Best VPN for China
Bypass the Great Firewall with VPNs that actually work in 2026
Download Before You Arrive
VPN websites and app stores are blocked in China. You MUST download and set up your VPN before entering the country.
Legal Status in China
VPNs are legal for foreigners to use in China, though technically regulated. There are no recorded cases of foreigners being penalized for personal VPN use. Chinese nationals face stricter enforcement.
Top 3 VPNs That Work in China (2026)
Based on extensive testing by expats and travelers, these VPNs consistently bypass the Great Firewall with advanced obfuscation technology.
VPNs That Sometimes Work in China (~70% Success)
These VPNs work during certain periods but may experience blocks during sensitive political events or government crackdowns.
VPNs That DON'T Work in China
These popular VPNs are consistently blocked by the Great Firewall. Don't waste your money if you're traveling to China.
WARNING: Avoid Chinese VPN Apps
Chinese VPN apps are government-controlled and monitored. They log all your activity and are NOT suitable for privacy. Avoid apps like:
These apps are unreliable, track your data, and may report your activity to authorities. Always use international VPN services from trusted providers.
Essential Features for China
Obfuscation Technology
Disguises VPN traffic to avoid detection by the Great Firewall
Multiple Protocols
StealthVPN, Camouflage Mode, Chameleon protocol that work when others fail
Nearby Servers
Servers in Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore for better speeds
24/7 Support
Live chat support to help when connection issues arise
Services Blocked in China
Tips for Using VPN in China
Download multiple VPNs as backup - one might work when another doesn't
Install apps and configure before arriving in China
Try Hong Kong or Japan servers for best speeds
Use obfuscated/stealth mode in your VPN settings
Save offline maps and important documents before traveling
VPN speeds may vary - patience is key
China VPN FAQ
Is it safe to use a VPN in China as a tourist?
Yes, there are no recorded cases of tourists being penalized for VPN use. VPNs are widely used by foreigners for work and staying connected. The government primarily targets unauthorized VPN providers, not users.
Which VPN protocol works best in China?
StealthVPN (Astrill), Camouflage Mode (Surfshark), and proprietary obfuscated protocols work best. Standard OpenVPN and WireGuard are often blocked. These special protocols disguise VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic.
Can I sign up for a VPN while in China?
It's extremely difficult. Most VPN websites are blocked, and payment processors may not work. Always sign up and download your VPN before traveling to China.
Do free VPNs work in China?
Almost never. Free VPNs lack the obfuscation technology needed to bypass the Great Firewall. They also pose security risks. Invest in a premium VPN for reliable access.
Does ProtonVPN work in China?
No, ProtonVPN is consistently blocked in China. It lacks the obfuscation technology needed to bypass the Great Firewall. Choose ExpressVPN, Astrill, or Surfshark instead.
Sources
- Great Firewall - Wikipedia
- Privacy Journal - Are VPNs Legal in China?
- Surfshark - Can you use a VPN in China?
Last updated: November 2026