Can You Use WhatsApp in China? A Complete Guide (2025)
No, WhatsApp is blocked in China but there are three reliable ways to bypass this restriction.
Summary
Unfortunately, you will not be able to use WhatsApp in China due to China's strict internet regulations. But don’t worry—there are easy workarounds that savvy travelers use every day. This guide provides up-to-date information on WhatsApp's availability in China and offers practical solutions to stay connected while you are there.
Why Is WhatsApp Blocked in China?
WhatsApp has been blocked in mainland China since 2017 as a result of the strict internet controls. The Chinese government's "Great Firewall" restricts access to various foreign platforms, including WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and Google services.
How to Access WhatsApp in China?
Despite the ban, there are reliable methods to use WhatsApp while in China:
1. Travel eSIM
A travel eSIM provides data through a foreign carrier while you're in China, effectively bypassing the Great Firewall.
How it works: Travel eSIMs connect to Chinese mobile networks but route data through servers outside China, avoiding local internet restrictions.
Advantages:
- Most reliable solution (not targeted by blocking measures)
- Simple setup before your trip
- No battery drain unlike VPNs
- Works immediately upon arrival
Limitations:
- Requires an eSIM-compatible device
- Data-only solution (for calls, use WhatsApp calling)
Basic setup:
- Purchase a China travel eSIM before your trip
- Install the eSIM following provider instructions
- Activate upon arrival in China
- Use WhatsApp normally without additional steps
Important: Ensure your device is eSIM-compatible and that you set up the eSIM before entering China.
2. International Roaming
Using your home carrier's international roaming service can also bypass the Great Firewall.
How it works: Roaming connections are typically routed through your home country's servers, bypassing Chinese internet restrictions.
Advantages:
- Works with your existing SIM card
- No additional apps or setup required
- Maintains your regular phone number
Disadvantages:
- Often expensive ($10-15/day or high per-MB charges)
- May have data caps or speed limitations
- Reliability varies by carrier
Setup requirements:
- Enable international roaming with your home carrier before departure
- Ensure China is included in your roaming coverage
- Enable data roaming on your device when in China
3. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) create an encrypted connection to servers outside China. By connecting to a VPN server in another country, you can access WhatsApp as if you were browsing from that location.
How it works: VPNs tunnel your connection through the Great Firewall to servers in other countries, allowing access to blocked services.
Advantages:
- Works on any internet connection (including hotel WiFi)
- Provides access to all blocked services, not just WhatsApp
- Can be used on multiple devices
Disadvantages:
- Increasingly blocked and unreliable in China
- Requires installation and setup before arrival
- Drains battery and may slow connection speeds
- May require trying multiple servers to find one that works
Recommended VPNs that still work in China:
- ExpressVPN
- Astrill
- NordVPN
Want a deeper dive into how VPNs work in China? Check out our complete VPN guide for China to get started.
Important: Install and test your VPN before arriving in China, as VPN websites are blocked within the country.
WeChat: The Local Alternative to WhatsApp
While accessing WhatsApp requires additional steps, WeChat is an alternative app to consider. It is the most widely used messaging app in China, offering text, voice, and video calls, as well as social media features and mobile payments. That said, while WeChat is essential for long-term stays in China, most short-term travelers might find it simpler to maintain access to WhatsApp.
Note: To communicate with locals or access certain services, downloading and setting up WeChat can be beneficial.
Tips for Staying Connected in China
- Prepare in Advance: Download necessary apps, VPNs, and eSIM configurations before arriving in China, as app stores may have restrictions.
- Stay Updated: Internet regulations can change. Regularly check for updates on app accessibility and VPN functionality.
- Use Trusted Services: Only use reputable VPN and eSIM providers to ensure security and reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is WhatsApp blocked in China in 2025?
Yes, WhatsApp remains blocked in mainland China as of 2025. Users cannot send messages or make calls without using a workaround like a VPN or travel eSIM.
Can tourists use WhatsApp in China?
Yes, tourists can use WhatsApp in China if they set up a VPN or international eSIM before arriving. These tools allow you to bypass local internet restrictions.
Can I use WhatsApp calling in China?
Yes, WhatsApp voice and video calls work in China when using a travel eSIM, international roaming, or a functioning VPN. Call quality depends on your data connection speed.
Does WhatsApp video calling work in China with these solutions?
Yes, WhatsApp video calling works with all three bypass methods. For the best video quality, travel eSIMs typically provide the most stable connection compared to VPNs which may reduce speed.
Can I use WhatsApp on hotel WiFi in China?
Not directly. Hotel WiFi in China is subject to the same restrictions as all Chinese networks. You must use either a travel eSIM or VPN when connected to hotel WiFi to access WhatsApp.
Do I need both a local SIM and an eSIM in China?
It depends on your needs. If you only need data and WhatsApp, a travel eSIM alone is sufficient. If you need a Chinese phone number for local calls or services, using both a local SIM and travel eSIM provides the best combination of local access and global connectivity.
Nomad eSIM: The Hassle-Free Solution for WhatsApp in China
While WhatsApp is blocked in China, travelers have several reliable options to maintain access. For most visitors, a travel eSIM offers the best combination of reliability, value, and convenience, working immediately upon arrival without the technical challenges of VPNs.
To make things even easier, consider using a Nomad eSIM — a secure, reliable way to access WhatsApp, Google, and other blocked apps in China without worrying about censorship or VPN setup. Use the Nomad Data Calculator to estimate your ideal plan before you go.
Ready to travel smart? Get your China-ready eSIM now with Nomad. If your trip includes multiple countries across Asia, our regional plans make it easy to stay online as you hop between countries. Data plans are available from as low as $1.10/GB. Whether you're in Beijing, Bangkok, or beyond, Nomad keeps you covered so you can focus on the journey, not your signal.
