One of the first thoughts you have when landing in another country is, “I need to get a SIM card.” No wonder, since we cannot survive a day without Internet access and mobile data. Preparing in advance is never a bad idea, so how about finding out how to get a German SIM card with us?
TOP 3 German mobile operators
Before buying a SIM card in Germany, it’s good to compare local mobile operators. Dare we say that the German cell phone providers market is fully booked — endless third-party companies use the lines of the three most prominent players: Vodafone, O2 and Telekom.
Vodafone
A German branch of Vodafone Group from the UK.
Pros
- The app has an English version;
- You can use Vodafone freely in most of the European countries.
Cons
- Pricey: The cheapest connection starts at EUR 29,99. Is it a lot for the locals? Let’s put it this way: even if you get the minimum wage in Germany, you can afford Vodafone;
- Switzerland roaming is not included. So, it’s not the best SIM card for Germany if you want to travel to Switzerland.
O2
A German branch of a Spanish company, Telefónica.
Pros
- Price: the cheapest connection starts from EUR 19,99, making it an affordable German SIM card provider;
- Flexible contract length.
Cons
- Switzerland and the UK roaming is omitted;
- The website and app are in German, so it would be complicated to understand how to get a German SIM card if you don’t speak the language. Want to learn it? Choose among the top German language schools to get a high-quality education.
Telekom
A German company that is the largest in Europe.
Pros
- Unlimited data volume;
- Switzerland and the UK roaming is included. Where else these countries are included? In Profee transfers! You can support your family back home by sending money from every EU country, plus Switzerland and the UK — no excuses for not sending the funds to those who matter the most.
Cons
The most expensive German SIM card provider: the cheapest connection is EUR 24,95 with only 5 GB of data. However, the data quality is worth every penny if you want to get the best SIM card for Germany.
| Company | Cheapest connection price, EUR | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| Vodafone | 29,99 | 7 GB, EU and UK roaming |
| O2 | 19,99 | Unlimited data, EU roaming |
| Telekom | 24,95 | 5 GB, EU, UK and Switzerland roaming |
These are the most well-known players in the German cell phone providers market. Depending on your preferences and resources, you may choose any of these SIM cards in Germany and be entirely happy with what you get. Now, we’re ready to move to a step-by-step guide on how to get a German SIM card.
How to get a German SIM card?
To get a German phone number, follow five simple steps.
Step 1: Choose your provider
We have already listed the best German cell phone providers, and of course, you can explore more options to find a provider that suits you the best. As we said, there are numerous options for getting SIM cards in Germany.
Step 2: Visit a store or order online
If you speak German and want to get a German phone number fast, you can order it online on the provider’s website.
For those whose German knowledge ends with Guten Tag, we recommend going directly to the provider’s store and asking for a German SIM card there. Pro tip: find these stores in tourist locations; chances are most of the staff will speak English well. One more pro tip: find where to learn German from scratch in our article.
If you’re buying a SIM card in Germany in person, bring your passport or ID, which is required for registration.
Step 3: Register and verify your identity
German law requires SIM card registration to verify your identity. When purchasing in-store, the staff will typically handle this for you. If ordering SIM cards in Germany online, you’ll likely need to verify your identity via video call or by visiting a local post office for Postident. In this process, an official verifies your ID.
Step 4: Activate the SIM card
After purchase and registration, activate the SIM card. Most providers allow you to do this by following instructions in the starter kit, through their website, or app. Insert the SIM card into your phone and enter any PIN provided. Activation times vary, but it usually takes minutes to a few hours.
Step 5: Top-up or set up payment
If you choose a prepaid SIM, you must load it with credit to start using it. You can buy top-up vouchers at supermarkets, online, or through the provider’s app. Now you know how to get the best SIM card for Germany and stay connected to your family. To deepen that connection, remember to send them money from time to time so your loved ones can live fully while you’re away. Profee is an amazing app for those who live in Germany and want to support their family. Get a SIM-card and make fast and secure transfers back home.
