VPNs for China
Install a VPN before you fly: VPN websites and apps are hard to reach from inside China. Statuses below are dated and say what they're based on.
| Provider | Status | Based on | Price from | Devices | Refunds |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Astrill | WorksChecked Oct 9 | Works in 2026 hands-on use | $12.50/mo2-year plan ($300 every 2 years) | 5 at once, plus 1 router | None: all sales are final |
| Surfshark | UnreliableChecked Oct 8 | Works with fiddling in 2026 tests | $2.49/mo24-month plan, intro price ($67.23 for the first 27 months) | Unlimited | 30-day money-back guarantee |
| ExpressVPN | UnreliableChecked Oct 8 | 2026 reports disagree | $2.99/mo2-year plan, intro price ($83.72 for the first 28 months) | 10 on the Basic plan | 30-day money-back guarantee for new users |
| NordVPN | UnreliableChecked Oct 9 | Apps blocked; manual setup needed | $3.49/mo2-year plan, intro price ($94.23 for the first 27 months) | 10 | 30-day money-back guarantee |
Prices are the lowest advertised monthly price, usually on the longest plan. Check the provider's site before you buy.
VPN guides
LetsVPN Not Working in China? What Happened and Alternatives
LetsVPN stopped serving mainland China in April 2026, citing ongoing network blocking. What it said, refunds, and which VPNs and eSIMs to use instead.
NordVPN Not Working in China? How to Set It Up Manually
NordVPN says its apps are blocked in China. Set up IKEv2/IPsec by hand on iPhone, Mac, Android or Linux before you go. Windows has no workaround yet.
VPN for Hotel Wi-Fi in China: How to Connect
Hotel Wi-Fi in China is filtered, and a roaming eSIM doesn't help on it. Log in first, then connect your VPN. Provider fixes and an eSIM hotspot backup.
Is Using a VPN Legal in China for Foreigners?
Unapproved VPNs are not allowed in mainland China, but there is no reported fine against a tourist for private use. What the rules say and who gets penalized.