Best eSIM for Portugal 2024
Compare 12 eSIM providers with instant activation and plans from $7.99
eSIM Availability in Portugal
eSIM is Available in Portugal!
Portugal has excellent eSIM coverage with 12 providers offering digital SIM cards. Major networks in Portugal support eSIM technology, providing reliable 4G/5G connectivity for travelers.
eSIM Provider Comparison
| Provider | Plans | Price Range | Features | Rating | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Airalo App required | 5 plans Up to 20GB | $9.00 - $89.00 USD |
| 4.5/5 Trust Score | View Plans |
GigSky App required | 5 plans Up to 10GB | $10.00 - $70.00 USD |
| 4.2/5 Trust Score | View Plans |
Truphone App required | 6 plans Up to 10GB | $15.00 - $75.00 USD |
| 4.4/5 Trust Score | View Plans |
Ubigi No app needed | 5 plans Up to 50GB | $9.00 - $99.00 USD |
| 4.1/5 Trust Score | View Plans |
SimOptions No app needed | 4 plans Up to 20GB | $20.00 - $150.00 USD |
| 4/5 Trust Score | View Plans |
Dent App required | 4 plans Up to 20GB | $4.99 - $59.99 USD |
| 3.9/5 Trust Score | View Plans |
KnowRoaming App required | 4 plans Unlimited available | $7.99 - $55.00 USD |
| 4/5 Trust Score | View Plans |
eSIM2Fly No app needed | 2 plans Up to 15GB | $49.00 - $89.00 USD |
| 4.1/5 Trust Score | View Plans |
Maya Mobile App required | 2 plans Up to 10GB | $55.00 - $85.00 USD |
| 4.2/5 Trust Score | View Plans |
Flexiroam App required | 9 plans Up to 100GB | $6.00 - $225.00 USD |
| 3.8/5 Trust Score | View Plans |
RedteaGO App required | 2 plans Up to 5GB | $29.00 - $45.00 USD |
| 4/5 Trust Score | View Plans |
Yesim App required | 7 plans Up to 20GB | $8.00 - $125.00 USD |
| 4.1/5 Trust Score | View Plans |
How to Set Up eSIM for Portugal
Before You Travel
- 1
Check Device Compatibility
Ensure your phone supports eSIM (iPhone XS/XR or newer, recent Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel 3+)
- 2
Choose a Provider & Plan
Select from our comparison table based on your data needs and budget
- 3
Purchase & Receive QR Code
Buy your eSIM online and receive the QR code via email instantly
Upon Arrival in Portugal
- 4
Connect to WiFi
Use airport or hotel WiFi for the initial setup
- 5
Scan QR Code
Go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM and scan the QR code
- 6
Activate & Enjoy
Follow the prompts to activate and start using data immediately
eSIM Compatible Devices
iPhone (2018+)
- iPhone XS, XS Max, XR
- iPhone 11 Series
- iPhone 12 Series
- iPhone 13 Series
- iPhone 14 Series
- iPhone 15 Series
Samsung Galaxy
- Galaxy S20 Series & newer
- Galaxy Note 20 Series
- Galaxy Z Fold Series
- Galaxy Z Flip Series
- Galaxy A54 & newer
Other Brands
- Google Pixel 3 & newer
- Huawei P40 & newer
- Oppo Find X3 & newer
- Xiaomi 12 & newer
- OnePlus 9 & newer
Check Your Device
Not sure if your device supports eSIM? Go to Settings → General → About. If you see "Digital SIM" or "EID", your device is eSIM compatible. Some carrier-locked phones may not support eSIM even if the model typically does.
Portugal eSIM Price Comparison
| Provider | Data | Validity | Price | Price/GB | Hotspot | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KnowRoaming | Unlimited | 1 days | $7.99 | - | Get eSIM → | |
| Holafly | Unlimited | 5 days | $19.00 | - | Get eSIM → | |
| Ubigi | 50GB | 30 days | $49.00 | $0.98/GB | Get eSIM → | |
| Holafly | Unlimited | 10 days | $34.00 | - | Get eSIM → | |
| Holafly | Unlimited | 15 days | $47.00 | - | Get eSIM → | |
| Yesim | 20GB | 30 days | $35.00 | $1.75/GB | Get eSIM → | |
| Holafly | Unlimited | 20 days | $57.00 | - | Get eSIM → | |
| Ubigi | 10GB | 30 days | $19.00 | $1.90/GB | Get eSIM → | |
| Yesim | 10GB | 30 days | $22.00 | $2.20/GB | Get eSIM → | |
| Nomad | 20GB | 30 days | $45.00 | $2.25/GB | Get eSIM → | |
| Flexiroam | 100GB | 360 days | $225.00 | $2.25/GB | Get eSIM → | |
| Holafly | Unlimited | 30 days | $69.00 | - | Get eSIM → | |
| Yesim | 5GB | 15 days | $13.00 | $2.60/GB | Get eSIM → | |
| Yesim | 3GB | 7 days | $8.00 | $2.67/GB | Get eSIM → | |
| Flexiroam | 35GB | 90 days | $95.00 | $2.71/GB | Get eSIM → |
eSIM vs Traditional SIM in Portugal
eSIM Advantages
- Instant Activation
Get connected within minutes, no need to find a store
- Keep Your Number
Use eSIM for data while keeping your home SIM active
- Multiple Profiles
Store multiple eSIMs and switch between them easily
- No Physical Card
Can't be lost, damaged, or stolen like traditional SIMs
- Pre-purchase Convenience
Buy before travel and activate upon arrival
eSIM Limitations
- Device Compatibility
Requires newer phone models (2018+)
- No Phone Number
Most eSIMs are data-only, no local number included
- Internet Required
Need WiFi to download and activate initially
- Can't Share
eSIM is tied to one device, can't swap between phones
- Limited Top-ups
Some providers don't allow data top-ups
Traditional SIM Cards in Portugal
Traditional tourist SIM cards are available in Portugal at airports, convenience stores, and carrier shops. Prices typically range from $10-50 for tourist packages with data, calls, and SMS.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use WhatsApp with an eSIM in Portugal?
Yes! WhatsApp works perfectly with eSIM data plans. Your WhatsApp number stays the same as it's linked to your phone number, not your data connection. You can use WhatsApp for calls, messages, and media sharing using your eSIM data.
Do I need to remove my physical SIM to use eSIM?
No! That's the beauty of eSIM technology. You can keep your physical SIM active for receiving calls and texts from home while using the eSIM for data in Portugal. Most phones support dual SIM functionality with one physical SIM and one eSIM.
Which network will my eSIM use in Portugal?
eSIM providers partner with major networks in Portugal including meo, vodafone, nos. Your eSIM will automatically connect to the partner network with the best coverage in your area. Most providers use multiple networks to ensure the best connectivity.
Can I top up my eSIM data if I run out?
It depends on the provider. Airalo, Nomad, and most major providers allow you to top up or buy additional data packages through their apps. Some providers like Holafly offer unlimited data plans, so you won't need to worry about running out. Check the specific provider's policy before purchasing.
Is eSIM cheaper than roaming in Portugal?
Yes, significantly! International roaming can cost $10-15 per day or more, while eSIM plans for Portugal start from $7.99 for multiple days. For example, a 10-day trip with roaming could cost $100-150, while a comparable eSIM plan costs around $20-40.
What happens to my eSIM after it expires?
Once your eSIM plan expires, it simply stops providing data service. The eSIM profile remains on your phone and can often be reactivated by purchasing a new plan from the same provider. You can also delete the expired eSIM profile from your phone settings to free up space for new eSIMs.