2 Ways to Get a Chinese Phone Number for Travelers Easily

Rachel Tran

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Published: April 2025

Traveling to China can be an incredible adventure, but staying connected is the key. Having a local Chinese phone number makes your trip smoother. It helps with signing up for essential apps like WeChat or DiDi, receiving SMS codes, or even registering a drone in scenic areas like Guilin. In this guide, we will learn how travelers can get a Chinese phone number expect.

I. Can foreigners get a Chinese phone number?

Yes, foreigners can get a phone number in China, but there are a few official steps and requirements and procedures to be aware of, due to China’s strict telecom regulations:

• Valid ID: You will need your passport, a valid Chinese visa, and sometimes proof of residence (vary by carrier and location)
• In-person registration: China has real-name registration laws, meaning you must visit a physical store of a mobile operator to register and activate your SIM card. Your photo may be taken as part of the process.
• Local address (sometimes needed): Some carriers ask for a Chinese address for billing or records, even if it is temporary, like your hotel.

II. Do travelers really need a Chinese phone number?

Not always. It depends on what you plan to do during your trip. Here is a quick explanation:

When you might need a Chinese phone number:

• To register for local apps: Apps like WeChat, DiDi (ride-hailing), or Alipay often require a Chinese number for SMS verification to signup or log in.
• To register drones: If you plan to fly a drone in allowed areas like Guilin or Zhangjiajie, a local number may be needed for registration.
• To make local calls or send texts: A Chinese SIM is much cheaper than using international roaming.
• To avoid roaming costs: Roaming with your foreign SIM can get expensive, and some Chinese services may not accept international numbers.

When you probably don’t need one:

If you mainly use apps like WeChat, WhatsApp or email for communication, a Chinese phone number is not necessary. A SIM with mobile data for China can cover these needs, allowing you to stay connected through WiFi or mobile data without a local number.

► Learn more: How to find WiFi in China for foreigners

III. How to get a Chinese phone number – 2 Easy Ways

You can choose one of the following two options to get a Chinese phone number:

1. Prepaid regular SIM cards (best for most travelers)

You can buy a Chinese regular SIM card from official stores of major Chinese mobile network carriers: China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom.

It is noted that not all stores sell SIM cards to foreigners. It is best to visit larger, official outlets often found in airports or major city centers.

To get a prepaid SIM, you need to present documents: passport, valid visa, a photo, and a local address (may be required).

2. Temporary Virtual number (not always reliable)

Some websites offer temporary virtual Chinese numbers for receiving SMS. These might work for one-time verification, but they’re not always accepted by major apps like WeChat or DiDi.

You should use them with caution because they are not a long-term solution, and your access can be restricted.

IV Do travel eSIMs for China include a phone number?

Some travel eSIM providers claim to offer phone numbers – but usually, these numbers are from countries like the USA (with the prefix +1). These are roaming numbers, not local Chinese numbers.

As of now, no eSIM provider offers a travel eSIM with a real Chinese phone number due to the real-name registration law in China.

However, a China eSIM with data is more than enough for regular communication needs like browsing, using maps, booking rides, and messaging through apps like WhatsApp, WeChat, or email while exploring the country.

V. What to know about using a Chinese phone number as a foreigner

Here are a few things you should keep in mind:

• Apps like Google, Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram and YouTube are blocked in China by the Great Firewall. You will need a reliable VPN (installed before arrival) to access them.
• Your phone number may be deactivated after some months of inactivity or after your visa expires (for prepaid cards)
• You may need to recharge your SIM regularly to keep it active during your stay.

► See more: Are VPNs legal in China?

VI. Can you buy a Chinese SIM before arrival?

No. Due to China’s real name registration policies, you must be physically present to buy and activate a SIM card. That means you can’t order one online before arriving in China.

If you land in a major city, it is a good idea to get your SIM card at the airport right after arrival. Many international terminals have official carrier booths.

Getting a Chinese phone number as a traveler is not difficult, but it does require a bit of planning. For short trips, a travel SIM/eSIM with data only may be all you need.