations, and translation packs.

• Plan for other destinations. If your trip includes Thailand or Taiwan, consider a regional plan rather than buying separate eSIMs for every stop.

For affordable internet access, explore Saily’s China eSIM plans. And if you’re visiting several countries, its regional and global plans can make staying connected while traveling much easier.

Saily regional and global eSIM prices: