How to Install eSIM in China
Activate eSIM on iPhone, Samsung, and Google Pixel phones in just 2-3 minutes. Everything starts with an eSIM QR Code, a compatible device, and a Wi-Fi connection.
Everything you need to know about activating eSIM Travel in China
- Automatic installation: Scan the QR Code (highly recommended)
- Manual installation: Enter details manually
- Pre-departure setup: Install eSIM before traveling, activate upon arrival
- Quick setup: Takes only 2-3 minutes
Connect to Wi-Fi
Ensure your device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network. This is required for downloading and installing the eSIM profile.
Scan the QR Code
Open your device's camera or eSIM settings and scan the QR Code provided in your order confirmation email. This will automatically download the eSIM profile.
Install the eSIM profile
Follow the on-screen prompts to install the eSIM profile. You may be asked to label your eSIM (e.g., 'China Travel'). Confirm the installation when prompted.
Activate upon arrival
Once you land in China, go to your device settings and turn on the eSIM data plan. Your eSIM will automatically connect to the local network.
Configure network settings
If using a 5G device, switch to 4G/LTE for optimal performance. Turn off your primary SIM's cellular data to avoid roaming charges.
Start browsing
You're all set! Your eSIM is now active and you can start using mobile data in China. Check your data usage in your device settings to monitor your plan.
Important notes
- 5G users: If using a 5G smartphone with China eSIM, disable 5G and switch to 4G/LTE for optimal performance
- Avoid roaming fees: Turn off your Cellular Data Switch to prevent unexpected roaming charges
- Installation timing: Install the eSIM before departure and activate it upon landing in China
- Wi-Fi required: You need a Wi-Fi connection to complete the initial eSIM installation
Tips for activate eSIM
Print your QR code, or borrow someone's device to keep your eSIM QR code if you have no second device (another phone, desktop, laptop, etc.) to keep it).
Take note of your SM-DP + Address & Activation code somewhere on your device for easy manual setup by copying and pasting if you cannot print your QR code or have no second device to keep it, or just in case your scanning fails and you need to set up your eSIM manually.
How to activate eSIM in China
Two Ways to install esim on the devices as;
- Installation via QR Code
- Manual eSIM Activation
In this section, we will guide you through:
- How to activate eSIM on iPhone
- How to activate eSIM on Samsung phone, and
- How to activate eSIM on Google phone.
The wording may be slightly different depending on your device. So, in case you have difficulty installing your eSIM, please contact your eSIM provider.
How to Install eSIM on iPhone (iOS)
Get QR Code & Connect to Wi-Fi
Receive the QR code from your carrier (email or print) and connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi.
Open eSIM Settings
Go to Settings → Cellular / Mobile Data → Add eSIM.
Scan QR Code
Tap to Scan QR Code.
Activate eSIM
Tap Continue and follow on-screen instructions to finish activation.
Tap Add eSIM → Enter Details Manually
In Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM, select Enter Details Manually.
Enter SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code
Enter the SM-DP+ address and Activation Code provided by your carrier.
After Installation
Follow these steps to complete your eSIM setup
Rename eSIM
Go to Settings → Cellular → select eSIM → label (e.g. eSIM China).
Set Default Line
Choose eSIM for Cellular Data if needed.
Enable Data Roaming
Turn on Data Roaming for eSIM China.
How to Install eSIM on Samsung (Android)
Follow the steps below to install your eSIM
Connect to Wi-Fi
Ensure a stable Wi-Fi connection before starting the installation process.
Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network
Open Settings
Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager.
Navigate to SIM Manager in Settings
Add eSIM
Tap Add mobile plan or Add eSIM.
Tap Add mobile plan to begin
Choose Installation Method
Select your preferred installation method:
- Scan QR Code: Scan the QR from your carrier
- Manual: Enter activation code
Choose between QR code or Enter activation code
Select Scan QR code
Scan the QR code from your provider's eSIM (email or print).
Scan the QR code provided by your carrier
Confirm & Activate
Select Add and follow prompts. Wait for download to complete.
Confirm to add your eSIM
Enter activation code
Tap Enter activation code and input the code provided by your carrier.
Enter your activation code manually
Confirm & Activate
Select Add and follow prompts. Wait for download to complete.
Confirm manual activation
How to Install eSIM on Google Pixel
Follow the steps below to install your eSIM
Connect to WiFi then open Settings on Google Pixel phone
Go to Network & internet → SIMs (or + Add SIM)
Tap Download eSIM / Download a SIM instead?
Scan QR Code or enter code manually if required
Tap Download to install
Label eSIM (e.g. Travel eSIM)
Activation
Complete these steps to activate your eSIM
Turn ON the new eSIM in SIMs
Set it as Default for Mobile data
Enable Data Roaming for the eSIM
Restart the phone (optional)
How to Install eSIM in China - FAQ
Everything you need to know about using eSIM in China
China does not prohibit the use of eSIMs, so if you are currently already using an eSIM or eSIM phone, you will still be able to use your own phone.
Check Compatibility. You can find the list of eSIM compatible phones.
Buy your eSIM. Choose an eSIM plan that fits your travel needs and get it delivered instantly via email!
Scan & Activate. Scan the QR code in your email and turn on Data Roaming to activate your eSIM.
Yes, you can keep your WhatsApp number and all your contacts and conversations. You can use it like normal during your trip in China.
At your convenience, you should buy an eSIM the day before your departure date or upon arrival at your destination. To install it, your device must get connected with WiFi or a mobile data network.
The eSIM is data-only and does not come with local phone number. It only allows the use of mobile data, so you cannot receive or send calls or SMS.
For iOS devices:
- Head over to Settings then choose Mobile Data
- You'll see your eSIM listed under SIMs
- Tap on your eSIM and check that Turn On This Line is turned on
For Android devices:
- Go to Settings then pick SIM cards & mobile networks
- Scroll down and choose Manage eSIM
China eSIM provides nationwide coverage across all major cities and provinces in mainland China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.
Your eSIM will be activated instantly after scanning the QR code and turning on Data Roaming. The entire process typically takes less than 5 minutes.
Coverage depends on your specific plan. Please check your plan details to see if Hong Kong and Macau are included in your coverage area.
If your eSIM is not working, try these steps:
- Make sure Data Roaming is turned on
- Restart your device
- Check that your eSIM line is enabled in settings
- Contact our support team if the issue persists