Quick answer
On iPhone, go to Settings, then Cellular, then Add eSIM, then Use QR Code, and scan the QR from your email. Label the new line “China”, choose it for Cellular Data, and turn on Data Roaming for that line. The APN is e-ideas. Keep roaming off on your home line.
What do I need before installing?
Check these things first. They are the usual reasons an install fails.
- An eSIM-capable iPhone (XS, XR, or newer) that is not locked to your home carrier.
- A stable Wi-Fi connection. Install before the flight.
- The QR code on another screen: open the email or your order page on a laptop or tablet, or print it.
- The right timing: plan days start when you install, and each day ends at 11:59 PM China time, so install close to departure and pick one extra day.
How do I install the eSIM on iPhone?
Names can differ slightly between iOS versions and regions. Cellular is called Mobile Service or Mobile Data in some countries.
- 1Open Settings and tap Cellular.
- 2Tap Add eSIM, then Use QR Code.
- 3Scan the QR code from your email or order page.
- 4When asked, label the new line “China” and keep your home line as Primary.
- 5For Cellular Data choose China.
- 6Turn off Allow Cellular Data Switching, so data never falls back to your home line.
- 7Go to Cellular, tap the China line, and turn on Data Roaming.
- 8If the APN is blank, set Cellular Data Network to e-ideas.
What if I can’t scan the QR code?
Under Add eSIM, choose Enter Details Manually. The install code below the QR in your email starts with LPA:1$. Enter the part between the two $ signs as the SM-DP+ Address, and the part after the second $ as the Activation Code.
Each QR scans once and stays valid for 30 days, so do not delete the eSIM after installing it.
What do I do when I land in China?
Turn off airplane mode, go to Settings, then Cellular, and make sure the China line is on and selected for Cellular Data. Tap the China line and check that Data Roaming is on. The eSIM connects to China Mobile as a roaming line, and there is no extra charge for roaming on it. Keep Data Roaming off on your home line so your carrier does not charge you. Google, Gmail, Maps, YouTube, Facebook, and WhatsApp work without a VPN because traffic routes via Hong Kong.
Frequently asked questions
Will I keep my WhatsApp number?
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Yes. WhatsApp is tied to your account, not to the data line. It keeps working with your usual number while the China eSIM provides the data. WhatsApp calls work over data.
Does the eSIM give me a Chinese phone number?
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No. It is data only, with no phone number, calls, or SMS. Your home SIM can stay on for SMS and bank codes, with roaming off.
Can I delete the eSIM after the trip?
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Yes, after the plan ends. Go to Settings, then Cellular, tap the China line, and choose Delete eSIM. Do not delete it during the trip, because the QR only scans once.