Surfshark VPN in China: Does It Actually Work? (2025 Guide)

Trying to figure out if Surfshark VPN works in China? The short answer is yes, Surfshark often works in China, but it’s not always a completely smooth ride. Getting reliable internet access behind China’s Great Firewall is like a constant game of cat and mouse, and even the best VPNs face challenges. But with the right setup and a few clever tricks, Surfshark can definitely be a valuable tool for staying connected.

In this guide, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about using Surfshark in China in 2025. We’ll talk about how it works, what features help you bypass censorship, essential tips for a smooth experience, and what to do if you hit a snag. The Great Firewall of China is constantly , making it super tricky for VPNs to guarantee 100% uptime. But Surfshark has put a lot of effort into developing special technologies to get around these blocks, making it one of the more reliable options out there.

Understanding China’s Great Firewall: Why a VPN is a Must-Have

Before we get into Surfshark specifics, let’s quickly chat about why you even need a VPN in China. China’s internet censorship system, famously known as the Great Firewall, is incredibly sophisticated. It blocks tons of international websites and online services that many of us use daily without a second thought. Think Google, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, WhatsApp, and even many news outlets – they’re all typically inaccessible.

This system isn’t just about blocking sites. it also actively tries to detect and block VPN traffic. The government’s goal is to control the flow of information and maintain “social harmony,” but for individuals, it means a heavily restricted online experience. If you’re a traveler or living in China, a Virtual Private Network VPN becomes essential to encrypt your internet traffic, mask your IP address, and route your connection through servers in other countries, letting you access the global internet. This process is sometimes called “fanqiang,” which means “climbing over the wall.”

Does Surfshark VPN Really Work in China in 2025?

The big question: can Surfshark use in China in 2025? Based on recent tests and user reports, yes, Surfshark frequently works in mainland China. However, it’s really important to set it up correctly before you even arrive. There were some periods in 2023 and early 2024 where Surfshark faced significant challenges in China, with connections often failing. But, it seems Surfshark’s team has worked behind the scenes to address these issues, and it’s now considered one of the VPNs most likely to work in China.

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No VPN can promise perfect, 100% uptime in China because the Great Firewall is always adapting and getting stronger. The Chinese authorities are in a constant battle with VPN providers, trying to detect and block their traffic. But Surfshark is definitely one of the top contenders that can help you stay connected, especially if you follow specific recommendations.

How Surfshark Tackles the Great Firewall

Surfshark isn’t just a regular VPN when it comes to restrictive regions like China. It has some specialized features designed to help you get past those tough censorship blocks:

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NoBorders Mode

This is Surfshark’s secret weapon for regions with heavy internet restrictions, and it’s super helpful in China. When the Surfshark app detects that you’re in a restrictive network environment like China, it automatically kicks into NoBorders mode. What this does is give you a filtered list of servers that are optimized to bypass network restrictions. It basically detects the censorship and then provides the best servers to get around it. If you’re using the app, make sure to turn on NoBorders mode, though often it will activate automatically.

Camouflage Mode Obfuscation

Think of Camouflage Mode as making your VPN traffic look like perfectly normal internet traffic. This is super crucial because China’s Great Firewall uses advanced deep packet inspection DPI to identify and block VPN connections. When you use the OpenVPN protocol with Surfshark, Camouflage Mode automatically activates. It uses innocuous ports and metadata encryption to disguise your VPN traffic, making it much harder for internet service providers ISPs and monitoring systems to detect that you’re even using a VPN. This means your connection seems like a regular HTTPS connection, which is everywhere on the internet, so blocking it would break a huge chunk of websites.

MultiHop Double VPN

This feature adds an extra layer of security. MultiHop, also known as Double VPN, routes your internet traffic through two different VPN servers in different countries instead of just one. This significantly strengthens your anonymity and makes it even harder to trace your online activity, which is a big plus when you’re dealing with strict surveillance.

Robust Encryption and No-Logs Policy

Surfshark uses industry-leading AES-256 encryption, the same standard used by governments and militaries worldwide. This ensures your data is secure from prying eyes. Plus, Surfshark has a strict no-logs policy, which means they don’t record your online movements, IP addresses, or session data. This policy has been verified by independent audits, adding to its trustworthiness. All of their servers are also RAM-only, meaning any data is wiped with every reboot, adding another layer of privacy.

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Tips for Using Surfshark VPN Effectively in China

Getting Surfshark to work reliably in China often comes down to preparation and knowing a few key strategies. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Download and Install Before You Go

This is probably the single most important piece of advice. You absolutely must download and install the Surfshark app on all your devices smartphone, laptop, tablet before you travel to China. The Great Firewall blocks access to VPN websites, including Surfshark’s, within China. If you wait until you arrive, you won’t be able to download the app or access your account.

• Pro Tip: Create your account, sign into the app, and make sure everything is working properly while you’re still outside of China. It’s also a good idea to save backup installation files or download Surfshark’s OpenVPN configuration files ahead of time, just in case you need to set things up manually later.

2. Activate NoBorders Mode

Once you’re in China, open the Surfshark app and go to the settings. Look for the NoBorders mode and activate it. While it often activates automatically when it detects network restrictions, manually enabling it can increase your chances of getting a connection. This feature will then show you a list of servers optimized for bypassing China’s censorship.

3. Choose the Right Server Location

When you connect, choose a server location that’s geographically close to China for the best performance. Good options include Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, or even Vietnam. Hong Kong servers, in particular, often provide stable and fast connections due to their proximity and more lenient internet regulations. The further the server, the higher the latency, which can impact speeds, especially for things like video calls or streaming. Your Go-To Guide for Surfshark VPN on iPad: Master Your Digital Freedom

4. Experiment with VPN Protocols

If your initial connection isn’t working, try switching the VPN protocol in the app settings. Surfshark supports various protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN UDP/TCP, and IKEv2.

• OpenVPN UDP/TCP: This protocol is generally recommended for its balance of speed and security, and it automatically activates Camouflage Mode, which is key for bypassing DPI.
• WireGuard: While OpenVPN is often the go-to for obfuscation, Surfshark actually recommends trying a manual WireGuard connection if the app is struggling to connect in China. Many experts agree that manual WireGuard setup can be more reliable. You’ll need to get your WireGuard key pairs and the WireGuard app before you enter China, as Surfshark’s website might be blocked once you’re inside.

5. Enable the Kill Switch

The Kill Switch is a crucial security feature. It automatically disconnects your internet if your VPN connection drops unexpectedly. This prevents your real IP address and online activity from being exposed, even if the VPN connection is spotty. Always make sure this is turned on!

6. Keep Your App Updated

VPN providers are constantly updating their apps to stay ahead of the Great Firewall’s blocks. Make sure your Surfshark app is always on the latest version. It can be tough to update if you’re already in China and your VPN isn’t connecting, so try to do this whenever you have a stable connection.

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best preparation, you might still hit some snags. If Surfshark VPN China is not working:

• Switch Servers: If you’re having trouble, try a few different servers within the same recommended location like Hong Kong or switch to a completely different nearby country like Japan or Singapore.
• Change Protocols: As mentioned, try switching between OpenVPN UDP/TCP and IKEv2. If you set up manual WireGuard, try that.
• Check Internet Connection: Sometimes the issue isn’t the VPN, but your local internet connection. Make sure you have a stable and active connection first.
• Reboot the App/Device: Sometimes, the classic “turn it off and on again” trick actually works. For Surfshark, if it gets stuck trying to connect, sometimes just restarting the app can help.
• Contact Support: Surfshark offers 24/7 live chat support. If you’re really stuck, reach out to them. They can provide the most up-to-date server recommendations or manual setup instructions if needed. They can also guide you on alternative domain names if you’re already inside China and can’t access the main website.
• Consider Your Cell Provider: Some users have reported that certain Chinese cell providers, like China Telecom, might be more lenient with VPN usage than others, like China Mobile. This can change, so it’s a good idea to consult with Surfshark support.

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Is It Safe and Legal to Use a VPN in China?

This is a really common concern. The situation around VPNs in China is a bit of a legal gray area.

• For Individuals especially foreigners: Generally, it’s not illegal for individuals to use a VPN in China, and you’re highly unlikely to face arrest or severe punishment for simply having one on your device. Many foreigners use VPNs to stay connected. However, the government does heavily restrict VPNs, and there have been reports of authorities asking visitors to delete VPN apps during random phone searches, or even confiscating phones to wipe VPNs.
• For Businesses: China recognizes that many of its businesses, especially international ones, rely on VPNs for secure communication. These businesses typically need to use government-approved VPNs, which often means the government has backdoor access, compromising security.
• For VPN Providers/Sellers: Selling or operating an unauthorized VPN service without a government license is illegal and can lead to fines or prison sentences for Chinese citizens.

In essence, while using a VPN is technically legal for individuals, it’s a highly policed activity, and the Great Firewall is designed to make it difficult. Always exercise caution and understand the .

Surfshark Features That Help in China

Beyond the core NoBorders and Camouflage modes, Surfshark brings other features that are beneficial when dealing with China’s internet restrictions:

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• Unlimited Devices: A single Surfshark subscription allows for unlimited simultaneous connections. This is fantastic because it means you can secure all your phones, laptops, and tablets without needing multiple subscriptions, which is great when you’re traveling with family or multiple gadgets.
• Private DNS: Surfshark offers private DNS on every server, which adds another layer of security and helps prevent DNS leaks, further protecting your privacy.
• Bypasser Split Tunneling: This feature lets you choose which apps or websites use the VPN connection and which bypass it. For example, you could use the VPN for blocked social media while accessing local Chinese apps directly, potentially improving speeds for local services.
• RAM-Only Servers: All of Surfshark’s servers run on volatile RAM memory, meaning all data is immediately erased upon shutdown. This enhances privacy by ensuring no information is permanently stored on their servers.

Performance and Speeds in China

Let’s be real: any VPN usage in China will likely come with some speed compromises. The Great Firewall actively interferes with VPN traffic, and routing your data through distant servers adds latency. However, Surfshark generally offers decent speeds. Reviews often highlight its “swift speeds and dependable performance” with the WireGuard protocol. While connection speeds can vary, especially when connecting to more distant servers, using nearby Asian servers like Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan can help maintain better performance. Don’t expect blazing-fast, unthrottled speeds for heavy data tasks all the time, but for most browsing, streaming, and communication needs, it should be sufficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Surfshark VPN have China servers?

No, Surfshark does not operate servers within mainland China. Most reliable VPNs avoid having servers in China due to government surveillance and the requirement to provide backdoor access, which would compromise user privacy. However, Surfshark does offer servers in nearby regions like Hong Kong and Macau which can sometimes appear as “China servers” in some contexts but are outside the mainland’s strict direct control, making them effective for bypassing the Great Firewall from within China.

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Is it safe to use Surfshark VPN in China?

Yes, Surfshark is generally considered safe to use in China due to its robust AES-256 encryption, strict no-logs policy, and features like Kill Switch, Camouflage Mode, and NoBorders. These features are designed to protect your privacy and make your VPN usage difficult to detect. However, no VPN can offer 100% guaranteed safety or uptime in China, as the government’s censorship efforts are persistent and .

Why is my Surfshark VPN not working in China?

If Surfshark isn’t working, it could be due to several reasons, as the Great Firewall is constantly being updated. First, check your internet connection. Then, try switching to a different server location, especially nearby Asian servers like Hong Kong or Japan. Make sure NoBorders mode is enabled. If you’re still stuck, try changing the VPN protocol e.g., to OpenVPN for Camouflage Mode or consider setting up a manual WireGuard connection, which Surfshark often recommends for China. Finally, ensure your app is updated and contact Surfshark’s 24/7 customer support for the latest troubleshooting tips.

Can I download Surfshark VPN in China?

It’s extremely difficult, if not impossible, to download Surfshark VPN once you are already in China. The Surfshark website and app stores that carry it are typically blocked by the Great Firewall. This is why it’s absolutely crucial to download and install Surfshark on all your devices before you travel to China.

Does Surfshark work in China for Reddit users?

Yes, many Reddit users discussing VPNs for China, including those on r/travelchina and r/chinalife, mention Surfshark as one of the VPNs that can work. While experiences can vary, and some users might report occasional connection issues or prefer other services like ExpressVPN or NordVPN, Surfshark is generally included in lists of working VPNs for China. Reddit discussions often confirm that features like NoBorders mode and manual configurations are key to its success.

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Is Surfshark VPN China review positive overall?

Overall, the sentiment around Surfshark VPN in China is cautiously positive. Many reviews and user experiences indicate that Surfshark is a capable and budget-friendly option for bypassing the Great Firewall, especially with its advanced features like NoBorders and Camouflage modes. Its unlimited simultaneous connections are also a huge plus. However, users understand that consistent performance is a challenge for any VPN in China, and some report occasional difficulties connecting or fluctuating speeds. The consensus is that it’s one of the better choices, but users should be prepared to troubleshoot.