Which VPN should you use in China, and how do you choose a reliable VPN?

Navigating the VPN Landscape: A Guide for Expats in China (2026)

Last updated April 28 2026

Update on 28 April 2026. Unfortunately, LetsVPN has been unstable since 8 April. As of today, the announcement is out. The most beloved VPN service provider has been targeted, is unable to resolve the technical problem, and will permanently suspend its services for mainland China users.

This blog is updated periodically, especially for those seeking Let’s VPN alternatives

Living as an expat in China comes with its own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to accessing the open internet. In this blog post, we'll delve into Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to help you understand what they are, their types, usage, and their crucial role for expats in China. We'll also address concerns about safety legality and provide recommendations for choosing the right VPN service.

What is a VPN?

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a technology that creates a secure and encrypted connection between your device and the internet. It acts as a tunnel, allowing you to browse the web privately and securely while masking your true location.

Types of VPNs:

Various types of VPNs are available, including free VPNs, paid VPNs, and self-hosted VPNs. Free VPNs often come with limitations, such as data caps and slower speeds, while paid VPNs offer more reliable and feature-rich services. However, please be aware that many big-name VPNs don’t work in China (e.g. Nord, SurfShark, and ExpressVPN (which stopped working in China in 2019). Self-hosted VPNs require technical expertise to set up and maintain, making them less suitable for most expats.

The Role of VPNs for Expats in China:

The government enforces strict internet censorship in China, commonly known as the Great Firewall. VPNs play a crucial role in bypassing these restrictions, allowing expats to access blocked websites and services, such as social media platforms, news websites, and streaming services from their home countries.

Safety and Legality:

Using a VPN in China is generally safe if you choose a reputable provider. However, it's important to note that selling VPN services within China is illegal. This is why Apple and other companies have removed VPN-related apps from their app stores in mainland China. Despite this, many expats continue to use VPNs without facing legal consequences.

Choosing the Right VPN:

When selecting a VPN, it's essential to consider reliability, speed, security, and customer support factors. While popular VPNs like ExpressVPN and Astrill are well-known options, they may not be suitable for everyone due to their pricing.

Astrill VPN pricing screenshoted on 28 April 2026

Here are a few VPNs that have been recommended based on personal experiences. They are working well in China:

1. SocketPro: Great customer service, lowest cost, good uptime, subscription link works for some Wi-Fi routers too. 10 devices!

SocketPro pricing screenshot on 28 Apr 2026

Word of mouth is crucial when choosing a VPN, so make sure to take advantage of free trials and compare prices and features. Some providers may have limitations on the number of devices or offer unique features that set them apart from others. If possible, consider having more than one VPN as a backup.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, VPNs are essential tools for expats living in China, enabling them to access the open internet, bypass censorship, connect with friends and family and even do business overseas. While the legality of VPNs in China is a grey area, using a reputable VPN service is generally safe. By considering personal recommendations, comparing features, and taking advantage of free trials, you can find the right VPN that suits your needs and ensures a seamless online experience while in China.

As of April 2026, the VPN infrastructure is undergoing big changes, according the blog from the beloved VPN service provider LetsVPN, the industry is under 3 challenges all at once, cyberattacking can now be done by AI and AI is also consuming a lot of resources as many western AI tools such as Gemini and OpenAI’s ChatGPT are also blocked in China, but the last main reason is the hardest one to combat which is tightening regulation. VPN has become much more unstable and unreliable as many servers are forced to cease their VPN related services. From the current observation, the industry is facing a lot of pressure, and looking grim. For visitors, if it’s a short visit, I’d recommend getting an eSIM from Trip.com as reported from my guests it works great.

In the long run, I would also consider getting a SIM card from Hong Kong that allows roaming data, which would be a last resort.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is important to stay updated on the current regulations and laws regarding VPN usage in China.