How to Use an eSIM in China (Step-by-Step Activation Guide)｜eSIMKitStore
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How to Use an eSIM in China (Step-by-Step Setup & Activation)
If you’re traveling to China for work, visiting family, or tourism, the last thing you want is landing with no data—no messages, no maps, no ride-hailing, no access to the apps you rely on. This guide keeps it simple and practical: what to do after you buy a China eSIM—how to install it on Wi-Fi, what settings to switch after you land, what “CMHK” means, and a 30-second troubleshooting checklist.
The fastest way to get mobile data in China is: install your eSIM on Wi-Fi before departure → after landing, switch Mobile Data to the eSIM → enable Data Roaming (if required by your plan) → wait for the network to connect. If you see CMHK, it usually indicates a Hong Kong network exit—a key factor for many travelers who care about access to common apps.
Save these links (they’ll actually save you time)
- Why some China eSIMs work differently (CMHK / network exit): Read here
- Can I buy a China eSIM? Who is it for? Read here
- Official activation guide (with video): https://esimkitstore.com/pages/activate
0) 10-second check: Does your phone support eSIM?
Method A: the quick dial check (enter *#06#)
If you see EID (often shown under IMEI on some models), it usually means your device is more likely to support eSIM. If you don’t see MEID, it doesn’t automatically mean “no eSIM”—models and regions can display differently. Use Method B to confirm.
Method B: the reliable check (look for “Add eSIM” in Settings)
- iPhone: Settings → Cellular → look for “Add eSIM” / “Add Cellular Plan”
- Android: Settings → Network & Internet / SIMs → look for “Add eSIM”
Want a quick reference list? Check: eSIM compatible devices
1) Pick a plan: how to choose days & data
Choose based on your stay in China and how you’ll use data: maps/navigation, messaging, ride-hailing, email, social apps, and video calls all add up. If you’re traveling for work or relying on mobile data daily, go with more data rather than “just enough.”
https://esimkitstore.com/products/china-prepaid-travel-esim-card
2) Install before you fly: scan the QR code on Wi-Fi (least likely to fail)
STEP 1 — After checkout, check your email (QR code inside)
- Make sure you used the correct email at checkout (that’s where the QR code is delivered)
- Best timing: install 1 day before departure on stable Wi-Fi
STEP 2 — Scan the QR code to add your eSIM
Follow the official setup (with video): https://esimkitstore.com/pages/activate
3) Activate after landing in China: the 30-second settings checklist
STEP 1 — Switch “Mobile Data” to your eSIM
- Open Settings → Cellular / Mobile Network
- Set Mobile Data to the eSIM you installed
STEP 2 — Enable “Data Roaming” (if required)
- Tap the eSIM line → enable Data Roaming (based on plan instructions)
- Wait a few minutes for the network to attach (timing can vary by location)
If you see CMHK, it typically indicates a Hong Kong network exit. Many travelers care about this because network routing can affect the experience of using common apps while in China.
Want the full explanation? Read: Does eSIM work in China? (CMHK / network exit)
STEP 3 — 30-second troubleshooting (if you’re still offline)
1) Toggle Airplane Mode on/off once
2) Restart your phone
3) Re-check: Mobile Data is set to the eSIM & Data Roaming is enabled (if required)
Want data right after you land? Install on Wi-Fi first, switch after landing
Memorize this order: Install (Wi-Fi) → Switch (after landing) → Data Roaming → Connect.
Next step:
Need the video setup guide? Activation guide (with video)
FAQ｜China eSIM setup, activation & CMHK
Q1: When should I install my China eSIM?
Ideally 1 day before departure on stable Wi-Fi. Install first, then switch your Mobile Data to the eSIM after you land in China. This reduces setup failures and prevents accidental early data usage.
Q2: I landed in China but I have no data—what should I do first?
First confirm Mobile Data is set to your eSIM and Data Roaming is enabled (if required by your plan). Then toggle Airplane Mode or restart your phone. Most issues are solved in under a minute.
Q3: What does “CMHK” mean on my eSIM line?
CMHK typically indicates a Hong Kong network exit. If you’re researching app accessibility in China, routing can be a key factor. For the deeper explanation, see: Does eSIM work in China?
Q4: Does dialing *#06# guarantee my phone supports eSIM?
Seeing MEID often suggests your device is more likely to support eSIM, but it’s not a universal rule. The most reliable check is whether your Settings include “Add eSIM,” plus verifying on a compatibility list.
Q5: Do I need a VPN in China?
It depends on your needs and how your plan routes traffic. If you want the practical explanation of why network routing matters (including CMHK), start with: Does eSIM work in China?