How to Get a China Phone Number?

Verifying a Chinese phone number is an essential step for anyone preparing for travel, business, or study in China. We’ll guide you through everything you need to know, from how to set up your Chinese phone number to choosing the right operator and other practical tips.

As a digital nomad who has lived in China for years, I’ve helped dozens of foreign friends set up their local phone numbers. A Chinese phone number is truly a lifeline—it’s the key to everything from Alipay/WeChat Pay and ride-hailing to food delivery and even checking into hotels.

China Phone Number Verification - Step 1: Real-Name Authentication

You can't get a legitimate Chinese phone number without real-name verification. It’s a legal requirement, so there’s simply no way around it. If you're a foreign traveler, all you need is your passport with a valid Chinese visa (tourist, work, student, etc.). It’s best to steer clear of those unregulated, "anonymous" SIM cards sold by street vendors. They’re likely to be deactivated within a few days, and they won't work with your payment apps anyway. Make sure to stick to official operator stores!

How to Get a Local Chinese Phone Number?

These are the only methods that are actually useful in your daily life. My friends and I tested all three of them ourselves, so check out the details right now!

1️⃣ Physical SIM Card (The most reliable choice with full feature support)

This is an absolute must-have for anyone staying for a week or longer. It’s compatible with every app, payment platform, and service without exception.

I always recommend that my friends visit an official operator store (not a third-party retailer). The process is so clean and straightforward, making it super convenient to use. Let me walk you through how it works:

1. Don't forget your passport (and visa, if needed). That's all the paperwork you'll need for a short stay!
2. Try visiting official stores like China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom. Just look for staff in uniforms and official signage. While there are kiosks at the airport for convenient access as soon as you arrive, don't forget that stores in the city center are usually a bit cheaper!
3. Just let the staff know how long you'll be staying (e.g., '2 weeks' or '6 months'), and they'll recommend a prepaid plan that doesn't require a contract.
4. Simply scan your passport and take a quick photo for identity verification, and we'll activate your SIM card right on the spot. You'll be up and running with a working number in just 5 minutes!

Here’s a pro tip for your Shanghai trip! The China Mobile kiosk at Pudong Airport has partnered with SPD Bank. They can help you open a local bank account and link it to Alipay/WeChat Pay all in one go. It’s a huge time-saver!

2️⃣ Virtual Number (For SMS verification before arrival only)

Virtual numbers are just a temporary fix. Don't rely on them too much, except for things like signing up for apps like Trip.com before you arrive.

My friends have tried using services similar to global call forwarding. While they're handy for receiving verification codes before you arrive, they don't usually link up with Alipay, WeChat Pay, or your bank accounts. Definitely steer clear of unregulated virtual numbers—you never know when they might just stop working on you. If you really need this kind of service, it's best to stick with a trusted, reliable provider.

3️⃣eSIM (A flexible solution for dual SIM users)

If you want to avoid the hassle of swapping out physical SIM cards (we totally get it—even with a dual-SIM phone, switching cards is such a chore), an eSIM is the perfect solution. Pair it with an affordable plan to keep your number, and you're all set for your next adventure.

Here’s how you can get it:

1. Check if your phone supports eSIM (most recent models, such as iPhone 12 or later, Samsung S21 or later, and Pixel 6 or later, are compatible).
2. Simply visit an official store, present your passport, and ask for an 'eSIM data plan.' China Unicom and China Mobile offer the best options for international travelers.
3. Simply scan the provided QR code. Activation takes just two minutes, and you'll get your standard +86 number right away.

Which of China's Top 3 Operators Should You Choose?

Which of China's three major mobile operators should you choose?

I’ve personally tried out all the major Chinese mobile operators Check out my honest, no-nonsense review right now!

For most international travelers, we recommend China Unicom, which is great for city trips, or China Mobile, which is perfect for traveling across the country. China Telecom is a good choice if you're sticking to the southern region, but otherwise, we suggest going with one of the two operators mentioned above.

China Phone Plan Pricing

China Phone Plans

Mobile phone plans in China are surprisingly affordable. You won't need to spend more than 50 yuan a month for the services you need. Here are some insider tips!

The 8-yuan number retention plan actually exists, but staff members won't tell you about it upfront. Be sure to ask for it by using a translation app to say, "I would like the 8-yuan monthly number retention plan," or ask a local friend for help. If you visit China every year, this plan is definitely worth it!

How to Top Up Your Chinese Phone Number?

Top Up Your Chinese Phone Number

Topping up your Chinese phone number is much easier than you think! You don't even need a Chinese bank account. Let me share some recommended ways to get it done.

1. Operator App (Most convenient)

Download the official apps for China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom (English versions are available). Simply link your international credit card (Visa and Mastercard are accepted), top up with 50–100 yuan, and you're all set. It only takes a minute!

2. Taobao

Search for 'mobile top-up' on Taobao. Simply enter your Chinese mobile number, select the top-up amount, and pay with an international credit card. My friend living in Canada uses this method every month, and they say it works perfectly!

3. Alipay/WeChat Pay (if you have an account)

If you've already set up Alipay or WeChat Pay (using a local bank account or international card), simply head over to the 'Top-up' section, enter your number, and complete the payment. It’s quick, easy, and hassle-free!

4. Help from a Friend

If you find the app a bit confusing, why not ask a local friend to top it up for you? You can simply send them the amount via PayPal. Most Chinese friends will be more than happy to help (I always do this for first-time visitors myself!).

How to Keep Your Chinese Phone Number Active While Abroad?

How to Keep Your Chinese Phone Number Active While Abroad

Want to keep using your number for your next trip? It’s super simple, and you don’t even need to be in China to do it:

• First, make sure to check out the 8-yuan number retention plan.
• To keep your account active, simply top up 100 CNY every 6 months (via Taobao or your mobile operator's app).
• Try activating international roaming (you can sign up for free via your operator's app). It’s super handy for receiving SMS verification codes for free while abroad, making logging into Alipay or WeChat a breeze!

Avoid using data or making calls while abroad to prevent hefty charges. It's best to keep roaming turned on only for receiving text messages.