Does express VPN work in china

When it comes to internet restrictions, few countries are as strict as China. With its Great Firewall, the Chinese government blocks access to numerous popular websites and services, including Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, Netflix, and many Western news outlets. Travelers, expats, and even locals who want to bypass censorship often rely on Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).

One of the most popular options globally is ExpressVPN. Known for its speed, security, and reliability, ExpressVPN is frequently recommended for users in China. But the question remains: Does ExpressVPN work in China in 2025?

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know:

The truth about ExpressVPN in China
Why China blocks VPNs
How to use ExpressVPN safely inside China
Alternatives if ExpressVPN doesn’t connect
Tips for travelers and long-term residents

Understanding China’s Internet Restrictions

The Great Firewall Explained

China’s Great Firewall is the country’s sophisticated censorship system that filters and blocks foreign websites and apps. It uses multiple techniques:

IP blocking – Preventing access to known VPN and website servers
DNS poisoning – Redirecting users away from restricted sites
Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) – Detecting VPN traffic patterns
Keyword filtering – Blocking sensitive political, social, or news topics

This system is updated constantly, making it challenging for VPNs to stay ahead.

Why Does China Block VPNs?

The government restricts VPNs to maintain:

Information control – Preventing citizens from accessing uncensored news
Data security – Monitoring internet activities inside the country
Political stability – Controlling the narrative during sensitive events

Because of this, only government-approved VPNs are officially allowed—but those are monitored and unsafe for privacy.

Does ExpressVPN Work in China in 2025?

The Short Answer

Yes, ExpressVPN still works in China as of 2025, but with some limitations. Unlike many free or smaller VPNs, ExpressVPN invests heavily in technology to bypass the Great Firewall. However, due to frequent crackdowns, connections may sometimes be inconsistent, requiring server switching or manual configuration.

Why ExpressVPN Works in China

Stealth technology: ExpressVPN disguises VPN traffic to make it look like regular HTTPS activity.
Constant server updates: The company rotates IP addresses to avoid detection.
Multiple protocols: ExpressVPN supports Lightway, OpenVPN, and other protocols optimized for China.
Dedicated support: ExpressVPN has 24/7 customer service to assist users in China.

Limitations You Should Know

Not every server works in China—only selected ones do.
Connection speed may drop during sensitive times like national holidays or political events.
You must install ExpressVPN before entering China, as its website is blocked inside the country.

Setting Up ExpressVPN for China

Step 1: Get a Subscription Before You Travel

Since the ExpressVPN website is blocked in China, you must download and subscribe before arriving. Make sure you also:

Download the app for all devices (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, routers).
Save manual configuration files in case apps don’t connect.

Step 2: Choose the Right Protocol

ExpressVPN offers multiple protocols, but Lightway and OpenVPN (TCP) usually work best in China. You can switch between them in the settings if you face connection issues.

Step 3: Select the Best Servers for China

The most reliable servers for China are usually located in:

Hong Kong
Japan
Singapore
United States (West Coast)
UK (London)

Server performance may vary daily, so switching is often necessary.

Step 4: Keep a Backup Connection

Sometimes, even ExpressVPN can temporarily fail in China. That’s why it’s wise to:

Download alternative VPN apps (NordVPN, Surfshark, Astrill).
Use Shadowsocks or proxy tools as backups.

ExpressVPN Features That Help in China

1. Lightway Protocol

ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol is designed for speed and reliability. Unlike traditional VPN protocols, it connects almost instantly and is harder to block.

2. Split Tunneling

You can choose which apps go through the VPN and which don’t. For example, you can access Gmail via VPN while using Chinese apps like WeChat normally.

3. TrustedServer Technology

ExpressVPN runs on RAM-only servers, meaning no data is stored and everything is wiped after each reboot. This is essential in a country with high surveillance.

4. Kill Switch (Network Lock)

If the VPN drops unexpectedly, the kill switch blocks your internet traffic to prevent leaks. This ensures your activity remains private even during unstable connections.

Why ExpressVPN Is Safer Than Free VPNs in China

Many travelers look for free VPNs, but in China, this is risky. Here’s why:

Most free VPNs don’t work against the Great Firewall.
Some free VPNs are honeypots secretly operated by authorities.
Free VPNs may sell your data to advertisers or worse.

ExpressVPN, while paid, is far more secure because it:

Operates under strict no-logs policies.
Has been audited by independent cybersecurity firms.
Provides high-level encryption (AES-256).

Common Problems Using ExpressVPN in China

1. Connection Failures

Sometimes ExpressVPN won’t connect right away. The solution:

Switch protocols (Lightway ↔ OpenVPN TCP).
Change servers (try nearby countries first).
Contact support via email (they reply within hours).

2. Slow Speeds

Speeds can be affected by government throttling or server congestion. Solutions:

Use the Smart Location feature.
Connect to the closest available server.
Avoid public Wi-Fi and use stable connections.

3. App Blocked from Updating

Inside China, the app might not auto-update. Fix:

Download updates using a VPN mirror site.
Always update before traveling.

Alternatives to ExpressVPN in China

While ExpressVPN is one of the best, it’s not the only option. Some other VPNs known to work in China include:

NordVPN – Known for obfuscated servers.
Surfshark – Affordable and works on unlimited devices.
Astrill VPN – Popular with long-term expats.
VyprVPN – Offers the Chameleon protocol designed for China.

Still, ExpressVPN remains a top choice due to its ease of use and strong reputation.

Practical Tips for Using ExpressVPN in China

Install Before You Enter China – The official website and app stores are blocked.
Keep Backup VPNs – Have at least one secondary option in case ExpressVPN gets blocked.
Use Wired Internet When Possible – More stable than hotel Wi-Fi.
Avoid Peak Political Events – During sensitive dates (e.g., Tiananmen anniversary, Party Congress), VPNs may face stronger blocking.
Stay Updated with Support Emails – ExpressVPN sends updates on working servers for China users.

Is ExpressVPN Legal in China?

This is a gray area.

For individuals, using a VPN is not outright illegal—but it is discouraged. Authorities rarely punish foreigners for VPN use.
For businesses, government approval is required for VPNs.

Most travelers and expats use ExpressVPN without problems, but it’s wise to stay discreet.

Final Verdict: Should You Use ExpressVPN in China?

If you’re planning a trip to China or living there long-term, ExpressVPN is one of the most reliable tools to bypass the Great Firewall. It works in 2025, though occasional downtime can occur. With strong security, fast servers, and proven effectiveness, it remains a top choice.

That said, always prepare backups, install apps before arrival, and follow best practices to stay connected.

In summary:

✅ Yes, ExpressVPN works in China (most of the time).
⚠️ Expect occasional issues during crackdowns.
🔑 Always set it up before you go.

FAQs About ExpressVPN in China

1. Can I download ExpressVPN in China?
No, the website and app stores are blocked. Download it before entering China.

2. Which devices does ExpressVPN support in China?
It works on Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, and even routers.

3. Is ExpressVPN safe to use in China?
Yes. It uses AES-256 encryption and has a strict no-logs policy.

4. What servers are best for Chinese users?
Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore are usually the fastest.

5. Is ExpressVPN better than free VPNs in China?
Absolutely. Free VPNs are often blocked, unreliable, or unsafe.