1. Can Foreigners Get a SIM Card in China?
Yes! You just need your passport and a local address. It’s a simple process that usually takes under 30 minutes.
2. Major Mobile Carriers
- China Mobile (widest coverage)
- China Unicom (great balance of speed and price)
- China Telecom (good in some regions, but fewer English services)
3. What to Bring
- Your passport
- Visa page or entry stamp
- Sometimes your residence registration form
4. Where to Buy a SIM Card
- Official carrier stores (best option for foreigners)
- Airport service desks (more expensive, short-term options)
- Local phone stores (some may not register SIMs to foreigners)
Tip: Use a carrier-owned store to avoid issues and language confusion.
5. Best SIM Plans for Foreigners
Most plans include:
- 10–40 GB monthly data
- Local and national calls
- Monthly price: ¥50–¥150
- Some plans offer international calls or roaming
Ask for “套餐 tàocān” (meaning SIM plan package) and if they have one with more data, less calls.
6. SIM Registration & Activation
Your photo will be taken for ID verification. Once registered, the SIM will be inserted into your phone and usually activated on the spot.
7. Payment & Top-Up
You can top up via:
- Carrier app (e.g., China Mobile app)
- Alipay or WeChat Pay
- In-store at phone shops
8. Important Tips
- Keep your passport when using the SIM in case you need to update info
- Don’t lose the SIM packaging — it contains your account and PUK code
- Use dual-SIM phones to keep your original number for banking apps back home
Final Thoughts:
With a local SIM, life in China becomes much easier. From paying bills to ordering food, your phone becomes your key to everything. Hafrik is here to help you unlock it all.
