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If you wish to avoid steep surcharges for roaming, acquiring a Swiss cellphone plan is pivotal during your visit to Switzerland. This country does not belong to the European Union, so it is not incorporated into the EU`s free-roaming arrangement. Therefore, if you employ your device to make calls, send messages, and utilize data in Switzerland, you`ll likely return home to an alarming phone bill even if you have a European SIM card.
Fortunately, with a SIM card for Switzerland, you will be able to use your device without facing unexpected issues later. There are selections for every kind of traveler, whether you’re searching for an eSIM for Switzerland or a local phone option.
At the commencement, I`ll tell you that we continually opt for Holafly cards when we travel. This digital SIM allows for limitless information and diverse plans fluctuating from 1 to 90 days. The enterprise also provides a card that can furnish you data in Switzerland and different European nations, so inspect it here. If you decide to obtain, employ our Holafly discount code to enjoy 5% off.
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5% OFF your international eSIM card
If an eSIM isn’t for you, there are other prepaid SIM cards for Switzerland available, so let’s get into it.
Table of Contents
Do you need a SIM card for Switzerland if you already have a SIM card for Europe?
You may recall the open roaming agreement set in the European Union in 2017. Regrettably, Switzerland is not part of the European Economic Area, so it was left out of this agreement.
This confirms that you do require a SIM card for Switzerland if you wish to avoid roaming charges on your mobile phone. This applies whether you’re from the UK, the US, or the EU. Without a Swiss SIM card, your wireless carrier will bill you for international roaming, so you’ll return home to an enormous phone bill.
Even if you plan on not using your phone while abroad, keep in mind that many devices automatically connect to the local network, and some apps consume data in the background, even if you’re not actively using them.
In other words, it’s far better to receive a prepaid SIM card for Switzerland. For instance, Holafly provides eSIMs for Switzerland and other European countries, all with unlimited data. It’s a convenient and affordable way to access the Internet in Switzerland, and it’s just one of the selections.
Swiss SIM card price comparison
I`ll provide more information shortly about the six best SIM cards for Switzerland. For now, here is a price breakdown to help you determine which cards best meet your trip needs. In addition to the Holafly eSIM, physical Swiss SIM cards are available from SimOptions and local Swiss companies:
|
CARD |
1 DAYS |
7 DAYS |
10 DAYS |
14 DAYS |
20 DAYS |
30 DAYS |
60 DAYS |
90 DAYS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Holafly eSIM |
€6/Unlimited |
€27/Unlimited |
€34/Unlimited |
€47/Unlimited |
€57/Unlimited |
€69/Unlimited |
€99/Unlimited |
€129/Unlimited |
|
SimOptions |
– |
– |
– |
€50/10 GB €50/30 GB – €25/10 GB – – |
||||
|
Swisscom |
– |
Unlimited usage for €20 |
Unlimited usage for €20 |
– |
– |
– |
– |
– |
|
Salt |
€2/Unlimited |
– |
– |
– |
– |
– |
– |
– |
|
Coop Mobile |
– |
– |
– |
– |
– |
€5/250 MB (+€21 activation) |
– |
– |
|
Sunrise |
€2.50/Unlimited (+€21 activation) |
€62/Unlimited |
– |
– |
– |
€72/Unlimited |
– |
– |
| BEST MOBILE NETWORK CARDS FOR SWITZERLAND | ||||||||
As can be seen, Holafly has the most alternatives for data-only SIM cards in Switzerland. Best of all, these international eSIMs come with unlimited data, so there is no need to worry about running out of GB. It can even be ordered while travelling, making this the most practical and convenient option.
However, if your phone isn’t compatible with eSIM technology or you favor a physical SIM card for Switzerland, I recommend SimOptions. These cards permit information sharing with other devices, but the plans include restricted info.
You may also look into a local Swiss mobile phone plan, like the ones accessible from Swisscom,Salt,Coop Mobile, and Sunrise. That said, if you’re aiming to travel economically, these might not be worthwhile relying on the duration of your trip.
Do not worry; I’ll provide an overview of each choice so you can find the perfect fit for your budget, travel purposes, and preferences.
Best prepaid SIM cards for Switzerland
I’ll explain the advantages and drawbacks of the 6 best SIM cards for Switzerland below. This will help you get a better sense of which one suits your trip and budget.
1. Holafly eSIM, the best SIM card for Switzerland
First, the Holafly eSIM serves as an entirely digital solution, so it’s ideal for individuals who are already traveling abroad. Also, if your device doesn’t offer dual-slot functionality, an eSIM is perfect since you don’t have to remove your usual SIM card to utilize the eSIM.
Once you obtain this Swiss digital SIM card, you’ll get an email with a QR code and straightforward activation instructions. You can either print it out or send it to another device allowing you to scan the QR code on your smartphone. Of course, check your phone’s compatibility here before purchasing the eSIM.
This represents the ideal eSIM card for Switzerland since it offers unlimited data and various trip periods. However, you cannot share your data with other devices, so your travel partners will need to acquire their own eSIM.
We usually use Holafly cards for most of our trips since they`re straightforward to install, and we can buy them while abroad. For us, it`s the most convenient way to access travel Internet, so it`s our top selection. You can view the different Holafly plan durations and costs below:
|
TIME PERIOD |
COST |
DATA |
|---|---|---|
|
5 days |
€19 |
Unlimited |
|
7 days |
€27 |
Unlimited |
|
10 days |
€34 |
Unlimited |
|
15 days |
€47 |
Unlimited |
|
20 days |
€57 |
Unlimited |
|
Thirty days |
€69 |
Unrestricted |
|
Sixty days |
€99 |
Unrestricted |
|
90 days |
€129 |
Unrestricted |
| HOLAFLY ESIM FOR SWITZERLAND | ||
5% OFF your international eSIM card
2. SimOptions SIM card, the best prepaid SIM card for Switzerland
SimOptions is an excellent alternate to Holafly if your phone is incompatible with eSIM technology or you favor a physical SIM card for Switzerland.
One advantage of SimOptions over Holafly is that you can share data with other travelers. However, these prepaid SIM cards for Switzerland come with a limited amount of GB, so quickly using all of one`s data is easy. Also, SimOptions only has cards for 14 and 30 days, with data limits between 10 GB and 30 GB. Considering that Holafly cards offer unlimited data usage, I only recommend SimOptions for those who want a traditional SIM card.
To obtain this prepaid Swiss SIM, go through this connection. Be sure to purchase the card ahead of time since it takes up to 3 business days for it to arrive at your home. To set up this international SIM card, simply insert it into your device and follow the on-screen instructions. If you have a dual-slot, you don’t even need to remove your usual SIM card.
Below are the different plan lengths, prices, and data limits for the SimOptions cards. Personally, I would opt for the most affordable option.
|
DURATION |
COST |
DATA ALLOWANCE |
AREAS WITH COVERAGE |
|---|---|---|---|
|
14 days |
€49.90 |
10GB |
124 |
|
14 days |
€29.90 |
12GB |
34 |
|
14 days |
€49.90 |
30GB |
34 |
|
30 days |
€24.90 |
30GB |
56 |
| SIMOPTIONS SIM CARD FOR SWITZERLAND | |||
- Barceló Tambor – (Tambor, Puntarenas)
3. Swisscom, a popular Swiss SIM card
Swisscom provides regional SIM cards for use within Switzerland, so travelers already at their location requiring a SIM card could consider this company. Swisscom remains one of the most reputable telecommunications organizations in the country, with some of the speediest networks encompassing a wide area.
On the downside, Swisscom also tends to be one of the costlier options. You must pay an initial fee of approximately €20, coming with €20 in credits. Unlimited data costs €2 per day, calls are €0.29 per minute, and texts are €0.15 each. If you refrain from calling or texting, your €20 credit could last 10 days.
Swisscom offers extended prepaid plans, but they require a high price. For example, the 30-day Swisscom SIM card costs €67. If you will spend 30 days in Switzerland, SimOptions is a more affordable option, although you will have only 10 GB of data. Alternatively, Holafly has unlimited data and costs slightly less than Swisscom, and you can buy it while traveling.
Swisscom cards may be obtained at kiosks located at Zurich, Geneva, and Basel airports, as well as at Swisscom stores across the country. Since it is a physical SIM card, I suggest completing installation and activation at the store to ensure correct functioning before departure. If the device does not have two SIM slots, the usual SIM must be removed and kept safely while using the Swisscom one.
|
PERIODS |
COST |
GB |
|---|---|---|
|
7 days |
€20 |
Unlimited |
|
7 days |
€20 |
Unlimited |
| SWISSCOM CELLULAR SERVICE FOR SWITZERLAND | ||
4. Salt, a cheap SIM card for Switzerland
Salt is another organization that provides some of the most affordable Swiss SIM cards. These cards offer a practical solution for travelers who will only be in the country for a few days.
These prepaid SIM cards for Switzerland cost €2 per day for unlimited data usage, but calls and texts cannot be made or received. However, the cards are compatible with most mobile devices, and can be found at authorized stores and supermarkets throughout the country.
Despite being a data-only Switzerland SIM card, this local card is an excellent selection for brief trips.
|
PERIODS |
COST |
GB |
|---|---|---|
|
1 day |
€2 |
Unrestricted |
| SALT SIM CARD FOR SWITZERLAND | ||
5. Coop Mobile, another Swiss SIM card option
Coop Mobile is another widely known company that offers prepaid Swiss SIM cards. These cards can be found at authorized retailers and sales kiosks. I recommend installing and activating the card in the store to ensure compatibility with your phone.
The primary drawback of these Swiss online SIM cards is that they demand an activation payment. The fee is €20 but incorporates €15 in credit that you can use on data. As for the plans, they last 30 days and feature varying amounts of data, such as 250 MB, 750 MB, and 1500 MB.
In my view, there are several better choices than Coop Mobile, such as Holafly,SimOptions, or Swisscom.
|
PERIODS |
COST |
GB |
|---|---|---|
|
30 days |
€5 (+ €21 activation) |
250MB |
|
30 days |
€11 (+ €21 activation) |
750MB |
|
30 days |
€16 (+ €21 activation) |
1500MB |
| MOBILE CELLULAR PLAN FOR SWITZERLAND | ||
6. Sunrise, another prepaid SIM card for Switzerland
Additionally, Sunrise is another well-known telecom business in Switzerland that offers Swiss portable SIMs for vacationers. While it’s a reputable provider with good protection, like Coop Cellular, it also will come with an activation charge.
The Sunrise Prepaid plan necessitates a €21 activation cost and expenses €2.50/day for unlimited data. Signing up provides a €20 credit, which will cover 8 days of data usage.
There is also the Sunrise Prepaid Unlimited Europe 7-day package, which costs €62 and provides unlimited data throughout Switzerland and most of Europe. The 30-day plan costs €72 for unlimited data throughout Switzerland and Europe.
Overall, limitless data can be obtained at a more affordable price using Holafly.
|
PERIODS |
COST |
GB |
|---|---|---|
|
One day |
€2.50 |
Unrestricted |
|
7 days |
€62 |
Unlimited |
|
Thirty days |
€72 |
Unrestricted |
| SUNRISE SIM CARD FOR SWITZERLAND | ||
Where to buy a Swiss SIM card
You are able to obtain a Swiss SIM card either before your trip or after reaching your destination. Personally, I like getting everything ready ahead of time, so the Holafly eSIM is perfect for my needs. However, if you’re already in Switzerland, there is no need for concern; you can find a SIM card from authorized retailers or airport kiosks.
Buy a Swiss SIM before your trip
I recommend obtaining your prepaid Swiss SIM before you travel. I specifically like Holafly since it’s a digital SIM card that reaches straight to your email after you purchase it online. You can even buy it if you’re already abroad!
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Buy a SIM card in Switzerland upon arrival
Now, if you’re already on getaway, you can still purchase the HolaflyeSIM card for Switzerland since it’s a digital card.
You can also look for a Swiss cellular SIM card at local stores or supermarkets. For example, Swisscom and Salt are two of the most affordable Swiss SIM cards, and both offer unlimited data. Thanks to the daily rates, they’re adaptable for short- and long-term trips.
There is also Coop Mobile, which has prepaid SIM cards for Switzerland, but at a higher price and with limited data. Along similar lines, Sunrise is a popular company, but it’s pricey, so I think you’re better off with Swisscom or Salt.
How to activate a Swiss SIM for travel
Activating a Switzerland SIM card is a straightforward process. If you have a Swiss eSIM from Holafly, simply open the email you received from Holafly and scan the QR code. Remember, you will need to scan it using a separate device. A helpful approach is to download the QR code to a friend`s device, then scan it with your phone. You could also print out the QR code and scan that.
Better yet, you can opt to acquire an Egyptian SIM card instead. Not only will you conserve lots of money during your trip, but you’ll likely have improved coverage.
Physical Swiss SIM cards are also easy to install and activate. If your device has two slots, just insert the card into your phone. Otherwise, you must remove your usual SIM to put in the Swiss one. Keep your regular SIM card in a safe place!
If you obtain a card from SimOptions, you`re able to handle all this before your excursion. The company offers exceptional client service through chat, electronic mail, and telephone. However, if you’re procuring a local card, you’ll need to scout around for a suitable choice then insert and activate the card in the store. I recommend staying there so the store associate can assist you if you run into any hitches. Most locals communicate fluent English.
Switzerland SIM card compatibility & requirements
Be sure to check your phone’s compatibility before buying a prepaid Internet SIM card for Switzerland. SIM cards come in various sizes (standard, micro, mini, nano), and your phone may only accept a specific size. Most contemporary phones use nano-SIMs, but you should double-check.
Also, your device must be unlocked and able to connect to Switzerland’s frequency networks. Don’t worry; most people never encounter this issue.
Holafly is likely the most convenient choice given its Swiss eSIMs are compatible with over 200 mobile phone models. It is unlikely you will face any troubles, but confirming your phone’s compatibility here is always wise. If you opt to wait to purchase a prepaid SIM card in Switzerland, check that the card aligns with your device.
I think preparing a trip is much easier when one can take care of all the details ahead of time. I always use Holafly cards for all my trips, so I’m ready to access the Internet and avoid roaming costs as soon as I land.
Swiss SIM cards vs. SIM cards for Europe
The last thing I want to discuss is that Holafly offers two types of travel eSIMs for Switzerland. The first one I’ve been focusing on in this guide is the Swiss eSIM. It only works for Switzerland, so you can obtain it here if this is the only nation you’re visiting.
The second option is represented by this, which facilitates Internet access across Europe, including Switzerland. It provides coverage in over 30 European nations, 60 minutes of incoming calls, and 60 minutes of outgoing calls. This SIM card option for Europe also allows for unlimited data use, so one can access the Internet and favorite apps without worrying about data limits.
The eSIM for Europe costs the same as the Swiss eSIM, so it’s great if you’re traveling through several European countries. As with all Holafly cards, individual data sharing isn`t allowed, so each person will need their own card.
| ESIM FOR SWITZERLAND | ESIM FOR EUROPE |
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You can obtain the Europe and Switzerland SIM cards at a discounted rate by clicking the link below:
5% OFF your international eSIM card
FAQs – SIM cards for Switzerland
If you have any questions about Swiss SIM cards, check out the section below for the answers to the most frequently asked questions:
Is it permissible to use a mobile telephone in Switzerland?
While accessing the internet in Switzerland, you will be roaming as there is no free roaming available. It is advisable to obtain a prepaid Swiss SIM card to avoid high fees that come with roaming.
Internet access options while travelling in Switzerland
You can access the Internet in Switzerland with your regular SIM card, but you’ll be responsible for roaming charges.
Can calls be made in Switzerland using my SIM card?
Calls can be made in Switzerland using your regular SIM card, but your phone company will charge fees for roaming. I advise utilizing a Swiss SIM card to avoid high costs.
What is the approximate cost of a Swiss SIM card?
Pricing is dependent on the company, but the lowest cost Swiss SIM cards commence at €2/day for unlimited data usage.
Will a European SIM card function in Switzerland?
Holafly’s European eSIM works in Switzerland, however not all European SIM cards include Switzerland in the coverage area for free.
Will a Swiss SIM card function in other countries?
No, a Swiss SIM card will only have coverage within Switzerland. Holafly is an exception; its European eSIM card can be utilized in over 30 nations across Europe including Switzerland.
Yes, preloaded Swiss SIM cards can be found at airport kiosks in Zurich, in supermarkets, and at authorized retailers.
How can I determine if my mobile digital device is compatible using a Swiss SIM card?
Most phones will work with Swiss SIM cards, but it`s always smart to check at the store first. Click here to see if your device is compatible with Holafly digital SIMs.
Is it possible to share mobile data from my Swiss SIM card among other devices?
Some SIM cards available in Switzerland enable data sharing but usually include restricted data.
That’s everything you should comprehend about Swiss SIM cards, but if you have any interrogatives, delight go away a review downwards. I’d be joyful to assist.
Besides obtaining a SIM card for Switzerland, you should also purchase quality European travel insurance. This allows you to fully enjoy a fantastic holiday in one of the most scenic regions globally.
Stay safe, and enjoy your time in Switzerland!
