Best VPNs for China (2026) — What Actually Works

Updated April 2026 · Tested in mainland China

Important: Most Western apps and websites — including Google, YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Gmail and Twitter — are blocked in mainland China by the Great Firewall. A VPN is essential for travellers, expats and anyone moving to China. You must install your VPN before arriving as VPN provider websites are also blocked once you're inside China.

Top Recommended VPNs for China

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NordVPN — Essential for China Travellers

Google, WhatsApp, Instagram and most Western apps are blocked in China. NordVPN reliably bypasses the Great Firewall. Install before you arrive.

Get NordVPN →

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ExpressVPN — Fast & Reliable in China

ExpressVPN is one of the most trusted VPNs for use in China. Works on iPhone, Android, Windows and Mac.

Try ExpressVPN Free →

Why You Need a VPN in China

Google services blocked — Gmail, Google Maps, Google Drive, Chrome sync
Social media blocked — Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X, Snapchat, TikTok (international version)
Messaging blocked — WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal
News blocked — BBC, NYT, many Western news sites
Streaming blocked — Netflix, YouTube, Spotify

How to Install a VPN for China

Sign up and download your VPN before you arrive in China
Install the app on all your devices (phone, laptop, tablet)
Connect to a server in the UK, US, or Hong Kong for best speeds
Enable the 'obfuscated' or 'stealth' mode if the standard connection is blocked

NordVPN vs ExpressVPN for China

Feature	NordVPN	ExpressVPN
Price	From ~$3.99/mo	From ~$6.67/mo
China reliability	High	Very High
Speed	Fast	Very Fast
Devices	6 simultaneous	5 simultaneous
Money-back	30 days	30 days

Other Essentials for China Travel

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iVisa — Apply for Your China Visa Online

Fast, simple online visa application with expert support. Get your China visa processed without visiting an embassy.

Apply Now →

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italki — Learn Mandarin with a Native Teacher

Book 1-on-1 Mandarin lessons online from $8/hr. Over 1,000 Chinese teachers available for all levels.

Find a Teacher →