Best eSIM for Spain: Top providers and plans in 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
An eSIM is simply a digital SIM card. Unlike physical SIM cards that need to be inserted into your device, you install eSIMs — like software. eSIMs work just like regular SIM cards; they provide Internet connectivity and allow you to call and send SMS messages.
If you’re planning to visit Spain, using an eSIM is the best way to stay connected without swapping out your physical SIM card. Using an eSIM is also more affordable than roaming. Many eSIM providers have coverage across Spain, and their charges are comparable to or even better than local SIM rates.
Regardless of your budget and data needs, there’s an eSIM for you. I worked with the Cybernews research team to review several providers and create a list of the best eSIMs for Spain. Continue reading to see our list and get all the information you need to make a well-informed pick.
Top 5 eSIM providers for Spain - my recommendation
- Saily – the best overall eSIM for Spain
- Airalo – the best Spain eSIM for European travelers
- Jetpac – best value eSIM for Spain
- Holafly – most stable eSIM for Spain
- aloSIM – best Spain eSIM for phone calls and SMS
What should you consider when picking an eSIM for travel to Spain?
An eSIM can help you avoid racking up an expensive roaming bill or having to switch SIM cards while in Spain. But it’s essential to pick an eSIM suited to your needs. Here are some things to consider when getting an eSIM for international travel:
- The countries you’ll be visiting: When choosing an eSIM, consider whether you’ll be traveling only to Spain or visiting neighboring countries in Europe. Some providers only offer plans for Spain, while others have regional plans covering most of Europe.
- Data and calls: Many eSIMs offer data-only plans, while some allow you to make calls and send SMS messages via local networks. If you want to make calls while in Spain, choose an eSIM that supports calling. It’s important to note that even if you select a data-only eSIM, you can still make calls with VoIP apps like FaceTime and WhatsApp.
- Your data consumption: Think about how much internet data you’ll need during your trip and pick an eSIM plan accordingly. It can be frustrating to run out of data while traveling. However, you don’t want to buy a big plan and end up using just half of the allocated data.
- The duration of your trip: Many eSIM plans are valid for a predetermined number of days, weeks, or months, but some don’t expire. When choosing an eSIM plan, ensure it will last for the duration of your trip.
- Data sharing: If you intend to share your eSIM data with other people or devices, make sure the eSIM provider you pick supports data sharing via mobile hotspot. Not all eSIM providers allow data sharing.
- Price: The prices of eSIM plans vary by provider. It’s essential to consider your budget when selecting an eSIM plan. I’ve included some of the most affordable eSIMs for Spain in this list below.
The best eSIMs for Spain – detailed list
I examined the most popular eSIM providers available today with the Cybernews research team, and we narrowed them down to the 7 best eSIMs for Spain based on price, availability, data plans, and user-friendliness.
1. Saily – the best overall eSIM for Spain
| Plans in Spain: | 5 |
| Countries/locations: | 200+ |
| Compatibility: | iOS and Android |
| Pricing: | From $3.99 |
With affordable plans and excellent coverage, Saily is the best eSIM for Spain right now. It’s an excellent option for all travelers, regardless of your budget or data needs.
Plan options: Saily has 5 data plans for Spain, offering 1GB to 20GB of data. All Saily plans last for 30 days except the 1GB plan, which is valid for 7 days. In addition to these local plans, Saily also has regional and global plans. Its regional plans for Europe start at 1GB for 7 days and go up to 100GB for 180 days, while its longest global plan gives you 20GB for 365 days.
Spain plans prices: Saily’s data plans for Spain range from $3.99 for a 1GB plan valid for 7 days to $22.99 for a 20GB plan valid for 30 days. Of all the eSIMs on this list, Saily has some of the most affordable prices for Spain. Here’s a breakdown of Saily’s plans for Spain:
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 7 days | $3.99 |
| 3GB for 30 days | $6.99 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $9.99 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $15.99 |
| 20GB for 30 days | $22.99 |
Activating and using Saily eSIM: I found the process of activating a Saily eSIM to be very straightforward.
First, you need to install the Saily app from Google’s Play Store or Apple’s App Store and then purchase a plan. Once that’s done, click “Install eSIM” on the app to initiate the process and follow the on-screen instructions to activate the eSIM. The eSIM will automatically connect to a supported network at your destination.
The Saily app makes it easy to purchase a data plan, monitor usage, and top up. You can also contact Saily’s customer support team through the app.
Customer support: You can seek help using the app if you encounter any issues. Saily provides support 24/7 via live chat, so you won’t have to wait long for someone to respond. You can also reach its customer support team via email. I found the Saily customer support team friendly and very helpful.
2. Airalo – the best Spain eSIM for European travelers
| Plans in Spain: | 6 |
| Countries/locations: | 200+ |
| Compatibility: | iOS and Android |
| Pricing: | From $4.50 |
Launched in 2019, Airalo is one of the oldest eSIM services and is a popular choice among travelers today. This eSIM provider’s coverage spans over 200+ countries and regions. It has local, regional, and global SIM plans covering most of Europe, making Airalo an excellent choice for travelers visiting Spain and other European countries.
Plan options: Airalo has 6 local eSIM plans for Spain. These plans give you 1GB to 20GB of data and are valid for 7 to 30 days. If you want a plan with a longer validity period, you’re better off choosing from its regional plans for Europe or its global eSIM plans, which are valid for up to 180 days and 365 days, respectively.
Airalo’s plans for Spain include 1GB of data free for new users, but this welcome offer is only valid for a day. While most of Airalo’s plans offer only data, it has an array of global plans, dubbed Discover+, that also support calling and texting. Airalo works with Movistar in Spain and supports LTE connectivity.
Spain plans prices: The only reason Airalo ranks below Saily on this list is that it’s slightly more expensive. Airalo’s local plans for Spain start at $4.50 for 1GB of data, valid for 7 days. Its most expensive plan, which costs $26.00, gives you 20GB for 30 days. Here’s an overview of Airalo’s local plans for Spain:
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 7 days | $4.50 |
| 2GB for 15 days | $6.50 |
| 3GB for 30 days | $8.50 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $11.50 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $18.00 |
| 20GB for 30 days | $26.00 |
Activating and using Airalo: The Airalo app is user-friendly and makes it easy to install, activate, and use this eSIM. I purchased a data plan from Airalo’s website and was directed to download the app.
There are three ways to install this eSIM: via the Airalo app, by scanning a QR code, or by manually entering the eSIM details. I chose to install it by scanning the QR code Airalo sent me, and it was a quick and easy process. I appreciate that Airalo provided clear instructions to guide me through the installation and activation.
Customer support: Like Saily, Airalo’s customer support team is available 24/7 via live chat on its website and app. You can also fill out a form on Airalo’s website to reach its customer support staff. I emailed them while conducting research for this article, and they responded within 24 hours.
3. Jetpac – best value eSIM for Spain
| Plans in Spain: | 8 |
| Countries/locations: | 150+ |
| Compatibility: | iOS and Android |
| Pricing: | From $1.00 |
Compared to all the other eSIMs on this list, Jetpac offers the best value for money. While it has smaller coverage than Airalo and Saily, it’s an excellent choice for people visiting Spain on a tight budget.
Plan options: Jetpac offers flexible data plans for Spain to suit different travelers. Its beginner plan for new users gives you 1GB of data for 4 days, while its longest plan comes with 40GB and is valid for 30 days.
In addition to its local plans for Spain, Jetpac has regional and global eSIM plans covering the country. Jetpac’s regional plans for Europe and global plans have the same allocated data and validity period as its local plans for Spain.
This eSIM provider works with Movistar, Orange, and Vodafone in Spain. Depending on your location in the country, it supports LTE, 4G, and 5G connectivity. Jetpac is a data-only eSIM; it doesn’t allow you to make calls or send SMS.
Spain plans prices: Jetpac offers competitive prices. Its plans for Spain start at just $1.00 for 1GB of data, valid for 4 days. Jetpac’s most expensive plan, which costs $39.00, gives you 40GB of data for 30 days. Here’s a quick look at Jetpac’s local plans for Spain.
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 4 days | $1.00 to $3.00 |
| 3GB for 7 days | $5.00 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $6.00 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $12.00 |
| 15GB for 30 days | $15.00 |
| 20GB for 30 days | $22.00 |
| 30GB for 30 days | $30.00 |
| 40GB for 30 days | $33.00 |
Activating and using Jetpac: Installing and activating Jetpac eSIM was very simple. After installing the app and purchasing a plan, I was directed to scan a QR code to install the eSIM profile. Once that was done, I had to turn on the eSIM and activate data roaming.
The eSIM provider has a clear guide explaining each step of the process. Once the eSIM was activated, I could conveniently manage it and top up via the Jetpac app.
Customer support: Jetpac provides customer support via WhatsApp and email. I contacted the company’s support team via both channels, and they responded quickly.
4. Holafly – easy-to-use eSIM provider for Spain
| Plans in Spain: | 90 |
| Countries/locations: | 190+ |
| Compatibility: | iOS and Android |
| Pricing: | From $6.90 |
Holafly is a reliable eSIM provider for Spain that offers unparalleled flexibility. Aside from its local and regional plans, you can get unlimited data and customize the plan duration according to your needs.
Plan options: Holafly stands out from its competitors because it doesn’t come with fixed data plans. Instead, it offers unlimited data in the local eSIM for Spain and the regional European eSIM.
That said, you will be able to enjoy unlimited data allowance, regardless of whether you pick the local plan or the regional one that covers 40 countries in Europe. What’s more, both eSIMs allow you to choose the data usage period, ranging from 1 to 90 days.
However, you should keep in mind that Holafly may throttle your internet speeds in some locations. Also, this eSIM doesn’t include a phone number, which means you can only call and text via VoIP apps.
Spain plans prices: Holafly might be a bit more expensive than the other eSIMs on this list, but it has competitive pricing. It starts at $6.90 for 1 day of usage. So, let’s check out some of the most popular duration plans:
| Data plan | Price |
| Unlimited data for 1 day | $6.90 |
| Unlimited data for 7 days | $29.90 |
| Unlimited data for 15 days | $50.90 |
| Unlimited data for 30 days | $74.90 |
| Unlimited data for 60 days | $106.90 |
| Unlimited data for 90 days | $139.90 |
Activating and using Holafly: This eSIM for Spain comes with an intuitive app that makes the activation and usage process as smooth as possible. To activate and use Holafly, you should only pick your preferred data plan and scan the QR code.
Then, you should follow the installation guidelines that will appear on your screen, and that’s it. The Holafly eSIM starts working once you connect to a Spanish network. Ultimately, you can do everything from the app if you need to manage something.
Customer support: Holafly has an incredibly responsive support team that you can reach 24/7. One of the best options is to contact them via live chat or email. However, you can also read Holafly’s guides and FAQ section.
5. aloSIM – best Spain eSIM for phone calls and SMS
| Plans in Spain: | 7 |
| Countries/locations: | 200+ |
| Compatibility: | iOS and Android |
| Pricing: | From $4.50 |
Unlike most eSIMs, aloSIM doesn’t only provide data; it also supports calls and SMS on all its plans. If you plan on making calls during your trip to Spain, aloSIM is the best option for you.
Plan options: aloSIM has 7 local data plans for Spain. Its fixed data plans offer 1GB to 20GB of data and are valid for 7 to 30 days. There’s also an unlimited data plan, valid for 7 days.
Besides these local plans, aloSIM has three different regional plans covering Spain — its Europe, Mediterranean, and Western Europe plans, which are valid for up to 180 days. This gives you more options if you’re visiting multiple countries. For example, if you’re traveling to Spain and Portugal, you can pick its Western Europe plan, which covers both countries along with Italy and France.
aloSIM works with Orange, Telefonica, XFERA, and Vodafone in Spain. It supports LTE and 5G connectivity in the country.
Every aloSIM plan comes with an international phone number and $1 in free credit from its sister app, Hushed. You need to download the Hushed app to make calls and send SMS, and you can easily reload more credits if the $1 runs out.
Spain plans prices: aloSIM’s prices are similar to Airalo’s. Its plans for Spain start at $4.50 for 1GB of data, valid for 7 days. Its most expensive plan costs $26.00 and gives you 20GB for 30 days. Here’s a breakdown of aloSIM’s prices for Spain:
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 7 days | $4.50 |
| 2GB for 15 days | $6.50 |
| 3GB for 30 days | $8.50 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $11.50 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $18.00 |
| 20GB for 30 days | $26.00 |
| Unlimited data for 7 days | $20.00 |
Activating and using aloSIM: Activating and using aloSIM was relatively smooth. I was directed to scan a QR code aloSIM emailed me to install the eSIM. The installation took only a few minutes, and aloSIM provided clear instructions to guide me.
If your device is running on iOS 16.4 or newer, it’s best to wait until you’re in Spain to install the eSIM, as it will automatically activate and connect to a supported network. If you’re using Android or older versions of iOS, you don’t have to worry about this when installing aloSIM.
The aloSIM app is sleek and easy to use. You can monitor your consumption, purchase more data, and contact the customer support team from the app.
Customer support: aloSIM has two customer support channels: 24/7 live chat and email. I recommend contacting them via email, as their chatbot failed to answer my questions satisfactorily.
6. Nomad – user-friendly eSIM for Spain
| Plans in Spain: | 6 (along with Day Plans) |
| Countries/locations: | 170+ |
| Compatibility: | iOS and Android |
| Pricing: | From $4.50 |
Nomad is among the best eSIM providers available today, mainly because of its variety of data plans and user-friendly app.
Plan options: Most of Nomad’s local data plans for Spain are valid for 30 days, except its 1GB plans, which last only a week. The longest Nomad eSIM plan for Spain gives you 20GB of data and is valid for 30 days.
In addition to these regular plans, Nomad also has unique Day Plans. As the name implies, these plans are only valid for one day. You get 1GB of data daily, but you can continue browsing at a throttled speed of 512kbps if your data runs out before the day ends.
Besides its local plans for Spain, Nomad has regional and global plans covering the country. Its regional plan for Europe covers 36 countries, including Spain. These plans are valid for up to 365 days.
Nomad only offers data-only plans. It works with Vodafone Espana, Telefonica Spain, Orange, and MasMovil to provide LTE, 4G, and 5G connectivity in the country.
Spain plans prices: Nomad’s local eSIM plans for Spain range from $4.50 for 1GB of data for 7 days to $33.00 for 20GB for 30 days. Its Day Plans cost $4 per day and only $13.00 for 30 days. Here’s a breakdown of Nomad’s regular plans for Spain:
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 7 days | $4.50 to $6.00 |
| 3GB for 30 days | $8.00 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $11.50 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $12.00 |
| 15GB for 30 days | $27.00 |
| 20GB for 30 days | $18.00 |
Activating and using Nomad: Thanks to the Nomad app, setting up and using this eSIM is a breeze. I had to scan a QR code to install the eSIM and set it as my primary SIM for data to activate it. Once activated, the eSIM automatically connected to a supported network and started working. The Nomad eSIM app made it easy to monitor my data usage and top up when I was running out of data.
Customer support: If you encounter any issues while using this eSIM, you can contact Nomad’s customer support team via the in-app live chat option or submit a ticket on the Nomad website. I got a faster response when I contacted the Nomad support team via live chat.
7. GigSky - best Spain eSIM for unlimited data
| Plans in Spain: | 6 |
| Countries/locations: | 190+ |
| Compatibility: | iOS and Android |
| Pricing: | From $4.49 |
GigSky is one of the most flexible eSIMs available today. It offers local, regional, and global plans for over 190 countries. I was impressed to discover that it has inflight and offshore plans as well as plans for cruises. What’s more, I could choose an unlimited or fixed data plan.
Plan options: Like Airalo, GigSky gives new users free data — but only 100MB. This eSIM provider has 6 local plans for Spain. Its fixed plans come with 1GB to 10GB of data and are valid for 7 to 30 days, while its unlimited data plans are valid for 7 to 15 days.
In addition to local plans, GigSky has other plans covering Spain, namely its regional plans for Europe and its World, Cruise + Europe, and Cruise + World plans. A majority of GigSky’s plans are valid for 30 days or less. So, there are limited options for people who plan to stay in Spain for several months unless you don’t mind buying a new plan every month.
Unlike some eSIM providers who place caps on their unlimited data plans, GigSky’s unlimited data plans become slower after you use up to 2.5GB daily. This eSIM provider doesn’t offer a local phone number with its plans, so you can’t make calls or send SMS messages.
Spain plans prices: GigSky’s plans for Spain are priced competitively. A 7-day, 1GB plan costs only $4.49, while a 30-day, 10GB plan costs $17.99. The table below shows the prices of GigSky’s local plans for Spain:
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 7 days | $4.49 |
| 3GB for 15 days | $8.49 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $9.19 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $14.39 |
| Unlimited data for 7 days | $20.79 |
| Unlimited data for 30 days | $34.39 |
Activating and using GigSky: GigSky has a user-friendly app that makes it easy to install, activate, and use the eSIM. When you purchase a data plan, you’ll receive an email from GigSky with a QR code and instructions on how to set up the eSIM.
I found the installation process straightforward. Once you activate it, GigSky will automatically connect to a supported network once you arrive at your destination.
Customer support: GigSky has a 24/7 in-app live chat service. You can also contact its customer support team via phone or email.
8. Instabridge – affordable eSIM for Spain with pay-as-you-go plans
| Plans in Spain: | 4 |
| Countries/locations: | 180+ |
| Compatibility: | iOS and Android |
| Pricing: | From $2.00 |
If you’re looking for a budget data-only eSIM, Instabridge is an excellent choice. While it’s not as versatile as Saily or Airalo, it offers pay-as-you-go plans, a free VPN, and a data-saving browser.
Plan options: Instabridge’s regular plans for Spain come with 1GB to 20GB and are valid for 7 to 30 days. In addition to these regular plans, Instabridge also offers pay-as-you-go plans covering Spain. You can also opt for its Europe regional plans or global plans, which cover Spain.
This eSIM provider works with Orange, Telefonica, Vodafone, and Yoigo in Spain.
Spain plans prices: Instabridge is the most affordable eSIM provider for Spain on this list, with plans starting at $2.00 for a 7-day 1GB plan. Here’s a quick overview of Instabridge’s prices:
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 7 days | $2.00 |
| 3GB for 15 days | $4.50 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $11.00 |
| 20GB for 7 days | $14.00 |
| Pay-as-you-go plan | $2.00 per GB |
Activating and using Instabridge: Instabridge has an intuitive app that makes it easy to activate and use the eSIM. After purchasing a plan, I simply had to click “Activate” on the app for the eSIM to be ready to use. It’s one of the easiest eSIMs to activate. After installing it, simply set the eSIM as your primary SIM for data and turn on roaming. It will connect to a supported network.
As indicated above, Instabridge offers a free WiFi map and data-saving browsing. You have to download those apps individually — but they’re free.
Customer support: The only way to contact Instabridge’s support team is to fill out a form on its site and await a response, so you might need to wait a bit before getting your problem solved. I got a response the next day after emailing them.
Comparison of the best eSIM providers for Spain
We’ve compiled key features of the best eSIMs for Spain in the table below to allow you to compare them easily:
| Brand | Data | Cost | Network speed in Spain | Plan duration | Customer support channels | Allows hotspot |
| Saily | 1GB to 20GB | $3.99 to $22.99 | LTE, 4G | 7 to 30 days | 24/7 live chat and email | Yes |
| Airalo | 1GB to 20GB | $4.50 to $26.00 | LTE, 4G, 5G | 7 to 30 days | 24/7 live chat and email | Yes |
| Jetpac | 1GB to 40GB | $1.00 to $33.00 | LTE, 4G, 5G | 4 to 30 days | WhatsApp and email | Yes |
| Holafly | Unlimited | $6.90 to $139.90 | LTE, 3G, 4G, 5G | 1 to 90 days | 24/7 live chat and email | Yes |
| aloSIM | 1GB to 20GB, and unlimited data | $4.50 to $20.00 | LTE, 5G | 7 to 30 days | 24/7 live chat and email | Yes |
| Nomad | 1GB to 20GB | $4.50 to $18.00 | LTE, 4G, 5G | 7 to 30 days | Live chat and email | Yes |
| GigSky | 1GB to 10GB, and unlimited data | $4.49 to $34.39 | 3G, 4G, 5G | 7 to 30 days | 24/7 live chat, phone, and email | Yes |
| Instabridge | 1GB to 20GB, and pay-as-you-go | $2.00 to $14.00 | 3G, 4G, 5G | 7 to 30 days | No |
How we tested and ranked these eSIMs for Spain
I worked with the Cybernews research team to research, test, and rank the best eSIMs for Spain. Here’s a glimpse into the criteria we used to create our rankings:
- Coverage in Spain: We looked at the coverage of different eSIMs in Spain and picked those with excellent coverage across the country. Whether you’re holidaying by the beach in Valencia or attending a football game in Madrid, the eSIMs on this list are perfect for you.
- Network speed: We assessed and compared the network speeds of various eSIMs in Spain. The providers on this list provide some of the best speeds in Spain. Depending on the provider you choose and your location in the country, you can expect 3G, LTE, 4G, or 5G speeds.
- Data plans: We analyzed the data plans of many eSIMs and selected those with the widest variety of plans to meet the needs of different travelers. The eSIM providers on this list have local, regional, and global plans covering Spain.
- Price: eSIM prices vary, and the more expensive providers are not necessarily the best. We compared the prices, features, and performance of different eSIMs and picked the eSIMs offering the best deals.
- User-friendliness: We tested different eSIM services to gauge their ease of use. The eSIMs on this list are among the most user-friendly options available today. It should be easy to set up these eSIMs and connect to the Internet, even if you’ve never used an eSIM before
- Customer support: We checked the customer support channels of different eSIMs and contacted them to check response times. All the eSIMs on our list responded to us within 24 hours. Many of them have a live chat service so you can get an instant response to your questions.
What is the cheapest eSIM plan for Spain?
Currently, Instabridge has the cheapest eSIM plans for Spain. Its plans start at $2.00 for a 1GB plan, valid for 7 days. It also charges $2.00 per GB for its pay-as-you-go plans.
Saily is another relatively affordable provider, charging $3.99 for a 7-day, 1GB plan. Jetpac is worth mentioning, too, with prices starting from $1 for a 1GB, 4-day plan.
Here’s a table showing how much each eSIM provider charges for a 1GB, 7-day plan.
| eSIM provider | Cost of 1GB, 7-day plan |
| Instabridge | $2.00 |
| Saily | $3.99 |
| GigSky | $4.49 |
| Airalo | $4.50 |
| aloSIM | $4.50 |
| Nomad | $4.50 |
| Jetpac | $1.00 (1GB, 4-day plan) |
Benefits of using an eSIM in Spain
While it’s possible to make calls, send text messages, and browse the web with your regular SIM card in Spain, it is expensive. That’s why most travelers avoid roaming when abroad.
Getting a local SIM card in Spain can also be a headache as you need to figure out how to purchase data and swap your regular SIM card. These are just a few reasons to consider getting an eSIM. Here are a few benefits of using an eSIM in Spain:
Buying an eSIM for Spain isn’t different from buying other virtual products. Simply visit the site and select your desired eSIM plan. eSIM providers accept various payment methods, including debit/credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, PayPal, crypto, and more.
- Immediate Internet access: eSIM allows you to browse the Internet and access online services, like hotel bookings or maps, as soon as you arrive in Spain. This can make a huge difference, especially if you are visiting the country for the first time and don’t know your way around.
- Seamless connectivity: If you’re traveling to multiple European countries, getting a European regional plan ensures seamless connectivity as you cross borders. It eliminates the need to get a local SIM card in each country or figure out how to load more data.
- Keep your regular SIM and phone number: With an eSIM, you don’t have to swap your SIM card while abroad. This means you can continue receiving phone calls and accessing services linked to your SIM card.
-
No need to visit a store: You can download, install, and top up your eSIM digitally without visiting a physical store. This eliminates the hassle of getting a new SIM and ensures you can stay connected even if you’re traveling in the most remote parts of Spain.
How to get a Spain eSIM?
You can buy an eSIM card from phone retail stores in Spain. However, most eSIM providers, including those mentioned above, don’t have physical stores. So, the best place to purchase an eSIM for Spain is from the website or app of your preferred eSIM provider.
Buying an eSIM for Spain isn’t different from buying other virtual products. Simply visit the site and select your desired eSIM plan. eSIM providers accept various payment methods, including debit/credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Amazon Pay, PayPal, crypto, and more.
Usually, you’ll be asked to create an account before you can buy an eSIM plan. After you’ve successfully purchased a plan, you’ll receive an email with instructions on how to set up your eSIM and other useful information.
How do I activate eSIM in Spain?
There are several ways to install and activate an eSIM. The options available to you depend on the eSIM provider that you choose. These are the main ways to set up your Spain eSIM:
- Activating via the eSIM provider’s app: Many eSIM providers, including Saily and Instabridge, allow you to activate your eSIM by clicking “Activate” on their respective apps. The eSIM installation is done automatically in the background, but you may be instructed to set the eSIM as your primary SIM and turn on roaming for it to start working.
- Activating via a QR code: Activating an eSIM via a QR code is similar to setting it up via the provider’s app. You need to go into your device settings and select the option to add an eSIM before scanning the QR code. The process is mostly automated. But, once again, you’ll need to set the eSIM as your primary SIM and turn on roaming before it will start working.
- Manual eSIM activation: You can activate your eSIM manually by going into your device settings and entering the eSIM details, like the SM-DP+ address and activation code. This method may seem complex, but it’s very straightforward. eSIM providers usually have clear instructions to guide you through the process.
- Activating via the provider’s website: You’ll find instructions for activating an eSIM on the providers’ site.
- Activating your eSIM in a store: Attendants in phone shops can help you install and activate an eSIM using any of the methods mentioned above.
What to know about using an eSIM in Spain
Before you buy an eSIM plan for Spain, here are some things you should know:
- Check if your phone is carrier-locked: Some phones are locked to one service provider. If that’s the case, you won’t be able to use an eSIM. You can check if your phone is carrier-locked by going to Settings > General > About on your device and checking for “Carrier Lock.” Alternatively, contact your eSIM provider to enquire if your device is carrier-locked. Some providers can unlock your device for a fee.
- Check if your device supports eSIM: If your smartphone was made before 2018, it might not support eSIMs. We have a guide explaining how to check if your phone is compatible with eSIMs. You can also check your device's manual or the manufacturer’s website to determine if your device supports eSIMs.
- Check if the eSIM supports calls and SMS: If you’d like to make phone calls using your eSIM in Spain, check if the eSIM supports calling and texting. Most eSIM providers offer data-only plans, but some allow calls and SMS. If your eSIM plan is data-only, the only way to make calls is by using VoIP apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime.
- Learn about your eSIM activation: Read the eSIM provider’s instructions and ensure you understand how to set up and use your eSIM. It’s important to know how your eSIM is activated to avoid activating it too early or waiting too late to do so. Some eSIMs only activate when you’re in Spain and connect to a local network. Also, some eSIMs, like Saily, require Internet access to be activated, so you’re better off activating it before you set off on your trip.
Are eSIMs the best way to stay connected when traveling to Spain?
While I recommend using an eSIM, there are different ways to stay connected when traveling in Spain. I’ll briefly compare the different options below:
- Local prepaid SIM cards: It’s relatively easy to get a local SIM card at airports and shops across Spain. The biggest advantage of getting a local SIM card in Spain is that it’s relatively affordable. However, you can only get one after arriving in the country, which can be inconvenient for people visiting Spain for the first time or who don’t speak Spanish.
- International prepaid SIM cards: You can also stay connected in Spain using an international SIM card. Many internet service providers, including Vodafone, O2, and Orange, offer international SIM cards that you can use in multiple countries. Usually, you can order an international SIM card before traveling to Spain, ensuring you’re connected to the Internet as soon as you arrive. However, international SIM cards are often expensive.
- eSIM cards: An eSIM is the most convenient and cost-effective way to stay connected when traveling in Spain. You can purchase an eSIM card for Spain online and set it up before traveling to Spain, ensuring you can access the web and make calls once you land in the country. Compared to using an international SIM card or a local prepaid SIM card, using an eSIM is much cheaper.
How to make calls with eSIM in Spain?
Most eSIMs offer data-only plans. If you intend to use your eSIM to make calls or text messages, here are the options available to you:
- Check if your eSIM provider supports calls: Most eSIM providers, including Saily, Nomad, and Instabridge, offer data-only plans. However, some eSIM providers, like Airalo and aloSIM, offer plans that allow you to make calls and send SMS messages. If you’d like to make calls using your eSIM, choose one of these providers.
- Use your home SIM: If you get a data-only eSIM, you can use your home SIM to make calls. However, international calls usually attract higher charges.
- Use VoIP apps: Another way to make calls with a data-only eSIM is to use Voice-over-Internet Protocol apps, such as Skype, WhatsApp, FaceTime, and others. These apps allow you to use the Internet to make calls.
Final thoughts
Compared to roaming, using an international SIM, or getting a local SIM card, eSIMs are a far more convenient and affordable solution to access the Internet. You can set up your eSIM before traveling, so it’s activated once you arrive in Spain, allowing you to use maps and other essential apps to find your way around unfamiliar places.
Out of all the eSIM providers I assessed for this article, Saily offers the best value for money. Instabridge has lower prices than Saily, but the latter offers a wider selection of plans and 24/7 customer support.
More eSIM guides from Cybernews
eSIM vs physical eSIM: Which is a better option while traveling?
Best eSIMs for Italy: Discover top eSIMs for Italy travel
Best eSIMs for France: Best eSIMs for traveling in France
Best eSIMs for Europe: Explore the best eSIMs for Europe
FAQ
What is the cheapest eSIM card for Spain?
Instabridge is the cheapest eSIM card for Spain, with plans starting at just $2.00. Saily is also relatively cheap, charging $3.99 for a 7-day 1 GB plan.
Can you get eSIM with a Spanish phone number?
Yes, some eSIM providers, like aloSIM, offer local phone numbers that you can use to make calls and send SMS. Simply purchase an aloSIM plan for Spain, and you’ll get a phone number (along with $1 free credit) from its sister app, Hushed.
Are there unlimited data plans for Spain?
Yes, a few eSIM providers, like Instabridge, have pay-as-you-go plans for Spain that ensure you never run out of data while traveling.
Which Spanish networks have eSIM?
All the top network providers in Spain offer eSIM cards. You can get an eSIM from Movistar, Vodafone, Orange, Pepephone, 02 Spain, and others. Simply visit their shops in the country to enquire about getting an eSIM.
Can I use 5G on a Spain eSIM card?
Yes, many eSIM providers offer 5G in Spain, but the network you’ll get generally depends on your location in the country. When choosing an eSIM provider, you’ll need to check if it supports 5G in Spain. eSIM providers, like Saily and Nomad, offer 5G connectivity in Spain.
Which eSIM is best for Spain?
Saily is the best eSIM provider for Spain. It’s affordable, offers a variety of plans, and partners with local mobile networks to provide the best service quality.
Can I make calls with an eSIM card in Spain?
Yes, you can make calls using an eSIM if your eSIM provider supports calling. eSIMs like Airalo (only on its Discover+ global plan) and aloSIM support calling and texting. Even if you have a data-only eSIM plan, you can still make calls with VoIP apps like Messenger or FaceTime.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are markedmarked