Do Google, WhatsApp and Instagram work with a China eSIM?
Yes. Flysimio China plans route your data through Hong Kong, so Google Search, Gmail, Google Maps, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube work without a VPN. A Chinese carrier SIM bought locally does not do this, because its traffic stays behind the Great Firewall.
Do I need a VPN in China with this eSIM?
No. The Hong Kong routing is what a VPN would otherwise give you, and it is built into the connection. You do not need to install, pay for or keep a VPN running.
Do I need a Chinese ID or passport registration?
No. A Chinese carrier SIM requires real-name registration with your passport at a carrier store. A Flysimio eSIM is bought online, delivered by email as a QR code and installed before you fly.
Will WeChat and Alipay work?
Yes. WeChat, Alipay, Didi and Chinese maps apps such as Amap work normally over the eSIM data connection. WeChat Pay and Alipay accept foreign cards for most purchases once linked in the app.
Does the China eSIM cover Hong Kong and Macao?
No. China plans cover mainland China only. Hong Kong and Macao have their own networks: buy a Hong Kong or Macao eSIM, or an Asia regional plan if you are crossing between them.
Does the China eSIM include a phone number?
No. It is data-only, with no Chinese number and no SMS. Calls and messages work over WhatsApp, WeChat and FaceTime, and your home number stays active on your primary SIM.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM built into your phone. Instead of a physical card, you scan a QR code and your plan installs instantly — no SIM tray needed.
Is my phone eSIM-compatible?
iPhone XS (2018) and newer, most Android flagships from 2020+, and all Samsung Galaxy S21+ devices support eSIM. Check our compatibility page for the full device list.
How do I install the eSIM?
After purchase, we email a QR code. On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Scan QR Code. On Android: Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → Add eSIM. The whole process takes under 60 seconds.
Can I keep my regular SIM while using this eSIM?
Yes. Most phones support dual SIM (physical + eSIM). Keep your home number for calls and SMS — use Flysimio for data abroad. You control which SIM handles what in your phone Settings.
Is an eSIM better than a tourist SIM card?
For most trips, yes. A tourist SIM card means finding a shop or airport kiosk on arrival, showing your passport, and swapping out your home SIM. An eSIM is bought online, installed at home before you fly, and connects when you land, while your home SIM stays in the phone. A local SIM can be cheaper per GB for long stays of a month or more, and it is the option to choose if you need a local phone number.
How fast is the eSIM?
You connect to the same local 4G/LTE and 5G networks listed on this page, at the speeds those networks give local customers where you are. 5G works where the network and your phone both support it. Daily plans run at full speed up to the daily allowance and are slowed for the rest of that day; fixed-data plans run at full speed until the data is used.
Does the eSIM include a hotspot (tethering)?
Yes, all Flysimio plans include mobile hotspot at no extra charge. Share your data connection with laptops, tablets, or other devices freely.
What happens when my data runs out?
You can top up data from your account dashboard at any time. Top-ups are applied instantly — no need to buy a new eSIM or wait.
Can I get a refund?
Yes. Full refund within 7 days of purchase, no questions asked, as long as the eSIM is unused or has used less than 100 MB — that allowance means you can install it and check it connects without losing the guarantee. Past 100 MB we still refund in full for verified faults, such as activation details that never arrived or a technical failure on our side. Contact contact@flysimio.com with your order number.
How long is the eSIM valid for?
You have 6 months from your purchase date to activate the eSIM. Once activated, the plan validity period (e.g., 7 days, 30 days) begins counting down.
Will the eSIM work at the airport when I land?
Yes — as long as you installed the eSIM before your flight, it activates automatically when your phone connects to a local network on landing. No Wi-Fi required for activation.
What if the QR code doesn't scan?
If the QR code won't scan, you can enter the activation code manually — we include both in the email. You can also contact our 24/7 support team and we'll resend or manually provision your eSIM.