Best eSIMs for France (2025)
Our skilled writers & in-house research team are behind the biggest cybersecurity stories, like The Mother Of All Breaches & WhatsApp Data Leak.
We closely analyze the services, check their features & openly share our testing methods with everyone.
Learn more
France is one of the most visited countries in the world, and it’s easy to see why. With bustling cities, charming villages, delicious food, a beautiful culture, and a rich history, there’s much to see and do in France. However, staying connected while traveling the country can be a challenge, especially if you’re venturing off the beaten path where Wi-Fi may not be readily available at all times.
Most people opt for data roaming, but this can be expensive. And, with the language barrier, it can also be a hassle to get a local SIM card and purchase data bundles. I always use an eSIM when traveling abroad, and you should, too.
An eSIM makes it easy to stay connected while skipping borders. It's cheaper than roaming and more convenient than getting a local SIM card. But, choosing the right eSIM is not so easy. To sift the germs from the chaff, I worked with the Cybernews research team to thoroughly research and test some of the top eSIMs available today. Continue reading to discover the best eSIMs for France in 2025.
Top 5 best eSIM providers for France
- Saily – overall best eSIM for France in 2025
- Airalo – best France eSIM for travelers exploring Europe
- Jetpac – budget-friendly eSIM for travelers to France
- aloSIM – best eSIM for calling and texting in France
- Nomad – flexible and user-friendly eSIM for France
Our team of experienced writers and highly skilled in-house researchers stands behind the essential eSIM stories, such as the Saily review and What is eSIM. Our transparent testing process includes analyzing the features of products and services. Discover more about our testing process.
What to consider when choosing eSIM for travel in France
There are a lot of things to consider when selecting an eSIM for France, like how much data you’ll need and the duration of your travel. Here are a few pointers to help you pick the best eSIM for France:
- Trip duration. Ensure the duration of the eSIM plan matches the duration of your trip to France. eSIM plans have different validity periods. Most are valid for 7 to 30 days, but some are valid for 6 months or up to a year
- eSIM coverage. Assess the eSIM provider’s coverage in France and confirm if the network is reliable outside big cities. If you’re visiting several European countries besides France, ensure the eSIM provider you choose has excellent coverage in the region
- Data plan. There are different types of eSIM plans, including fixed, pay-as-you-go, and unlimited data plans. Fixed eSIM plans offer different amounts of data, from 1GB to 100GB. Estimate how much data you’ll need before picking a fixed eSIM plan. It’s better to overestimate than underestimate your data needs. Also, ensure there’s an option to top up if you’re running out of data.
- Price. Consider your budget when picking an eSIM plan. In the competitive eSIM market, you don't need to choose the most expensive provider to get a reliable internet connection. There are many affordable eSIM plans for France.
- Internet speed. Your internet speed mainly depends on your network provider and location. For the fastest speeds, pick an eSIM that supports LTE, 4G, or 5G in France.
- Calls and messages. Most eSIMs offer data-only plans. However, some providers support phone calls and SMS messaging. If you’d like to make phone calls and send text messages while in France, pick an eSIM plan that comes with a telephone number and supports calling and texting.
The best eSIMs for France – my detailed list
These are the top eSIMs for France based on my tests and analysis:
1. Saily – overall best eSIM for France in 2025
| Supports 5G: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $3.99 (7 days, 1GB) |
| Regional plans: | Yes |
Saily, an eSIM service created by the makers of NordVPN, offers reliable internet access in France. This eSIM is incredibly user-friendly, making it a perfect choice for people who are new to eSIMs.
Data plans for France. Saily has 5 local data plans for France to suit the needs of different users. There are regional and global plans available. You can choose from 6 regional plans for France or from 5 global plans.
Network connection. Saily doesn’t disclose which local carriers it works with in France but promises a reliable connection. This eSIM supports LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G in most countries.
Pricing. Saily’s local data plans for France are valid for 7 to 30 days and offer varying amounts of data — 1GB to 20GB. These plans are pretty affordable, starting at $3.99 for its 1GB data plan, which is valid for 7 days. Its most expensive plan gives you 20GB for 30 days and costs $11.49.
If you prefer a regional plan instead, 1GB would cost you $4.99. If you select a regional plan, you can also opt for a larger data package – 50GB or even 100GB (these plans would cost you $95.99 and $179.99, respectively).
Ease of use. You can purchase a data plan for France and install this eSIM via the Saily app. The installation process is mostly automatic. Saily’s customer support team is available via 24/7 live chat and email.
2. Airalo – best France eSIM for travelers exploring Europe
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $4.50 (7 days, 1GB) |
| Regional plans: | Yes |
Airalo has excellent coverage in France and many other popular travel destinations in Europe. So, it’s a perfect choice if you’re traveling across the region.
Data plans for France. Airalo has 6 local data plans for France, offering 1GB to 20GB of data and valid for 7 to 30 days. It has 8 regional plans covering France and other European countries, as well as numerous global plans that cover over 200 countries. Airalo’s plans are data-only, except its Discover+ global plans, which support phone calls and SMS.
Network connection. Airalo works with Orange in France to provide 5G internet connectivity.
Pricing. Airalo’s local data plans for France start at only $4.50 for 1GB of data, valid for 7 days. Its most expensive local plan costs $36.00 and gives you 20GB of data for 30 days. Airalo is offering a free 500MB plan to travelers visiting selected locations. Unfortunately, France isn’t on that list.
Ease of use. Airalo’s eSIM is very easy to use: you can install it via the Airalo app, by scanning a QR code, or manually. This eSIM activation is completed when you connect to a supported local network in France. There are no KYC requirements for using this eSIM. Plus, Airalo has multiple customer support channels, including email and 24/7 live chat.
3. Jetpac – budget-friendly eSIM for travelers to France
| Supports 5G: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $1 (4 days, 1GB) |
| Regional plans: | Yes |
Jetpac offers super affordable plans for France, starting at $1 for new users, and it supports high-speed 5G connectivity in the country.
Data plans for France. Jetpac has 9 local data plans for France, offering 1GB to 50GB of data and valid for 4 to 30 days. It also has regional and global data plans that cover the country. If you want a plan with longer validity or more data than its local and regional plans, I recommend checking out Jetpac’s global plans, which offer up to 100GB of data and are valid for up to a year.
Network connection. This eSIM provider works with Free and Orange in France. You will get 4G or 5G speeds from this eSIM in France, depending on your location. Jetpac is a data-only eSIM: it doesn’t support calling or texting on any of its plans.
Pricing. Jetpac’s cheapest data plan for France costs $1.00, and it gives you 1GB for 4 days. However, this offer is reserved for new users. Its second cheapest plan costs $5.00 and gives you 3GB for 7 days. Jetpac’s most expensive plan for France costs $35.00 and gives you 40GB for 30 days.
Ease of use. Getting a Jetpac eSIM is easy: visit the website or download the Jetpac app and purchase a plan. Then, scan the QR code that the eSIM provider emails you and follow the instructions to complete the installation and activation. If you have any questions, you can contact Jetpac’s customer service team via live chat or email.
4. aloSIM – best eSIM for calling and texting in France
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $4.50 (7 days, 1GB) |
| Regional plans: | Yes |
aloSIM is a highly rated eSIM for France, and it stands out mainly because it supports phone calls and SMS on all its plans. Every aloSIM eSIM comes with a free phone number and a $1.00 credit. You can always top up to get more calling minutes and send texts.
Data plans for France. aloSIM has 6 local eSIM plans for France, offering 1GB to 20GB of data and valid for 7 to 30 days. It also has multiple regional plans covering the country, namely its Europe, Western Europe, and Mediterranean plans. aloSIM doesn’t offer global plans, but the fact that it has different regional plans somewhat makes up for that.
While aloSIM supports phone calls and SMS messaging, you need to download its sister app, Hushed, to make calls and send SMS.
Network connection. aloSIM works with Orange, Bouygues, and Free Telecom to provide reliable network connectivity in France. It supports LTE and 5G speeds in the country.
Pricing. The cheapest aloSIM plan costs just $4.50 and gives you 1GB of data for 7 days.
Ease of use. You can install this eSIM by entering the details manually or by scanning a QR code that aloSIM shares with you. Regardless of your chosen installation method, the eSIM provider has clear instructions to guide you through the process. aloSIM provides customer support via live chat and email.
5. Nomad – user-friendly eSIM for France with flexible data plans
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $4.50 (1 day, 1GB) |
| Regional plans: | Yes |
Nomad has extensive coverage in France and other European countries. It offers an array of flexible data plans designed to meet the needs of different travelers. Whether you’re visiting Paris for a day or traveling across France for several weeks, Nomad has a plan for you.
Data plans for France. Nomad has different types of local data plans for France. Its Day Plans give you 1GB daily, and you can select from 1 to 10 days. The good thing about Nomad’s Day Plan is that you can continue browsing at a throttled speed — 512kbps — if your data runs out before the end of the day.
Nomad also has Regular Data Plans, which offer varying amounts of data (1GB to 30GB) and are valid for 7 to 30 days. Besides these options, you can opt for Nomad’s Europe regional plan or its global plan, which covers France and neighboring countries like Italy, the UK, Belgium, and Germany. Like other eSIMs on this list, Nomad’s regional and global plans are longer than its local plans for France and have a higher data allowance.
Network connection. Nomad works with Bouygues Telecom, Orange, and SFR, and in France to provide 5G internet in the country. This eSIM doesn’t support calling or texting on any of its plans.
Pricing. Nomad’s local data plans for France start at $4.50 for a 7-day plan that gives you 1GB of data.
Ease of use. Nomad ensures a seamless user experience by sending notifications when your data runs low or your plan is nearly expired. Furthermore, it supports tethering, i.e., sharing your data via hotspot. The best part is that installing your eSIM via QR code is a breeze, with clear instructions provided in the app and via email. Nomad’s customer support team is accessible via live chat and email.
6. Holafly – best eSIM for unlimited data in France
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $6.90 (1 day, unlimited data) |
| Regional plans: | Yes |
Holafly is the undisputed number 1 eSIM for France if you want unlimited data. It’s an excellent eSIM if you’re traveling with a group because it allows you to purchase multiple eSIMs at once. What’s more, Holafly lets you customize your data plan based on the exact duration of your trip.
Data plans for France. Holafly has local, regional, and global plans for travelers visiting France. It even has plans designed specifically for travelers to Paris. You can customize your plan by selecting the duration of your trip — 1 to 90 days.
Although Holafly’s eSIM plans for France give you unlimited data, data sharing is limited to 500MB daily. So, if you’re traveling with others, it’s best to get separate eSIMs. Also, Holafly doesn’t support calls or SMS on any of its plans.
Network connection. Holafly works with Orange, Altice, IIiad, and Free Mobile in France. It supports 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G speeds in the country. Holafly offers unlimited data on all its plans, and it doesn’t have any data caps. However, the company says local carriers can limit your speeds based on their fair usage policies.
Pricing. Holafly’s plans for France start from $6.90 for a day. I think this is a fair price, given that you get unlimited data. It’s worth noting that the longer the duration of your plan, the more affordable Holafly’s prices will be.
Ease of use. It’s relatively easy to figure out how to set up and use this eSIM. Holafly has a user-friendly app that’s fun to use. To install this eSIM, you need to scan a QR code and follow the on-screen prompts. If you encounter any issues setting up or using this eSIM, you can contact Holafly’s customer support team via live chat, WhatsApp, or email.
7. GigSky – versatile eSIM for France offering fixed and unlimited data plans
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $4.49 (7 days, 1GB) |
| Regional plans: | Yes |
GigSky is a versatile eSIM provider that offers fixed and unlimited data plans. It also has plans for travelers on cruises and flights. I love that this eSIM provider gives new users 100MB for free; this allows you to try out the service before purchasing a plan.
Data plans for France. GigSky has local, regional, and global plans covering France. Its local eSIM plans for France come with 1GB to 10GB of data and are valid for 7 to 30 days. It also has unlimited data plans for France, but they’re only valid for 7 to 15 days.
If you want a longer plan, I recommend GigSky’s regional plans for Europe, which come with up to 50GB of data and are valid for up to 90 days. While it also has unlimited regional plans for Europe, they have the same validity as its local unlimited plans. GigSky has only one global plan, which comes with 5GB of data and is valid for 30 days.
If you’re on a cruise traveling across Europe or making a pit stop in France, you’ll be glad to know that GigSky has regional and global plans for cruises.
Note: The speeds of GigSky’s unlimited data plans will slow down after you consume 2.5GB of data in a day. However, it doesn’t have any data sharing limitations.
Network connection. GigSky doesn’t disclose which network carriers it works with in France. However, it claims to connect users to the fastest network available. This eSIM mainly supports 5G speeds in the country, but you may also get 4G or 3G, depending on your location.
Pricing. GigSky’s plans for France start at $4.49 for 1GB of data, valid for 7 days. Its unlimited data plans for France start at $25.99 for unlimited data for 7 days.
Ease of use. The process of installing GigSky is similar to that of any other eSIM that uses QR-based activation. All you need to do is buy a data plan, scan the QR code, and follow the instructions. GigSky has a lovely app that you can use to manage your eSIM. This eSIM provider has two main customer support channels: phone and email.
8. Roamless – best France eSIM for pay-as-you-go plans
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $2.45 (doesn’t expire, 1GB) |
| Regional plans: | Yes |
Roamless is a one-of-a-kind eSIM that flips the script on what to expect from an eSIM service. It’s one of the few eSIMs that offers pay-as-you-go plans, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Roamless is super affordable and offers 500MB of data free to new users. What’s more, this eSIM supports in-app calls.
Data plans for France. Roamless plans aren’t limited to particular countries or regions. Instead, this eSIM works automatically in all 195+ countries and regions where Roamless has coverage. Just load money into your wallet and start browsing. The best part is that you don’t have to re-activate it in every new country.
Another thing I love about Roamless is that its plans don’t expire. So, regardless of the time in between your travels abroad, you can count on being able to use your Roamless wallet balance on your next trip. What’s more, this eSIM has no data sharing or speed limitations.
Network connection. Roamless works with Bouygues Telecom, Free, and Orange in France. It supports 5G speeds in the country, regardless of the local carrier that you’re connected to.
Pricing. Roamless’ plans for France start at $2.45 for 1GB of data that doesn’t expire. Its pay-as-you-talk call plans start at $0.01 per minute.
Ease of use. You need to scan a QR code to install your Roamless eSIM. The process is very straightforward, with clear instructions. Roamless has different customer support channels. You can reach its customer service team via phone or email. I recommend contacting them via phone if you want immediate assistance.
9. Instabridge – best eSIM for France with fixed and pay-as-you-go plans
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $2.50 (7 days, 1GB) |
| Regional plans: | Yes |
Instabridge is one of the few eSIMs that offers pay-as-you-go plans and fixed data plans. This eSIM also stands out because it comes with an array of extras, including a WiFi map to find WiFi hotspots and a data-saving browser.
Data plans for France. Instabridge has 4 fixed local data plans for France, offering 1GB to 20GB of data and valid for 7 to 30 days. Its Europe regional plans and global plans, which cover the country, have the same data allowance and validity period as its local plans. In addition to these fixed plans, Instabridge also has pay-as-you-go plans.
Network connection. Instabridge works with Bouygues, Orange, and SFR in France. This eSIM supports 5G, 4G, LTE, and 3G speeds.
Pricing. Instabridge’s cheapest regular data plan for France costs $2.00 and gives you 1GB for 7 days. Its pay-as-you-go plan for France costs $2 per GB.
Ease of use. Installing the Instabridge eSIM is easy via the app. When you purchase a data plan, download the Instabridge app and click “activate.” That’s it. You can contact Instabridge’s customer support team by filling out a form on its website. This eSIM doesn’t have a live chat option.
10. BNESIM – multifunctional eSIM for France with super affordable plans
| Supports 5G networks: | Yes |
| Starting price: | $1.49 (30 days, 1GB) |
| Regional plans: | Yes |
BNESIM is a jack of all trades. This provider not only offers highly affordable data plans but also additional services, such as a physical SIM card, an international phone number, a VPN, and a mobile Wi-Fi device. It’s an excellent eSIM for travelers, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
Data plans for France. BNESIM offers local, regional, and global plans for France. It has fixed and pay-as-you-go plans. Its local fixed plans for France offer 1GB to 100GB of data, and all its plans are valid for 30 days. BNESIM has regional plans for Europe as well as a Global and Mini Global plan, which all cover France. However, its local fixed plan for France offers a lot more data than these plans.
When you’re purchasing a plan, BNESIM conveniently lets you choose whether you want a one-time plan or a recurring plan.
Network connection. BNESIM partners with Orange, Free, and Bouyes in France, and it supports 5G internet in the country.
Pricing. BNESIM’s fixed local plans for France start from $1.49 for 1GB of data, valid for 30 days. Its pay-as-you-go plans for France start from $2.08 for 1GB of data.
Ease of use. This eSIM is incredibly easy to use. You can set up and manage the eSIM directly from the BNESIM app. All you need to do is click the activation button to kick-start the eSIM installation process. BNESIM has multiple customer support channels, including email, live chat, and WhatsApp.
Comparison of the best eSIM providers for France
Here’s a brief table comparing the features of our top eSIMs for France to help you quickly identify which one is best suited for your needs:
| Saily | Airalo | Jetpac | aloSIM | Nomad | Holafly | GigSky | Roamless | Instabridge | BNESIM | |
| Plan options: | Local and regional plans | Local, regional, and global plans | Local, regional, and global plans | Local, regional, and global plans | Local, regional, and global plans | Local, regional, and global plans | Local, regional, and global plans | Local, regional, and global plans | Local, regional, and global plans | Local, regional, and global plans |
| Compatibility: | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM |
| Networks: | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G |
| Calls: | No | Yes (only on Discover+ plan) | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | No | No |
| Texts: | No | Yes (only on Discover+ plan) | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Price from: | $3.99 (1GB, 7 days) | $4.50 (1GB, 7 days) | $1.00 (1GB, 4 days) | $4.50 (1GB, 7 days) | $4.50 (1GB, 1 day) | $6.90 (unlimited data, 1 day) | $4.49 (1GB, 7 days) | $2.45 (1GB, doesn’t expire) | $2.50 (1GB, 7 days) | $1.49 (1GB, 30 days) |
Still unsure which eSIM to pick? Identify the most essential features you need from an eSIM, such as an affordable price tag or support for calling and texting. Then, look through the table above and see which eSIM is best for you.
How we tested and ranked these eSIMs for France
I worked with the Cybernews research team to pick the eSIMs above based on strict criteria. Here are some of the things I prioritized when selecting the best eSIMs for France:
- Coverage in France: I looked at each eSIM's coverage across France and selected those with the most extensive coverage. This ensures a reliable connection in rural areas and big cities. Most of the eSIMs above also have coverage in other European countries.
- Speed: I assessed the speed of each eSIM based on the type of network they support in France. All the eSIMs I selected support 5G. However, the type of network you’ll get in France depends on your device and location. With that said, you’ll get 5G or 4G in nearly every part of the country.
- Data plans: The perfect data plan for you depends on the duration of your trip to France and your data consumption rate. With that in mind, I assessed the data plans from different eSIM providers and selected those with a variety of plans to meet the needs of different travelers.
- Price: The prices of eSIM plans vary depending on the duration of the plan and allocated data. I assessed the prices of plans from different eSIM providers and selected those with the best plans.
- Compatibility: While eSIMs are compatible with most new devices, some eSIMs don’t work with particular devices. I looked at the list of devices each eSIM works with and picked those that support a wide variety of devices from different brands.
- Customer support: I checked the customer service channels each eSIM offers and their response times. All the eSIMs above have a highly responsive customer service team that is readily available to help you resolve any issues you may encounter.
Benefits of using an eSIM in France
Here are a few reasons you should consider getting an eSIM over a regular SIM card when traveling to France:
- Instant data: If you activate your eSIM before your trip to France, you’ll be connected to the internet the moment you arrive in the country. This will ensure you can access web-based services like your hotel or Airbnb booking details and purchase train tickets.
- Easy activation: You can activate your eSIM easily and get internet access in France without having to visit a phone shop.
- Continue using your SIM card: You can use your regular SIM card alongside your eSIM when traveling in France. This means you can still receive text messages, make calls, and access platforms linked to your SIM card without any issues.
- No need to swap SIMs: With an eSIM, you can avoid the inconvenience of swapping out your regular SIM card.
- Save money: An eSIM allows you to avoid paying pricey roaming charges.
- Flexible plans: You can easily top up your eSIM data while traveling in France without having to visit a phone shop. This can be particularly convenient when you’re in remote places and are running out of data.
Does my phone support eSIMs?
If your phone was released after 2018, it likely supports eSIMs. You can confirm this by checking the device’s specifications. Here are some smartphones from popular brands that support eSIM technology.
| iPhone | XR, XS, XS Max, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 |
| Google Pixel | 2 (with Google Fi), 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, Fold |
| Samsung Galaxy | S20, S20X, S21, S22, S23, S24, S25, Fold, Z Flip, Note 30, a54 |
| Huawei | P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro |
| Xiaomi | 12T Pro, 13 |
Even if your phone supports eSIMs, you may be unable to install an eSIM on it if it’s carrier-locked. Most phones sold in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East are unlocked. However, many phones sold in the US are carrier-locked. If you’re having issues installing an eSIM on your phone, contact your network provider to confirm if your phone is carrier-locked.
How to check if your phone is compatible with eSIMs
You can easily check if your phone supports eSIMs; it only takes a minute. I’ll show you how to check if your iPhone or Android device is eSIM compatible.
How to check eSIM compatibility on iPhones
You can ascertain if your iPhone supports eSIMs through its settings. Go to Settings > General > About, and scroll down. If you see “Available SIM” and a 15-digit IMEI number, your phone works with eSIMs. Another way to determine if your phone is eSIM compatible is to check its specifications on Apple’s website.
How to check eSIM compatibility on Android phones
To check if your Android device supports eSIMs, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile network or SIM card. If there’s an option to add a SIM card or eSIM, then your phone is eSIM compatible. These options may be labeled differently depending on the brand and model of your phone. You can also check your phone specifications to see if it supports eSIMs.
For detailed steps on assessing whether different Android phones work with eSIMs, refer to our guide to checking if your phone is eSIM compatible.
How to activate the eSIM data plan on your phone
There are a few ways to activate an eSIM, but you’re limited to the activation method your eSIM provider supports. I’ll explain each eSIM activation method below:
- App-based activation: Many eSIMs, including Saily and Airalo, allow you to install your eSIMs via their respective apps. This is one of the easiest eSIM installation methods, as the process is automated. All you need to do is click “activate” on the app to install and activate your eSIM.
- QR code activation: QR code eSIM activation is similar to app-based activation, as the process is mostly automated. eSIMs like Jetpac, Nomad, and aloSIM use QR code activation. To do this, you need to scan a QR code and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Manual activation: Unlike the other installation methods above, manual installation requires you to go into your device’s settings and enter your eSIM details. You’ll need your eSIM activation code and SM+DP address to install it manually. eSIM providers usually give you all these details along with clear instructions on how to set up your eSIM.
Note: You may need to connect to a local network in France before your eSIM activation process will be completed. So, don’t worry if you go through the entire process and your eSIM isn’t yet activated.
How to buy eSIM in France
You can buy an eSIM plan for France from the website or app of any eSIM provider. The process is easy and convenient. Select a plan, create an account, purchase the plan, and that’s it. eSIM providers accept various payment methods, including debit/credit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, and crypto. After purchasing your plan, you’ll receive an email detailing how to install and activate your eSIM.
Note: Some eSIM providers may require you to present an ID card to purchase their eSIM plans. However, the vast majority of eSIM providers don’t have this requirement.
When to order/install an eSIM card for France?
While you can buy and install an eSIM for France at any time, it’s important to note that the validity of some eSIM plans starts the moment you install or activate it. Also, some eSIM plans are only valid for 1 to 3 months after you purchase your plan.
With that said, I recommend purchasing your plan once you’ve arranged all your travel details, ideally a week or two before your trip. It’s best practice to wait until a day before you set off to install and activate the eSIM. This ensures that your eSIM plan doesn’t start counting several days before you actually start using the eSIM data. Also, installing the eSIM a day before you travel will give you enough time to troubleshoot and contact the eSIM customer support team should you encounter any issues.
How to make calls with eSIM in France
Most eSIM providers offer data-only plans, but some allow you to make calls using your eSIM. Here is how to make calls with an eSIM in France:
- Find an eSIM provider that offers a phone number for calls: Some eSIM providers, like aloSIM, give users a phone number for calls and texts.
- Use your domestic SIM card alongside the eSIM: You can use your domestic phone number for calls and reserve your eSIM for data. However, making international calls using your domestic SIM card can be expensive.
- Use VoIP apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Skype: These apps allow you to make calls over the internet using your eSIM.
Tips for using an eSIM in France
Here are a few things you should keep in mind when buying and using an eSIM in France:
- You'll need an unlocked phone: Make sure your phone is unlocked and not tied to a specific carrier. If your phone is carrier-locked, contact your internet service provider to determine if it can be unlocked. Usually, this can be done for a fee.
- You need a phone with eSIM support: You can only use an eSIM on compatible devices. So, confirm that your device works with eSIMs before purchasing a plan.
- Many eSIMs do not provide a virtual phone number: Most eSIMs only offer mobile data without a virtual phone number, meaning you can't make phone calls or send SMS messages. If you’d like to make calls and send SMS, choose an eSIM that provides a phone number and supports calling.
- Learn about your eSIM’s activation: Some eSIMs are activated once you install them, but with others, you need to connect with a local network in France before they’re activated. Check your eSIM provider’s website or contact their customer support team to learn all about your eSIM’s activation and avoid activating it too early.
Final thoughts on the best eSIMs for France
eSIMs are a convenient and flexible solution for travelers in France. They offer instant data access and eliminate the hassle of getting a physical SIM card. eSIM providers have plans tailored to fit the needs of different travelers visiting France.
Of all the eSIMs I assessed, Saily stands out. It provides reliable internet and has affordable plans, allowing you to skip high roaming fees and manage your data usage while exploring the land of baguettes and wine.
More eSIM guides from Cybernews
Best eSIMs for Europe: Discover the best eSIMs for traveling in Europe.
Best eSIM for Netherlands: Choose an eSIM for your trip to the Netherlands.
Best eSIMs for Italy: Top eSIMs and plans for traveling in Italy.
Best eSIMs for Germany: Stay connected effortlessly throughout your trip.
FAQ
What is the cheapest eSIM card for France?
BNESIM has the cheapest eSIM plans for France, starting at just $1.49 for 1GB of data, valid for 30 days. Instabridge and Saily also have affordable eSIM plans for France, starting from $2.50 and $3.99, respectively.
Does eSIM work in Paris?
Yes, eSIMs work in Paris and other parts of France. eSIM providers work with local network carriers to ensure users get a good signal in every part of the country.
Is Airalo good in France?
Yes, Airalo is an excellent eSIM for France. It has good coverage in France and offers local, regional, and global eSIM plans covering the country.
Can I use 5G on a France eSIM card?
Yes, all the eSIMs I’ve highlighted above support 5G in France, ensuring you have access to high-speed data during your trip.
Which eSIM is best for France?
Saily is the best eSIM for France. It is the best choice for seamless connectivity in France, thanks to its wide coverage in the country and budget-friendly plans.
Can I make calls with an eSIM card in France?
Yes, you can make calls with an eSIM card in France. Providers like aloSIM give users a mobile number for calling and texting. You can also use VoIP apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime to make calls, even if you have a data-only eSIM.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are markedmarked