By an expat in Shenzhen — practical, tested advice.
Living or traveling in China can be a shock to your online life. Google, YouTube, Instagram, WhatsApp, Gmail, and many news sites are blocked by the Great Firewall. If you rely on Western tools for work, studies, or staying in touch, you’ll need a reliable VPN from day one.

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Why Websites Are Blocked in China
China’s internet uses nationwide filtering to restrict access to foreign platforms. Practically, that means many everyday tools don’t load unless you route your traffic through an encrypted tunnel that appears to originate outside the mainland.
- Commonly blocked: Google (Search, Maps, Drive), YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, X/Twitter, many news outlets, and some cloud services.
- Impact: Work apps fail to connect, study resources won’t load, and communication with friends/family becomes difficult.
Why You Need a VPN in China (and Why Free VPNs Fail)
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your connection and routes it through servers abroad so you can access blocked sites privately and securely. Free VPNs struggle in China because they’re slow, overcrowded, and frequently detected. A proven, actively maintained paid service is essential.
- Access: Use Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Gmail, cloud drives, and work tools again.
- Security: Encryption protects you on hotel, café, and airport Wi-Fi.
- Stability: Premium VPNs update obfuscation to keep working when filters change.
What to Look For in a China-Ready VPN
- Reliable bypass (obfuscation/stealth modes that work with the Great Firewall)
- Speed for HD streaming, video calls, and large file sync
- No-logs policy and strong encryption
- Apps for all devices (iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, browser)
- Support that actually helps when you’re stuck
Quick Comparison: VPNs That Work for Expats in China
VPN | Why Consider It | Devices | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Surfshark (Top Pick) | Reliable obfuscation, fast, excellent value | Unlimited | Great for households; strong privacy tools |
ExpressVPN | Long-time China favorite; polished apps | 5–8 | Premium pricing |
NordVPN | Fast network; strong security profile | 6–10 | Good all-round alternative |
Why I Recommend Surfshark for China
I’ve tested multiple providers while living and working in Shenzhen. For most expats and travelers, Surfshark hits the best balance of reliability, speed, and price — plus you can install it on every device you own with a single plan.
- Consistent access: Obfuscated/stealth protocols help bypass filtering during sensitive periods.
- Unlimited devices: Protect your phone, laptop, tablet, TV box — even share with family.
- Fast for streaming & calls: Smooth YouTube/Netflix and stable Zoom/Meet sessions.
- Privacy tools: CleanWeb (ad/tracker blocking), Kill Switch, and strong encryption.
- Great value: Typically cheaper than older “big-brand” VPNs with similar or better performance.

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How to Set Up Surfshark in China (Step-by-Step)
- Sign up outside China if possible (websites of major VPNs are often blocked on mainland networks).
- Install apps on your phone, laptop, and tablet. Log in on each device.
- Enable obfuscation/stealth (Surfshark handles this automatically with the right protocol).
- Pick a nearby fast server (often Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan). Test a few and save your fastest.
- Toggle Kill Switch on so traffic doesn’t leak if the VPN disconnects.
- Test your essentials: Gmail, Drive, WhatsApp calls, work apps, cloud storage.
Troubleshooting Tips Inside China
- Switch protocols (WireGuard ↔︎ OpenVPN) if speeds or connections drop.
- Try different regions (SG, JP, KR, UK, US) to find the best route at your location/time.
- Update the app — providers push fixes that restore access when filters change.
- Contact support — Surfshark’s live chat can suggest current best servers.
Security Extras (Optional but Useful)
For a complete privacy setup, consider adding:
- Surfshark Antivirus — malware and phishing protection integrated with the VPN.
- Incogni — automated removal of your personal data from data brokers (reduces spam/scams).
Antivirus: Surfshark Antivirus | Data removal: Incogni
FAQs
Is using a VPN legal in China?
Regulations vary and enforcement focuses on providers rather than travelers. Many expats and businesses use VPNs daily. Always follow local laws and your employer’s IT policies.
Should I download the VPN before landing?
Yes. It’s much easier to sign up and install outside mainland China.
Will the VPN slow down my internet?
There’s some overhead, but good providers like Surfshark remain fast enough for HD streaming and calls.
Ready for Reliable Internet in China?
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Internal Resources (Recommended Reading)
- Living Guide: Essential Tools for Expats in Shenzhen
- How to Get a Chinese SIM Card
- Open a Bank Account in Shenzhen (2025)
Affiliate disclosure: Some links are affiliate links. If you purchase through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services we personally test and find reliable for expats in China.