How to apply for a SIM card and activate mobile communication services in China?

(I) Foreigners can bring your passports or Foreign Permanent Resident ID Cards to the service offices of telecom operators such as China Telecom, China Mobile, China Unicom to apply for a SIM card and activate mobile communication services in China. 

(II) The mobile communication service plans usually include call time and data. Different operators will provide different service plans according to customers' needs, and users can choose the appropriate one.

Note: The plans often offer a limited amount of data. You can disable internet access when not using internet services if the data offered is little. Or, you are suggested to consult the telecom operator for an appropriate data plan if you need to use a large amount of data.

Source: A Guide to Working and Living in China as Business Expatriates (2025 Edition) issued by the Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China