When it comes to staying connected in Shanghai, having a reliable China sim card and mobile phone is essential. Whether you’re a resident or a traveler, understanding the intricacies of purchasing and using Sim cards in this bustling city can save you time and frustration.
In this blog post, we will address common concerns and provide valuable insights to help you make the most of your mobile experience in Shanghai.
3 Ways to buy China SIM card
1. The airport
If you just landed in Shanghai, you can get one at the airport. You’ll have to interact with someone at a China Mobile/Unicom booth.
You don’t need to have a residence permit, but you will have to have your passport. China has “real name verification” for SIM cards, which means your SIM card must be linked to your passport. Once this verification is complete, you can enjoy the benefits of a local SIM card, including affordable data plans and reliable network coverage.
Taking Shanghai Pudong International Airport as an example, about 50 meters from the international arrival exit, there is a China Unicom service point for foreigners to get Chinese cards (as shown in the picture), which is very convenient. If you can’t find the way, you can ask the airport staff.
2. China SIM card for expat:
If you don’t have the opportunity to buy SIM card at the airport, you can purchase a local prepaid China SIM card from a China Mobile/Unicom booth in Shanghai.
Or, explore Nihao Mobile, which is a mobile communication services exclusively for foreign nationals living in China as well as compatriots from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. 
Click into Nihao Mobile website, change the language to English. It’s accessible on both computer and mobile versions. As for the plans, there are mainly two types, and everyone can choose the suitable package based on their needs.
The payment methods are also diverse, including WeChat Pay, Alipay, and PayPal. The SIM card comes in three sizes (3 in 1), fitting most mobile phone SIM card slots. Additionally, a SIM card ejector tool is provided with the purchase.
After purchasing the phone card on the official website, the next step is waiting for the delivery. I personally think the delivery speed is very fast. The order was shipped on the evening of the 13th and arrived at the quarantine location the next morning.
The activation process is not difficult. You just need to fill in some personal information, upload your passport, visa page, and a selfie, and then you can activate it. After successful activation, you can insert the brand new SIM card into your phone and start using it.”
3. Exploring eSIM Options:
If your phone supports eSIM technology, it’s worth considering a data-only traveler eSIM before arriving in Shanghai. This allows you to bypass the Great Firewall without hassle.
However, keep in mind that occasional SMS verification codes might still be necessary. Research and choose a reputable eSIM provider to ensure a smooth experience.
I used nomad esim, it costs around 35 usd for 20 gb and can be used for 30 days. It is using china Unicom network but traffic goes through HongKong, so no firewall.
Nomad esim has different data plans to choose from. For short term visit, the 10GB plan for 30 days, priced at US$15 (it could be cheaper if there are promotional activities), which is more than enough for a two-week return to the country, provided that you don’t heavily stream videos or play online games.
It seems to connect to a signal in Hong Kong, so Gmail, Instagram, and the like all work!
But it’s only a data plan, so you can’t make phone calls. If you want to make calls, you can use WeChat voice.
There are instructions in the app. Downloaded and activated the eSIM at the airport abroad before departure, and then when you landed, turned on the Nomad eSIM in the cellular settings, and it was ready to use! Just in case, remember to turn off your foreign primary cellular service on your phone to avoid being charged.
Using China SIM Card outside Shanghai
Many travelers wonder if their Shanghainese SIM card will work outside of Shanghai. The answer is yes, but you need to visit a store and request the activation of this feature.
Typically, the cost is minimal, around $2 per month.
Additionally, ensure that your overseas plan allows for international roaming to avoid any unexpected charges.
VPN Recommendations
Navigating the Great Firewall of China can be a daunting task, but with the right Virtual Private Network (VPN), you can regain access to your favorite websites and services.
While ExpressVPN has been a popular choice in the past, QuickQ is gaining recognition for its superior performance. Users have reported a seamless experience, making it an excellent alternative for those seeking reliable VPN services in Shanghai.
Bottom Line
Having a reliable SIM card and mobile phone is crucial for staying connected in Shanghai.
By understanding the process of purchasing and using SIM cards, as well as exploring VPN and eSIM options, you can navigate the city with ease. Remember to complete the “real name verification” process and always carry your passport when dealing with Sim cards in China.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy seamless communication during your time in Shanghai.