HelloRoam provides an eSIM for China, with plans from ₹331.21 per day. Your e SIM taps into local 4G/5G networks as soon as you land, ready to use. Scan the QR code before departure, and your Jio, Airtel, or Vi number stays active for calls. Your e-sim manages travel data at local rates, with no hidden charges from HelloRoam. Setup takes under two minutes, backed by 24/7 WhatsApp support.
- carrier networks
212+- 5G support
5G- QR activation
under 2 minutes
Last updated
Your China sim Plan with Nationwide Coverage
Affordable eSIM for China, starting from ₹331.21. Local 4G LTE and 5G data on top carrier networks in China. Works on all eSIM compatible phones including OnePlus, Samsung, and iPhone. An eSIM in China plan from HelloRoam runs on China Unicom and China Telecom 5G networks from ₹331.21. Indian travellers activate via QR code from Delhi or Mumbai before departure. No physical SIM card is needed on arrival. Data is live from landing with transparent pricing and no hidden charges.
China eSIM with fast 5G coverage
HelloRoam offers eSIM plans for China starting from ₹331.21. Stay connected on China Unicom 5G networks. Scan the QR code before you board from India and activate the moment you land.
- Plans start at ₹331.21 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
- ₹331.21
- Activation
- Under 2 min
- Guarantee
- 180 days
How to Set Up an eSIM in China
Follow these steps to start using an eSIM on your iPhone or Android before travelling abroad.
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 online
Pick a data plan for your destination and complete your purchase online.
2Scan the QR code from your email
Scan the QR code from your confirmation email to install your eSIM.
- 3
Activate in minutes: ready when you land
Your eSIM installs in minutes and activates on arrival at your destination.
4Manage everything from the HelloRoam app
Monitor data usage, top up when needed, and manage all your eSIMs in one place.
Trip changed? No worries, we have got you covered!
Plans can change, and that is perfectly fine. With HelloRoam, you can request a full refund for an unactivated eSIM within 180 days of purchase. Once activated, the eSIM is not refundable.
Learn more about our refund policyHelloRoam China eSIM vs Jio, Airtel and Vi Roaming
When you compare a China eSIM against a travel SIM card or carrier roaming pack, HelloRoam delivers better value. Jio international roaming costs ₹575 per day. Airtel World Roaming costs ₹596 per day. Vi’s ₹2,999 pack covers just 24 days in select countries. For Indian travellers looking for the most affordable eSIM option, HelloRoam plans start from ₹331.21 with a 180-day refund window on unactivated eSIMs, zero activation fees, and no hidden charges. No airport SIM counter. No carrier contract.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Jio / Airtel roaming | Limited data eSIM |
|---|---|---|---|
| 180-day refund policy |  Feature available |  Feature not available | Feature not available |
| 24/7 live chat support | Feature available |  Feature available | Feature available |
| Zero activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| Keep your Jio or Airtel number active (dual SIM) | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage charges | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Instant QR code delivery by email | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| Premium China carrier networks | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
eSIM or China SIM card: which is better for Indian visitors?
An eSIM China plan from HelloRoam activates via QR code from India before departure, so you land in Beijing or Shanghai already connected on China Unicom and China Telecom 5G networks. A SIM card for China requires physical purchase on arrival and may face language barriers. Plans start at ₹331.21 with no Airtel or Jio roaming charges. Based on DEL. Verified May 2026.
A prepaid SIM card China from a local operator may restrict access to certain apps. HelloRoam eSIM plans run on China Unicom and China Telecom 5G networks from ₹331.21 with transparent data and 24/7 English support. No documentation needed on arrival.
An eSIM card China from HelloRoam means no physical card swap and no risk of losing your Indian Jio or Airtel SIM. Plans from ₹331.21 activate by QR in two minutes and include a 180-day refund guarantee on unactivated eSIMs.
A prepaid eSIM China plan from HelloRoam requires only a QR scan on any compatible Indian handset. No paperwork, no queue, and no roaming surcharge. A China data sim from a local provider requires you to present your passport at a Chinese telecom outlet.
A China data sim from HelloRoam gives Indian visitors consistent 5G speeds on China Unicom and China Telecom networks across all major cities. No dependency on a single carrier and no tourist-trap counter pricing at arrivals.
Why Indian Travellers Choose HelloRoam for Mobile Data in China
24/7 WhatsApp and live chat support
Our support team is available 24/7 on WhatsApp, live chat, and email. A real person responds in under 2 minutes. No automated bots, no long hold queues, no waiting on the Jio or Airtel helpline for an agent. Whether you are troubleshooting a data connection in a busy Dubai market or need a top-up reminder mid-trip, our agents handle it instantly so your travel stays uninterrupted.
The best SIM card for China travel
Buy your plan before departure, scan the QR code, and get local 4G LTE or 5G data the moment you land in China. No roaming charges from Jio, Airtel, or Vi, and no SIM swap needed. Works on any eSIM compatible phone. Indian travellers consistently rate it among the best prepaid mobile data options available for international trips, offering local network speeds at a fraction of carrier roaming costs.
Keep your Jio or Airtel number active
Use HelloRoam for travel data in China and keep your Jio, Airtel, or Vi SIM active for calls and messages back home. Both lines run at the same time on one phone at no extra cost. This dual SIM setup is especially useful for receiving OTPs, banking alerts, and family calls on your Indian number while your travel eSIM handles maps, WhatsApp video, and streaming abroad.
212+ carrier networks including China
HelloRoam connects to 212+ carrier networks across 185+ countries. Your phone selects the strongest 4G/5G or 5G signal on arrival, the same way a local resident's phone does. No manual network selection required. This automatic carrier switching means you get consistent mobile data whether you are at an international airport, a city hotel, or a highway rest stop far from the city centre.
Low-data alerts so you never run out
HelloRoam sends a notification when you reach 80% of your China data allowance. You can top up instantly from the app without reinstalling your eSIM or scanning a new QR code. No surprise data cut-offs mid-trip. This prepaid recharge system works the same way as topping up a Jio or Airtel prepaid account at home, just faster and with no store visit needed.
Local 4G/5G network speeds
Your China eSIM connects to local 4G LTE and 5G networks from the moment you land. Tourist areas, airports, and city centres all get the same fast, reliable speeds. HelloRoam picks the strongest available signal automatically so maps, WhatsApp video calls, and streaming work without manual setup. Unlimited data plans are available for longer stays. Business travellers benefit from consistent high-speed connectivity for video conferences and cloud applications, removing the risk of slow hotel Wi-Fi on critical workdays abroad.
Regional and global plans in one purchase
Planning to visit Dubai, Singapore, Thailand, the UK, or multiple countries in one trip? HelloRoam regional eSIM plans cover Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East in a single purchase across 185+ countries. A single regional plan removes the need to buy a new eSIM at each border crossing, which makes multi-country itineraries far simpler and significantly cheaper than purchasing individual local SIM cards at every airport.
Hotspot sharing in China, no extra charge
Share your China eSIM data with a laptop or tablet via your phone hotspot at no additional charge. Works on all eSIM compatible phones including iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, OnePlus, and Xiaomi flagships. For families travelling together, one person with a larger data plan can share the connection with other devices, making it an economical option for group trips where everyone stays connected without each buying a separate plan.
Best SIM Card Prices for China
HelloRoam, the best SIM card China. Compare plans and save versus Jio, Airtel, and Vi roaming.
| Number of days | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 day | ₹331.21 |
| 3 days | ₹944.14 |
| 7 days | ₹2,040.55 |
| 15 days | ₹3,974.50 |
| 22 days | ₹5,391.66 |
| 30 days | ₹6,756.47 |
HelloRoam vs Other eSIM Providers for China
Indian travellers searching for the best eSIM for China consistently rate HelloRoam for its industry-leading refund policy, zero activation fees, and 24/7 WhatsApp support. See how HelloRoam compares to Airalo, Holafly, Saily, and other providers on the features that matter most when travelling abroad from India.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Airalo | Holafly | Nomad | Saily | Ubigi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 180-day refund policy | 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 |
| ₹0 activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Keep your Jio or Airtel number active (dual SIM) | 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 a Travel eSIM Works in China
An eSIM card is a digital SIM built directly into your mobile phone. There is no plastic chip and no SIM tray to open. Scan a QR code to activate your eSIM in under 2 minutes on any eSIM compatible iPhone or Android. It works as a prepaid mobile data plan for China travel with no airport SIM counter queue, no replacement SIM card, and no carrier contract. Keep your Jio, Airtel, or Vi number active in dual SIM mode while HelloRoam handles your international data. Follow the step-by-step setup guide to get connected before your flight from Delhi IGI or Mumbai CSIA. guide
Mobile connectivity guide for China
China has strong 5G mobile coverage across Beijing and all major cities. China Unicom provides the core network for HelloRoam plans. Indian travellers visiting China will find coverage reliable in hotels, transport hubs, and tourist areas.
A HelloRoam eSIM connects you from the moment you land at Beijing Capital Airport without any SIM card queues. Keep your Jio, Airtel, or Vi SIM active on your second slot for calls from family in India.
- HelloRoam connects to China Unicom 5G, China Telecom 5G in China
- 5G coverage in Beijing and major urban areas
- Connect on China Unicom
- Activate via QR code before departure from India
eSIM Travel Tips for China
Install your eSIM before leaving India
Set up your HelloRoam eSIM at home before heading to the airport. Enable data when you land in Beijing and you are online straight away. No queuing at airport telecom counters for a local SIM card after a long international flight.
Keep your Indian number active for family calls
On a dual SIM phone, keep your Jio, Airtel, or Vi SIM active for incoming calls and texts from family back in India. Set HelloRoam as your data line. You stay reachable on your Indian number without paying heavy international roaming charges.
Download offline maps for your destination
Google Maps offline works well for navigating Beijing and surrounding areas. Download the China map over Wi-Fi in India before you depart. Rural areas may have slower data but cities are generally well covered.
Currency and UPI in India vs abroad
UPI apps like PhonePe and GPay do not typically work for payments outside India. Carry a Forex card or international debit card for use in China. Your HelloRoam eSIM keeps currency conversion apps and banking apps running throughout the trip.
Check your phone for eSIM support
Most iPhones from 2018 onward and many Android phones including Samsung Galaxy, Pixel, and OnePlus support eSIM. Verify your phone shows 'Add eSIM' in settings before buying. Setup takes about five minutes on a Wi-Fi connection at home.
Mobile networks in China: what Indian travellers need to know
HelloRoam connects on China Unicom in China. China Unicom is one of the primary 5G networks in the country with reliable coverage in Beijing, Shanghai, and major tourist and business areas. Your eSIM picks the strongest available signal automatically without any manual configuration.
- China Unicom
- 5G
- China Telecom
- 5G
HelloRoam eSIM vs Jio/Airtel/Vi roaming vs local China SIM
A clear comparison of your data options for Indian travellers heading to China.
| Category | HelloRoam eSIM Recommended | Local China SIM card | Jio/Airtel/Vi international roaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | From ₹335.02 total | ₹1,332.45–₹2,664.90 total | ₹951.75–₹1,903.50/day |
| Details | Plans start at ₹331.21. Buy online before you fly, scan the QR code, and land in Beijing already connected. No airport queues, no Chinese SIM registration paperwork. | Available at Beijing airport but requires ID checks and setup time after your flight. Prepaid tourist SIMs can cost significantly more and unused credit is often forfeited when you return to India. | Jio, Airtel, and Vi international roaming packs for China cost several times more per day than a HelloRoam eSIM. A multi-day trip with daily data use makes roaming charges add up quickly. HelloRoam plans start at ₹331.21 and are far better value for money. |
Prices approximate as of . Actual savings vary.
Best time to visit China from India
China attracts Indian travellers for leisure, business, and family visits throughout the year. The best season depends on China's weather patterns and local events in Beijing.
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 cost from India?
A China travel sim plan runs on China Unicom and China Telecom 5G networks from ₹331.21 across China. HelloRoam delivers the QR code to your email within seconds and activation takes two minutes. No hidden charges, no contract, and no Airtel or Jio roaming fees.
Does an e SIM China plan cover all major cities for Indian business visitors?
A travel eSIM China plan connects to China Unicom and China Telecom 5G networks across China. HelloRoam activates every plan by QR in under two minutes on any compatible mobile. No hidden charges, no Airtel or Jio roaming fees, and a 180-day refund guarantee on unactivated eSIMs.
Which eSIM is best for China travel from India?
HelloRoam is a top-rated eSIM for China for travellers departing from India. Plans start from ₹331.21, which is far below Jio international roaming at ₹575 per day or Airtel World Roaming at ₹596 per day. Before your flight from Delhi IGI (IGIA), Mumbai CSIA (BOM), Bengaluru Kempegowda (BLR), Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi (HYD), Chennai (MAA), or Kochi (COK) airport, scan a QR code in your phone settings and the eSIM is ready the moment you land. You get local 4G/5G speeds, a 180-day refund window on unactivated eSIMs, and 24/7 WhatsApp support. No carrier contract, no hidden charges, no bill shock.
How much does a China eSIM cost compared to Jio and Airtel roaming?
eSIM plans for China start from ₹331.21. Compare that with Jio international roaming at ₹575 per day, Airtel World Roaming at ₹596 per day, or Vi's ₹2,999 pack for just 24 days in select countries. For a 7-day trip, Jio roaming costs around ₹4,025 and Airtel costs around ₹4,172. A HelloRoam plan for the same trip typically costs a fraction of that, with no daily billing and no BSNL international rates either. Pay by UPI, Google Pay, debit card, or credit card.
Which networks does a eSIM use in China?
eSIM in China connects to local 4G/5G carrier networks. Your phone selects the strongest available signal automatically on arrival, the same way a local resident's phone does. Coverage spans major cities, airports, highways, and popular tourist areas. No manual APN setup required. HelloRoam partners with hundreds of carrier networks across 185+ countries. For travellers used to Jio or Airtel coverage in India, the local network speeds in China are often comparable or better in urban areas.
How do I buy a China eSIM before flying from India?
Getting a China eSIM before your flight from India takes three steps. First, visit helloroam.com, search China, pick a plan, and pay by UPI, Google Pay, or card. Second, open your confirmation email and scan the QR code in your phone settings under Add eSIM. Third, your eSIM installs in under 2 minutes and activates automatically when you land. No airport kiosk, no SIM counter at Delhi IGI or Mumbai CSIA, no waiting in a queue after a long flight.
Does iPhone work with a China eSIM for Indian travellers?
Yes. iPhone XS and all newer models work with eSIM in China. Go to Settings, tap Cellular or Mobile Data, then Add eSIM, and scan the QR code from your HelloRoam email. Your Jio or Airtel number stays active through dual SIM while HelloRoam handles your travel data in China. No carrier unlocking is needed for iPhones purchased directly from Apple in India. For iPhones bought on a carrier plan, do check with Jio or Airtel for unlock eligibility.
What is the best eSIM for China for Indian travellers?
HelloRoam connects on China Unicom 5G across Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. Plans start at ₹331.21. Buy before flying from India to avoid the registration process for local Chinese SIMs at the airport.
Does a HelloRoam eSIM work in Beijing and Shanghai?
Yes, HelloRoam works across Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and major Chinese cities on China Mobile and China Unicom 4G and 5G networks.
Do Indian passport holders need a visa for China?
Yes, Indian nationals require a Chinese tourist visa (L visa). Apply at the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi or the Consulate General in Mumbai, Kolkata, or Chennai. Processing takes 4 to 7 working days.
How much does a China eSIM cost in rupees?
HelloRoam eSIM plans for China start at ₹331.21. Local Chinese tourist SIMs require in-person registration with a passport and cost more overall. HelloRoam avoids that process entirely and is set up before you board.
Can I use Google Maps in China with a HelloRoam eSIM?
Google Maps is blocked in mainland China without a VPN. Use Baidu Maps or Apple Maps (which uses local data in China) instead. Download these before your trip. Your HelloRoam eSIM provides the data connection for these local apps.
Does WhatsApp work in China with a HelloRoam eSIM?
WhatsApp is blocked in mainland China. To use WhatsApp, you need a reliable VPN. A HelloRoam eSIM provides the data, but accessing WhatsApp requires a working VPN service. Consider WeChat as the primary messaging app in China.
How much data do I need for 10 days in China?
Ten days in China using Baidu Maps, WeChat, DiDi, and video calls to India typically uses 4 to 8 GB. Add more if you use VPN services or stream content.
Does HelloRoam eSIM include calls in China?
HelloRoam eSIM plans are data-only. Use WeChat or FaceTime (if accessible via VPN) for calls. Emergency calls to 110 (police) and 120 (ambulance) work on any Chinese network.
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 your eSIM profile, defined by the 3GPP TS 31.102 standard (EF_PNN). Your phone can read this field to display the name of the network you are 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
