China is one of the most heavily censored countries in the world when it comes to the internet. The government maintains strict control over what citizens and visitors can access online through its notorious Great Firewall of China (GFW). Popular platforms like Google, YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, and even many news websites are blocked in the country.
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For travelers, digital nomads, or even Chinese citizens looking for unrestricted internet, VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) have become essential tools. One name that frequently comes up in discussions about online privacy is Proton VPN. But the big question is: Can you actually use Proton VPN in China in 2025?
This guide explores everything you need to know — from how Proton VPN works in China, whether it can bypass the Great Firewall, alternatives, and practical tips for staying connected.
Understanding the Great Firewall of China
Before we dive into Proton VPN, let’s first understand what it’s up against.
The Great Firewall is a complex system of technologies and regulations designed to control internet use. It:
- Blocks access to foreign websites like Facebook, Twitter, and Gmail.
- Monitors online activity using deep packet inspection (DPI).
- Restricts VPN use by identifying and shutting down VPN traffic.
This means that not all VPNs work in China, and those that do must use advanced stealth technologies to avoid detection.
What is Proton VPN?
Proton VPN is a privacy-focused VPN service created by the same team behind Proton Mail, a secure email provider. Based in Switzerland, Proton VPN has earned a reputation for:
- Strong encryption protocols.
- A strict no-logs policy.
- Open-source apps audited for transparency.
- Specialized features like Secure Core servers and Tor over VPN.
Because of its security-first approach, Proton VPN is often considered a good choice for bypassing censorship. But when it comes to China, the situation is more complicated.
Does Proton VPN Work in China?
Short Answer: Yes, but with limitations.
Proton VPN can work in China, but not always reliably. The Great Firewall is constantly updated to detect and block VPN connections, and Proton VPN servers are sometimes caught in these blocks.
Here’s how it works in practice:
- Stealth Protocols: Proton VPN has introduced Stealth VPN protocol that helps disguise VPN traffic as normal HTTPS traffic. This is the key feature that makes it possible to use in China.
- Server Availability: Not all servers will work. Users typically need to test multiple servers (often in nearby regions like Japan, Singapore, or Hong Kong) to find one that connects.
- App Store Restrictions: The Proton VPN app may not be downloadable from app stores inside China. You’ll need to install it before entering China.
- Ongoing Cat-and-Mouse Game: Even if it works today, there’s no guarantee it will work tomorrow — as China’s government is quick to block VPNs.
Proton VPN Features That Help in China
If you’re planning to use Proton VPN in China, here are some features that make it stand out:
- Stealth Protocol (Obfuscation Technology)
- Masks VPN traffic to look like regular internet browsing.
- Essential for bypassing deep packet inspection in China.
- Secure Core Servers
- Routes your traffic through multiple servers, making it harder for Chinese authorities to trace.
- No-Logs Policy
- Even if monitored, Proton VPN doesn’t keep records of your browsing activities.
- DNS Leak Protection & Kill Switch
- Ensures your real IP address is never exposed if the VPN connection drops.
- Free Plan (Limited Use)
- Proton VPN has a free plan, but in China, free servers usually won’t work because they lack stealth protocols. Paid plans are much more reliable.
Challenges of Using Proton VPN in China
While Proton VPN can work, you should be aware of the challenges:
- Unstable Connections: Connections may drop frequently, requiring retries.
- Limited Speed: Because of obfuscation and rerouting, speeds can be slower compared to normal usage.
- Not Always Reliable: Sometimes, servers are blocked for days or weeks until Proton VPN updates its infrastructure.
- Need for Preparation: You must download, install, and set up Proton VPN before traveling to China, as the website and app stores may block access.
How to Set Up Proton VPN for China
If you decide to use Proton VPN in China, here’s a step-by-step preparation guide:
1. Download and Install Before Arrival
- Get the Proton VPN app from the official website or app store before you travel.
- Keep backup installation files (APK for Android, .exe for Windows, etc.) in case you need to reinstall.
2. Subscribe to a Paid Plan
- While the free plan is tempting, it won’t work reliably in China. Go for the Plus Plan to access Stealth protocol and fast servers.
3. Enable Stealth Protocol
- In the Proton VPN app, switch to Stealth as your VPN protocol.
- This disguises VPN traffic as normal HTTPS, making it harder for Chinese censorship systems to block.
4. Choose Nearby Servers
- Connect to servers in Japan, Singapore, or Hong Kong for better speed and lower latency.
5. Enable Kill Switch & DNS Leak Protection
- This ensures your real IP is never exposed accidentally if the VPN connection drops.
6. Have Backup Options
- Download alternative VPNs as backups (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Astrill) in case Proton VPN stops working.
Alternatives to Proton VPN in China
While Proton VPN works for some users, many travelers prefer VPNs that are more proven in China. Some of the most reliable alternatives include:
- ExpressVPN
- Known as the most consistent VPN for bypassing the Great Firewall.
- Offers obfuscation by default.
- NordVPN
- Offers Obfuscated Servers that work well in China.
- Strong speeds and security.
- Astrill VPN
- Popular among expats in China.
- Very reliable but more expensive.
- Surfshark VPN
- Affordable and offers Camouflage Mode for bypassing restrictions.
Is It Legal to Use Proton VPN in China?
This is a critical question.
- Chinese law prohibits unauthorized VPNs. Only government-approved VPNs are technically legal, but those are heavily monitored.
- Using Proton VPN or any foreign VPN is considered a grey area. While enforcement is usually directed at providers, there have been reports of fines for individual users.
- For travelers, using a VPN is generally tolerated, but it’s important to use it discreetly.
Tips for Using Proton VPN in China Safely
- Always Enable Stealth Protocol to avoid detection.
- Avoid streaming or downloading large files when using VPN in China, as heavy traffic is easier to detect.
- Don’t discuss VPN use openly on Chinese social media or forums.
- Keep backup VPNs installed in case Proton VPN is blocked.
- Stay updated with Proton VPN’s support page, where they post China-specific connection tips.
User Experiences: Does Proton VPN Really Work in China?
Based on expat forums and online reviews in 2025:
- Many users report success with Proton VPN’s Stealth protocol.
- Others say it can be hit-or-miss, especially during sensitive political events when China tightens controls.
- Users agree that Proton VPN is a good option if you already subscribe for privacy reasons, but if China is your primary concern, ExpressVPN or Astrill may offer more reliable access.
Final Verdict: Should You Use Proton VPN in China?
So, can you use Proton VPN in China? Yes, you can — but it’s not guaranteed.
- If you already use Proton VPN for privacy, you’ll likely be able to connect in China by using the Stealth protocol and nearby servers.
- If your priority is reliable, uninterrupted access to blocked websites and apps, Proton VPN might not always be the best choice. In that case, ExpressVPN or Astrill may give you more consistency.
That said, Proton VPN remains one of the most secure, privacy-first VPNs on the market. For travelers who value encryption and anonymity, it’s definitely worth trying in China.
Conclusion
China’s Great Firewall is one of the toughest censorship systems in the world, and using any VPN there requires preparation and patience. Proton VPN has made significant strides with its Stealth technology, making it possible to bypass restrictions. However, it’s not always stable, and users should have backup VPN options ready.