Buying Sim Cards In Austria: Affordable Options

If you're travelling to Austria, it's a good idea to get a local SIM card to stay connected and avoid expensive roaming charges. You can get a cheap SIM card in Austria from various providers, including A1, Magenta Telekom (formerly T-Mobile), and Drei (3). These SIM cards typically cost around 9.90 to 10 Euros and offer data, calls, and SMS services. You can buy them at the airport, mobile carrier stores, or online before your trip.

Where to buy a SIM card in Austria

If you're travelling to Austria, you can buy a SIM card from one of the country's three main mobile operators: A1, Magenta (formerly T-Mobile), and Drei.

You can find SIM cards at the official retail stores of these mobile internet providers, as well as in convenience stores, supermarkets, and gas stations.

In bigger cities like Vienna, Graz, and Klagenfurt, you can also access local 5G networks.

Buying a SIM card in Vienna

If you're flying into Vienna, you can buy a SIM card at the airport, although you may find that the choice is more limited and the registration fee is higher.

In Vienna and other major cities, you can buy Austrian prepaid SIM cards in the official shops of mobile phone providers, telephone shops, supermarkets, post offices, electronics stores, drugstores, and petrol stations.

Buying a SIM card online

You can also buy a SIM card online, although you will usually need to provide a local address, as pre-ordering outside of Austria is typically not possible.

Registering your SIM card

To buy a prepaid SIM card in Austria, you will usually need the following:

• An unlocked cell phone
• A passport, ID card, or driving license
• Proof of address via personal registration or online via VideoID

SIM card costs

The cost of a SIM card in Austria depends on the provider and the package you choose. Basic packages with limited data and calls typically start from around €10, while more comprehensive packages, including larger data allowances and international calling options, can cost up to €30.

A1 Telekom

A1 Telekom is one of the leading mobile network providers in Austria, known for its extensive network and reliable service. They offer various plans, including those designed specifically for tourists, featuring generous data allowances and some international calling options. A1 SIM cards are available for €9.90, which includes 5,000 minutes or SMS and 5 GB of data.

Magenta Telekom (formerly T-Mobile)

Magenta Telekom is the second-largest network provider in Austria and offers more budget-friendly alternatives to A1. Their Mobile Sim Only S plan is priced at €15 per month, and you can save up to €10 per month by combining two tariffs. Magenta also provides reliable 4G coverage, although it may be limited in some remote areas.

Drei

Drei is Austria's most affordable mobile provider, offering a wide range of plans. Their MyLife SIM plan costs €9.90 per month for those under 27, providing unlimited calls, messages, 40 GB of data within Austria, and 10 GB in the EU. For those above 27, there is another cost-friendly plan available for €12.90 per month. Drei also offers internet-only plans starting at €4, with 1 GB of data.

Other Options

In addition to the main providers, there are also Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) that use the networks of A1, Magenta, and Drei. These MVNOs often provide cheaper alternatives and are worth considering if you're looking for more affordable options.

When purchasing a SIM card in Austria, there may be additional costs to consider, such as activation fees (ranging from €49.90 to €69.99) and annual costs (€27 to €34.90).

It's important to note that SIM card prices may vary depending on where you purchase them. For example, SIM cards bought at major airports like Vienna International Airport or Salzburg Airport may be more expensive than those bought from official stores or retailers.

eSIMs vs physical SIM cards

If you're travelling to Austria, you may be considering whether to buy a physical SIM card or an eSIM. Here's a rundown of the pros and cons of each to help you decide.

A physical SIM card is a small, removable chip that you insert into your phone. It stores important data that identifies and authenticates you on a mobile network, allowing you to make calls, send texts, and use data.

On the other hand, an eSIM is a digital version of a physical SIM card. It's built into newer smartphones and doesn't require you to purchase a new SIM card if you want to switch phones or wireless carriers. eSIMs are used not only in smartphones but also in tablets, smartwatches, drones, and even cars.

Ease of Installation

Physical SIM cards need to be physically inserted into your phone using a tray eject pin. If you want to switch SIM cards, you have to buy a new one, which can be inconvenient if you're in a hurry.

With an eSIM, you can purchase it online and receive a QR code with instructions to guide you through the setup and activation process.

Security

Physical SIM cards can pose a security risk. If your phone is stolen, someone can remove the SIM and use your data. eSIMs, on the other hand, are embedded in your device, making them harder to clone and providing an extra layer of protection for your data. If your smartphone with an eSIM is stolen or lost, it's easier to trace and manage remotely.

Compatibility

Physical SIM cards work with almost any device, as long as it's unlocked. This makes them a good choice if you use older phones or plan to stay in one location for a long time.

ESIMs, while becoming more common, are found in newer devices. Major brands like Apple, Samsung, Google, Huawei, and Motorola support eSIM technology, but some older models may not.

Cost

Physical SIM cards are generally well-suited for users who have long-term plans with a single provider. eSIMs, on the other hand, are often cheaper and offer more flexibility, making them ideal for travellers who don't want to commit to a long-term contract.

Switching Networks

With a physical SIM card, switching networks usually involves going to a physical store or getting a new SIM card mailed to you. eSIMs offer more flexibility in this regard, as you can often switch networks by simply downloading an app and following a few prompts.

Travelling

When travelling, security and flexibility are paramount, and eSIMs excel in these areas. With a physical SIM, you usually need to swap it with a local SIM card when you arrive at your destination, which can be inconvenient. eSIMs allow you to instantly access local data plans without the hassle of hunting for a store.

Phone Compatibility

If you constantly switch between different phones, physical SIM cards offer more convenience. With an eSIM, switching phones involves installing an app or entering instructions, and you also have to deactivate the existing device, making it a bit more time-consuming.

Network Support

Not all networks support eSIMs, especially smaller MVNOs. Physical SIM cards have wider compatibility and are currently the best option if you want to ensure compatibility with a wide range of phones and networks.

Multiple Lines

If you have one smartphone for work and another for personal use, eSIMs offer the convenience of having both lines hooked up to the same device. This saves you money as you don't need two separate devices.

In summary, both physical SIM cards and eSIMs have their advantages and disadvantages. Physical SIM cards offer universal compatibility and are ideal for long-term use with a single provider, while eSIMs provide increased security, flexibility in switching networks and travelling, and the ability to have multiple lines on the same device. Choose the option that best suits your personal needs and priorities.

Main mobile operators in Austria

There are three main mobile operators in Austria: A1, Magenta (formerly T-Mobile), and Drei (3). In addition, there are a growing number of MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) that use these three main networks.

A1

A1 is the leading mobile network in Austria, known for its reliability. While it may be on the expensive side, it offers exclusive SIM-only deals for prepaid customers. The A1 SIMply S plan for new expats costs €19.90 per month and provides mobile data in other EU countries. If you're under 26, the A1 SIMply Xcite S plan offers more data for €17.90 per month. A1 also offers the B.free plan, which costs €9.90 and comes with 5,000 minutes or SMS and 5 GB of data. Most SIM cards in Austria operate on the A1 network, offering 5G speeds.

Magenta

Magenta Telekom is the second-largest network provider in Austria. It offers a more budget-friendly alternative to A1. Their Mobile Sim Only S plan is priced at €15 per month, and with the Magenta Bonus, you can save up to €10 per month when combining two tariffs. Magenta has a reliable 4G connection, although some remote areas might have limited coverage.

Drei

Drei is Austria's most affordable mobile provider, offering a wide range of plans. For those under 27, the MyLife SIM plan costs €9.90 per month and provides unlimited calls, messages, 40 GB of data within Austria, and 10 GB in the EU. For those above 27, there is another cost-friendly plan for €12.90 per month. Drei also offers internet-only plans starting at €4 for 1 GB of data.

SIM card registration

Since 1 January 2019, all prepaid SIM cards in Austria must be registered before activation. This is due to a change in the Austrian Telecommunications Act (TKG 2003). The registration process can be completed in-store or online.

Where to Register

You can register your prepaid SIM card at the following locations:

• All A1 Shops (B.free, bob, yesss!, Georg, WOWWW!, yooopi)
• All Magenta Shops (Magenta, tele.ring)
• Your local Post Office (B.free, bob, yesss!)
• All INTERSPAR-Hypermärkte (S-BUDGET MOBILE)
• Selected specialist retailers

What You Need to Register

To register your SIM card, you will need to provide a valid official photo ID, such as a passport, identity card, or driving licence. You will also need to provide proof of your Austrian address, such as a registration certificate or Meldebestätigung.

Timing of Registration

The SIM card does not have to be registered at the time of purchase. However, registration must be completed before activation, as mobile communication services will not be available until the SIM card is authorised.

Consequences of Non-Registration

If your prepaid SIM card is not registered by 1 September 2019, it cannot be topped up or recharged, and you will not be able to extend its validity. This also applies to SIM cards used in devices such as alarm systems.

Transferring SIM Cards

Registered prepaid SIM cards can be passed on or transferred to another user. However, the card must be registered in the name of the new user.

Roaming Services

Until your newly purchased prepaid SIM card is registered, no mobile network services, including roaming services, will be available, except for emergency calls. Existing prepaid SIM cards with roaming services will continue to have access to these services as long as there is sufficient credit. However, from 1 September 2019, non-registered prepaid SIM cards cannot be topped up, which will impact the ability to use roaming services.

Online Registration

Online registration is possible outside of Austria if an internet connection is available. As part of the online registration process, you will need to confirm your identity before the SIM card can be authorised.

Frequently asked questions