How to get a prepaid SIM card in Sweden
Sweden is among the most popular destinations with expats, and one of the first things you’ll need on arrival is a decent mobile connection. A prepaid SIM card could be an outstanding choice for the expat who wants to get flexibility without the commitment to a long-term deal. Here’s everything you need to know about getting a pay-as-you-go SIM card in Sweden as an expat.
TIP: when you land on a website of a Swedish prepaid SIM provider, make a right mouse-click anywhere on the page (Only works with Google Chrome browser!). A small dropdown menu will appear and then it will say; “translate this page to English” (or any other language). This will make it better understandable and easier for you to make the right decision!
Why Choose a Prepaid SIM Card in Sweden?
On the bright side, prepaid SIM cards have a special advantage for expats who may be in Sweden temporarily or do not want to burden themselves with a long-term contract. The second advantage is that with a pay-as-you-go SIM, one pays in advance for services such as calls, texts, and data needed in advance without having to worry about monthly bills or credit checks. This will be ideal for expatriates who may not even have a Swedish personal identity number, let alone a bank account.
Where can one purchase prepaid SIM Cards in Sweden?
Prepaid SIM cards are quite easily available at various outlets in Sweden, such as mobile phone shops, convenience stores, supermarkets, and at the airport. Major Swedish mobile operators like Telia, Tele2, Telenor, and 3-Tre offer prepaid options to suit every need, from a basic package with just calls and texts to a comprehensive package that includes data, with the quantity depending on the needs of the user.
Popular Providers of Prepaid SIM Cards
- Lycamobile: Lycamobile Sweden offers prepaid SIM cards and mobile plans tailored for customers looking for affordable and flexible mobile services. The main advantage is that they offer an English website.
- Telia: It is well-reputed for its immense coverage throughout Sweden. They have a number of prepaid plans with different data options; hence, it may turn to be just perfect in case one intends to visit rural areas.
- Comviq: This is a popular option with foreigners who visit and tour the country due to their high competitive rates and wide arrays of packages, including unlimited calls and texts to Swedish numbers.
- Telenor: Provides competitive prepaid plans and good network coverage. They offer data roaming within the EU, useful if you are to travel.
How to Choose the Best Prepaid SIM Card for Your Needs
When you go to buy a prepaid SIM card, base your purchase on how you will need to use your phone. In that case, if your requirements are for lots of data-for streaming or using apps-then you will opt for a package that has a high allowance for data. If you plan to make frequent calls to international numbers, some providers offer add-ons or specific international packages. In addition, it will be a good time to check the coverage area, especially outside the big cities.
How to Recharge Your Prepaid SIM Card
Recharging, or “topping up,” your prepaid SIM card in Sweden is pretty straightforward. It can be done online through their website or application, in many retail places, or even at ATMs. Most providers also offer auto-renewal options for convenience.
Keep your number
Yes, this is possible by porting from one provider to another in Sweden, even when you change to a prepaid SIM. Another easy option for expats, who have an alternate way of changing providers when they need or prefer to without having to change their contact number.
Although prepaid SIM cards offer flexibility, remember that for most services, applying for a Swedish bank account and the like, you’ll need to have a permanent Swedish phone number. You may need, in the long run, to consider getting a contract plan once you have a Swedish identity number.
Getting Connected as an Expat
Generally speaking, setting up your prepaid SIM card is straightforward and relatively painless: purchase it, pop the SIM into your phone, follow the activation instructions, and you’re golden. Most have multi-language support, and often an English option can be selected for customer service and setup.