How to Get a China Phone Number as a Foreigner 2026

A Chinese phone number (+86) is automatically included with most physical SIM cards and some eSIM plans in China. This guide walks you through how to get one, what plans and prices to expect, which carrier to choose, and practical tips for foreign travelers.

How to Get a China Phone Number

How to Get a Local Number in China

You can get a valid Chinese phone number only when purchasing a physical SIM card (or select official carrier eSIM plans) that includes voice and SMS services. The number is assigned during mandatory real-name registration, with no extra steps required.

• Online (Recommended): Book a physical SIM with a +86 number via Trip.com before arrival. Submit your passport for registration, then pick up the card at the airport or have it delivered.
• Offline: Buy a tourist SIM at airport kiosks (Beijing PEK, Shanghai PVG, etc.) or official carrier stores. Staff will register your passport and issue the number on the spot.

Note: Data-only eSIMs from travel platforms or international providers do not include a local Chinese phone number. Confirm plan details before purchasing if you need SMS verification or calls.

Requirements for Getting a China Phone Number

Foreigners must meet these requirements to register for a SIM card with a local number:

• Valid passport: Mandatory for real-name registration (no exceptions).
• 16+ years old: Minors cannot register for SIM cards independently.
• Short-term visa/travel purpose: Tourist plans are only available for visitors, not long-term residents without additional documentation.

China SIM with Phone Number: Plans & Prices

China Phone Number Plan Prices RMB 8

All plans below include a local +86 number, domestic calls, and SMS. Prices are from recent traveler reports and airport kiosk listings, subject to change.

Short-Term Tourist Plans (7–30 Days, No Wi-Fi While Traveling)

Long-Term Stay Plans (3+ Months, Ultra Cost-Effective)

Personal Budget Tip: For long-term stay, use ¥8 keep-number plan + home Wi-Fi + independent data eSIM, totally avoid high overage fees, most cost-saving combo.

Which Chinese Carrier Is Best for Your Phone Number?

China’s 3 Telecom Carriers: Which to Pick?

All three major carriers issue valid +86 numbers, but their plans and tourist support differ:

Do You Need a Chinese Phone Number? Common Uses

A local number is not required for basic internet access, but it’s useful for:

• Alipay/WeChat verification: Some services require a Chinese number for SMS codes (foreign numbers work for basic WeChat registration but may fail for advanced features like wallet top-ups).
• Local services: Didi ride-hailing, food delivery apps, and hotel bookings often require a local number for contact.
• Domestic calls: Calling hotels, restaurants, or tour guides without using expensive international roaming.

How to Top Up Your China Phone Number

Topping Up China Phone Number

Top-ups are fully digital and straightforward, no need for offline stores.

1. Online via App: Use the carrier’s official app (China Mobile/Unicom/Telecom) or Trip.com to top up with your international credit card.
2. WeChat/Alipay: If you have a linked account, you can top up directly through the app’s "Mobile Recharge" feature.
3. Prepaid vouchers: Available at convenience stores in large cities, but not recommended for tourists due to language barriers.

China Phone Number Tips for Foreigners

1. Pre-book via Trip.com: Avoid airport queues and ensure your plan includes a +86 number before arrival.
2. Check eSIM limitations: Most travel eSIMs are data-only. If you need SMS, opt for a physical SIM.
3. Keep your SIM active: Top up before your plan expires to avoid losing the number.
4. Avoid unlicensed sellers: Street vendors may sell unregistered SIMs that get deactivated unexpectedly.
5. Backup your number: Save your +86 number in your phone and write it down for verification purposes.

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