A method for searching for a network includes adding a mode in which a terminal searches for a WCDMA network to a list of modes in which the terminal searches for communication networks, when a SIM card inserted in the terminal belongs to a first operator not supporting a WCDMA standard; searching for a first WCDMA network operated in a visited place when the terminal roams to the visited place, and residing in the first WCDMA network to acquire location information of the visited place; and registering in a second WCDMA network operated in the visited place, according to the location information of the visited place. A terminal is also provided.