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

(i) Foreign nationals can bring the passports or Foreign Permanent Resident ID Cards to service centers of telecom operators such as China Telecom, China Mobile, and China Unicom to apply for a SIM card and activate mobile communication services in China. Some providers also support eSIM (embedded SIM cards). Please check with telecom operators beforehand for details.

(ii) Mobile communication service plans typically include voice call minutes and data. Diverse plans tailored to customer needs are offered by different telecom operators, and you can choose the one that works for you.

Note: Mobile data plans often come with a cap. If the data limit is low, Internet access may be disabled when not in use. If you are a heavy data user, please consult telecom operators for a suitable data plan.

Source: A Guide to Working and Living in China as Business Expatriates (2026 Edition) issued by the Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China