If you’re planning a trip to China, you may have seen recent news that China has stopped third-party SIM card sales.
Naturally, many travelers are asking:
- Can foreigners still buy a SIM card in China?
- Does this affect travel eSIMs like Airalo or Nomad?
- Will I still be able to use Alipay, WeChat, or DiDi?
The short answer is:
No need to panic. Most tourists will notice little or no impact.
Here’s what actually changed.
What Changed?
Starting on August 1, 2026, China’s three major mobile carriers stopped allowing new SIM card registrations through third-party online channels.
This means you can no longer purchase and activate a Chinese SIM card through unofficial channels such as:
- Third-party online stores
- Marketplace sellers
- Live-stream shopping
- Non-official mini programs
- Independent SIM card resellers
Instead, new SIM cards must be obtained through official channels, including:
- China Mobile
- China Unicom
- China Telecom
- Official websites
- Official mobile apps
- Physical carrier stores
The policy is designed to improve identity verification and reduce fraud.
Does This Affect Foreign Tourists?
Not very much.
Most international visitors were already using one of these options:
- Buying a SIM card at the airport
- Visiting an official carrier store
- Using a travel eSIM before arriving in China
If that’s your plan, nothing really changes.
The biggest difference is that unofficial online sellers are no longer an option.
Can Foreigners Still Buy a Chinese SIM Card?
Yes.
Foreign travelers can still purchase a Chinese SIM card.
You’ll typically need:
- Your passport
- Real-name registration
- A visit to an official carrier store
Depending on your location, airport service counters may also offer tourist-friendly SIM card options.
What About Travel eSIMs?
This is where many travelers get confused.
Travel eSIMs are NOT affected by this policy.
Providers such as:
- Airalo
- Nomad
- Holafly
- Saily
- GigSky
offer international roaming data services rather than Chinese mobile subscriptions.
That means you can still install a travel eSIM before your flight and start using mobile data as soon as you land.
Travel eSIM vs Chinese SIM Card
| Feature | Travel eSIM | Chinese SIM Card |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile Data | ✅ | ✅ |
| Chinese Phone Number | Usually No | Yes |
| SMS Verification | Usually No | Yes |
| Local Voice Calls | Sometimes | Yes |
| Setup Before Arrival | ✅ | No |
| Store Visit Required | No | Yes |
For most tourists staying a few days or weeks, a travel eSIM is usually the easiest option.
However, if you need a Chinese phone number for SMS verification or long-term use, you’ll still need a local SIM card.
Which Option Is Best?
Choose a Travel eSIM if you:
- Are visiting China for a short trip
- Only need internet access
- Want instant activation
- Don’t want to visit a mobile store
- Need Google Maps, WhatsApp, Instagram, or other travel apps while connected
Choose a Chinese SIM Card if you:
- Plan to stay in China for several months
- Need a Chinese phone number
- Need SMS verification
- Expect to register local services frequently
Frequently Asked Questions
Can tourists still buy SIM cards in China?
Yes.
Foreign visitors can still purchase SIM cards through official carrier stores after passport verification.
Does this policy affect Airalo or other travel eSIM providers?
No.
Travel eSIM providers operate differently from Chinese carrier SIM card registration.
Their services remain available.
Can I still use Alipay with a travel eSIM?
Yes.
As long as your phone has internet access, Alipay works normally.
Can I use WeChat without a Chinese phone number?
Yes.
Many WeChat features work with international phone numbers.
However, some services inside China may still require SMS verification using a Chinese number.
Final Thoughts
This new policy changes where people can obtain Chinese SIM cards—not whether they can stay connected.
For most international travelers, using a travel eSIM remains one of the fastest and easiest ways to get online in China.
If you need a Chinese phone number for long-term use, simply visit an official China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom store after arriving.
Related Guides
If you’re visiting China for the first time, you may also find these guides helpful:
- Best China eSIM for Tourists (2026)
- Alipay in China for Foreigners (2026): How to Pay, Register & Avoid Payment Problems