China is one of the most heavily censored countries in the world when it comes to the internet. With its Great Firewall (GFW), the Chinese government blocks thousands of international websites and apps, including Google, Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, and many VPN services.
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For travelers, expats, and even local internet users, one of the most common questions is:
“Does Proton VPN work in China?”
Proton VPN, developed by the same team behind ProtonMail (a secure, encrypted email provider based in Switzerland), is known for its security, privacy, and ability to bypass restrictions. But can it actually break through the Great Firewall in 2025?
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore:
- Whether Proton VPN currently works in China.
- The challenges of using a VPN inside China.
- Features that make Proton VPN suitable for bypassing censorship.
- How to use Proton VPN in China (step-by-step).
- The best Proton VPN alternatives if it doesn’t work.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what to expect if you want to use Proton VPN in China.
Understanding the Great Firewall of China
Before answering whether Proton VPN works in China, it’s important to understand what the Great Firewall is and how it works.
The Great Firewall (GFW) is a combination of laws, regulations, and technologies that the Chinese government uses to control internet access. It blocks or slows down:
- Foreign social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram).
- Messaging apps (WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal).
- News websites (BBC, New York Times, Reuters).
- Streaming platforms (Netflix, YouTube, Spotify).
- Many VPN services.
The GFW uses:
- IP blocking – Blocking access to certain servers.
- DNS poisoning – Misleading DNS lookups to prevent access.
- Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) – Analyzing internet traffic to detect VPN usage.
- Connection resets – Terminating suspicious connections.
Because of these methods, not every VPN works in China. Even big providers sometimes struggle.
Does Proton VPN Work in China in 2025?
The short answer is yes, but with limitations.
Proton VPN does work in China, but not always perfectly. The Chinese government continually updates its censorship technology, and VPN providers like ProtonVPN must adapt quickly.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Proton VPN has obfuscation technology (Stealth protocol) designed to disguise VPN traffic as normal internet traffic. This helps bypass DPI and makes it harder for the GFW to detect.
- Some Proton VPN servers are blocked in China. You may need to try different server locations to find one that works.
- The Proton VPN app may not be downloadable inside China, so you should install it before traveling.
- Free Proton VPN servers rarely work in China. You’ll need a paid plan for more reliable access.
So, while Proton VPN is not guaranteed to work 100% of the time in China, it is among the few VPNs that still provide access when used correctly.
Key Proton VPN Features That Help in China
What makes Proton VPN a good choice for bypassing China’s restrictions?
1. Stealth Protocol (Obfuscation)
This feature disguises VPN traffic, making it look like regular HTTPS traffic. The Great Firewall relies heavily on detecting VPN patterns, so obfuscation makes it harder to block.
2. Secure Core Servers
Proton VPN routes traffic through Secure Core servers in privacy-friendly countries like Switzerland and Iceland before connecting to the destination. This adds another layer of protection and prevents detection.
3. No-Logs Policy
Based in Switzerland, Proton VPN follows strict privacy laws. This means your browsing activity is never logged — crucial when bypassing censorship.
4. Strong Encryption
It uses AES-256 encryption with Perfect Forward Secrecy, ensuring your data remains private and secure, even if intercepted.
5. Multi-Platform Support
Available for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and even routers — making it easier to stay connected on different devices.
6. Kill Switch
If your VPN connection drops, Proton VPN automatically cuts off internet access, preventing leaks that could expose you to Chinese authorities.
How to Use Proton VPN in China (Step-by-Step)
If you’re traveling to China or already living there, follow these steps to improve your chances of Proton VPN working smoothly.
Step 1: Download Proton VPN Before Entering China
Most VPN websites are blocked inside China, including Proton VPN’s official site. Install the app on all your devices before you arrive.
Step 2: Choose a Paid Plan
Free servers are usually blocked. A Plus or higher plan gives you access to faster and more reliable servers.
Step 3: Enable Stealth Protocol
Inside the Proton VPN app, go to settings and switch to Stealth protocol for obfuscation. This is essential for bypassing the Great Firewall.
Step 4: Test Different Server Locations
Popular nearby locations include:
- Hong Kong
- Japan
- Singapore
- US West Coast
If one doesn’t work, try another.
Step 5: Turn On the Kill Switch
Enable the kill switch to ensure your IP doesn’t leak if the VPN disconnects.
Step 6: Keep Backup VPNs Installed
Sometimes, Proton VPN may face downtime in China. It’s smart to install an alternative VPN like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Surfshark as backup.
Proton VPN Performance in China
Speed
VPN speed in China is usually slower because of:
- Obfuscation
- Routing traffic outside the firewall
- Government throttling
Proton VPN still provides decent streaming and browsing speeds, but you may experience buffering on HD video platforms.
Reliability
Proton VPN doesn’t guarantee 100% uptime in China, but with the right setup, it works most of the time.
Security
Proton VPN’s AES-256 encryption, Secure Core, and Swiss jurisdiction make it one of the safest VPNs for China.
Proton VPN Free vs Paid in China
| Feature | Free Plan | Paid Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Server Access | Limited | 60+ countries |
| Speed | Medium | High |
| Stealth Protocol | ❌ | ✅ |
| Secure Core Servers | ❌ | ✅ |
| Works in China? | Rarely | Yes (with effort) |
If you plan to use Proton VPN in China, the paid version is necessary.
Common Problems When Using Proton VPN in China
Even with Proton VPN, you might face:
- Connection drops – Due to aggressive blocking.
- Slow speeds – Especially on distant servers.
- App not updating – Because Google Play and App Store are blocked in China.
- Payment issues – Some payment methods may not work inside China.
Pro Tip: Download updates and purchase your subscription before traveling.
Proton VPN Alternatives for China
While Proton VPN is a solid choice, some users prefer alternatives that are more consistently reliable in China:
- ExpressVPN – Widely known for bypassing the Great Firewall, very reliable in 2025.
- NordVPN – Offers obfuscated servers and strong speeds.
- Surfshark – Affordable with unlimited connections and good obfuscation.
- Astrill VPN – Popular among expats in China, but expensive.
Having at least two VPNs installed is always a good idea.
Legal Status of VPNs in China
Using VPNs in China exists in a gray area. Here’s what you need to know:
- VPNs not approved by the government are technically illegal.
- Enforcement is stricter on Chinese citizens than on foreigners.
- Tourists and expats using VPNs for personal browsing are rarely fined, but there’s always a risk.
- Businesses often use government-approved VPNs for official work.
Important: Always use VPNs responsibly and avoid political activities online.
Tips for Using Proton VPN Safely in China
- Always enable Stealth protocol.
- Avoid free servers.
- Connect to nearby servers for better speed.
- Keep your Proton VPN app updated.
- Have a backup VPN app ready.
- Download offline maps, translators, and important apps before traveling.
Final Thoughts
So, does Proton VPN work in China?
👉 Yes, Proton VPN can work in China, especially if you use its Stealth protocol and paid servers. However, it’s not always 100% reliable, since the Great Firewall is constantly evolving.
If you’re planning a trip or living in China, Proton VPN is a strong choice for privacy and censorship bypass. But for the best experience, consider having at least one backup VPN installed as well.
Proton VPN’s Swiss privacy laws, no-logs policy, and advanced obfuscation make it one of the best VPNs available for users in China in 2025.
FAQs About Proton VPN in China
1. Can I download Proton VPN in China?
No, the official website and app stores are blocked. Download it before entering China.
2. Does Proton VPN’s free version work in China?
Rarely. You’ll need a paid plan for reliable access.
3. Which Proton VPN servers work best in China?
Nearby servers in Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore often work best.
4. Is it legal to use Proton VPN in China?
VPNs not approved by the government are technically illegal, but enforcement is mostly targeted at locals, not tourists.
5. Is Proton VPN better than ExpressVPN in China?
ExpressVPN is usually more consistent, but Proton VPN is better for users focused on privacy and security.