China’s Great Firewall heavily restricts access to international websites and apps, including WhatsApp. If you’re traveling to or living in China, using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is the best way to unblock WhatsApp and stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues.
However, not all VPNs work in China. The government actively blocks most VPN services, so you need a reliable, fast, and secure VPN that can bypass these restrictions. In this guide, we’ll explore the best VPNs for WhatsApp in China, their features, pricing, and how to use them effectively.
Table of Contents
Why Do You Need a VPN for WhatsApp in China?
WhatsApp is completely blocked in China, meaning you cannot send messages, make voice or video calls, or share media without a VPN. Here’s why you need a VPN for WhatsApp in China:
- Bypass Internet Censorship: A VPN lets you access WhatsApp and other blocked services like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Google.
- Secure Communication: A VPN encrypts your data, preventing the Chinese government and ISPs from monitoring your WhatsApp activity.
- Avoid Slow Internet Speeds: VPNs with obfuscation technology help maintain high-speed connections by bypassing restrictions.
- Protect Your Privacy: Using a no-logs VPN ensures your personal data remains private and secure.
Best VPNs for WhatsApp in China (2025 Updated List)
Here are the top VPNs that work reliably in China for unblocking WhatsApp:
1. ExpressVPN – Best Overall VPN for China
✅ Pros:
- Fast and stable servers in nearby locations like Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore.
- Advanced obfuscation technology to bypass Chinese restrictions.
- 24/7 customer support and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
❌ Cons:
- More expensive than other VPNs.
Pricing: Starts at $6.67/month (with a 12-month plan).
2. NordVPN – Best for Security and Privacy
✅ Pros:
- Double VPN encryption for extra security.
- Obfuscated servers for bypassing the Great Firewall.
- No-logs policy and RAM-based servers for complete privacy.
❌ Cons:
- Occasional connection drops in China.
Pricing: Starts at $3.79/month (with a 2-year plan).
3. Surfshark – Best Budget-Friendly VPN
✅ Pros:
- Unlimited simultaneous connections.
- Affordable pricing with strong encryption.
- Works well with WhatsApp, Facebook, and other blocked apps.
❌ Cons:
- Slightly slower speeds compared to ExpressVPN.
Pricing: Starts at $2.49/month (with a 2-year plan).
4. Astrill VPN – Best for Advanced Users
✅ Pros:
- Strong obfuscation technology that works reliably in China.
- Fast speeds for video and voice calls on WhatsApp.
- Works well for gaming and streaming too.
❌ Cons:
- Expensive compared to competitors.
- No free trial available.
Pricing: Starts at $12.50/month.
5. VyprVPN – Best for Consistent Connections
✅ Pros:
- Chameleon protocol helps bypass Chinese VPN blocks.
- Fast servers in Asia (Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan).
- Strong encryption and no-logs policy.
❌ Cons:
- Limited simultaneous connections (5 devices only).
Pricing: Starts at $5/month.
How to Use a VPN to Unblock WhatsApp in China
Follow these simple steps to access WhatsApp in China:
Step 1: Choose a Reliable VPN
Pick one of the VPNs from our list above. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark are among the best choices.
Step 2: Download and Install the VPN
- Before traveling to China, download and install the VPN app on your device (Windows, Mac, iPhone, Android, etc.).
- If you are already in China, use a mirror website or try downloading from an external source like an SD card or a friend’s device.
Step 3: Connect to a Nearby Server
- Open the VPN app and connect to a server in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Singapore, or the US.
- Make sure to use obfuscated servers if available.
Step 4: Open WhatsApp and Start Messaging
Once connected to the VPN, open WhatsApp, and you can send messages, make calls, and share media without restrictions.
Tips for Using a VPN in China
Here are some extra tips to ensure smooth VPN usage in China:
- Install the VPN Before Arriving in China: Most VPN websites are blocked in China, so download the app before you travel.
- Use Multiple VPN Options: Have at least two VPNs installed in case one stops working.
- Enable Obfuscated Servers: These help bypass China’s VPN detection.
- Change VPN Protocols: If the default protocol is blocked, switch to OpenVPN, WireGuard, or Shadowsocks.
- Test Different Server Locations: Some servers may work better than others depending on the region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it legal to use a VPN in China?
VPN use is restricted, but foreigners and businesses are generally not targeted. However, always use a reputable VPN with strong encryption.
2. Can I use a free VPN for WhatsApp in China?
No, free VPNs rarely work in China. They are often blocked, slow, and pose security risks.
3. What happens if my VPN stops working?
Try these fixes:
- Switch to a different server.
- Change the VPN protocol.
- Restart the VPN app.
- Contact VPN customer support.
4. Which VPN has the fastest speed for WhatsApp calls in China?
ExpressVPN and Astrill VPN are the fastest for video and voice calls on WhatsApp.
Final Thoughts
Using a VPN in China is the best way to unblock WhatsApp and stay connected. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark are the top choices for speed, security, and reliability. Remember to install the VPN before entering China and use obfuscation features to avoid restrictions.
With the right VPN, you can enjoy seamless WhatsApp messaging, voice calls, and video chats without any hassle. Stay safe and connected!