Q: How to obtain a local SlM card when travelling in Changsha?

A: Before embarking on a journey to Changsha, it's advisable for foreign visitors to consult with their mobile service provider to enable international roaming and long-distance services. In Hong Kong and Macao, some operators offer an Alternate Line Service (ALS), allowing tourists to seamlessly convert to an 11-digit mainland number upon arrival in Changsha.

Application channels: 

Visit the business outlets of China Mobile, China Telecom, or China Unicom.

Valid documents: 

The required valid documents for personal real-name registration of telephone users are as follows: (1) Residents from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan should present their residence permit. (2) Foreign citizens should provide their passports or permanent residence identity cards. The requirements for checking permanent residence identity cards are equivalent to those for resident identity cards.

Documents needed at: 
1. China Mobile and China Unicom: Residence permit for Hong Kong and Macao residents, residence permit for Taiwan residents, passport for foreign citizens, and permanent residence identity card for foreigners are only accepted at self-operated outlets. Actual acceptance may vary depending on the specific situation at the service counter.

2. China Telecom: Residence permit for Hong Kong and Macao residents, residence permit for Taiwan residents, passport for foreign citizens, permanent residence identity card for foreigners, as well as employer certificates/community certificates are only accepted at self-operated outlets. Actual acceptance may vary depending on the specific situation at the service counter.

Source: Changsha Official Website