HelloRoam offers a China eSIM from €3.01. HelloRoam covers 185+ countries through 212+ partner networks. Your eSIM taps into local 5G networks the moment you land, with no roaming charges. Scan the QR code and you're online in under two minutes on any eSIM-compatible phone. Your Three Ireland, Vodafone IE or Eir number keeps running on dual SIM while your eSIM handles the data.
- local networks
212+- network type
5G- to activate
2 minutes
Last updated
China data plans from Beijing to Shanghai on local networks
Cheap eSIM for China, starting from €3.01. Local 5G data on local partner networks in China. Works on any carrier-unlocked, eSIM-compatible phone. Local SIM registration in China requires documentation and can take time at arrival airports. An e SIM China from HelloRoam starts at €3.01 and covers Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and main national networks. Activate by QR code at home before flying from Dublin. No registration queue, no roaming charges, no contract. GDPR-compliant checkout, 180-day refund guarantee on unactivated eSIMs.
China eSIM with 5G coverage
HelloRoam offers eSIM plans for China from €3.01. Connect on China Unicom 5G networks in Beijing, Shanghai, and major cities. A smart data option for Irish travellers visiting China.
- Plans start at €3.01 with 5G speeds
- Coverage from China Unicom and 1+ other operators
- Instant activation in under 2 minutes
- 180-day refund on unactivated eSIMs
- China coverage across major cities
- Network
- 5G
- Plans From
- €3.01
- Activation
- Under 2 min
- Refund
- 180 days if unactivated
How to Set Up an eSIM in China
Follow these steps to get started with an eSIM on your iPhone or Android.
Set up an eSIM on your iPhone with the HelloRoam app
Set up an eSIM on your Android with the HelloRoam app
- 1
Choose your plan and checkout
Pick a data plan for your destination and complete checkout online.
2Scan the QR code
Scan the QR code to install your eSIM instantly.
- 3
Activate in minutes: ready on arrival
Your eSIM installs instantly and activates the moment you land.
4Manage everything from the app
Track usage, top up data, and manage all your eSIMs in one place.
Trip changed? No bother, we have got you sorted.
Travel plans shift, and that's grand. HelloRoam refunds unactivated, unscanned eSIMs in full for up to 180 days after purchase, no drama.
Learn more about our refund policyHelloRoam China eSIM vs a travel SIM card or Three Ireland, Vodafone IE and Eir roaming
Comparing an eSIM with a travel SIM card for China? Outside the EU, Eir, Vodafone IE and Three Ireland roaming charges add up day by day. Skip the airport SIM counter at Dublin Airport and get a prepaid eSIM for China from €3.01, with instant QR activation and a 180-day refund on unactivated eSIMs.
Why Travellers from Ireland Use HelloRoam e-sim for China
24/7 live chat support
Stuck at 2am in Bangkok, or sorting things out the night before you fly from Dublin? HelloRoam support is available 24/7. Message us by live chat, WhatsApp or email at help@helloroam.com. Data problems don't wait for office hours, and neither do we.
Best eSIM for China
Get data at 5G speeds the moment you land in China. On trips outside the EU, skip your home carrier's roaming fees. HelloRoam connects you to local carrier networks in minutes, whether you're on holiday or working. Your connection is ready before you clear customs.
Dual SIM ready
Keep your Three Ireland, Vodafone IE, or Eir mobile number active for calls and texts. HelloRoam runs travel data on a second eSIM line on any dual SIM compatible phone. No need to choose between your Irish number and your data abroad. Running two lines on one handset means family back home can always reach you on your usual number, while your data runs on a local network at one prepaid HelloRoam price.
212+ partner networks worldwide
HelloRoam connects to 212+ carrier networks across 185+ countries. Your phone joins a partner 5G network automatically, from European cities to long-haul destinations in Asia and the Americas. Speeds depend on the local network.
Usage alerts before you run out
HelloRoam emails you as your data runs low on a fixed plan, so you can top up or buy a new plan in time. Where your plan allows it, top up from the app without reinstalling your eSIM or visiting a shop. Adding a fresh prepaid data package takes under a minute from your account dashboard.
Local network speeds in China
HelloRoam eSIM connects to local 5G networks in China for one prepaid HelloRoam price. Use maps, video calls and streaming without roaming charges from Eir or Vodafone IE on trips outside the EU. Speeds depend on the local network and your location. You pay HelloRoam's own price, shown before you buy, not the local carrier's tariff or your Irish carrier's international add-ons.
Global and regional plans
Heading to more than one country? HelloRoam regional plans cover many countries in Europe, Asia, the Americas and more, in one eSIM purchase. One multi-country data plan means no SIM swapping at borders and a single account managing all your international mobile data in one place.
Hotspot and data sharing in China
Share your China eSIM data with a laptop or tablet using your phone's hotspot. No extra fees, no setup. Works on all eSIM compatible phones. Tethering and mobile hotspot support means the whole group stays online without buying separate data plans for every device.
Best eSIM Prices for China
HelloRoam, the best eSIM China. Compare plans and find the right data for your trip.
| Number of days | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 day | €3.01 |
| 3 days | €8.57 |
| 7 days | €18.53 |
| 15 days | €36.09 |
| 22 days | €48.96 |
| 30 days | €61.36 |
HelloRoam vs Other eSIM Providers for China
See how HelloRoam compares with Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, Saily and Ubigi for your China trip. The table covers a 180-day refund on unactivated eSIMs, data overage charges and instant QR code delivery.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Airalo | Holafly | Nomad | Saily | Ubigi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 180-day refund (unactivated eSIMs) |  Feature available |  Feature not available |  Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage charges | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available |
| Instant QR code delivery | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available |
What Is an e SIM? How eSIM Works in China
An eSIM is a digital SIM built directly into your phone: no plastic chip, no SIM tray. Scan a QR code to activate 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 counter, no physical SIM card, and no carrier contract. Sort everything at home before you head to Dublin Airport, Shannon, Cork, or Knock and you are ready to go the moment you land. guide
Mobile connectivity guide for China
China has 5G mobile coverage in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and other major cities. China Unicom is the core network partner for HelloRoam plans. For Irish visitors, China is outside the EU, so Irish carrier EU roaming does not apply. A HelloRoam eSIM from €3.
01 is typically far cheaper than international daily roaming add-ons. Activate before you leave Dublin and arrive in Beijing already connected.
- HelloRoam connects to China Unicom 5G, China Telecom 5G in China
- 5G coverage across Beijing and major cities
- Connect on China Unicom
- Activate before your Dublin departure
eSIM Travel Tips for China
Sort your data before your flight from Dublin
Buy your HelloRoam eSIM for China at home, activate it over Wi-Fi, and enable data when you land in Beijing. You skip the airport telecom queues entirely and step off the plane already connected.
Keep your Irish number active
On a dual SIM phone, keep your Eir, Three IE, or Vodafone IE SIM for calls and texts while using HelloRoam for data in China. Family and colleagues back in Ireland can still reach you on your regular Irish number.
Offline maps save data on city breaks
Download Google Maps or Maps.me for Beijing offline before you travel. Offline navigation saves data and works even in indoor areas with weaker signal. China cities are generally well covered but rural areas can be patchy.
Travel insurance and emergency numbers
Bring your EHIC or travel insurance details. Before you go, find out how to get emergency help at your destination and save the contacts in your phone. Your HelloRoam eSIM keeps emergency apps, insurance portals, and the Irish embassy contact details accessible throughout your China trip.
Currency and card acceptance
Notify your Irish bank before travelling to China. Card acceptance is generally good in Beijing but carry some local currency for smaller vendors and public transport. Currency conversion apps work well on a HelloRoam data connection.
Mobile networks in China: what Irish visitors need to know
HelloRoam connects on China Unicom in China. China Unicom is one of the country's three major operators with strong 5G coverage in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Chengdu. Signal strength depends on the local network in each area.
- China Unicom
- 5G
- China Telecom
- 5G
HelloRoam eSIM vs Irish carrier roaming in China
Your connectivity options for a China trip from Ireland.
| Category | HelloRoam eSIM Recommended | Local China SIM card | Roaming with your carrier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | From €3.01 total | €12.10–€24.20 total | — |
| Details | Plans from €3.01. Buy before your flight from Dublin, activate at home, and arrive in Beijing already on local 5G data. | Available at Beijing airport but requires setup time after a long flight. Prepaid tourist SIMs involve passport registration and unused data is typically forfeited on return. | Outside the EU, Irish carrier international roaming can be expensive. A HelloRoam eSIM from €3.01 is far cheaper for data throughout your China trip. |
Prices approximate as of . Actual savings vary.
Best time to visit China from Ireland
China is a popular destination for Irish holidaymakers and those visiting family or friends. The ideal season to visit Beijing depends on the local climate cycle.
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
Your China eSIM Questions Answered
How do Irish visitors avoid SIM registration hassle in China when flying from Dublin?
An e-sim China plan from HelloRoam gives you local Chinese network coverage across Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou from €3.01, activated at home before flying. No registration queue on arrival, no roaming charges from your Irish provider, and a 180-day refund guarantee on unactivated eSIMs on every order.
What does an e-sim China plan cover for an Irish business or tourism trip to Beijing and Shanghai?
A HelloRoam China e SIM card plan gives you local data across Beijing, Shanghai, and main Chinese cities from €3.01. Activate at home via QR before flying from Dublin so data is running on arrival. No contract, no registration hassle, no roaming fees, and a 180-day refund guarantee on unactivated eSIMs included.
What is the best eSIM for China from Ireland?
HelloRoam is a strong choice for travellers from Ireland visiting China. Plans start from €3.01 and connect through our worldwide network of 212+ carriers, giving you local 5G speeds in China. Activate via QR code in under two minutes, keep your Three Ireland, Vodafone IE or Eir number on dual SIM, and get a 180-day refund window on unactivated eSIMs. No carrier contract needed.
How much does an eSIM for China cost from Ireland?
A China eSIM starts from €3.01. Fixed data plan sizes vary by country, and this page lists every size on sale. Unlimited daily plans, where offered, charge by the day. All plans include local 5G access with no overage charges and no carrier contract. Outside the EU, that compares well with what Eir or Vodafone IE charge for roaming.
Which networks does a China eSIM connect to?
eSIM in China connects to local partner networks on 5G. Your phone joins a local partner network automatically on arrival, with no manual carrier selection needed. Coverage and speeds depend on the local network, so they vary from place to place.
How do I get an eSIM for China before flying from Ireland?
Getting your eSIM for China takes three steps. First, choose your plan at helloroam.com and pay in the currency you choose. Second, scan the QR code from your confirmation email in Settings under Mobile Data, then Add eSIM. Third, your eSIM installs in under two minutes and activates when you land. Do everything at home before you head to Dublin Airport, Shannon, Cork or Knock. No shop visit, no physical SIM swap, no queue.
Does iPhone support eSIM for China travel from Ireland?
Yes. iPhone XS and all newer models support your eSIM for China. Go to Settings, tap Mobile Data, then Add eSIM, and scan the QR code from your HelloRoam email. Your Irish number stays active on your main SIM through dual SIM while HelloRoam handles all travel data on the eSIM line. Some iPhones, like iPhone 14 and later models sold in the US, are eSIM-only with no SIM tray at all.
What is the best eSIM for China for Irish travellers?
With HelloRoam, your data in China breaks out outside mainland China, so Google and WhatsApp work without a VPN. Hotel Wi-Fi stays filtered, so use your eSIM data for those apps. Plans start at €3.01. Buy before your Aer Lingus or Ryanair flight, scan a QR code at home in Dublin, and arrive in Beijing already on fast local data.
Does HelloRoam eSIM work in China?
Yes, HelloRoam eSIM works in China on China Unicom 5G networks. Activate at home before your flight and connect the moment you land at Beijing airport.
Do Irish travellers need a special SIM for China?
China is outside the EU, so Irish carrier EU roaming does not apply. A HelloRoam eSIM from €3.01 is typically far cheaper than international daily roaming add-ons and gives you local 5G data without any daily add-on charges.
Which networks does HelloRoam use in China?
HelloRoam eSIM for China connects on China Unicom. Your phone automatically selects the strongest 5G signal as you travel around Beijing and China.
How much does an eSIM for China cost?
HelloRoam eSIM plans for China start at €3.01. Larger plans are available for longer stays or data-heavy trips.
How much data do I need for a week in China?
A week in Beijing using maps, messaging, and social media typically uses 3 to 6 GB. Streaming in your hotel evenings or making video calls back to Ireland adds more. Choose a 5 or 10 GB plan for a comfortable buffer.
How many days does the China eSIM last?
HelloRoam eSIM plans for China last from 12 to 30 days depending on the data size you pick. China has 5G coverage via China Unicom. A longer plan suits Irish travellers on extended holidays or working holidays abroad. Select your plan, scan the QR code at home in Ireland, and connect from the moment you land.
Does China have 5G coverage?
Yes, China has 5G coverage through China Unicom. HelloRoam eSIM plans connect on the best available 5G signal across China. Buy your plan before your flight from Dublin and connect straightaway on landing.
What to Know Before You Buy
eSIM requires an unlocked, eSIM-compatible device. Check your phone settings before you buy.
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 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 in your eSIM profile, set out in the 3GPP standard TS 31.102 (EF_PNN). Your phone can read it to show 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 a local partner network without manual settings.
Prices are our retail rates across 185+ countries. The recommended plan is picked by data size and price. Unactivated eSIMs qualify for a 180-day refund.
Future Syncs Limited 124 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX, UK +44 203 916 6249 help@helloroam.com Reg. No. 15950168
