Spain

Networks and coverage
Spain has 4 network operators: All others are resellers or MVNOs reselling the operators, except Yoigo. They are very strong in Spain on the prepaid market caring for 17% of all customers.
 * Movistar (owned by Telefónica)
 * Vodafone
 * Orange 
 * Yoigo (with roaming on Orange)

The country is all covered by 2G and mostly by 3G up to HSPA+ and DC-HSPA. Nationwide Movistar has the best coverage, followed by Vodafone and Orange, which is still very reasonable. 2G is on 900 and 1800 MHz, 3G on 900 and 2100 MHz. Yoigo is a 3G/4G-only network with limited own resources, but moved for free roaming deom Movistar to Orange, giving it a good coverage.

4G/LTE was launched on all operators in 2013 by using 800, 1800 and 2600 MHz frequencies. For prepaid customers LTE is only available on own plans of the network providers, but only few of their MVNOs. In 2016 Vodafone has the best 4G/LTE coverage at 95% followed by Orange with 89%, Movistar and Yoigo at 86% of the population.

All three major providers are more or less on par what customer numbers, coverage and speeds are concerned. They major differences remain local. Only Yoigo is behind, but offers free roaming instead.

Availability
All SIM cards have to be registered by law. Usually you do this in the shops of purchase showing your photo ID (passport or national ID card). As a tourist without a postal address in Spain you have basically this choice: When you use MVNOs, be sure to switch on data roaming and check the appropriate APN. The operators can be topped up at internet and phone stores, some supermarkets and service stations where you need to give them your number (in Spanish or written down). Carrefour markets are a safe bet for top-ups of all providers mentioned here.
 * to go to a shop of one of the 4 network operators (movistar, Vodafone, orange or yoigo). Their stores can be found in every inner city or shopping mall. Their support may be better and reloads can be made almost everywhere. But this comes with extra price.
 * to go to an agency of the smaller resellers / MVNOs operating on the same networks. They may have less support, only a few shops which have to be searched for and not so many places to top up, no LTE yet, but are generally cheaper:
 * on Movistar network: Tuenti, DIGI mobil, Lycamobile
 * on Vodafone network: hits mobile, Lebara móvil
 * on Orange network: Carrefour Móvil, MASmóvil, happymóvil, Jazztel, Simyo, República Móvil, Llamaya móvil
 * There are a few SIM card stands in major airports like MAD or BCN, but they are very overpriced. It's advised to go to a branded shop in downtown or in shopping malls instead.

This survey only shows the most important offers, for more details in English refer to this WIKI which has more or less accurate information.

Different taxes in the Canary Islands, Melilla and Ceuta
In 2014 Spanish operators switched to prices with taxes included (= IVA incluido). The prices given here are for the mainland and the Balearic Islands and include 21% sales tax (IVA). However, on the Canary Islands the applicable tax (IGIC) is only 7%. So prices on the Canaries are to be lowered by 14%. On top-ups made there, you normally get a 14% bonus to adjust the tax difference. In the African enclaves of Melilla the tax is 4%, in Ceuta 10% (IPSI). So tax rates have to be adjusted there too.

Vodafone


Network: 2G up to EDGE, 3G up to  HSPA+, 4G/LTE up to 150 Mbps, all open for prepaid. Meanwhile, it has expanded its LTE coverage to all major towns in the country that can be checked here: Vodafone 4G coverage map. Effective 22/5/2017 all surcharges on roaming in the EU/EEA and the USA will be scrapped.

Vodafone yu
Unlike other operators Vodafone hasn't outsourced their "youth line", but sells in their stores under the name Vodafone yu. The SIM is sometimes free in promotions but can be up to 12 € (+ 5 € for a nano SIM) with no credit. It's a combined tariff with data, domestic calls and texts which has been opened for 4G/LTE. It's sold in 3 different packages with these domestic allowances:
 * Yuser: 1 GB data (from 9/5/2017 1.2 GB), 20 minutes, 20 SMS per month at 10 €.
 * Superyuser: 1.5 GB data (from 9/5/2017 2 GB), 50 minutes, 60 SMS per month at 15 €.
 * Megayuser: 2 GB data (from 9/5/2017 3.5 GB), 100 minutes, unlimited SMS per month at 20 €.

All packages include free calls and texts amongst Vodafone yu numbers too. You can subscribe or change the package by typing *525*51# for Yuser, *525*52# for Superyuser or *525*53# for Megayuser. All packages last for 30 days but can be renewed anytime sooner by typing *525*6#. Otherwise the packages will renew automatically after 30 days if there is credit and unused data or minutes will roll over. After the data volume is used, bandwide is reduced to 32 kbps as long the package is valid or 2 €/day for 200 MB beyond.

You can renew the plan after you use up the data allowance by typing *525# and then selecting to renew the same plan on the menu. You can do that as often as you like as long as you have credit.

Vodafone fácil
They sell this prepaid standard SIM card in their stores for 5 € with 5 € credit. Vodafone fácil has all domestic calls at 6 Cent per minute and 18 Cent per call. All tariffs can be changed to this by typing *626#.

You can book a 300 MB data package for 5 € on 4G/LTE valid for 30 days by typing *313*22#. This is a very easy way to get a small data amount from a lot of shops. That's the only package for this card, but it can be renewed anytime. Default rate outside of package is 2 € per day for 200 MB.

International Smartphone Tourist SIM
Their new voice and data SIM card is called International Smartphone and sold for 15 € containing 1.5 GB data up to 4G/LTE and 60 minutes domestic and international calls to 35 countries (2 GB and 50 mins effective 23/5/17) valid for a month. This pack is valid for 30 days. It renews automatically, if you have enough credit. In this case unused voice or data will roll over. When used beyond the limit, speed is throttled to 32 kbps, data use outside of package charged with a daily fee of 2 € for 200 MB. You can change to this plan by typing *565#.

Roaming
From May 22, 2017 Vodafone scraps all surcharges for roaming in the EU/EEA and USA on all prepaid voice and data plans (not Internet Móvil for now). Data allowances of all Yu, Fácil and International Smartphone plans can be used in the EU/EEA and USA roaming at the domestic Spanish rate. This is the cheapest roaming offer in Spain so far.

Internet Móvil Prepago - Data-only SIM
Their data-only tariff called Internet Móvil Prepago is now on 4G/LTE in up to 150 Mbit/s. Starter pack is sold in Vodafone's stores for 15 € with 1.5 GB preloaded valid for 3 months. Having used up the pack, you will be on the daily tariff of 200 MB for 2 EUR or can choose one of these two monthly add-ons for 4G data: The data-only SIM card can be managed online and on data-only plans VoIP is open. It can not be topped up by vouchers like on voice SIMs. And most online and ATM top-ups are only allowed, if you have a Spanish debit or credit card. Not having one of these, the only way to top-up, is to return a Vodafone store each time for reloading.
 * 750 MB: 10 EUR, activation: text 'C AVA' to 2207
 * 1.5 GB: 15 EUR, activation: text 'C PRE' to 2207

More information

 * APN for smartphones: airtelnet.es
 * APN for modems or routers; ac.vodafone.es
 * Username and password: vodafone
 * VoIP and tethering is allowed on all prepaid plans
 * Use *138# to find out the number for your SIM (it's not always written down on the SIM)
 * Website in Spanish: http://www.vodafone.es/

Yoigo


Network: 3G: up to HSPA+, 4G/LTE on 1800 MHz. For 2G/3G they roam on the network of Movistar for free, giving a good coverage. Since 2014 Yoigo's 4G/LTE has been opened for prepaid users. In 2016 they have been sold from Telia to Másmóvil and in January 2017 they will switch from Movistar to Orange for roaming.

Availability
SIM card with new number is sold for 20 € including 20 € credit in Yoigo stores (store locator) in all three SIM sizes. If you bring a number from another provider, you will need to pay only 15 €, but still receive 20 € credit. Some shops try to sell SIM card with a surcharge, try to get the official price or go to a different store like the Phone House that also resells Yoigo (stores).

Data feature packs
After having used the included data, speed is reduced to 128 Kbps and an add on is offered: 200 MB extra for 2 €. The package will renew automatically every 30 days if there is credit. Data rates outside package: 1.45 €/day.
 * La del Uno 650MB: 1.3 GB for the first 3 months, then 650 MB high speed volume in 4G/LTE up to 75 Mbps per month for 8 €.
 * La del Uno 1GB: 2 GB for the first 3 months then 1 GB high speed volume in 4G/LTE plus 20 domestic minutes per month for 10 €. On this tariff only, VoIP is unblocked.

More Information

 * APN: internet
 * Yoigo actively blocks VoIP on its plans (except of the La del Uno 1GB)
 * Website in Spanish: http://www.yoigo.com/

Orange


Network: 2G up to EDGE, 3G up to HSUPA. 4G/LTE up to 150 Mbit/s with a coverage of 80% of the population. For 4G/LTE you need to have a 4G-enabled Orange SIM card and have booked a data package.

Availability
SIM card can be obtained for free, but a top up of 10-20 € has to be made at purchase. They are sold in every Orange store in Spain (store locator) in all three sizes. With the purchase they will give you another 5 € promocional credit. This extra credit is marked "saldo promocional" and can be used only for domestic calls, texts and data within 30 days, while regular balance stays valid for 365 days at least. Top-ups can be made almost everywhere in the country. Again, you will be awarded extra "saldo promocional" for every recharge.

Mundo SIM
The Mundo SIM has 3 data packages to choose from. It can be set at purchase, online or by app in the client's area. The are valid for 30 days and renew automatically if credit is available. Overuse or out of bundle use is charged by 0.363 € per 10 MB. Orange gives 1 GB additional data free for the activation and every recharge until 31/3/2017 on 1 and 2 GB plan as a promotion
 * 500 MB: 6 €
 * 1 GB: 9 € (+ 1 GB data in promotion)
 * 2 GB: 15 € (+ 1 GB data in promotion)

Activation at purchase, online in the client's area, by app or by texting "ALTA MUNDO " to 1470. If having used up all data, you can renew the packs ahead of time by sending a free SMS to 1470 with the following text: "RENOVACION MUNDO ",  For pack size fill in '500MB', '1GB' or '2GB' and be sure to have enough credit. Deactivation by changing to Mundo SIM without data pack by app or in the client's area.

Other prepaid plans
Online in the client's area "mi Orange" or by calling customer service, all prepaid tariffs of Orange are interchangeable. A Mundo SIM can be changed to or from:
 * Tarifa Ardilla (= squirrel): no monthly base rate, data by add-on of 300 MB at 4 € per month
 * Tarifa Ballena (= whale): 8.95 € per month including 2 GB of data and free domestic calls with a flagfee of 0.18 € per call. Ballena can be used in laptops, tablets and dongles in addition to smartphones, and tethering is allowed. If you have used up your data allowance for the month, you can buy another 1 GB for another 8.95 €.
 * Tarifa Ballena 14: 14.95 € per month, including 3 GB of data and 30 domestic mins. Rest like Ballena above.

Tourist SIM
Orange has now revamped their Tourist SIM offer that is aimed at visitors and can't be changed in tariff. Their SIM called "Holidays" offers 3 GB and 30 minutes voice to Spain and 45 other countries (list) within 30 days for 35 EUR. If you exceed your data quota, speed will be throttled to 16 kbps.

You can only upsize this package by booking the complete package again ahead of time. For this, you need to add credit and text 'BONO HOLIDAYS' to 1470. Otherwise this SIM will auto-renew after 30 days, if you have loaded enough credit before. You can also change any other prepaid SIM to this in your client's area.

EU roaming option
The EU roaming option called "Go Europe" can be booked on their SIM cards (not on the tourist SIM "Holidays"). Once enabled, all EU roaming data on Orange's roaming partners will be billed automatically like this: 100 MB in 24 hours for 1 € (tax incl.). For more details see our European Union section here in detail.

Tethering
Orange used not to provide a tethering profile for iOS devices. This seems to have changed now. Some users reported no issues tethering from Apple devices in Spain. It has always been working on Android, Windows, Blackberry etc. as well as tablets, routers and modems.

Morte information

 * APN: orangeworld /or/ internet
 * Username and Password: orange
 * VoIP not allowed, but possible
 * Website in English: Orange

Movistar (by Telefónica)


Movistar by Telefónica is on 2G up to EDGE, 3G up to HSPA+ and now on 4G/LTE too. Telefónica is still the incumbent and main landline provider and used to be market leader in Spain, but its offer is not very competitive.

Availability
SIM card is sold for 10 € with the same credit in every Movistar store in all three sizes.

Top-ups can be found all over in supermarkets, kiosks or service stations. Check balance by *123#.

If you haven't topped up for 6 months, your balance will be lost and the SIM remains open only incoming. After another 54 days without a recharge, the whole number will be discontinued.

Data feature packs
These monthly prepaid plans are offered: Default and excess rate is the Tarifa diaria at 3 € for 300 MB per day up to 18 € for 1.8 GB, no 4G/LTE on this base rate.
 * Habla 6: no base rate, data only at the default rate (see below)
 * Tarifa #1: 1 GB for 30 days on 4G/LTE: 9 €
 * Tarifa #2: 2 GB for 30 days on 4G/LTE: 15 €

Better choose a data plan online or at the point of purchase. For more data on all 3 plans you can add a 200 MB add-on valid on 4G/LTE and for 1 week at 2 € online, by app or by calling 1200 for free.

More information

 * APN: movistar.es
 * Tethering works and seems allowed as per movistar.es tether faq
 * Website in Spanish: http://www.movistar.es/

Tuenti
Tuenti is a subsidiary of Telefónica using the Movistar network in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE too. It has a good coverage in Spain and is still the only Movistar MVNO on prepaid with 4G/LTE for now.

Availability
Their SIM card is free, but you have to choose one of their packages right away. Special rules apply to foreigners with registration in shops, see below. You have to download the Tuenti app free from the AppStore or Google Play. The SIM has to be linked to a Tuenti profile (available in English), which you can use to sign-up and manage your services.

Buy it from their website, in most Movistar stores, Telecor, FNAC and lots of other places: Tuenti points of sale. Mini-SIM, micro-SIM and nano-SIM are available. Recharges can be made using the Tuenti app or online using an international credit card. Top-ups can be bought at Movistar stores too. From 2014 tuenti móvil is finally sold on the Canary Islands too in 140 Movistar stores for a slightly lower price because of the reduced tax rates there (see Basics above).

If you are introduced by an existing Tuenti customer, you receive free credit of either €5 or €10, which varies from time to time. Click here to be introduced and order a SIM card with free additional credit.

The remaining balance is valid for use within 6 months. After this time the SIM will fall into hibernation. No calls, SMS or data can be sent or received. You have to top up €5 or more within a further 6-month period. If you don't do that, your number and your balance will be lost. If you top-up by at least €5, your account and balance will be reactivated for another 6-month period of usage. If there is no remaining balance for a 6-month period the card will be deactivated without the possibility to reactivate. The full expiry policy is explained here (in Spanish).

Extra rules for foreigners
Legally they are not allowed to discriminate foreigners, but tuenti has invented some special rules for them: In physical stores like Movistar shops you can do the registration only by showing your passport. Unlike holders of Spanish ID cards (DNI, NIE) you'll have to pay 25 € and the only option to choose is the 7 € package. The rest will be given as a 18 € card balance. This policy is not enforced if you order it online. You can use your passport ID or Spanish ID cards (called DNI and NIE) online and pay with a credit card or cash-on-delivery and choose any package you like. They'll send it to any Spanish address like your hotel.

Data feature pack
In 2017 they have revised the whole tariff portfolio again. They now offer these two monthly allowances: Overuse is charged at 0.04 € per MB up to 15 €, but you can add these extra bundles as well: Package and add-ons must be booked online using the tuenti app on the phone or website, navigating to "móvil" after the SIM is combined with the tuenti app. The package will automatically renew, if there is enough credt. This can be disabled online. Add-on packages are only valid for the rest of the running time of the base plan.
 * 1 GB: 6 €
 * 4 GB: 14 €
 * 7 GB: 21 €
 * 250 MB: 1.50 €
 * 1 GB: 6 €

VozDigital
This VoIP feature is automatically activated when you purchase a bundle. It allows you to make calls for free to national and international numbers (within your included allowance) using their app and credit or data will not be debited from your account. The app can be installed on every iOS or and Android smartphone, but when you use other providers or mobile internet, you will be billed incoming for the data consumption. You can also create an account without an associated SIM online, and accept/call other tuenti members, via Chrome, Opera and even Firefox browsers. However, you need 3G, 4G, WiFi or a landline data connection to use VOZDigital.

More Information

 * call 2201 to receive a SMS with balance and expiration date.
 * APN: tuenti.com
 * user: tuenti
 * password: tuenti
 * Website in Spanish: http://www.tuenti.com/

Carrefour Móvil


Carrefour Móvil the brand of the largest retailer in the country uses the Orange network on 2G and 3G, but their offers don't include 4G/LTE and aren't competitive anymore.

Availability
SIM cards can be purchased online on the Carrefour website ,but this requires a Spanish fiscal number (NIE/NIF) and a Spanish postal address to be sent to. In Carrefour megastores (locations: store locator) it can be bought using a foreign passport and local Spanish (hotel) address for registration only. Note, that there are two different SIM cards on sale: the INTERNET móvil with data-only and the regular prepaid card with voice and data and a different tariff.

Credit can be displayed by calling *113# (for free up to 5 times per month). You can add credit online or in Carrefour supermarkets. Some tabacco shops and the Carrefour chains Día and Clarel offer credit for Carrefour Móvil too.

Tarjeta Carrefour Internet Móvil Prepago (= prepaid data-only SIM):
SIM costs 5 € without credit. It's a data SIM for data and SMS only, no voice calls.
 * Tarifa diaria: default plan, no activation is necessary, 1.21 Euro per day (= 24 hrs), 100 MB at full 3G speed, thereafter speed is reduced to 128 kbps. You are charged only for the days that you connect. A 3 € per month minimum spending applies (as long as you have credit).


 * Bono 1 GB add-on : 10 € for 30 days, 1 GB at full 3G speed, thereafter speed is reduced to 128 kbps. Activation: by sending SMS to 22864 with "ALTA BONO 1GB". Deactivation: by sending "BAJA BONO 1GB" to 22864. Data balance check: by sending "BONO 1GB" to 22864 (5 free SMS per month)


 * Bono 3 GB add-on : 20 € for 30 days, 3 GB at full 3G speed, thereafter speed is reduced to 128 kbps. Activation: by sending SMS to 22864 with "ALTA BONO 3GB". Deactivation and data balance check: see above.

Tarjeta prepago Carrefour (= prepaid voice and data SIM):
The SIM costs 10 € with the same credit. You pay 0.50 Euro per day for 20 MB at full 3G speed, thereafter speed is reduced to 128 kbit/s. You are charged only for the days that you connect, but no data packages are offered on this tariff and it can't be changed to a data SIM. 3 € per month minimum spending applies (as long as you have credit). This tariff can not be changed to the Internet Móvil Prepago. They offer one bundle:
 * 1 GB of data and 30 domestic minutes valid for 30 days: 7.90 €. Beyond the quota, speed will be throttled to 32 kbps. To activate, text 'ALTA BONO NAVEGA HABLA' to 22864. Bundle will auto-renew. To stop text 'BAJA BONO NAVEGA HABLA' to the same number.
 * Add-on: to regain high speed data, they now offer an add-on of 1.2 GB for the rest of running time of the base bono at 6.90 €

More information
Make sure to use the right APN. You may have to manually change the APN on the iPhone, because on default it uses the wrong Orange APN.
 * Tethering is not allowed. On the iPhone it's disabled, on Android devices possible anyway.
 * APN: CARREFOURINTERNET
 * Website in Spanish: http://www.carrefour.es/telecom

Másmóvil


Másmóvil is currently using the Orange network on 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE on prepaid. They have recently acquired the Yoigo network. So some changes can be expected soon.

Availability
SIM card is sold in their shops (locator: check 'venta') or online for 10 € with the same credit preloaded. Combi and nano sizes are available. Reloads are sold at many stores.

Data feature packs
Default rate outside of packages is 3.63 ct per MB. If you don't have booked a package, they will charge you a monthly minimum consumption of 3.63 €. Másmovil offers these prepaid data bundles valid for 30 days that need to be customized on their website in advance, voice and text bundles are offered too: Packages will auto-renew after one month, if there is sufficient credit on your account. To stop, disable them in your personal account, but you will be charged the minimum fee.
 * 500 MB: 3.70 €
 * 1 GB: 5 €
 * 2 GB: 9.90 €
 * 4 GB: 14.90 €

Data-only SIM
For tablets and routers they offer this product called Internet móvil that is also available on prepaid with a monthly data allowance and a minimum fee of 3.63 €: Default rate applies outside of packages. For overuse they offer a 200 MB add-on with throttling instead for 2 €.
 * 5 GB: 19.90 €
 * 10 GB: 29.90 €
 * 20 GB: 39.90 €
 * 50 GB: 89.90 €

More information

 * APN: internetmas
 * Tethering and VoIP are allowed
 * Website in Spanish: http://masmovil.es/es/tarifas-prepago/

HappyMóvil


HappyMóvil is solely available at all ThePhoneHouse stores in Spain: Store Locator. and managed by Másmóvil. It's a MVNO using the Orange network on 2G and 3G. You can easily compare tariffs at ThePhoneHouse as they sell Movistar, Vodafone, Orange, Yoigo, República Móvil and Lebara there too.

Availability
Only ThePhoneHouse sells the product line HappyMóvil. The SIM card costs 15 € with the same credit on it. Try to get the Nacional plan without a base rate.

Top-up agencies are sometimes hard to find, but most Spanish post offices (Correos) and Carrefour supermarkets can do.

Data feature packages
Different monthly data packages are offered on the tariff line "Nacional", that can be used for calls too: Packages are for 30 days and can't be upsized ahead of time. When data is used up, you'll get another 300 MB at slow 16 kbps, then at the default rate of 10.89 ct per MB. All packages include free domestic calls for the first 10 mins of the call, but a 18.15ct flagfall per call applies.
 * 1.2 GB: 6 €
 * 1.2 GB + 120 dom. minutes: 10.50 €
 * 3 GB: 16 €
 * 5 GB: 29 €

All these packages can be booked or unsubscribed in store or by calling 91 111 8507. There is a monthly minimum consumption of 2 € as long as you have credit. Packages will auto-renew, if you have enough credit. Otherwise, you'll be charged the default rate for data.

More information

 * APN: internettph
 * HappyMóvil sells discounted IDD phone calls, but with an high connection fee
 * Website in Spanish only: http://www.happymovil.es/

DIGI mobil
With DIGI mobil you get a Romanian and a Spanish number on one SIM. In Spain this MVNO operates on the Movistar network on 2G and 3G, but no 4G/LTE so far.

Availablity
The SIM card costs 10 € with 10 € credit. It's available online and offline only in a few shops: DIGI mobil shop locator.

Top-ups can be made there and in many kiosks where they support smaller MNVOs.

Data feature packs
All their packages are for 30 days: To subscribe enter *100#  choose option 2 "internet móvil" and 1 "Alta DIGI naveg@". This package will renew every month if there is credit. You can unsubscribe on the same menu with "Baja DIGI naveg@". Minutes in combo packs are domestic and to about 40 countries.
 * data packages:
 * Naveg@2GB: 2 GB: 5 €
 * Naveg@5GB: 5 GB: 10 €
 * combo packages with data, mins and Digi mins
 * 1 GB, 100 mins, 2000 Digi mins: 5 €
 * 2 GB, 400 mins, 5000 Digi mins: 10 €
 * 5 GB, 800 mins, 5000 Digi mins: 15 €
 * 10 GB, 2000 mins, 5000 Digi mins: 20 €

After having used all package volume, speed will be reduced to GPRS or you can buy add-ons called "Extra": Bear in mind that add-ons always refer only to the original billing period of the monthly plan and are not transferable to the next month. To buy an add-on use menu *100# option 2 "internet móvil" and choose option 4 "Aumenta MB".
 * 200 MB: 1 €
 * 1 GB: 3 €

More information

 * credit can be checked on *134# and data credit on *130# free of charge
 * be sure to use the Spanish number (+34... ) in Spain and enable (domestic) roaming
 * APN: internet.digimobil.es
 * Username and Password: digi
 * Website in English: http://www.digimobil.es/index.php?idLang=2

hits Mobile
This MVNO operates on the Vodafone network in 2G and 3G giving good coverage and speed, but no 4G/LTE yet.

Availability
The SIM can be bought for 5 EUR with 10 EUR credit online with free shipping in 7 days if you have a local Spanish address. Offline, they are sold in kiosks and other agencies. Unfortunately, they don't have a list of distributors but you can ask for the nearest store by calling [tel: 800 654321] (free within Spain). Top-ups can be made online with international credit cards.

Data feature packs
The default rate for internet is 6.05 cents per MB as long as no package is activated. They have the following data packs: The packs are for one month exactly lasting until the previous day of booking in the following month. When all volume is used, you will surf on the default rate or can buy a new package ahead of time. All packages renew automatically after one month if there is enough credit. To activate the package simply send a free SMS to 22321 containing the '#GB PACK' where # stands for the desired volume, to deactivate 'REMOVE #GB PACK' and to renew ahead of time 'RENEW #GB PACK'.
 * 1 GB: 5.90 €
 * 3 GB: 13.90 €
 * 5 GB: 24.90 €

Internatl. voice and domestic data
They also offer bonos for national and international calls and data usage in Spain: International calls include all mobile numbers to 36 countries and landlines to 22 more (see list). To activate text 'ALL #### PACK' where ### is 500 MB, 1.5 GB or 3 GB to 22321. To renew or suspend auto-renewal just follow steps shown above.
 * 100 min + 500 MB: 9.90 €
 * 250 min + 1.5 GB: 19.90 €
 * 1000 min + 3 GB: 39.90 €

More information

 * APN for smartphones: tel.hitsmobile.es
 * APN for routers and modems: pc.hitsmobile.es
 * Website available in English: http://www.hitsmobile.es/en/home

Lebara móvil
This MVNO of the British Lebara Group is heavily marketed and operates in Spain on the Vodafone network in 2G and 3G giving good coverage and speeds, but no 4G/LTE so far.

Availability
The SIM can be bought online on the Website of Lebara Spain (available in English) to be sent to a Spanish address or offline from a lot of kiosks and phone shops all around the country: Store finder (mark: SIM). It is sold for 10 € with the same amount of credit loaded.

Top-ups for 10, 20 or 30 € can be made there and some other stores which all are clearly marked with the Lebara logo or online with international credit cards.

Data feature packs
Default rate is 0.05 EUR per MB. This rate is charged without booking a package or for overuse. The following monthly data packages are available. For activation text code to 22333. These extra data packages as add-ons can be booked for the running time of the base plan to all the passes above: For all activations text all codes to 22333. All packs are valid for 30 days. There is no way to reactivate them ahead of time. You can only buy the add-ons. All passes will automatically renew every 30 days if there is enough credit. To stop text NODATA### (### = size of pack) to 22333. Extra data doesn't auto-renew. A max. of 5 add-ons can be purchased per month.
 * 250 MB: 5 €. Activation: DATA250MB
 * 500 MB: 6 €. Activation: DATA500MB
 * 1 GB: 7.50 €. Activation: DATA1GB
 * 2 GB: 9 €. Activation: DATA2GB
 * 4 GB: 14 €. Activation: DATA3GB
 * 6 GB: 19 €. Activation: DATA5GB
 * 300 MB add-on: 5 €. Activation: D300
 * 500 MB add-on: 6 €. Activation: D500
 * 1 GB add-on: 8 €. Activation: D1GB

More information

 * APN: gprsmov.lebaramobile.es
 * No tethering on iPhones, as Lebara doesn't give out a profile, but possible on other devices.
 * Website is available in English

Lycamobile
Lycamobile is the main competitor of Lebara on the international ethno market. In Spain Lycamobile is a MVNO on the Movistar network of Telefónica in 2G and 3G and in March 2017 4G/LTE was added.

Availability
Their SIM can be ordered online on their website free of charge to be sent to a Spanish address for free. Offline they can be found in web and phone shops and other kiosks. They don't have a store locator, so they might not be so easy to find. Look for their logo.

In the Lycamobile-branded stores their SIM is the cheapest. It may be free or for a small fee, depending on shop, but requiring an immediate top-up: Prices range from 10 € with 5 € credit to 7.50 € with 7.50 € credit (that is 5 € credit and 2.50 € bonus credit).

Top-ups can be made in their agencies as well as online using an international credit card. Check balance by *221#

Data feature packs
Default rate is 16.9 c per MB on the standard plan, 3.6c per MB on the Smart plan and 0.9c per MB on the Plan Ahorro, charged when the bundle is used up or no bundle is booked.

To change from the standard plan to Smart plan text 'SMART' to 2525 or to Ahorro plan text 'PLANAHORRO' to 2525. All plans have the same data packages now: All packs will renew automatically after one month if there is enough credit. To unsubscribe call costumer service on 321 or #93 from Lycamobile.

You can check your remaining credit balance with *221# and your data balance with *137#. For more data you can add bonos extensibles valid for the rest of the running time of the base packages:
 * 500 MB: 4 EUR, for activation text 601 to 3535
 * 1 GB: 5 EUR, for activation text 602 to 3535

Technical settings

 * APN: data.lycamobile.es
 * Username: lmes (that's lowcase L, not capital i)
 * Password: plus

More information

 * strictly no tethering: Lycamobile doesn't give out a profile and tries to block tethering by sniffer programs. You can use it in all kinds of 3G devices, but not simultanously
 * Lycamobile blocks VPNs and services which act like VPNs (BBM per example)
 * the Lycamobile website is available in English. Check for further details and offers
 * Lycamobile offers cheap roaming bundles to be used in certain countries only. All packages are valid for 30 days and can't be renewed ahead of time. For more info see Euro5

Llamaya móvil
Llamaya móvil is an ethno provider like Lyca and Lebara that focuses on low-priced foreign calls. To counter their UK-based rivals they are from Spain operating on the Orange network in 2G and 3G, but no 4G/LTE so far.

Availability
Their starter may be a bit harder to find than those of the other two as they don't advertise so prominently. Small internet shops are the safest bet in downtown streets with a high immigration share. There or online to be sent to a Spanish address, you can buy the SIM card for 5 € with the same credit valid for 30 days.

Recharges
You can top-up at many places, where small providers are topped up at min. 5 € like Dia and Eroski supermarkets, el Corte Inglés department stores or Cepsa service stations. If you don't have balance for 60 days, they will block your plan with a 15 days grace period to reload it again before it will be terminated forever. Check balance by *113#.

They have two plans Tarifa Clásica and ''Tarifa Maxi. For the Clásica'' you will receive 50% top-up bonus for every recharge, but have higher default rates. To change plans text 'clasica' or 'maxi' to 22951.

Data feature packages
Default rate for data on the Clásica plan is 0.10 € per MB, on the Maxi plan 0.05 € per MB. On both plans these same packages called bonos valid for 30 days can be added: For activation text code to 22951. All packs auto-renew after 30 days. To stop text 'BAJADATOS' to 22951. For extra data, they offer a 400 MB add-on for 4 €, activated by 'EXTRADATOS' to 22951, valid for the rest of the running time of the base plan.
 * 1 GB: 6 € - activation: 'DATOS1Gb'
 * 2 GB: 9 € - activation: 'DATOS2Gb'
 * 3 GB: 12 € - activation: 'DATOS3Gb'
 * 5 GB: 17 € - activation: 'DATOS5Gb'

More information

 * APN must be entered manually: moreinternet


 * Website in Spanish: http://www.llamayamovil.com/

Jazztel prepago
Jazztel is another MVNO on the reasonable Orange network (for coverage and speed see Orange above). While Orange opened their 4G/LTE for Jazztel, their prepaid product called Jazztel prepago stays on 2G and 3G only.

Availability
Their prepaid starter pack called Jazzcard móvil is available online to be sent to a Spanish postal address or in many stores. They have a store locator here, but its addresses are not reliable. Many places actually don’t have it in store, but the Telecor or PhoneHouse shops (Store Locator) on the list are a safe bet. It is sold for 5 EUR with the same credit included. A hybrid mini-micro SIM card is given out in shops, online you can choose a nano SIM too.

Recharges
You can recharge where you can top up the usual MVNOs or online. This is the preferred way as in promotions Jazztel gives 50% online recharge bonus on all top-ups. This is an ongoing promotion which is prolonged all the time. International credit cards work if they are 'verified by Visa' or have a 'Mastercard Secure Code' and you check the “pago seguro” box in the recharge menu. The 50% bonus gives great rates for data on packages.

Data feature packages
Default data rate outside of packages is 9.5 ct per MB. These packages are offered for 30 days: Activation is by texting code to 2288 or online on your Jazztel account. Bonos are for 30 days and don’t renew. The voice allowances include Spain and 40 further countries mentioned on this list (scroll down). All calls from Jazztel to Jazztel and all domestic landlines are free with a max. per call of 10 mins per call and of 3,000 mins per month on all plans.

With their ongoing recharge promotion, you can effectively buy 1 GB for 5 € or 3 GB for 10 € which is a very good rate for Spain. Remember that you surf on the default rate after your bono has run out. You can not upsize your bono as long as another bono is still active.

More infomation

 * VoIP is allowed and possible
 * Tethering is possible from Android devices, but no profile for iPhones is given out
 * APN: jazzinternet
 * Check balance by typing *169#
 * Website in Spanish: http://www.jazztelprepago.com/

Simyo
Simyo is one of the oldest and most established MVNOs in the country. It operates on Orange's network. In 2015 4G/LTE was opened to prepaid to all tariffs. It has been off our list for a while, because it couldn't be found in stores, but now it's back in some stores and one of the best options for Spain right now.

Availability
It may be still hard to find a SIM card on location in shops. Their preferred way is to order it online on their website. But they only send it out to a Spanish postal address for a 7 € shipping fee. In shops you can find it at holaMOBI located in around 100 places in Spain (holaMOBI locator) and in some hipermercados of Carrefour (locator) and a few independent shops. There, they charge you 10 € for the starter, but Simyo gives to all new clients a 10 € welcome credit after activation. Be sure to get the prepaid (prepago or de tarjeta), not a contract (contrato) SIM. Finally, they have released an online map of their sales points (map).

Recharges
There are many top-up locations in supermarkets, small internet stores, post offices or at the service stations of Repsol. Online only Spanish credit cards are accepted. To check balance, type *126#.

Data feature packages
Default data for overuse or use without packages is 3.63 ct per MB. Better use one of these monthly packages called bonos:  All packages are for 30 days and auto-renew if you have enough credit. To upsize during the running month, they only offer the 100 MB, 500 MB and 1 GB packages again for the same price. To purchase, check your personal Simyo account or call customer support at 121.
 * 100 MB: 1 €
 * 500 MB: 3 €
 * 1 GB: 6 €
 * 2 GB: 10.50 €
 * 3 GB: 12.50 €
 * 5 GB: 17 €
 * 10 GB: 30 €
 * night bono 1 GB: 1.99 €, only valid 10.30pm-8am, can be added several times
 * weekend bono 1 GB: 1.99 €, only valid FRI 3pm to SUN midnight, can be added again

EU roaming option
Simyo sells only one package of 100 MB for roaming all over the EU/EEA at 1.99 €. This pack can be booked multiple times on your personal account. While it's twice the price of Orange for roaming, Simyo's pack is valid for 30 days and can be used much more efficiently than the Orange's by day plan.

More information

 * Tethering and VoIP calls are allowed
 * APN: orangeworld
 * Website in Spanish: http://www.simyo.es/

República Móvil
República Móvil is another MVNO on the 2G and 3G network of Orange. It started in 2013 and offers good rates and like Tuenti a free VoIP application. Recently 4G/LTE was opened for all customers without surcharges.

Availability
You can order the starter pack on their website for free. But they send it out only to a Spanish postal address. In shops it is sold at at holaMOBI located in around 100 places in Spain (holaMOBI locator) and since October 2015 in all PhoneHouse stores (PhoneHouse locator) with a lot more shops for 10 € with the same credit preloaded.

Recharges
You can top-up online, but some foreign credit cards may not be accepted. In Spain you can use all MÁSmóvil recharge channels: supermarkets, small internet stores, post offices, some service stations and many more. Look for the MÁSmóvil logo (see above). Check credit on your personal online account.

Data feature packages
Standard rate for data is 3.6 ct per MB. These packages are offered valid for one month:
 * 500 MB: 2.90 €
 * 1.2 GB: 5.90 €
 * 3 GB: 11.90 €
 * 5 GB: 16.90 €
 * 8 GB: 26.90 € (unlimited national calls incl.)

You can book and customize every data pack for the month on your online account. Take care, that they don't offer data add-ons. Having reached the quota, you will either be charged 3.63 ct per MB or you have to choose limited speed for extra 1 €, at 16 kbit/s and limited to 1 GB for the rest of the month. All packages auto-renew after one month, if there is enough credit.

More information

 * Tethering and VoIP calls are allowed
 * like Tuenti they offer "unlimited" free VoIP calls by using the HazteUnSimpa app that you can find here for download
 * APN: internettph
 * República Móvil is not available in Mellila and Ceuta for taxation issues, but on the Canaries they started recently too.
 * Website in Spanish: https://www.republicamovil.es/

FreedomPop
FreedomPop is a 'Freemium' provider giving out a small amount of data, calls and texts for free in hope that you buy more allowances later. They started in the US, UK and have spread to Spain and Mexico now with more countries to follow. Also read the UK section and US section on FreedomPop, which is, in fact, the same operator with different rates.

FreedomPop is not a real MVNO in Spain, but rather offers its service using UK SIM cards over Three's roaming agreements, same as their Global SIM sold on the US. Due to this, you need to enable international roaming on your phone, even if you are Spain.

Data is only 3G, not 4G/LTE and, while usable, is routed over the UK with long latency and slow speeds at times. But it's the only operator that works on two different Spanish networks (Orange and Movistar), giving it arguably the best coverage.

Availability
SIM cards are only available online to be delivered to Spain postal addresses only. So you need to have a Spanish address. Normally, we don't list online-only operators, but make exceptions for free offers. Also, some of Lycamobile outlets sell these SIM cards since February 2017.

The usual website only allows buying the SIM card for 11.99€ with the first month of the Premium Plan included for free, but they regularly email out alternate links with lower shipping costs and special offers.

Every SIM card is linked to a credit or debit card for payment and top-ups. Internatl. cards issued outside Spain are accepted. They are managed either from FreedomPop's web control panel or with its phone apps.

Due to Spanish law, you'll need to provide with identification. However they also accept passports from out of the country and you only need to upload a scan of it during registration.

Free allowances
For every month 200 MB data, 300 domestic SMS and 100 domestic minutes are given out for free. Data overuse is charged at 0.015 € per MB on the free plan. You can also earn more free data by taking part in third-party offers like filling in a survey or downloading a coupon.

Combo packages for pay
These additional monthly bundles can be added: Extra data as overuse for pay plans is 0.01 € per MB, instead of the 0.015 € on the free plan.
 * 4.99 €: 1 GB data, 500 domestic texts, 200 domestic minutes
 * 8.99 €: 2 GB data, unlimited domestic texts and minutes
 * 14.99 €: 4 GB data, unlimited domestic texts and minutes
 * 15.99 €: 5 GB data, unlimited domestic texts and minutes
 * 28.99 €: 10 GB data, unlimited domestic texts and minutes

You can roll over unused data to the next month for 1.99 € per month. A maximum of 500 MB can be rolled over and a maximum of 20 GB can be stored.

Restrictions
Beware of a few catches. You should immediately turn off "auto top-up" on your online account, which is turned on by default. Here is why: Even if you disable auto-top-up, their systems have some delay synchronizing data usage from their providers and you might get billed for a small amount at the end of the month if you spent more data than what is in your plan.
 * They will automatically top-up your account by 10 € of credit when you’re within 20 MB of your download allowance. This means you’re only able to use 180 MB without paying anything extra using auto top-up.
 * As payment details are held on record and used automatically for when you incur additional charges, it’s very easy to accidentally run up a bill by surprise. If you’d like to receive a notification when your allowances have been used up, they charge an extra 0.99 € per month for this service.

All calls are routed via VoIP. This means that you need to have a stable and pretty fast data connection to make calls - which is not always the case, given that you are roaming on 3G on Spain through the UK. Unlike their UK offer, there is not any "premium voice add-on" available.

Those features make it not very attractive if you critically need reliable service - but if you have another SIM from another provider, this makes an ideal free back-up SIM or to cheaply get roaming data.

Roaming
FreedomPop boasts 'free roaming' in some countries: US, UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Austria, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxemburg, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark, Ireland, Portugal, Greece, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Croatia, Romania, Bulgaria and Czech Republic.

Rates are the same as in Spain (where you are also roaming as well), making it an interesting option to get cheap, international data.

More info

 * Note, that you can't expect any support or helpline when facing issues.
 * APN: freedompop.foggmobile.com


 * Website: http://es.freedompop.com

Cellhire
Cellhire in the UK rents a data SIM card with optional MiFi rental for Spain.

Cellhire offers a 10 GB Data SIM Card with 3G and 4G data on the Orange network for the monthly rental fee of £39.99. A 3G MiFi can be added for an extra £10 or a 4G MiFi for an extra £19. Data SIM and MiFi are for rent on a 30 day rolling contract and have to be returned.

When the 10 GB bundle runs out, speed is throttled, but you can continue to use data at no charge. You'll need to pay £10 in advance as a refundable deposit. 4G coverage is limited and isn't available everywhere in Spain (check Orange coverage). You will sign a 30 day rolling contract which will continue until you return the SIM and MiFi. This is not a prepaid product! Delivery fees to the EU are not specified but for a similar product in France they charge £30 for delivery. The device is not insured and all liability for loss or damage is on the renter.
 * More info on their website: www.cellhire.co.uk/products/spain/data-sim-card

Spain Internet
Spain Internet is a company that provides rental of data SIM cards and mobile WiFi routers (MiFis), specifically targeted to visitors to Spain.

The data SIMs and WiFi routers can be delivered to any place in Spain including airports and hotels. Booking has to be made at least 3 workdays in advance. Delivery and shipping are free.

Data SIM Card Rental
Spain Internet rents data SIM cards that are already pre-configured and ready to use. The SIMs come in tri-SIM format which makes them compatible with regular, micro and nano sizes. The data SIMs have 2 GB /day traffic and use 4G/LTE network which allows a download speed of up to 80 Mbps. Rentals are from 3 to 365 days. For rates see table below.

WiFi Hotspot Rental
Spain Internet also rents mobile WiFi routers (also called MiFis) that establish a 3G/4G internet connection and allow to connect up to 10 devices. The router gives speeds of up to 150 Mbit/s on 4G and 6-8 hours operating time on battery and includes "unlimited" mobile internet in Spain. The price given in the WiFi Hotspot column includes WiFi Hotspot and data SIM for rentals of 3 to 360 days.

They use the network of Orange. Their 4G/LTE network is available in 80% and 3G in 99% of Spanish territory. The networks FUP is not to block internet access, but to reduce the speed: there is one reduction, of approximatly 30%, after you have reached 200 GB/month and another one after you have reached 300 GB/month.
 * More infos on their website in English: http://www.spaininternet.net