If you’ve recently moved to Spain, one of the first things you should check off your relocation to-do list is getting a Spanish SIM card and phone number. In this guide, we’ll walk you through Spain’s mobile operators, how to choose the best plan for your needs, and how to easily get a local SIM card. By the end, you’ll see how simple and affordable it is to stay connected in Spain!

Do I Really Need a Local Spanish SIM Card and Phone Number?

Yes! One of the major perks of having a local Spanish SIM card is free-roaming throughout the EU. This means you can travel across Europe and stay connected without worrying about hefty roaming charges.

Also, when it comes to calling home or using data in Spain, a local plan is much cheaper than relying on your foreign SIM. Local rates for calls, texts, and data are significantly lower than international roaming fees.

Using Your Phone in Spain vs. Buying a New One

Most international students can easily use their current mobile phones in Spain. However, you may need to buy a new charger or an adapter to fit Spanish sockets.

If you’re from the US, be aware that your phone may be locked to your home carrier. US phone numbers are tied to the device rather than the SIM, meaning a Spanish SIM may not work in your phone unless it’s unlocked. You can unlock your phone by contacting your provider before leaving or by visiting a phone shop in Spain.

Once your phone is unlocked, make sure to keep the PIN number attached to your Spanish SIM handy, as you’ll need it each time you switch phones or restart your device.

Prepaid SIM vs. Phone Contract in Spain: Which One to Choose?

Whether to choose a prepaid SIM or a phone contract depends on how long you plan to stay in Spain.

Prepaid SIM (Pay-As-You-Go)

For international students, a prepaid SIM card is often the easiest and fastest way to get a local phone number and data. It’s ideal for those who:

• Want flexibility without contracts.

• Are staying in Spain short-term.

• Prefer data over international calls and don’t want to deal with monthly bills.

There are two main types of prepaid SIM cards:

1. Top-Up SIMs: Add credit when you run out.

2. 30-Day Packages: These include data, national, or international calls within a set limit.

Best Prepaid SIM Options in Spain

Here are some popular prepaid SIM options:

• Movistar: Offers plans starting at around €20/month with 5-30GB of data.

• Orange: Their prepaid plans range from €15 to €35/month, and they offer the convenient Orange Holiday Zen plan, perfect for travelers.

• Vodafone: Plans range from €10 to €30/month, with 25-120GB of data. Free shipping available if ordered online to a Spanish address.

• Yoigo: Known for competitive prices, their plans range from €10 to €35/month, offering good coverage in urban areas.

How to Recharge Your Prepaid SIM

You can top up your prepaid SIM at phone stores, ATMs, or online through your provider’s app. Make sure to use your SIM at least once every six months, or you risk losing the number due to inactivity.

Phone Contracts in Spain

If you’re staying in Spain long-term (more than a year) or want to get a new phone with a payment plan, a phone contract may be a better option. Contracts offer:

• Lower rates for calls, texts, and data.

• Automated monthly payments.

• Better deals if bundled with other services (like TV or internet).

Look for “contratos sin permanencia” if you want a contract without long-term commitments.

Main Mobile Operators in Spain

Spain has four main network providers: Movistar, Orange, Vodafone, and Yoigo. There are also many virtual network operators (MVNOs) like Lebara, Lycamobile, and PepePhone that use the larger networks but offer different packages.

• Movistar: The largest provider in Spain, known for excellent coverage and 4G/5G availability even in rural areas.

• Vodafone: Great for expats, Vodafone offers wide coverage throughout the EU and excellent roaming deals.

• Orange: Known for competitive rates and English-speaking customer service.

• Yoigo: Best for budget-conscious students who mainly stay in cities.

If you prefer an expat-friendly provider, Lobster is a great option with English-language services and unlimited plans for both local and international calls.

Where to Buy a SIM Card in Spain

You can get a SIM card from official outlets, convenience stores, or even at airports (though it may cost more). Providers like Lobster or Lycamobile are also available in smaller independent shops.

How to Buy a SIM Card in Spain

To buy a SIM card, you’ll need:

• A passport or NIE number.

• A small fee for the SIM card (€5-€10).

• Some credit to get started.

For a phone contract, you’ll need:

• Your NIE or TIE number.

• Proof of address.

• A Spanish bank account for automatic payments.

It usually takes just a few minutes to register and activate your SIM.

How to Ask for a SIM Card or Contract in Spanish

Here are a few handy Spanish phrases for buying a SIM card or phone contract:

With this guide, you’ll be all set to stay connected in Segovia and across Spain. Whether you opt for a prepaid SIM or a contract, getting a local plan is easy and cost-effective!