Quick answer
Install your China eSIM on Wi-Fi before the flight, label it China, and turn on Data Roaming for that line only. Days start at install and each day ends at 11:59 PM China time, so pick one day more than your stay. Check entry rules on official government sites. This store does not give visa advice.
Do I need a visa for China?
It depends on your nationality, and the rules can change. Check the current entry rules on official government sites before you book. This store does not give visa advice and does not list a visa website.
What should I do with the eSIM before the flight?
Plan days start when you install, so the timing matters. Installing the day you fly counts that day, and the day still ends at 11:59 PM China time. The QR is valid for 30 days, so you can buy earlier and install later. Checkout does not ask for documents.
- 1Check the phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Dial *#06# and look for an EID.
- 2Buy the plan and wait for the QR email. The QR also stays on your order page.
- 3Install it on Wi-Fi before you fly, close to departure, and label it China.
- 4Turn on Data Roaming for the China line. Keep Data Roaming off on your home SIM.
- 5Set the APN to e-ideas if the field is blank.
Which apps are useful on this eSIM?
Traffic is routed via Hong Kong, so Google, Gmail, Maps, YouTube, Facebook, and WhatsApp work without a VPN. WhatsApp calls work over data.
- Didi for rides. This guide does not quote fares.
- Google Maps, with offline maps downloaded for places you will visit.
- WhatsApp and Gmail.
- Your airline’s app, for boarding passes, on Wi-Fi or once you are online.
What else should I sort out before I go?
- The currency is the yuan (CNY). This guide does not give an exchange rate.
- Save your hotel address and booking codes as screenshots, in case you land without signal.
- Pick one day more than your stay, because day 1 ends at 11:59 PM China time even if you installed that morning.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I check China entry rules?
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On official government sites for your nationality. This store does not give visa advice.
Should I install the eSIM before or after the flight?
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Install on Wi-Fi before the flight. Days start at that moment. If you miss it, airport Wi-Fi still works, and the days start when you install there. The QR scans once and is valid for 30 days.
How long is the QR code valid?
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30 days. It scans once, so install it on the phone you will travel with and do not delete the eSIM afterwards.
Related guides
Does my phone support eSIM? China eSIM compatibility check
A 30-second check before you buy.
How to install a China eSIM on iPhone
Scan the QR, label the line, and turn on Data Roaming.
How to install a China eSIM on Android (Samsung, Pixel)
Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel steps, from the same QR.
Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) eSIM guide
Beijing’s Capital airport, code PEK.