A VPN also protects your privacy with advanced encryption, preventing communications surveillance.

Use WhatsApp in China »

How Do I Download WhatsApp in China?

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How To Use WhatsApp in China on Any Device: Works in 2025

According to Ifex (2021)2, China blocks 16% of the top 1000 domains on Alexa.

This ensures that authorities can monitor and regulate all digital communications within China.

Plus, it has a mirror site accessible within China if you better update or reinstall the app.

Astrill VPN

This makes your VPN traffic appear like regular internet traffic to avoid getting blocked.

While many VPNs require you to turn on obfuscation manually, ExpressVPN uses it by default.

Thishelps you stay undetectedby the Great Firewall.

PrivateVPN

Also,turn on the kill switch to stop your data from leaking if the VPN disconnects.

For ExpressVPN, the web link Lock feature (kill switch) is enabled by default.

Connect to one of these locations before opening WhatsApp.

Screenshot showing how to install ExpressVPN on Android

You should now be able to send messages, make calls, and share media files.

This way, you might quickly reconnect if you experience any connection issues.

The Lightway protocol’s efficient design also helped preserve my iPhone’s battery life during long video calls.

Screenshot showing how to turn on the kill switch on the ExpressVPN Android app

On the downside, the VPN is expensive, starting at$4.99/month.

I also liked that it accepts Bitcoin payments for additional anonymity.

Astrill also has a fully operational website in China called www.getastr.com.

Screenshot showing how to connect to a server on  the ExpressVPN Android app

The App Guard feature prevents WhatsApp from connecting without VPN protection, eliminating the risk of accidental exposure.

A minor con is that the VPN has a hefty price tag and no money-back guarantee.

However, if you refer a friend and they sign up, you get one month for free.

Screenshot showing how to stay connected to the VPN server while downloading WhatsApp from the Play Store in China

Its smaller server data pipe means you might experience delays due to overcrowding.

However,we had no problem finding a server that worked with WhatsApp.

I recommend nearby servers, like Hong Kong, to minimize speed loss.

Small assortment of technological devices compatible with ExpressVPN.

This prevents choppy video calls.

We also reviewed their security and privacy features to confirm that you’ll remain anonymous online.

Why Isnt WhatsApp Working When Connected to a VPN?

Small assortment of technological devices compatible with Astrill VPN.

However,people visiting the country can use a reliable VPN to access WhatsApp securely.

Still, familiarize yourself with the local laws regarding VPNs and WhatsApp before visiting to avoid breaking any rules.

Can I use WhatsApp in China with a free VPN?

Small assortment of technological devices compatible with PrivateVPN.

Additionally, free VPNs often have severe speed limitations and data caps that make WhatsApp calls impossible.

Some free VPNs can compromise privacy by collecting and selling your data to third parties.

Can I use WhatsApp in China without a VPN?

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Still,downloading a reliable VPN tested for China is the best solutionfor consistent and secure access.

Is there a WhatsApp alternative for China?

Visit ExpressVPN

c’mon, comment on how to improve this article.

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Astrill VPN

PrivateVPN

Screenshot showing how to install ExpressVPN on Android

Screenshot showing how to turn on the kill switch on the ExpressVPN Android app

Screenshot showing how to connect to a server on  the ExpressVPN Android app

Screenshot showing how to stay connected to the VPN server while downloading WhatsApp from the Play Store in China

Small assortment of technological devices compatible with ExpressVPN.

Small assortment of technological devices compatible with Astrill VPN.

Small assortment of technological devices compatible with PrivateVPN.