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

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. China’s strict censorship and VPN blocks make it really difficult to get VPNs working there.

PIA’s customer support told me that it’s not guaranteed to work there. My research confirms this; it’s unreliable in China. However, I’ve found a few ways to get PIA to work if you’ve already purchased it.

Does PIA Work in China?

PIA’s customer service confirmed there is no guarantee that PIA works there due to China’s aggressive blocks. China’s government uses a strong firewall and VPN blocks to regulate domestic internet usage.

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

PIA’s FAQ page also explains that it’s unlikely to work in other regions with strong geoblocks or restrictions. High censorship countries work hard to ensure that people can’t use VPNs there.

Countries with high censorship block VPN activity

However, some VPNs can safely access websites more reliably than others. VPNs protect you by encrypting your browsing activity, so that no third parties can see what you’re doing online. They are designed to work on restrictive networks and privately access sites like Facebook and YouTube.

To work reliably in China, your VPN needs to use strong obfuscation technology so that the Firewall can’t tell you’re using it. PIA lacks these features, which is why it doesn’t always work in China. However, I have found and tried out some troubleshooting tips that may help you set up PIA to work even in China.

How to Set up PIA in China

Use PIA’s OpenVPN Connection

One of the ways to get PIA to work is by using its OpenVPN connection. It is one of the most commonly used protocols that deliver a stable connection under most circumstances. OpenVPN works by establishing a secure connection between your VPN client and server, making it undetectable and capable of overcoming firewall restrictions.

This is easy to do by selecting it through your Account Settings > Protocols > OpenVPN.

PIA’s OpenVPN protocol may allow you to use it in China

Use PIA’s WireGuard Protocol

PIA’s customer support recommended using the WireGuard protocol, as it’s one of the safest available. It provides a good balance between security and speed, so it’s ideal for use in China. WireGuard’s efficient code base means there are fewer opportunities for leaks.

The WireGuard protocol is easy to use by simply going to your Account Settings > Protocols > WireGuard.

You can enable PIA’s WireGuard protocol to work in China

Using the OpenVPN Connect App

PIA recommends manual configuration using the OpenVPN Connect app if the OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols haven’t worked.

1. Download PIA VPN and the OpenVPN Connect app. You need both to do this.
2. Go to the customer control panel in your PIA account.
3. Click Go to OpenVPN Generator in PIA’s Settings.
4. Find the version of OpenVPN Connect you are using. Search for your chosen platform and select China as the region.
5. Select the port. PIA recommends using Port TCP/ 443.
6. Pick Use IP and press Generate. Select Download at the pop-up. Use manual configuration as the last resort if the OpenVPN or WireGuard protocol doesn’t work
7. Import the file to the OpenVPN Connect app. This depends on the device you’re using.
8. Start using PIA in China by connecting to your imported file. The OpenVPN Connect app lets you configure the files manually to get PIA working in China

FAQs on Using a VPN in China

Are VPNs legal in China?

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.

The country goes after the VPNs rather than the users. There have been no public reports of tourists facing punishment for using a VPN.

My team and I don’t condone using a VPN with illegal intentions. You should always make yourself aware of the laws of the country you’re in.

Can I use a free VPN for China?

Most free VPNs don’t work in China. As free VPNs don’t have obfuscated servers, the Chinese government can easily detect and block them.

The major streaming sites also block free VPNs, and they don’t have the same robust security features as other VPNs. There are only a few free VPNs that are known to work in China more reliably.

What’s important when choosing a VPN to use in China?

When using a VPN in China, there are some really important features you should make sure it has. These are:

• Advanced security features
• Fast speeds
• Ability to safely access content
• Servers in or close to China
• Functioning website in China
• Generous money-back guarantee
• Cryptocurrencies as a payment method

Conclusion

There are a couple of ways to set up PIA in China, but it isn’t guaranteed that those methods will work. However, PIA offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so there's no financial risk in trying it out.