Founded by London Media Trust in 2010, Private Internet Access is a solid VPN with a long-standing reputation.

However,getting PIA up and running in China is a little tricky.

Chinas strict censorship and VPN blocks make it really difficult to get VPNs working there.

How to Use Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN in China in 2025

If you want a VPN that usually works well in China,I recommend ExpressVPN.

Does PIA Work in China?

PIAs customer service confirmed there is no guarantee that PIA works theredue to Chinas aggressive blocks.

Screenshot of PIA’s customer support saying they can’t guarantee it will work in China

Due to China’s VPN blocks, many VPNs don’t work there

Chinas government uses a strong firewall and VPN blocks to regulate domestic internet usage.

PIAs FAQ page also explains that its unlikely to work in other regions with strong geoblocks or restrictions.

High censorship countries work hard to ensure that people cant use VPNs there.

Screenshot of PIA’s customer support saying they can’t guarantee it will work in China

Due to China’s VPN blocks, many VPNs don’t work there

They are designed to work on restrictive networks and privately access sites like Facebook and YouTube.

PIA lacks these features, which is why it doesnt always work in China.

This is easy to do byselecting it through your Account options > Protocols > OpenVPN.

Screenshot of PIA’s customer support saying they can’t guarantee it will work in China

It provides a good balance between security and speed, so its ideal for use in China.

WireGuards efficient code base means there are fewer opportunities for leaks.

The WireGuard protocol is easy to use by simplygoing to your Account parameters > Protocols > WireGuard.

PIA’s FAQ section addresses why PIA might not work in China

Best VPN Alternatives for China in 2025

1.

This implies that while in China, your data and online activities remain confidential.

The one downside of ExpressVPN is that it doesnt accept payments through Amazon Pay and Google Pay.

Screenshot of how to enable PIA’s OpenVPN’s protocol to work in China

You cantry ExpressVPN completely risk-free as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

I tested its refund policy by contacting its 24/7 customer support.

Everything went smoothly, and I had the money back in my account in 3 days.

Screenshot of how to enable PIA’s WireGuard protocol to work in China

Nevertheless, Astrill’s obfuscating protocol ensures that the utilization of a VPN remains hidden.

It’s strongly recommended to utilize this feature during your stay in the country.

Like ExpressVPN,Astrill VPN also has a dedicated website it’s possible for you to access in China.

Instructions on how to manually reconfigure PIA to get it working in China

This means you have access to all information on its website and its 24/7 chat support.

Its monthly plans are expensive, starting at$12.50/month.

Butyou can save up to59% by signing up for its long-term plan, which is more affordable.

Use the OpenVPN Connect application to get PIA to work in China

These 2 features are very important, and I highly recommend using them for reliable internet access in China.

It also offers DNS leak protection.

While testing this,I had no IP, DNS, WebRTC, or IPv6 leaks.

Small assortment of technological devices compatible with ExpressVPN.

This means you avoid any chances of your real location or personal data being visible.

Plus,it offers good discounts, so you might save50% by taking advantage of its latest offer.

Luckily, you could also try VyprVPN risk-free sinceit offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

ExpressVPN speed test connected to long-distance servers

FAQs on Using a VPN in China

What is the best VPN for China?

Plus, it has a Chinese website that allows you to download the app in China.

Small assortment of technological devices compatible with Astrill VPN.

In China, only government-approved VPNs are legal.The country has many laws in place to restrict internet access.

However,there are a few VPNs with robust security features that can keep your data private in China.

Can I use a free VPN for China?

Screenshot of AstrillVPN’s chat agent confirming that it works in China

The VPNs on my list work reliably in China, so I recommend using one of these.

Can I watch Netflix with a VPN in China?

Can I access Chinese content with a VPN?

Small assortment of technological devices compatible with VyprVPN.

Yes.ExpressVPN allows safe access to Chinese content anywhere.

So, it’s possible for you to privately access websites like CNTV, V.Baidu, and IQiyi.

Whats important when choosing a VPN to use in China?

Screenshot of VyprVPN’s app enabling Chameleon protocol that allows you to bypass China’s censorship easily

When using a VPN in China, there are some really important features you should check that it has.

Fortunately, there are a couple of other VPNs that are much more reliable for use there.

If youre not satisfied, you have 30 days to claim a full refund.

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To summarize, the best VPNs for China are…

Your data is exposed to the websites you visit!

Visit ExpressVPN

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Screenshot of PIA’s customer support saying they can’t guarantee it will work in China

PIA’s FAQ section addresses why PIA might not work in China

Screenshot of how to enable PIA’s OpenVPN’s protocol to work in China

Screenshot of how to enable PIA’s WireGuard protocol to work in China

Instructions on how to manually reconfigure PIA to get it working in China

Use the OpenVPN Connect application to get PIA to work in China

Small assortment of technological devices compatible with ExpressVPN.

ExpressVPN speed test connected to long-distance servers

Small assortment of technological devices compatible with Astrill VPN.

Screenshot of AstrillVPN’s chat agent confirming that it works in China

Small assortment of technological devices compatible with VyprVPN.

Screenshot of VyprVPN’s app enabling Chameleon protocol that allows you to bypass China’s censorship easily