HelloRoam offers prepaid eSIM data plans for China from CA$4.86 a day across 185+ countries. Your e SIM connects to local 4G/5G networks the moment you land, ready to go. Set it up in under two minutes with a QR code before you fly. Keep your Bell, Rogers, or Telus number active on your primary SIM while your e-sim handles data.
- carrier networks
212+- 5G support
5G- to activate
under 2 minutes
Last updated
China travel eSIM data plans for Canadians
Great-value eSIM for China, starting from CA$4.86. Local 4G LTE and 5G data on top carrier networks in China. Works on all eSIM compatible phones. Pick a China travel sim from HelloRoam starting at CA$4.86 on China Unicom and China Telecom 5G networks. Activate by QR at home before your flight and land ready to go. No physical card, no contract, and no roaming fees from Bell or Rogers. Coverage includes Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xi'an, and Guangzhou. Plans run 7 to 30 days with 3GB to 20GB or unlimited data options.
China eSIM with fast 5G coverage
HelloRoam offers eSIM plans for China starting from CA$4.86. Connect on China Unicom 5G and 4G LTE networks. Canadians visiting Beijing or Shanghai for tourism, business, or family can activate before their flight.
- Plans start at CA$4.86 with 5G speeds
- Coverage from China Unicom and 1+ other operators
- Instant activation in under 2 minutes
- 180-day money-back guarantee
- China coverage across major cities
- Network
- 5G
- Plans From
- CA$4.86
- Activation
- Under 2 min
- Guarantee
- 180 days
How to Set Up an eSIM in China
Follow these steps to set up your eSIM on iPhone or Android. Works for any eSIM for international travel, no replacement SIM, no store visit.
Set up an eSIM on your iPhone with HelloRoam
Set up an eSIM on your Android with HelloRoam
- 1
Choose your plan and check out
Pick a data plan for your destination and complete checkout in the HelloRoam app or on the website.
2Scan the QR code
Scan the QR code from your confirmation email to install your eSIM right away.
- 3
Ready to use on arrival
Your eSIM installs in minutes and activates the moment you land at your destination.
4Manage from the app
View usage, top up data, and manage all your eSIMs from the HelloRoam app.
Plans changed? No worries, we've got you covered.
Plans change, and that's okay. With HelloRoam, you can request a refund on your eSIM within 180 days of purchase. No hassle.
Learn more about our refund policyHelloRoam China eSIM vs Bell, Rogers and Telus roaming
When comparing eSIM vs a travel SIM card for China, HelloRoam is the most affordable eSIM option for Canadian travellers. It beats Rogers Roam Like Home (CAD 12/day), Bell Roam Better (CAD 12/day), and Telus Easy Roam fees. Skip the airport SIM shop and get a better international data plan from CA$4.86 with a 180-day refund guarantee on unactivated eSIMs.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Local provider | Limited data eSIM |
|---|---|---|---|
| 180-day refund on unactivated eSIMs |  Feature available |  Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Live chat support | Feature available |  Feature available | Feature available |
| No activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| No roaming fees from Bell, Rogers, or Telus | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage charges | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Instant QR code delivery | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| Premium China carrier networks | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
Why Canadian Travellers Choose an e SIM for China
24/7 live chat support
Need help at 2 AM in Tokyo or midnight in Cancun? HelloRoam support is available 24/7. Message us and a real person responds in under 2 minutes. No bots, no hold queue. Whether you're troubleshooting mobile data access or topping up your prepaid data package mid-trip, our team has you covered around the clock.
Best Travel eSIM for China
Get fast 4G/5G data from the moment you land in China. No Bell, Rogers, or Telus roaming fees. Set up your eSIM before you leave home in under 2 minutes. A prepaid data package activates on arrival so your wireless connectivity starts the second you step off the plane.
Keep your Bell, Rogers, or Telus number
Keep your Bell, Rogers, or Telus number active for calls and texts. HelloRoam runs as a second eSIM line on any dual SIM compatible phone, so you never miss a call from home while travelling. Your cellular coverage for internet abroad runs on a separate line, so both SIMs work at the same time.
212+ carrier networks worldwide, connected in China
HelloRoam connects to 212+ carrier networks across 185+ countries. Your cell phone switches to the strongest available 4G/5G or 5G signal automatically. That broad network reach means consistent mobile data access whether you're in a busy city centre or a smaller town.
Data alerts before you run out
HelloRoam alerts you at 80% data usage so you never hit a surprise cap mid-trip. Top up instantly from the app without reinstalling your eSIM or visiting a store. Keeping your internet abroad budget in check is simple when you can add more mobile data in seconds.
Local 4G/5G speeds
Your China eSIM connects to trusted local 4G/5G networks. HelloRoam picks the strongest available signal for navigation, streaming, and video calls. Reliable cellular coverage at local network speeds makes a real difference when you're navigating a new city or video calling family back home.
Regional and global eSIM plans
Travelling to multiple countries? HelloRoam regional eSIM plans cover Europe, the Caribbean, Asia, and 185+ destinations in one purchase. Fixed and unlimited data options available. One account, no SIM swaps. A single international data plan with cross-border wireless connectivity saves you the hassle of buying a new prepaid data package at every border.
Free hotspot and data sharing in China
Share your China eSIM data with a laptop or tablet using your cell phone's built-in hotspot. No extra fees, no setup needed. Works on all eSIM compatible phones. Turning your phone into a mobile Wi-Fi hub means everyone on your trip gets internet abroad from the same prepaid data package.
Best eSIM Prices for China
HelloRoam, the best eSIM China. Compare plans and save versus Rogers, Bell, and Telus roaming.
| Number of days | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 day | CA$4.86 |
| 3 days | CA$13.87 |
| 7 days | CA$29.97 |
| 15 days | CA$58.37 |
| 22 days | CA$79.18 |
| 30 days | CA$99.22 |
HelloRoam vs Rogers, Bell, Telus, and Other eSIM Providers for China
Canadian travellers consistently highlight HelloRoam's 180-day refund on unactivated eSIMs, C$0 activation fees, and 24/7 live support. See how HelloRoam compares to Airalo, Holafly, Saily, and other eSIM providers on the things that matter most for your trip.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Airalo | Holafly | Nomad | Saily | Ubigi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 180-day refund on unactivated eSIMs | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| 24/7 live chat support | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature available |
| C$0 activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Dual SIM: keep your Canadian number active | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage charges | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Instant QR code delivery | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available |
| Premium China carrier networks | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Own branded carrier identity (SPN) | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature available |
What Is an eSIM? How eSIM Works in China
An eSIM is a digital SIM built directly into your cell phone. There is no plastic chip and no SIM tray to deal with. Scan a QR code to activate your eSIM in under 2 minutes on any eSIM compatible iPhone or Android. It works as a prepaid data plan for China travel with no airport SIM shop, no replacement SIM card, and no carrier contract. Canadians travelling from Pearson or Vancouver International can set everything up before their flight and arrive connected. Follow the step-by-step setup guide to get started. setup guide
Mobile connectivity guide for China
China has extensive 5G and 4G LTE coverage across Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, and all major cities. China Unicom provides the network for HelloRoam eSIM users.
Canada has a large Chinese-Canadian community, particularly in Vancouver and Toronto, and many Canadians visit China for family connections, business, and tourism. A HelloRoam eSIM provides international data access without switching SIM cards.
- HelloRoam connects to China Unicom 5G, China Telecom 5G in China
- 5G and 4G LTE on China Unicom in major cities
- Activate before your flight from Vancouver or Toronto
- Provides a data connection with international app access
eSIM Travel Tips for China
Canadian apps and websites in China
China operates behind the Great Firewall, which restricts access to Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and most Canadian news sites. A HelloRoam eSIM provides your data connection. Consider using a VPN for access to Canadian apps and websites. Download your VPN app before you leave Canada.
WeChat is essential for China travel
WeChat is used for everything in China including communication, payments, restaurant orders, and transit. Download WeChat before you leave Canada and set up your account while still on your Canadian network. You will need it to coordinate with family or contacts in China.
Download offline maps before your flight
Google Maps has limited functionality in mainland China. Download MAPS.ME or Apple Maps offline data for your Chinese cities before you travel. Baidu Maps works in China but is in Chinese and may require a WeChat login.
Chinese Canadians visiting family
Canada has one of the world's largest Chinese diaspora communities in Vancouver, Toronto, and Richmond Hill. Many Canadians visit China for Lunar New Year, weddings, or extended family stays. Your HelloRoam eSIM bridges connectivity from the moment you land.
Mobile payments in China
Alipay and WeChat Pay dominate payments in China. Some tourist areas now accept foreign bank cards, but having at least some cash in Chinese yuan (RMB) is wise. Download your Canadian banking app for currency monitoring before your trip.
Mobile networks in China: what Canadians need to know
China Unicom provides the 5G and 4G LTE network available to HelloRoam eSIM users in China. China Unicom has extensive coverage across China's major cities and provinces. Coverage in remote western regions including Tibet, Xinjiang, and Qinghai can be limited. Your HelloRoam eSIM connects on China Unicom for data access throughout your trip.
- China Unicom
- 5G
- China Telecom
- 5G
HelloRoam eSIM vs carrier roaming for Canadians in China
Here is a clear comparison of your data options for a trip to China.
| Category | HelloRoam eSIM Recommended | Chinese local SIM card | Canadian carrier roaming in China |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | From CA$4.92 total | CA$19.57–CA$39.14 total | CA$13.98–CA$27.95/day |
| Details | Plans start at CA$4.86. Activate in Canada and arrive in Beijing or Shanghai with data ready. No SIM card swap required. Works on China Unicom across the country. | Foreign visitors can buy a Chinese SIM card, but it requires passport registration at the counter and takes time. Local SIMs sit behind the Great Firewall, which blocks Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, and most Canadian apps and websites. | Canadian carriers bill $15 to $16 CAD per day for roaming in China. A two-week family visit can pass $200 CAD before you stream a single video. |
Prices approximate as of . Actual savings vary.
Best times for Canadians to visit China
Spring from April to May and autumn from September to October are the best times to visit China. Temperatures are comfortable and air quality is often better than summer. Summer from June to August is hot and can have poor air quality in major cities. Chinese New Year (January or February) is a spectacular cultural event but domestic travel is extremely crowded. Golden Week in early October is another peak travel period that makes tourist sites very busy.
Reviewed by HelloRoam Editorial Team
Reviewed by HelloRoam Editorial Team
Top Destinations in China
Beijing
HelloRoam works across Beijing, China. Pick your data plan and connect the moment you arrive.
China Mobile and Unicom run 5G in Beijing. Note that many foreign apps need a VPN to function in China.
Shanghai
HelloRoam keeps you connected in Shanghai with fast mobile data. Browse our Shanghai eSIM plans for China.
China Mobile 5G blankets Shanghai. Activate your eSIM before landing and have your VPN ready at Pudong Airport.
Chengdu
HelloRoam provides reliable data coverage in Chengdu, China for travelers on the go.
China Mobile 5G covers Chengdu well. The metro has excellent signal, but bring a VPN for standard apps.
Guangzhou
HelloRoam delivers mobile data in Guangzhou, keeping you online throughout China.
China Mobile 5G covers Guangzhou and the metro network. Use a VPN to access apps like Google and WhatsApp.
Shenzhen
HelloRoam connects you in Shenzhen via China Mobile and China Unicom 5G networks. Coverage is strong at Bao'an International Airport and across the Futian CBD. A china esim plan works from the moment you cross the border from Hong Kong.
Turn on your HelloRoam eSIM before crossing from Hong Kong at Futian or Luohu checkpoints to stay online without a gap.
Suzhou
Arrive in Suzhou ready to connect. HelloRoam covers all of China with fast data.
Suzhou near Shanghai has China Unicom 5G. The high-speed train from Shanghai has consistent signal.
Zhengzhou
Stay connected in Zhengzhou with HelloRoam eSIM data plans that work across China.
Zhengzhou has China Mobile 5G in the city and around Zhengzhou East high-speed rail station.
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Reviews
What Our Customers Say
Real reviews from Trustpilot and the App Store, quoted as written.
40k+ travellers have used HelloRoam
Cat
On a trip to Europe, my hotel Wi-Fi was so slow and outside Wi-Fi was unreliable. I couldn’t take it anymore so I got helloroam for a few days. It was tricky to set up correctly because of the primary settings (with my original number). But I reached out to their customer service via WhatsApp. Super responsive and helpful, with specific and clear steps to troubleshoot. Appreciate having 4G roaming instead of being stuck with in and out Wi-Fi during my trip!!
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Very good experience! The eSIM was easy to set up and worked great in London. It was much cheaper than it would have been to use my own operator there.
Ilona
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
metulker
Hard to set up but help was good
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Reuben
Really happy with HelloRoam. Everything worked as expected, from messaging and Google Maps through to streaming without any issues. Easy to use, reliable and affordable. Would happily use them again when travelling.
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Angeline
Reliable connection. Reasonable pricing.
Rated 4 out of 5 by this reviewer
Last updated
China eSIM Questions Answered
How much does a China SIM card plan cost for Canadians visiting the mainland?
A China travel sim from HelloRoam China eSIM card plan starts at CA$4.86 on China Unicom and China Telecom 5G networks. HelloRoam delivers the QR to your inbox so you activate before boarding from Canada. No contract and no credit check required on any plan.
Does an e SIM China plan cover Chengdu, Xi'an, and the full country?
The cheapest eSIM for China plan from HelloRoam starts at CA$4.86 on China Unicom and China Telecom 5G networks. HelloRoam delivers the QR to your inbox so you activate before boarding from Canada. No contract and no credit check required on any plan.
What is the best eSIM for China for Canadians?
HelloRoam is the best eSIM for China for Canadians departing from Toronto Pearson YYZ, Vancouver YVR, Montreal YUL, Calgary YYC, or Ottawa YOW. Plans start from CA$4.86 and connect to 212+ carrier networks across 185+ countries. You get local 4G/5G speeds, a 180-day refund guarantee on unactivated eSIMs, and 24/7 live chat support in English and French. Rogers Roam Like Home and Bell Roam Better each charge CAD 12 or more per day. HelloRoam costs far less for most trips. For Canadian travellers who want reliable mobile data and real savings on wireless connectivity, it is the practical choice over any carrier roaming plan.
How much does a China eSIM cost compared to Bell or Rogers roaming?
HelloRoam eSIM plans for China start from CA$4.86 as a one-time prepaid purchase. Bell US Roam Better costs CAD 12 per day. Bell international roaming costs CAD 16 per day. Rogers Roam Like Home costs CAD 12 per day. Telus Easy Roam costs CAD 12 per day. A 10-day trip under Rogers or Bell adds CAD 120 or more to your monthly bill. HelloRoam fixed plans run 3GB to 20GB with no daily billing cycle and no overage fees. When you compare a prepaid data package from HelloRoam against a daily carrier roaming plan, the internet abroad savings on a two-week trip are significant.
Which networks does HelloRoam eSIM connect to in China?
HelloRoam eSIM in China connects to local 4G LTE and 5G carrier networks. Your phone selects the strongest available signal automatically on arrival. Coverage spans major cities, airports, highways, and most rural areas. HelloRoam partners with 212+ carrier networks globally. Canadian travellers get consistent local speeds across all top destinations without paying Bell, Rogers, or Telus daily roaming rates. That cellular coverage spans urban centres and popular tourist areas, giving you solid mobile data for maps, messaging, and streaming throughout your trip.
How do I set up a HelloRoam eSIM before leaving a Canadian airport?
Setting up your HelloRoam eSIM before departure takes three steps. First, choose your plan at helloroam.com or in the app and complete checkout. Second, scan the QR code from your confirmation email in Settings under Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan. Third, your e-sim installs in under 2 minutes. Buy and install at home or at Toronto Pearson YYZ, Vancouver YVR, Montreal YUL, Calgary YYC, or Ottawa YOW using the free airport Wi-Fi before your flight boards.
Does my iPhone work with a China eSIM if I am on Bell, Rogers, or Telus?
iPhone XS and all newer models work with HelloRoam eSIM in China as long as your device is carrier-unlocked. iPhones purchased directly from Apple are unlocked by default. Phones on a Bell, Rogers, or Telus payment plan may be locked until fully paid off. Check Settings under General, then About, then Carrier Lock to confirm. Once unlocked, scan the QR code in Settings under Cellular, then Add eSIM, and your Canadian number stays active on dual SIM while HelloRoam handles travel data.
What is the best eSIM for China for Canadian travellers?
HelloRoam is a top eSIM option for Canadians visiting China, connecting on China Unicom 5G networks. Plans start at CA$4.86. Activate before your flight from Vancouver or Toronto and arrive in Beijing or Shanghai with data connectivity.
Does a HelloRoam eSIM work in China?
Yes, HelloRoam eSIM connects on China Unicom 5G and 4G LTE across China's major cities and provinces. The eSIM provides a data connection. Note that many Canadian apps and websites are restricted in China due to the Great Firewall.
Can I access Canadian apps in China with a HelloRoam eSIM?
China's Great Firewall restricts access to Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and most international apps. A HelloRoam eSIM provides your data connection. For access to Canadian apps, you will also need a VPN that you have set up before leaving Canada.
How much does a HelloRoam eSIM for China cost?
HelloRoam eSIM plans for China start at CA$4.86. Choose a plan that covers the length of your stay, whether it is a week of tourism in Beijing and Shanghai or a longer family visit.
Does HelloRoam eSIM work in Shanghai and Beijing?
Yes, HelloRoam eSIM works in Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, and all major Chinese cities. China Unicom provides extensive 5G and 4G LTE coverage in urban areas.
Can I use hotspot with HelloRoam eSIM in China?
Yes, HelloRoam eSIM plans for China include hotspot sharing. Share your connection with a laptop or travel companion's device anywhere in China Unicom coverage areas.
How much data do I need for two weeks in China?
Two weeks in China with WeChat messaging, maps, and daily use typically uses 4 to 6 GB. Video calls home to Canada regularly or streaming content adds more. Choose a larger plan for comfort.
Does HelloRoam eSIM work at the Great Wall?
Yes, the popular Great Wall sections near Beijing including Mutianyu and Badaling have reasonable 4G coverage. More remote wall sections in Inner Mongolia and Hebei have variable or no coverage.
What to Know Before You Buy
eSIM requires an unlocked, eSIM-compatible device. Check your phone settings before purchasing.
Most travel eSIM plans provide data only. Your existing phone number stays active for calls and texts on your primary SIM.
Coverage quality varies by location within China. Urban areas typically have strong 4G/5G coverage, while rural or remote areas may have limited connectivity.
Install your eSIM before departure. Activation requires an internet connection, which may not be available at your destination airport.
Transparency Notice
- Service Provider Name (SPN)
- HelloRoam appears as the carrier name on your phone's status bar through the SPN, a standardized field in the eSIM profile. Unlike most travel eSIM resellers, HelloRoam provisions its own Service Provider Name.
- Public Network Name (PNN)
- The PNN is the network name field inside the eSIM profile, defined in 3GPP TS 31.102 (EF_PNN). Your phone can read it to display the name of the network you're connected to.
- Access Point Name (APN)
- HelloRoam eSIMs auto-configure their Access Point Name during installation. Your device connects to the strongest local network infrastructure without manual settings.
Prices are our retail rates across 185+ countries. Plan recommendations use real traveller feedback and network performance data. Every purchase includes a 180-day money-back guarantee on unactivated eSIMs.
Future Syncs Limited 124 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX, UK +44 203 916 6249 help@helloroam.com Reg. No. 15950168
