Here are some China eSIM FAQs. For detailed information, you can contact us for direct support:

Getting Started

What is an eSIM?

eSIM, standing for Embedded Subscriber Identity Module, is a digital Sim card embedded in a mobile device and can connect you to any operator offering eSIM services. You cannot remove it and insert it into another device.
It is physically connected (soldered) to the motherboard. You could activate it by setting up the “eSIM profile”, a new operator.
The information on an eSIM is rewritable, so you can switch your network without having to remove your SIM and insert another.
The eSIM function is available on newer models of iPhone, Samsung, and even some laptops like Dell or HP. You can see the list of eSIM-compatible devices here.

What is Chinaesim?

Chinaesim is one of the best China eSIM providers!
Chinaesim offers China eSIMs with various data packages to travelers from 190+ countries.
With affordable prices and great service, Chinaesim is proud to provide you with both connectivity and freedom. You’ll no longer have to change SIM cards or carry many SIM cards, or look for one wherever you may go!

What devices support China eSIM?

Almost new device models from 2019 support eSIM. You can check out the full eSIM-compatible devices list HERE.

How can I get an eSIM?

With just some simple steps as below, you will have an eSIM in your device to be ready for your trip:
– Step 1: Go to chinaesim.com.
– Step 2: Choose the data plan. Choose the number of the eSIM and click on ADD TO CART.
– Step 3: Check the shopping cart and click on CHECKOUT.
– Step 4: Fill in and choose the payment methods, and make the payment.
– Step 5: Check your email for the QR code and installation guides.

Can I use eSIMs for calls or text messages (SMS)?

eSIM plans do not include a phone number for receiving calls and texts.

Do I need to provide any document to identify when buying an eSIM China?

No. You can easily purchase an eSIM directly on the Chinaesim.com website. You only need to choose the eSIM data plan and place your order. And then, you will receive a QR code via email.

How to check if my iOS device is eSIM compatible and carrier unlocked?

– Step 1: Go to Settings> General> About.
– Step 2: Scroll down to view the “Carrier lock” section.
It should say “NO SIM restrictions”, meaning the device is unlocked.
– Step 3: Scroll down to view the “DIGITAL SIM” section. It should contain a “DIGITAL SIM” IMEI, meaning the device is eSIM compatible.

How to check if my Android device supports eSIM?

To confirm that your device supports eSIM, you will need to find its “eSIM IMEI” number by following the steps below:
– Step 1: Samsung devices.
– Step 2: Go to Settings > About phone > Status information.
– Step 3: Tap on IMEI information.
If the “IMEI (eSIM)” is available, it should mean that your device supports eSIM.

Other Android devices
– Dial *#06# and press call
– In case your device is eSIM capable, you should be able to view your device’s eSIM unique identification number (EID)

Order/Payment Questions

Should I buy my China eSIM before traveling or after arriving at my destination?

At your convenience, we advise you to buy the eSIM before your departure for China. Doing so gives you time to install it to your phone before departure, activate it upon landing in China, and get yourself connected immediately.

I entered the wrong email address during my purchase. How do I update my email to receive my eSIM?

Please contact Chinaesim Support Team [email protected] with your order number for assistance.

FAQs When Setting up China eSIM

When do I install my eSIM?

You should buy the eSIM before you depart from China and install in 1 day before departure because the eSIM validity will start when you download and install eSIM on your device.

How to install China eSIM?

Each device will have slightly different steps to install eSIM. You can check out the Full installation for China.

How to set the APN for my eSIM?

You can set up APN by the following steps:
– For iOS devices: Go to Settings > Cellular/Mobile data > your eSIM > Cellular Data Network, and then enter all APNs.
– For Samsung Phones: Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > Access Point Name > Tab Add on top bar > Name APN.
– For Google Pixel Phones: Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > select your eSIM > Access Point Names > Tab + on top bar > Name APN.

eSIM Troubleshooting

What does “Invalid Activation Code” mean?

This error can appear in some cases below:
– QR code provided by the carrier is not clear/cut/hidden by object/blur/… 
– Error on the device’s camera that leads to unable scan the QR code.
Try the following actions:
– Check your device’s camera. If it doesn’t work, try to install it manually. 
– If it still does not work, contact us for further assistance. 

What does “Data Plan Cannot Be Added” mean?

This error often indicates that the QR code’s unique activation code has already been used. This indicates that the eSIM profile has already been added by you, another person, or both. You need to check whether your eSIM has been used or not.

Verify that the SIM has not already been added:
– On your iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Plans.
– On your Android device: Settings > Connections > SIM card manager.

You may also contact ChinaeSIM via the information below for further support.

What does “Cellular Plans from This Carrier Cannot Be Added” mean?

This issue most likely indicates that your phone is a CDMA device or has been locked by the original purchase carrier.

When buying a device, you should consider its network type and whether it is carrier-locked. Your device’s IMEI can be checked in the following website:
imeipro.info
imeicheck.com
imei.info

If you want to find out whether your device’s IMEI is locked, dial *#06# to get the 15-digit IMEI number, and check on the websites above.

You need to contact your carrier to unlock your phone. If not, you may need another device to use eSIM, because eSIM can only be activated on unlocked-carrier phones.

What does “Unable to Complete Cellular Plan Change” mean?

This error can appear in some cases below:
– Too many eSIMs are installed on the device.
– This eSIM profile has already been set up on your device or installed on another device.
– You install eSIM with a poor internet connection (Wifi/ other cellular data).

Try the following actions:
– Check your number of eSIM maximum. If you have used all of the eSIM storage, you can remove the previous eSIMs. Check out for further steps on how to remove an eSIM on iPhone, Samsung, Google Pixel.
– Check whether your eSIM profile is already on your device or not. On iOS, go to Cellular Plans to check. On Android, go to the SIM Card Manager to check.
– Check your internet connection and try to install the eSIM again.