A Foreigner's Guide to SZ: Getting a SIM card

To get a SIM card from a major telecommunication services provider on the Chinese mainland, you need to visit one of the provider's physical stores. You will need to present valid identification, such as your current passport, for real-name registration. It is recommended that you contact the physical store before your visit to confirm with store staffers the materials you need to bring with you. 

There are four major telecommunication service providers on the Chinese mainland, namely China Mobile, China Telecom, China Unicom, and China Broadnet. 

Each provider has many physical stores scattered across the city. You can easily find one using a map app. For example, to locate a China Mobile physical store nearby, simply search "中国移动" on your preferred map app.