eSim in China

Question

Had anyone had success using an eSim in China? I am looking to get one from Airalo (used before in other countries with no issues) so I can use AliPay etc.

Answer

Using an eSIM in China is possible, but there are some important considerations and limitations you should be aware of, especially if your goal is to use services like AliPay, WeChat Pay, or other local apps.

1. eSIM providers and coverage:

Airalo offers eSIMs for China, often labeled as "China eSIM" or "China + Hong Kong" packages. These provide data connectivity on local networks such as China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom.
Coverage is generally good in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, but in rural areas or some remote provinces, connectivity may be weaker.
Data-only eSIMs are common; voice/SMS may not be supported on all eSIM plans.

2. Registration requirements:

Chinese law requires SIM registration with a valid passport. Some eSIM providers handle this electronically, while others may require you to verify your ID through the app before the eSIM is activated.
Ensure that the eSIM provider confirms compliance with Chinese regulations; unregistered SIMs may be blocked.

3. Using eSIM for local apps (AliPay, WeChat Pay, etc.):

For AliPay or WeChat Pay, you often need a Chinese phone number to register the account fully. Some eSIMs can provide a temporary Chinese number, but verification may still fail if the number is not recognized as "mainland China mobile number."
Even if data works perfectly, some apps may still restrict account features without a proper mainland China mobile number linked.

4. Practical tips:

Install and activate your eSIM before arriving in China to avoid potential roaming issues or delays.
Keep your physical SIM as backup if your phone supports dual SIM, in case the eSIM fails in certain regions.
Consider purchasing an Airalo "China + Hong Kong" eSIM if you plan to travel to Hong Kong as well, to avoid switching SIMs or buying a separate one.
For extensive travel or frequent app verification, a physical prepaid SIM card from China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom may be more reliable.

In summary, eSIMs like Airalo can work in China primarily for data purposes. However, using them for financial apps like AliPay may be limited due to the need for a registered mainland China mobile number. If you rely heavily on app verification or messaging services, having a backup physical SIM or a plan that includes a proper Chinese number is recommended.

eSim in China

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