Arriving in Shenzhen, a bustling city with tech innovation and a lively expat scene, you will quite likely not want to ever go off the grid. A local SIM card will be your go-to option for smooth communication, whether you are strolling along the vast city roads, ordering dim sum through WeChat, or booking a DiDi ride.
SIM card Shenzhen have additional burdens on expats and tourists, such as a language barrier and complications of registration. Many tourists don’t know ‘How to get a SIM card in Shenzhen’
Here, we will help you select the correct China SIM card with phone number, or a Shenzhen eSIM service that suits your needs to simplify the process. From where to buy a China SIM card for tourists to activation steps, we have got you covered with clear, practical advice.
Understanding Your Options for a SIM Card Shenzhen
It is important to learn about the kinds of SIM cards present in Shenzhen before getting into the process. China Unicom and China Telecom are the leading providers in the China telecom market. Each provides a number of plans, starting with prepaid SIMs and eSIMs to suit specific needs. Here’s a breakdown:
- Physical SIM Cards: These are traditional plastic cards inserted into your phone. You can get them easily, and they are compatible with older devices or those that do not work with eSIM. There are data-only plans or voice-and-data with a local phone number.
- eSIMs: A digital alternative embedded in your phone, eSIMs are perfect for travelers seeking instant activation without swapping cards. They’re increasingly popular but require a compatible device.
- Tourist SIM Cards: These prepaid plans are ideal for short term travelers and they provide lots of data, sometimes with calls and SMS, and are valid within a span of 7 to 30 days.
To the majority of expats and tourists, the most convenient option is a China SIM card or a Shenzhen eSIM service because of its flexibility and convenience.
How to Choose the Right Shenzhen SIM Card
Deciding on a SIM card is based upon your requirements, how long you are to stay, and whether your device is compatible. Below is a guide to help you choose:
1. Assess Your Needs
Short-Term Tourists (115 days): Use 510 GB of data on a tourist SIM card or eSIM to use for different purposes.
Expats / Long Term Visitors: Use a voice and data SIM with a local phone number to make banking, and other daily communications.
Data-Only Users: If you are using a lot of apps to make calls (like WeChat), then the eSIMs or data-only SIMs can become really cheap.
2. Check Device Compatibility
Make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with Chinese network bands. Verify with compatible websites such as gsmarena.com. China Telecom card may be incompatible with certain foreign phones because of the CDMA technology, so usually China Unicom or China Mobile is safer.
3. Compare Providers
China Unicom — Good compatibility with many foreign phones; offers short‑term/visitor plans (e.g., ~2 GB/7‑day options and ~10 GB monthly options; prices vary by city and retailer).
China Telecom — Strong coverage in urban areas; can be less compatible with some international devices; some plans may require Chinese ID/real‑name registration.
China Mobile — Widest nationwide coverage (including rural areas) with extensive 4G/5G; generally good device support, though band/whitelist quirks can occur; tourist/airport SIMs are commonly available.
4. Consider eSIMs
In case your phone is compatible with eSIMs (most modern iPhones and Samsung Galaxy models), you could have a data-only connection with providers such as Airalo with instant activation. They are well-suited for short trips and could be used to avoid registration problems.
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying and Activating a SIM Card in Shenzhen
Here’s how to get a SIM card Shenzhen up and running:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Passport: A Passport is required to do real-name registration, which is a compulsory policy in China. Bring a photocopy if buying online.
Chinese Visa and Entry Stamp: Some providers may ask for these.
Local Address: Use the hotel address or a temporary address in Shenzhen
Payment Type: Cash (CNY), credit/debit card, or mobile payment apps – WeChat Pay.
Step 2: Purchase the SIM Card
- Visit a telecom shop, or order your SIM online.
- Select a plan according to the requirements of your data.
- In the case of eSIMs, purchase them online, receive a QR code via email, and scan it with a code reader.
Step 3: Register and Activate
In-Store: Staff will scan your passport and may take a face scan or fingerprints. Activation will not take more time.
Online Purchases: Provide a passport photo, a visa copy, and a picture of you holding the SIM card and passport. Activation takes a few minutes after submission.
eSIMs: Add the plan through cellular settings in your phone, following the instructions of the provider.
Step 4: Install and Test
Enter the physical SIM card or activate the eSIM.
Test connection, visit a site or application. In case of problems, call the customer service of the provider.
Where to Buy a SIM Card in Shenzhen
Here are trusted resources specifically for purchasing SIM card Shenzhen:
- Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport: SIM cards are available at kiosks on both its terminals. Call +86-755-23456789 or check the airport website.
- China Mobile Stores: Widespread in Shenzhen, especially in the MixC mall (Luohu). Search “China Mobile” on Baidu Maps for the nearest store. They offer physical SIMs and tourist plans.
- China Unicom Stores: Located in shopping hubs like Huaqiangbei and Nanshan. Search “China Unicom” on Baidu Maps. They are known for foreign phone compatibility and tourist SIMs.
- China Telecom Stores: Found in commercial areas like Futian’s CBD. They offer urban-focused plans but may require a Chinese ID for some packages.
- Chinaesim.com: Offers eSIMs at prices between $7 (3GB, 5 days) and 36.90 (20GB, 30 days). Activated immediately through QR code, 24/7 WhatsApp support.
- Airalo: Provides data-only eSIMs with a starting price of 1GB (~7 days) for only 5 dollars.
- 3GSolutions: Delivers physical 5G SIMs to hotels or airports, with plans including local numbers. Check their website for delivery options.
- Holafly: Sells eSIMs with unlimited data plans, starting at $19 for 5 days. It is perfect for heavy data users.
- Nomad: Offers eSIMs on flexible plans, starting at $8 3GB (7 days), to $30 20GB (30 days). It provides easy online purchase and activation.
Tips for how to get sim card in Shenzhen
Here are some of the important tips that need to be considered while thinking about how to get sim card in Shenzhen
Do’s
- Phone Compatibility: Before purchase, ensure that your phone is NOT network locked to any provider and compatible with Chinese networking bands.
- VPN: In case you need to use blocked websites, use an eSIM with a pre-installed VPN, install one such as Astrill.
- Track Usage of Data: Track the consumption of data by using settings on your phone.
- Keep your passport handy: You need it as registration is compulsory, so make it available for verification of SIM all the time.
Don’ts
- Don’t Buy Too Early: Prepaid SIMs expire after 30–60 days of inactivity, so time your purchase to your arrival.
- Don’t Ignore Registration: Failing to register properly can deactivate your SIM.
- Don’t Rely Solely on Wi-Fi: Public Wi-Fi is widespread but often requires a Chinese phone number for access, and many Western sites are blocked.
- Don’t Share Your SIM: Reselling or sharing is illegal and risks identity theft.
Don’t Overpay at Airports: City stores or online platforms often offer better rates.
FAQ: Common Questions About SIM Cards in Shenzhen
1. Do I need a Chinese phone number in Shenzhen?
A local number is helpful but not necessary. It makes it easy to use apps like DiDi or WeChat for bookings and payments. Data-only eSIMs are really good for tourists’ needs most of the time, if you use something like WhatsApp for calling.
2. Can I buy a SIM card at Shekou Ferry Terminal?
SIM card availability at Shekou Ferry Terminal is limited. You’re better off visiting a telecom store in Nanshan or ordering online for hotel delivery.
3. How do I top up my Shenzhen SIM card?
Top-ups can be made in telecom stores, at provider websites, or using WeChat Pay. Some plans allow data rollover between months.
4. Are eSIMs better than physical SIMs in Shenzhen?
eSIMs are more convenient for short trips due to instant activation and no need for physical cards. However, physical SIMs are better for older phones or if you need a local number.
5. What if I face issues with my SIM card?
Visit the provider’s store for support. For eSIMs, contact the provider’s customer service (e.g., Chinaesim.com offers 24/7 WhatsApp support). Keep your purchase receipt and passport handy.
Conclusion
Obtaining a SIM card Shenzhen is not a big deal as long as you are aware of your options. Staying connected in one of the most dynamic cities is central, so choose a China prepaid SIM card for tourists, a Shenzhen Telecom SIM card, or a Shenzhen eSIM service. You have many options to choose from in airport kiosks and online places to fit your stay. Use this guide to select the right plan, smoother registration, and pitfalls to watch.
To learn even more tips on how to live well as a tourist in Shenzhen, see the Shenzhen post for practical guides and more information.