HelloRoam sells eSIM data plans for Shanghai from NZ$5.97. It partners with 212+ mobile networks worldwide. Your eSIM connects to local 5G networks the moment you land. Scan a QR code and you're set up in under two minutes, with no SIM swap. Your Spark, One NZ or 2degrees number stays active while the eSIM handles data. Unactivated eSIMs qualify for a refund, and live support runs 24/7.
- network coverage
212+- network type
5G- to activate
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eSIM China data plans from HelloRoam
Sorted for less: eSIM plans for Shanghai start from NZ$5.97, with 5G mobile data on local partner networks. Speeds depend on the local network. Works on any carrier-unlocked, eSIM-compatible phone. Pay in NZD. Pudong International airport SIM registration requires paperwork that Kiwis arriving from a long-haul prefer to skip. A Shanghai e SIM from HelloRoam starts at NZ$5.97 on China Unicom and China Telecom 5G networks covering the Bund, Pudong, Xintiandi, and the French Concession.
Shanghai eSIM with 5G coverage
HelloRoam eSIM for Shanghai: instant 4G and 5G data for Kiwi travellers in China. Set up your eSIM before your flight.
- Plans start at NZ$5.97 with 5G speeds
- Coverage from China Unicom and 1+ other operators
- Instant activation in under 2 minutes
- 180-day refund on unactivated eSIMs
- Shanghai coverage across major cities
- Network
- 5G
- Plans From
- NZ$5.97
- Activation
- Under 2 min
- Refund
- 180 days if unactivated
How to Set Up an eSIM in Shanghai
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 online
Pick a mobile data plan for your destination and pay securely in NZD.
2Scan the QR code
Scan the QR code to install your eSIM straight away.
- 3
Activate in minutes: ready when you land
Your eSIM activates when you arrive at your destination. No SIM swap, no queues, no airport kiosk.
4Manage it all from our mobile app
Track usage, top up data, and manage your eSIMs in one spot.
Plans changed? No dramas. You're covered.
Travel plans change, and that's okay. With HelloRoam, unactivated and unscanned eSIMs qualify for a full refund within 180 days of purchase. No dramas.
Learn more about our refund policyHelloRoam Shanghai eSIM vs a travel SIM card or Spark, One NZ and 2degrees roaming
Comparing an eSIM with a travel SIM card, or with Spark, 2degrees, or One NZ roaming, for Shanghai? Carrier roaming adds daily fees. Skip the airport SIM shop and get a prepaid eSIM for Shanghai from NZ$5.97, with local network speeds and a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days.
Why Kiwi Travellers Pick HelloRoam for Their Shanghai Trip
24/7 live support
Need help from Tokyo at midnight or London at 2am? HelloRoam support is on 24/7. Message us by live chat, WhatsApp, or email at help@helloroam.com. Mobile data problems don't wait for business hours, and neither do we.
Best eSIM for Shanghai
Get data at 5G speeds the moment you land in Shanghai. Skip roaming fees from Spark, One NZ, and 2degrees. HelloRoam connects you to local carrier networks in minutes, whether you're on holiday or working. You're online before you clear customs.
Dual SIM: keep your NZ number
Keep your Spark, One NZ, or 2degrees number active for calls and texts. HelloRoam runs on a second eSIM line on any dual SIM phone and handles all your data in Shanghai. Family and friends ring your NZ number as normal, while your data runs on a local network for one prepaid HelloRoam price.
212+ networks worldwide
HelloRoam eSIMs connect to 212+ carrier networks across 185+ countries. Your phone joins a local partner 5G network automatically when you land, with no manual carrier selection needed. Speeds depend on the local network.
Data 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 store. Adding a fresh prepaid data package takes under a minute from your account dashboard.
Local 5G speeds in Shanghai
Connect to local 5G networks in Shanghai. Your phone joins a HelloRoam partner network for maps, streaming and video calls while you travel. Speeds depend on the local network and your location.
Regional plans for multi-country trips
Heading to Japan, Thailand, or the UK after Shanghai? HelloRoam regional eSIM plans cover many countries in Asia, Europe, the Americas, and more on one QR code. No SIM swapping between stops. One prepaid regional plan can cover several stops in its region, so you spend less time worrying about connectivity and more time exploring.
Hotspot tethering in Shanghai included
Share your eSIM data with a laptop or tablet via hotspot. No extra fees, no fiddly setup. Works on all eSIM compatible phones including iPhone and Samsung Galaxy. Useful for keeping a travel partner connected or getting a work laptop online when hotel Wi-Fi isn't up to scratch.
Best eSIM Prices for Shanghai
Compare eSIM plans for Shanghai and save versus Spark, One NZ, and 2degrees international roaming.
| Number of days | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 day | NZ$5.97 |
| 3 days | NZ$17.03 |
| 7 days | NZ$36.80 |
| 15 days | NZ$71.69 |
| 22 days | NZ$97.25 |
| 30 days | NZ$121.86 |
HelloRoam vs Other eSIM Providers for Shanghai
See how HelloRoam compares with Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, Saily and Ubigi for Shanghai. 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 eSIM and How Does It Work in Shanghai?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card built into your mobile. No plastic chip, no SIM tray to fiddle with. Scan a QR code to install it on any eSIM compatible phone and you're connected in under 2 minutes. It works as a prepaid mobile data plan for Shanghai travel with no airport SIM counter queue, no replacement SIM, and no carrier contract. Follow the step-by-step setup guide and you'll be sorted well before your flight from Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch. guide
Mobile Coverage in Shanghai
Shanghai has strong 4G and 5G coverage across the Bund, Pudong, the French Concession, Jing'an, Xujiahui, and all major commercial districts. China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom all run dense networks. Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) and Hongqiao Airport (SHA) both have 4G and 5G.
The Shanghai Metro is one of the world's largest systems and has 4G at all stations. China's Great Firewall blocks Google, Facebook and WhatsApp on local Wi-Fi and Chinese SIM cards, but they open on HelloRoam data without a VPN.
- HelloRoam connects to China Unicom 5G, China Telecom 5G in Shanghai
eSIM Travel Tips for Shanghai
Download Offline Maps Before Arriving in China
Google Maps is blocked on hotel Wi-Fi and Chinese SIM cards, but it opens on HelloRoam data without a VPN. Download offline maps from Apple Maps, MAPS.ME, or Amap before arriving. Use WeChat for messaging. On HelloRoam data, Google Maps and WhatsApp open without a VPN, because your data connects to the internet outside mainland China.
Keep a VPN for Hotel Wi-Fi
Set up a VPN before you arrive if you'll rely on hotel or cafe Wi-Fi, as Google and WhatsApp stay blocked there but work on HelloRoam data. You only need it on Wi-Fi, because Google and WhatsApp open on HelloRoam data without a VPN. Note that VPN use is technically restricted. Use at your own discretion.
Maglev Train from Pudong Airport: Best Route Into the City
The Shanghai Maglev train connects Pudong Airport to Longyang Road Metro station in 7 minutes. From there, the Metro takes you anywhere in the city. The Maglev and Metro have 4G along their routes.
The Bund and Pudong Skyline Have Excellent Signal
The Bund waterfront and the view of Pudong's skyline have strong outdoor 4G and 5G. This is Shanghai's most photographed area and coverage is consistently fast.
Know the Emergency Number in China
China's police number is 110 and ambulance is 120. Save these before river cruises, visiting remote suburbs, or attending large events. Your phone can call 110 or 120 on any available network. Your HelloRoam eSIM is for data only.
Network Coverage in Shanghai
Shanghai has one of the densest 5G networks in the world. China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom all operate 5G across the city. The Bund waterfront, Lujiazui financial district (Pudong), People's Square, Nanjing Road pedestrian street, and the French Concession (Xuhui and Luwan) all have full 5G outdoor coverage. In Shanghai, HelloRoam connects via China Unicom and China Telecom.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) has 5G in both the T1 and T2 terminals. Shanghai Hongqiao Airport (SHA) and Hongqiao Railway Station also have 5G. The Maglev train from Pudong Airport to Longyang Road station has 5G along the route. The Shanghai Metro network has 4G and 5G at all stations and in the tunnels on most lines through the distributed antenna system investment.
The French Concession area around Huaihai Road, Yongkang Road, and Tianzifang arts lane all have dense 5G. Tianzifang's narrow lanes maintain usable 4G. Old Town (Nanshi) near the Yuyuan Garden has 4G and 5G at the main tourist areas. Zhujiajiao water town on the city outskirts has 4G in the main canal area.
Important note: China's Great Firewall blocks Google services, Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp on hotel Wi-Fi and Chinese SIM cards. On HelloRoam data they open without a VPN, because your data connects to the internet outside mainland China. On HelloRoam data, though, Google, Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp open without a VPN, because your data connects to the internet outside mainland China. If you plan to use Wi-Fi in China, set up a VPN before you go. New Zealand travellers should confirm their handset is unlocked and supports local network bands.
- China Unicom
- 5G
- China Telecom
- 5G
eSIM vs Local SIM in Shanghai
For Kiwi travellers, a HelloRoam eSIM is generally cheaper than buying a local SIM on arrival or using an international add-on from a New Zealand carrier.
| Category | HelloRoam Recommended | Chinese local SIM (China Mobile Tourist SIM) | Telco roaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | From NZ$5.97 total | — | — |
| Details | Buy before you fly. Activate at home with a QR code scan. Fast 5G data from China Mobile on landing at Pudong. Fixed NZD pricing. Google, WhatsApp and Instagram open on HelloRoam data without a VPN. | Tourist SIM cards are available at Pudong Airport from China Mobile and China Unicom. Passport registration is required. SIM setup at the counter takes 15 to 30 minutes. International social apps are still blocked on local SIMs. Alipay and WeChat Pay require a Chinese bank account for many functions. | NZ carrier day passes for China charge you for each day you use them. Data speeds on roaming are typically capped. Over a 10-day Shanghai trip, roaming fees add up fast. |
Prices approximate as of . Actual savings vary.
Best Time to Visit Shanghai
New Zealand travellers planning a trip to Shanghai should consider April–May and October–November as the most rewarding time to visit. Temperatures around -1°C to 38°C make exploring comfortable. October is the busiest month with highest fares from New Zealand. December–February is quieter. Shanghai International Film Festival (June) is a local highlight. Avoid July–August if possible. Your HelloRoam eSIM keeps you online all year.
Top Attractions in Shanghai
Nanjing Road
Nanjing Road in Shanghai is one of the world's busiest shopping streets at 5.5 km long. Use HelloRoam eSIM to stay connected.
Walk the pedestrian section at night when the neon signs are brightest.
Shanghai Tower
Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China at 632 meters with a twisting glass design. Use HelloRoam eSIM to stay connected.
Book the 118th floor observation deck for views above the clouds.
The Bund
The Bund is Shanghai's famous waterfront with colonial-era bank buildings along the river. Use HelloRoam eSIM to stay connected.
Walk the Bund at night for the best views of Pudong's lit skyline.
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Reviews
What Kiwi Travellers 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
Shanghai eSIM Questions
Does a Shanghai eSIM cover the French Concession, Xintiandi, and the full city?
Shanghai e SIM plans run on China Unicom and China Telecom 5G networks covering the Bund, Pudong, Xintiandi, and the French Concession from NZ$5.97. HelloRoam delivers the e-sim QR to your inbox before your flight from Auckland. Scan at home and land at PVG already connected.
Can Kiwis buy a Shanghai e-sim before leaving New Zealand for China?
Kiwis buy a Shanghai e-sim from HelloRoam and activate by QR code before boarding in Auckland. Plans start at NZ$5.97 on China Unicom and China Telecom 5G networks. No PVG registration queue, no NZ roaming fees, and no contract on any Shanghai data plan.
What is the best eSIM for Shanghai from New Zealand?
HelloRoam is a simple eSIM option for Shanghai when you're travelling from New Zealand. Plans start from NZ$5.97 across 212+ carrier networks in 185+ countries. Buy online, scan the QR code at home on Wi-Fi, and connect the moment you land. You skip the daily roaming fees Spark, 2degrees, and One NZ charge. You get local 5G speeds, a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days, and 24/7 live chat support.
How much does an eSIM cost for Shanghai?
eSIM plans for Shanghai start from NZ$5.97. That's a one-off price, unlike the daily roaming charges from Spark or 2degrees. Fixed data plan sizes vary by country, and this page lists every size on sale. Unlimited daily plans, where offered, charge by the day and suit longer stays, OE trips, and remote work. All plans include local 5G data with no overage charges and no carrier contract.
Which networks does eSIM work on in Shanghai?
HelloRoam connects to local partner networks in Shanghai, and your phone joins one automatically when you arrive. Speeds depend on the local network. Coverage spans major cities, airports, highways, and popular tourist areas. Flying out of Auckland (AKL), Wellington (WLG), Christchurch (CHC) or Queenstown (ZQN)? Your data is ready the moment you land.
How do I get an eSIM for Shanghai before my trip?
Buy your Shanghai eSIM on helloroam.com or the HelloRoam app before you fly from AKL, WLG, CHC, or ZQN. Scan the QR code in your phone Settings to install at home on Wi-Fi. Your eSIM activates automatically when you land in Shanghai. The whole process takes under two minutes. No airport kiosk, no SIM swap.
Does iPhone work with a Shanghai eSIM?
iPhone XS and newer models support eSIM for Shanghai, except models sold in mainland China (and some sold in Hong Kong and Macao), which use two nano-SIMs. Open Settings, tap Mobile Data, then Add eSIM, and scan the HelloRoam QR code. Your Spark, One NZ, or 2degrees number stays active on the physical SIM line while HelloRoam handles data in Shanghai.
Does eSIM work in Shanghai?
HelloRoam eSIM works in Shanghai on Chinese 4G and 5G networks. Coverage is excellent across the Bund, Pudong, the French Concession, and both airports. Google services open on HelloRoam data without a VPN, but they stay blocked on hotel Wi-Fi. Activate before your flight. In Shanghai, HelloRoam eSIM runs on local 5G networks, with coverage across the main tourist and city areas. Plans start from NZ$5.97. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Does eSIM work at Shanghai Pudong Airport?
Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) has 4G and 5G in all terminals. Your HelloRoam eSIM connects on landing. The Maglev train to the city is the fastest option. The airport has full 5G coverage across all terminals. Activate your data in Settings when you land and HelloRoam connects automatically to local network. No queue, no SIM counter: you are online within seconds of landing.
Is there 5G in Shanghai?
5G is widespread across Shanghai from China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. Shanghai has one of the densest 5G networks in the world. In Shanghai, HelloRoam eSIM runs on local 5G networks, with coverage across the main tourist and city areas. Plans start from NZ$5.97. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Does eSIM work on the Shanghai Metro?
The Shanghai Metro has 4G at all stations on all lines. This is one of the world's largest metro systems and has comprehensive station coverage. Major stations have 4G coverage for navigation and messaging. In deep tunnel sections between stations the signal may drop briefly. Download offline maps before entering the metro as a backup so you have navigation even without a connection.
Does Google Maps work in Shanghai?
Yes. Google Maps opens on HelloRoam data without a VPN, but it stays blocked on hotel Wi-Fi. Download offline maps from Apple Maps, MAPS.ME, or Amap before arriving. These work with your HelloRoam eSIM. In Shanghai, HelloRoam eSIM runs on local 5G networks, with coverage across the main tourist and city areas. Plans start from NZ$5.97. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Is there coverage at the Bund?
The Bund waterfront and the surrounding area have strong outdoor 4G and 5G. The Pudong skyline viewpoints across the Huangpu River are also well covered. In Shanghai, HelloRoam eSIM runs on local 5G networks, with coverage across the main tourist and city areas. Plans start from NZ$5.97. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Does eSIM work in the French Concession?
The French Concession's tree-lined streets, cafes, and shops have solid outdoor 4G. This is one of Shanghai's most pleasant and well-covered tourist areas. In Shanghai, HelloRoam eSIM runs on local 5G networks, with coverage across the main tourist and city areas. Plans start from NZ$5.97. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Is there coverage in Pudong?
Pudong including the Oriental Pearl Tower, Shanghai Tower, and Lujiazui financial district have excellent outdoor 4G and 5G. In Shanghai, HelloRoam eSIM runs on local 5G networks, with coverage across the main tourist and city areas. Plans start from NZ$5.97. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
