Prepaid Data SIM Card Wiki
m (Removed protection from "Latvia")
Tag: Visual edit
(13 intermediate revisions by 5 users not shown)
Line 3: Line 3:
 
=='''Basics'''==
 
=='''Basics'''==
 
There are 3 mobile networks in Latvia:
 
There are 3 mobile networks in Latvia:
*'''LMT'''
+
*'''LMT '''
*'''Tele2'''
+
*'''Tele2 '''
*'''Bite'''
+
*'''Bite '''
 
2G/GSM is on 900 and 1800 MHz. Bite uses '''E'''GSM 900 (operating only on the edges of the 900 MHz band, so some old phones might not be able to cover it). 3G is on 900 and 2100 MHz with all operators. 4G/LTE is on 800 MHz (B20), 1800 MHz (B3) and 2600 MHz (B7).
 
2G/GSM is on 900 and 1800 MHz. Bite uses '''E'''GSM 900 (operating only on the edges of the 900 MHz band, so some old phones might not be able to cover it). 3G is on 900 and 2100 MHz with all operators. 4G/LTE is on 800 MHz (B20), 1800 MHz (B3) and 2600 MHz (B7).
   
  +
In 2019 Tele2 and Bite signed a network sharing agreement for Latvia and Lithuania. The two operators’ networks will be merged, forming a joint shared network. This joint network will be built out gradually starting 2021, with the full network scheduled for completion by December 2023. Each party will hold 50% ownership in the joint venture.
The networks offer prepaid voice and data plans under different brand names like '''Bite Karte''', '''LMT Karte''', and '''Zelta Zivtiņa'''. Network coverage and speeds are best with LMT and Tele2, but Bite is only slightly behind and all are generally on a good level. LMT started 4G/LTE in 2011 on 1800 and 2600 MHz and covers already more than 90% of the population, 70% by LTE-A. Tele2 and Bite started in 2014 with LTE and are only slightly behind. Bite For rural areas all providers use 800 MHz now too. '''Amigo''' is the biggest (and only one, of 2018) MVNO in the country using the LMT network.
 
  +
 
The networks offer prepaid voice and data plans under different brand names like '''Bites Karte''', '''LMT Karte''', and '''Zelta Zivtiņa '''(on Tele2 network). Network coverage and speeds are best with LMT and Tele2, but Bite is only slightly behind and all are generally on a good level. LMT started 4G/LTE in 2011 on 1800 and 2600 MHz and covers already more than 90% of the population, 70% by LTE-A. Tele2 and Bite started in 2014 with LTE and are only slightly behind. Bite For rural areas all providers use 800 MHz now too. '''Amigo''' was the only MVNO in the country on the LMT network, but ceased own operations in 2019.
   
 
Starter SIM card packs and recharges are available at their shops, newsstands, kiosks like the ubiquitous Narvesen convenience stores, filling stations, supermarkets and other places. You don't need to show an ID or do any registration to get a Latvian SIM card.
 
Starter SIM card packs and recharges are available at their shops, newsstands, kiosks like the ubiquitous Narvesen convenience stores, filling stations, supermarkets and other places. You don't need to show an ID or do any registration to get a Latvian SIM card.
Line 15: Line 17:
 
[[File:EU flag.png|thumb|110x110px]]Latvia is part of the EU, where from June 2017 new international roaming rules are enforced based on the 'roam like at home' principle. However, Latvian providers are mostly exempt from the new rules because of their very low domestic prices. They either disable most EU roaming, apply surcharges or give out hardly any roaming data at the domestic rate. For specifics about the new regulation check the [[European Union]] article and the remarks given specific for every provider below.
 
[[File:EU flag.png|thumb|110x110px]]Latvia is part of the EU, where from June 2017 new international roaming rules are enforced based on the 'roam like at home' principle. However, Latvian providers are mostly exempt from the new rules because of their very low domestic prices. They either disable most EU roaming, apply surcharges or give out hardly any roaming data at the domestic rate. For specifics about the new regulation check the [[European Union]] article and the remarks given specific for every provider below.
 
</div>
 
</div>
 
 
 
== '''LMT '''(LMT Karte) ==
 
== '''LMT '''(LMT Karte) ==
 
[[File:Lmt.jpg|link=http://prepaidwithdata.wikia.com/wiki/File:Lmt.jpg|thumb|194x194px]]
 
[[File:Lmt.jpg|link=http://prepaidwithdata.wikia.com/wiki/File:Lmt.jpg|thumb|194x194px]]
Line 22: Line 22:
   
 
==== '''Availability''' ====
 
==== '''Availability''' ====
Their prepaid SIM is dubbed '''LMT Karte. '''It's available from LMT service centres ([https://www.lmt.lv/lv/lmt-klientu-centri-un-veikali locator]), service stations, newspaper kiosks, post offices and some supermarkets. The starter kit costs between €1 and €3, although LMT service centres deny the existence of the €1 starter kit, which can mostly be found in supermarkets.
+
Their prepaid SIM is dubbed '''LMT Karte. '''It's available from LMT service centres ([https://www.lmt.lv/lv/lmt-klientu-centri-un-veikali locator]), service stations, newspaper kiosks, post offices and some supermarkets. The starter kit costs between €1.50 and €3, although LMT service centres deny the existence of the €1.50 starter kit, which can mostly be found in supermarkets, sometimes old stock but with a long expiry date by which it must be activated.
   
 
To activate the SIM call '''29202010''' and follow the instructions. You will be given an option to change language into Latvian, Russian or English.
 
To activate the SIM call '''29202010''' and follow the instructions. You will be given an option to change language into Latvian, Russian or English.
 
Please note, '''a newly activated SIM card has no access to 4G (LTE)''' network — the user has to request that feature explicitly (it's free of charge) by calling '''076''' and asking the support to enable the LTE access.
 
   
 
==== '''Recharging''' ====
 
==== '''Recharging''' ====
Refill vouchers are available for 1.42 , 2 €, 5 €, 10 € and 20 € all over the country. You can recharge online using international credit card (Visa or MasterCard) online [https://www.lmt.lv/en/refill-lmt-karte through this page]. Most EU credit cards are accepted.
+
Refill vouchers are available for €1.42, €2, €3.50, €5, €10 and €20 all over the country. You can recharge online using international credit card (Visa or MasterCard) online [https://www.lmt.lv/en/refill-lmt-karte through this page]. Most EU credit cards are accepted.
   
Account validity time varies and depends on last recharge amount. When your credits lifetime has expired, you can only receive calls and SMS messages but not place them. After some more time (as grace period) if not recharged, your number will be terminated without any way to restore it.
+
Account validity time varies and depends on last recharge amount. When your credits lifetime has expired, you can only receive calls and SMS messages but not make or send them. After some more time (as grace period) if not recharged, your number will be terminated without any way to restore it.
   
 
{| class="article-table"
 
{| class="article-table"
Line 45: Line 43:
   
 
|-
 
|-
  +
|€1
|1
 
 
|10 days
 
|10 days
 
|70 days
 
|70 days
 
|-
 
|-
  +
|€2-€4
|2-4 €
 
 
|30 days
 
|30 days
 
|90 days
 
|90 days
 
|-
 
|-
  +
|€5-€9
|5-9 €
 
 
|60 days
 
|60 days
 
|120 days
 
|120 days
 
|-
 
|-
  +
|€10-€19
|10-19 €
 
 
|120 days
 
|120 days
 
|180 days
 
|180 days
 
|-
 
|-
|> 20 €
+
|> €20
 
|240 days
 
|240 days
 
|300 days
 
|300 days
 
|}
 
|}
 
You can check your account balance and expiry date by dialing *120*# (for free).
 
You can check your account balance and expiry date by dialing *120*# (for free).
  +
  +
LMT is also offering an ongoing "daily bonus" event- any top-up made over €3 will result in either unlimited domestic calling, unlimited domestic SMS, or unlimited data until midnight the following day (the bonus is different each day). These bonuses can only be used in Latvia, not in roaming.
   
 
==== '''Data feature packages''' ====
 
==== '''Data feature packages''' ====
Standard rate is 6.05 cents per MB. LMT sells only weekly data packages (that are valid for 7 days) for their LMT Karte:
+
Standard rate is 6.05 cents per MB. LMT sells daily, weekly, and monthly data packages for their LMT Karte:
 
{| class="article-table"
 
{| class="article-table"
 
!dom. data
 
!dom. data
Line 74: Line 74:
 
!dom. SMS
 
!dom. SMS
 
!EU cap
 
!EU cap
 
!Validity
 
!Price
 
!Price
 
!Activation
 
!Activation
 
!Deactivation
 
!Deactivation
 
|-
 
|unlimited
  +
|none
  +
|none
 
|184 MB
 
|1 day
  +
|€0.50
  +
|ID
 
|ID-
 
|-
 
|-
 
|100 MB
 
|100 MB
Line 82: Line 92:
 
|unlimited
 
|unlimited
 
|no cap
 
|no cap
|2
+
|7 days
  +
|€2
 
|NSA
 
|NSA
 
|NSA-
 
|NSA-
Line 89: Line 100:
 
|10 mins
 
|10 mins
 
|unlimited
 
|unlimited
|414 MB
+
|551 MB
 
|7 days
|1.50 €
 
  +
|€1.50
 
|NIA
 
|NIA
 
|NIA-
 
|NIA-
Line 97: Line 109:
 
|10 mins
 
|10 mins
 
|unlimited
 
|unlimited
|689 MB
+
|918 MB
 
|7 days
|2.50 €
 
  +
|€2.50
 
|NIPA
 
|NIPA
 
|NIPA-
 
|NIPA-
 
|-
 
|unlimited
 
|unlimited
 
|unlimited
 
|8.93 GB
  +
|1 month
  +
|€14.89
  +
|MV
 
|MV-
 
|}
 
|}
 
For activation text SMS with code to 1626. After using the included data volume, speed is throttled to 64 Kbit/s for the rest of the month. You can buy another weekly pack anytime. All packages auto-renew after one week if not cancelled. To check data balance, text the letter 'i' to 1626. Overuse will be charged on the standard rate.
 
For activation text SMS with code to 1626. After using the included data volume, speed is throttled to 64 Kbit/s for the rest of the month. You can buy another weekly pack anytime. All packages auto-renew after one week if not cancelled. To check data balance, text the letter 'i' to 1626. Overuse will be charged on the standard rate.
LMT also offers monthly package with unlimited calls, SMS/MMS and unlimited internet in Latvia (6.7 GB in EU) cost €24.89. To activate package, send text MV to 1626
 
   
 
Note that all texts for activation and checks are charged at €0.0213 and EU roaming at domestic rates is capped according to table above. The EU cap is the max. share of domestic data volume to be given out without surcharges.
 
Note that all texts for activation and checks are charged at €0.0213 and EU roaming at domestic rates is capped according to table above. The EU cap is the max. share of domestic data volume to be given out without surcharges.
Line 109: Line 130:
 
==== '''Mobile Broadband SIM''' ====
 
==== '''Mobile Broadband SIM''' ====
 
Their data-only SIM is called "''Priekšapmaksas mobilā interneta SIM karte''" = prepaid mobile internet card. It's sold at their agencies or at Statoil or some Narvesen outlets:
 
Their data-only SIM is called "''Priekšapmaksas mobilā interneta SIM karte''" = prepaid mobile internet card. It's sold at their agencies or at Statoil or some Narvesen outlets:
* SIM-only valid for 120 days, preloaded with a weekly package (max. 10 GB / EU cap: 1.18 GB): 5.65
+
* SIM-only valid for 120 days, preloaded with a weekly package (max. 10 GB / EU cap: 2.03 GB): €5.65
* 4G USB dongle and SIM card, preloaded like above: 14.99 €
 
 
You can activate these two packages on this SIM:
 
You can activate these two packages on this SIM:
* daily (for 24 hours): 1 GB domestic data (EU roaming cap: 380 MB): 1.40
+
* daily (for 24 hours): 1 GB domestic data (EU roaming cap: 514 MB): €1.40
* weekly (for 168 hours): 10 GB domestic data (EU roaming cap: 1.52 GB): 5.65
+
* weekly (for 168 hours): 10 GB domestic data (EU roaming cap: 2.03 GB): €5.65
 
To activate, text DI for daily or NED for weekly to 29202010. SIM is for data only and not for calls. After having used up volume, speed will be reduced to 64/16 Kbit/s. New packages can be booked ahead of time up to 1 GB per day or 10 GB per week.
 
To activate, text DI for daily or NED for weekly to 29202010. SIM is for data only and not for calls. After having used up volume, speed will be reduced to 64/16 Kbit/s. New packages can be booked ahead of time up to 1 GB per day or 10 GB per week.
   
 
==== '''EU roaming''' ====
 
==== '''EU roaming''' ====
LMT has chosen not to opt-out from EU roaming rules, but to use a rigid FUP cap on all plans where only a small share is given out at domestic rates for roaming in the EU. This data volume is specified above for every package. All volumes outside these limits are charged by the standard roaming rate of 6.05c per MB. One further monthly packages are offered for roaming data in the EU:
+
LMT has chosen not to opt-out from EU roaming rules, but to use a rigid FUP cap on all plans where only a small share is given out at domestic rates for roaming in the EU. This data volume is specified above for every package. All volumes outside these limits are charged by the standard roaming rate of 6.05c per MB. One further monthly package is offered for roaming data in the EU:
* 600 MB for 30 days: 4.22 , for activation: text 'ICE' to 1688
+
* 800 MB for 30 days: €4.22 , for activation: text 'ICE' to 1688
  +
There is also a pass available for the Channel Islands, Isle of Man, Faroe Islands, Switzerland, and Turkey, as well as certain other countries further afield:
These package is valid in specific countries (all valid 15 days and cost 12.99 €):
 
  +
* 1 GB for 15 days: €12.99, for activation: text 'PAS1' to 1688
* 1 GB valid in USA, Australia, South Korea, Jersey, Faroe Islands, Philippines, Guernsey, Hong Kong, Indonesia, China, Israel, Malaysia, Isle od Man, Palestine, Puerto Rico, Singapore, Switzerland and Thailand: for activation: text 'PAS1' to 1688
 
* 500 MB valid in Andorra, Argentina, Belarus, Chile, Ecuacor, Greenland, Georgia, Guatemala, Honduras, Canada, Kazakhstan, Colombia, Costa Rica, Russia, Moldova, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Paraguay, Peru, El Salvador, Tajikistan, Turkey, Ukraine and Uruguay: for activation: text 'PAS2' to 1688
 
* 100 MB valid in Albania, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, UAE, Armenia, Aruba, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Barbados, Benin, Bermuda, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Virgin Islands, South Africa, Dominica, Egypt, Guyana, Grenada, Haiti, India, Jamaica, Japan, New Zeland, Cayman Islands, Qatar, Kuwait, Macau, Macedonia, Mexico, Montenegro, Monaco, Nepal, Netherlands Antilles, Panama, Saudi Arabia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Serbia, Suriname, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Turks and Caicos Islands, Trinidad and Tobaco and Wietnam: for activation: text 'PAS3' to 1688
 
   
==== '''More info''' ====
+
==== '''More info''' ====
 
* APN for LMT Karte: okarte.lmt.lv
 
* APN for LMT Karte: okarte.lmt.lv
 
* APN for Mobile Broadband: internet.lmt.lv
 
* APN for Mobile Broadband: internet.lmt.lv
Line 134: Line 152:
 
[[File:ZZ.jpg|thumb|207x207px|
 
[[File:ZZ.jpg|thumb|207x207px|
 
Zelta Zivtiņa - prepaid brand of Tele2
 
Zelta Zivtiņa - prepaid brand of Tele2
]]Zelta Zivtiņa SIM cards are available in their stores ([https://www.zeltazivtina.lv/en/help/zz-customer-centres/ shop locator]) , newsstands, kiosks like Narvesen, petrol stations like Statoil or Lukoil and others for between 1.49 and 3.99. The SIM has a default rate of €0.36 per day for 30 MB. Extra data is charged at 0.07 per MB.
+
]]Zelta Zivtiņa SIM cards are available in their stores ([https://www.zeltazivtina.lv/en/help/zz-customer-centres/ shop locator]) , newsstands, kiosks like Narvesen, petrol stations like Statoil or Lukoil and others for between €1.49 and €3.99. The SIM has a default rate of €0.36 per day for 30 MB. Extra data is charged at €0.07 per MB.
   
 
To check account balance and expiration date, dial *245#.
 
To check account balance and expiration date, dial *245#.
Line 141: Line 159:
   
 
They sell three different plans:
 
They sell three different plans:
* ''ZZ TRIO: ''3.90 with 150 domestic minutes, 150 SMS domestic SMS and 150 domestic MB
+
* ''ZZ TRIO: ''€3.90 with 150 domestic minutes, 150 SMS domestic SMS and 150 domestic MB. Activation: Text 'TRIO' to 1616.
* ''ZZ VISI: ''4.90 for 30 days with unlimited calls and SMS in Latvia
+
* ''ZZ VISI: ''€4.90 for 30 days with unlimited calls and SMS in Latvia. Activation: Text 'V' to 1616.
* ''ZZ EIROPA:'' 6.99 for 7 days with 60 mins, 60 SMS and 200 MB data, that can be used in EU roaming too.
+
* ''ZZ EIROPA:'' €6.99 for 7 days with 60 mins, 60 SMS and 200 MB data, that can be used in EU roaming too. Activation: text 'E' to 1616
  +
* ''ZZ VISI BEZLIMITA DATI:'' €4.49 for 7 days with unlimited data and unlimited calls and 1000 SMS, activation: text 'DATI' to 1616.
  +
To disable automatic renewal of plans go online to your personal account or text 'STOPATA' to 1616.
   
 
==== '''Data feature packages''' ====
 
==== '''Data feature packages''' ====
Line 150: Line 170:
 
|-
 
|-
 
! scope="col" |Package
 
! scope="col" |Package
! scope="col" |Volume
+
! scope="col" |Data
 
! scope="col" |Price
 
! scope="col" |Price
 
! scope="col" |Activation
 
! scope="col" |Activation
 
|-
 
|-
 
|XS
 
|XS
|50 MB
+
|100 MB
|0.99
+
|€0.99
 
|XS
 
|XS
 
|-
 
|-
 
|S
 
|S
|300 MB
+
|500 MB
|2.99
+
|€2.99
 
|S
 
|S
 
|-
 
|-
 
|M
 
|M
 
|1 GB
 
|1 GB
|3.99
+
|€3.99
 
|M
 
|M
 
|-
 
|-
 
|L
 
|L
 
|2 GB
 
|2 GB
|5.99
+
|€5.99
 
|L
 
|L
 
|}
 
|}
Line 177: Line 197:
   
 
==== '''ZZ Data SIM''' ====
 
==== '''ZZ Data SIM''' ====
Furthermore, they sell a data SIM starter pack for 4.99 with 5 GB included valid for 10 days, which is on 4G/LTE too. The starter pack including an USB modem is for 11.99 , which doesn't support Windows 10. Data volume can be checked by texting T to 1616 or in ''Mana ZZ'' selfcare or their ZZ app. The following data packages can be added via refill bought in any kiosk or petrol station:
+
Furthermore, they sell a data SIM starter pack for €4.99 with 5 GB included valid for 10 days, which is on 4G/LTE too. The starter pack including an USB modem is for €11.99 , which doesn't support Windows 10. Data volume can be checked by texting T to 1616 or in ''Mana ZZ'' selfcare or their ZZ app. The following data packages can be added via refill bought in any kiosk or petrol station:
 
{| class="article-table"
 
{| class="article-table"
 
!Data
 
!Data
Line 185: Line 205:
 
|5 GB
 
|5 GB
 
|2 days
 
|2 days
|1.50
+
|€1.50
 
|-
 
|-
 
|5 GB
 
|5 GB
 
|7 days
 
|7 days
  +
|€3
|3 €
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|5 GB
 
|5 GB
 
|14 days
 
|14 days
  +
|€5
|5 €
 
|-
 
|5 GB
 
|20 days
 
|6 €
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|15 GB
 
|15 GB
 
|30 days
 
|30 days
  +
|€10
|10 €
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|25 GB
 
|25 GB
 
|60 days
 
|60 days
  +
|€20
|20 €
 
 
|}
 
|}
 
This data SIM only works in Latvia and doesn't offer international roaming.
 
This data SIM only works in Latvia and doesn't offer international roaming.
   
 
==== '''EU Roaming ''' ====
 
==== '''EU Roaming ''' ====
[https://www.zeltazivtina.lv/en/mobile-internet0/data-packages-abroad5/ EU roaming] is only included with 200 MB in their [https://www.zeltazivtina.lv/en/prieksapmaksa/tarifi/zz-eiropa/ ZZ EIROPA]'' ''plan and not in any other data pack. The other 'plan' it works is [https://www.zeltazivtina.lv/en/prieksapmaksa/citi-tarifi/maksa-par-vienibam/ charge per unit] (no plan at all). Data is charged at 0.0093 per MB. There is available roaming packages for these countries (all valid 30 days and cost 9.99 , to activate send SMS to 1601 with activation code):
+
EU roaming is only included with 200 MB in their [https://www.zeltazivtina.lv/en/prieksapmaksa/tarifi/zz-eiropa/ ZZ EIROPA]'' ''plan and not in any other data pack. The other 'plan' it works is [https://www.zeltazivtina.lv/en/prieksapmaksa/citi-tarifi/maksa-par-vienibam/ charge per unit] (no plan at all). Data is charged at €0.0093 per MB. There is available roaming packages for these countries (all valid 30 days and cost €9.99 , to activate send SMS to 1601 with activation code):
 
*400 MB for Russia: activation: RUS4
 
*400 MB for Russia: activation: RUS4
 
*500 MB for USA: activation: USA5
 
*500 MB for USA: activation: USA5
 
*1 GB for Switzerland: activation: CH1
 
*1 GB for Switzerland: activation: CH1
 
*400 MB for Turkey: activation: TR4
 
*400 MB for Turkey: activation: TR4
 
To activate all roaming packages, you must have activated ZZ EIROPA plan before.
Tele2 also offer 'Internet World' packages, valid in specific countries (all valid 7 days, to activate send SMS to 1601 with activation code):
 
*300 MB valid in Australia, Faroe Islands, French Polynesia, Hong Kong, Israel, Kazakhstan, Macao, Moldova, Montenegro, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Turkey and United States: 7.99 €, activation: IP1
 
*100 MB valid in Albania, Argentina, Armenia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, China, Ecuador, Georgia, Ghana, Guernsey, Isle of Man, Japan, Jersey, Republic of Korea, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Macedonia, Malaysia, Mexico, Palestine, Peru, Puerto Rico, Russia, Serbia, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Thailand, Tunisia, Ukraine and Uruguay: 7.99 €, activation: IP2
 
*50 MB valid in Afghanistan, Aruba, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Brunei Darussalam, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Egypt, Greenland, Guatemala, Guinea, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Jamaica, Jordan, Kenya, Monaco, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Panama, Paraguay, Philippines, Qatar, Rwanda, Senegal, South Sudan, Suriname, Tanzania, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, Venezuela and Zimbabwe: 7.99 €, activation: IP3
 
*30 MB valid in Azerbaijan, Bonaire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Curacao, El Salvador and Iraq: 7.99 €, activation: IP4
 
*30 MB valid in Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Chad, Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Dominica, Fiji, Gabon, Grenada, Iran, Malawi, Montserrat, Niger, Papua New Guinea, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Turks and Caicos Islands, Vietnam and Zambia: 9.99 €, activation: IP5
 
*30 MB valid in Algeria, Kuwait, Morocco, Myanmar, Oman and Uzbekistan: 12.99 €, activation: IP6
 
To activate all roaming packages, you must have activated ZZ EIROPA package.
 
   
 
===='''More info''' ====
 
===='''More info''' ====
Line 233: Line 242:
 
Bite is the smallest network in Latvia, but has good coverage and speeds in 3G on 900 MHz which is not so common worldwide. In 2016 private equity firm Mid Europa Partners sold Bite to funds affiliated with Providence Equity Partners.
 
Bite is the smallest network in Latvia, but has good coverage and speeds in 3G on 900 MHz which is not so common worldwide. In 2016 private equity firm Mid Europa Partners sold Bite to funds affiliated with Providence Equity Partners.
   
Bite has fast 4G speeds on 2600, 1800 and 800 MHz bands. 4G/LTE covers already 90% of population in 2016: [http://www.bite.lv/parklajuma-karte coverage map]. Bite is the local partner of Vodafone, but its prepaid product can only be used in Latvia.
+
Bite's 4G/LTE covers already 90% of population in 2016: [http://www.bite.lv/parklajuma-karte coverage map]. Bite is the local partner of Vodafone, but its prepaid product can only be used in Latvia.
   
 
==== '''Availability''' ====
 
==== '''Availability''' ====
 
Their prepaid SIM cards called '''Bites karte''' starter kits are available only in Bite stores [http://www.bite.lv/lv/outlets_list (list)], however the refill tickets can be bought also in Rimi, Maxima, Narvesen and Statoil shops between €1 and €5, mostly with a balance of €2.
 
Their prepaid SIM cards called '''Bites karte''' starter kits are available only in Bite stores [http://www.bite.lv/lv/outlets_list (list)], however the refill tickets can be bought also in Rimi, Maxima, Narvesen and Statoil shops between €1 and €5, mostly with a balance of €2.
   
Buy your refill vouchers for 1.42 €, 3 €, 5 € or 8 € there.
+
Buy your refill vouchers for €2, €3, €5 or €8 there.
   
 
After inserting a SIM card in your phone, use a PIN code written on the card. You should make a first call (does not need to complete) to activate the SIM card.
 
After inserting a SIM card in your phone, use a PIN code written on the card. You should make a first call (does not need to complete) to activate the SIM card.
  +
 
==== '''All-in-one packages''' ====
 
There are available 2 combo plans in Bite, all valid 30 days:
 
*''Bite Priekšapmaksa:'' unlimited calls and SMS in Latvia, 100 MB in Latvia: €4.75 , activation: B2 LV
 
*''Bite Priekšapmaksa Eiropa:'' 100 mins and 100 SMS in Latvia, 100 mins and 100 SMS to other EU countries, 100 MB in Latvia and EU: €6.75 , activation: BITE EUROPE
 
If overuse intenet in EU, you'll be charged at €0.14 per MB. To deactiavte, add STOP after activation code.
   
 
==== '''Data rates''' ====
 
==== '''Data rates''' ====
 
The first 5 MB per month are free on Bites karte. You don't need to activate a package, as default rate is cummulative according to your consumption:
 
The first 5 MB per month are free on Bites karte. You don't need to activate a package, as default rate is cummulative according to your consumption:
* up to 100 MB: 1.42
+
* up to 100 MB: €1.42
* up to 500 MB: 3.56
+
* up to 500 MB: €3.56
* up to 2 GB: 6.40
+
* up to 2 GB: €6.40
* up to 6 GB: 9.96
+
* up to 6 GB: €9.96
* up to 10 GB: 12.09
+
* up to 10 GB: €12.09
After, you'll be charged 0.04 per MB. For social media you can add internet packages for 1 € per app for 30 days: Waze, Facebook, Viber and Draugiem. You need to text the name of the app to 1600.
+
After, you'll be charged €0.04 per MB. For social media you can add internet packages for €1 per app for 30 days: Waze, Facebook, Viber and Draugiem. You need to text the name of the app to 1600.
===='''All-in-one packages'''====
 
There are available 2 combo plans in Bite, all valid 30 days:
 
*Bite Priekšapmaksa: unlimited calls and SMS in Latvia, 100 MB in Latvia: 4.75 , activation: B2 LV
 
*Bite Priekšapmaksa Eiropa: 100 mins and 100 SMS in Latvia, 100 mins and 100 SMS to other EU countries, 100 MB in Latvia and EU: 6.75 , activation: BITE EUROPE
 
If overuse intenet in EU, you'll be charged at 0.14 per MB. To deactiavte, add STOP after activation code.
 
 
==== '''Data-only SIM''' ====
 
Their data-only SIM card for modems and tablets is called ''Priekšapmaksas internets ''or prepaid internet. Starter pack is sold at 6.40 € for the SIM card with the same credit loaded or 29 € including a 3G dongle. Credit is valid for 3 months and the SIM for 6 months after the last top-up. All operations can be managed online through https://www.manabite.lv/lv/login.
 
 
They offer three rate plans for their data SIM:
 
{| class="article-table"
 
!Plan
 
!Data
 
!Rate
 
!max. Speed
 
|-
 
|MONO
 
|unlimited
 
|0.43 € per hour
 
|0.5 Mbps
 
|-
 
|STEREO
 
|unlimited
 
|1.00 € per hour
 
|21 Mbps
 
|-
 
|TAXI
 
|
 
|0.04 € per MB
 
|21 Mbps
 
|}
 
Default rate from the start is STEREO. You can change plans online or by calling 1601. The 1st change is free, further changes are for 2.85 €. On Mono and Stereo plans always remember to disconnect from the internet, when you stop using it.
 
 
 
==== '''EU roaming''' ====
 
==== '''EU roaming''' ====
Note that all prepaid plans of Bite (except Bite Priekšapmaksa Eiropa) only offer national options in Latvia, internatl. roaming is blocked and you can't use it outside the country.
+
Note that all prepaid plans of Bite (except ''Bite Priekšapmaksa Eiropa'') only offer national options in Latvia, international roaming is blocked and you can't use it outside the country.
   
 
==== '''More info''' ====
 
==== '''More info''' ====
  +
* No international roaming available
 
* APN: internet
 
* APN: internet
 
* Website in Latvian and Russian: http://www.bite.lv/
 
* Website in Latvian and Russian: http://www.bite.lv/
   
== '''Amigo''' ==
+
== '''<s>Amigo</s>''' ==
 
[[File:Amigo.jpg|thumb|166x166px]]
 
[[File:Amigo.jpg|thumb|166x166px]]
Amigo operated by ZetCOM is the most popular MVNO in the country. It uses the network of '''LMT''' in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE (see above) at lower rates.
+
Amigo operated by ZetCOM was the only MVNO in the country. It used the network of LMT in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE (see above) until 2019.
   
  +
In June 2019 Amigo suspended its own operations and moved all customers to its host network LMT. No new SIM cards are given out anymore and all clients are being transferred to LMT.
==== '''Availability''' ====
 
Amigo SIM cards are sold at almost every supermarket, such as Elvi, Lats, Maxima, Rimi, as well as at post offices, Statoil gas stations and Narvesen kiosks. These starters are available:
 
* 0.99 €: with 0.99 € credit valid for 30 days in basic tariff
 
* 3.50 €: with small combo package for 30 days
 
* 4.99 €: with large combo package for 30 days
 
All SIM cards are valid for 60 more days without being reloaded. To activate call 1633.
 
 
To change default language to English call 1633 press 3 and 3 again.
 
 
You can [http://www.amigo.lv/lv/papildini-tulit top-up online by credit card] (select ''bankas karte'') or by recharge voucher (''atjaunošanas karte vai čeks'') sold from 0.99 € - 19.99 € in the same shops. To top-up call 1633 and press 2.
 
 
==== '''Data feature packages''' ====
 
Amigo offers two combo packages with domestic calls and SMS and data for 30 days:
 
* small pack: 3.50 € including 100 mins, 100 SMS and 100 MB, activation: M
 
* large pack: 4.99 € including unlimited mins and SMS and no data, activation: L
 
To activate type the letter to 1678. This is non-recurrent. For more data or better data rates use these packages:
 
{| class="article-table"
 
!Data
 
!Validity
 
!Price
 
!EU cap
 
!Subscribe
 
!Unsubscribe
 
|-
 
|100 MB
 
|30 days
 
|0.98 €
 
|
 
|100MB
 
|100MBA-
 
|-
 
|500 MB
 
|30 days
 
|3 €
 
|
 
|500MB
 
|500MBA-
 
|-
 
|unlimited
 
|1 day
 
|0.50 €
 
|184 MB
 
|ITD
 
|ITN-
 
|-
 
|unlimited
 
|30 days
 
|11.99 €
 
|4.5 GB
 
|ICU
 
|ITN-
 
|}
 
Activation and deactivation is by texting code to 1688. The unlimited packages are governed by a rather vague policy of not to use excessive downloads. All packages auto-renew, if not cancelled. The EU cap in the table shows the max. share of your data allowance that can be used at domestic rates roaming in the EU.
 
 
To check your data, text 'ITP?' to 1688.
 
 
==== '''EU roaming''' ====
 
For EU roaming Amigo has adopted a similar policy as LMT mentioned above. A share of the package is given out at domestic rates for roaming in the EU. This data volume is specified the table above and all volumes outside these limits are charged by the standard roaming rate of 6.05c per MB. The same packages in LMT can be activated.
 
   
 
==== '''More info''' ====
 
==== '''More info''' ====
Line 358: Line 284:
 
[[Category:Europe]]
 
[[Category:Europe]]
 
[[Category:Country]]
 
[[Category:Country]]
[[Category:10/17]]
+
[[Category:6/19]]
 
[[Category:Tele2]]
 
[[Category:Tele2]]

Revision as of 11:54, 9 December 2019

Flag of Latvia

Basics

There are 3 mobile networks in Latvia:

  • LMT
  • Tele2
  • Bite

2G/GSM is on 900 and 1800 MHz. Bite uses EGSM 900 (operating only on the edges of the 900 MHz band, so some old phones might not be able to cover it). 3G is on 900 and 2100 MHz with all operators. 4G/LTE is on 800 MHz (B20), 1800 MHz (B3) and 2600 MHz (B7).

In 2019 Tele2 and Bite signed a network sharing agreement for Latvia and Lithuania. The two operators’ networks will be merged, forming a joint shared network. This joint network will be built out gradually starting 2021, with the full network scheduled for completion by December 2023. Each party will hold 50% ownership in the joint venture.

The networks offer prepaid voice and data plans under different brand names like Bites Karte, LMT Karte, and Zelta Zivtiņa (on Tele2 network). Network coverage and speeds are best with LMT and Tele2, but Bite is only slightly behind and all are generally on a good level. LMT started 4G/LTE in 2011 on 1800 and 2600 MHz and covers already more than 90% of the population, 70% by LTE-A. Tele2 and Bite started in 2014 with LTE and are only slightly behind. Bite For rural areas all providers use 800 MHz now too. Amigo was the only MVNO in the country on the LMT network, but ceased own operations in 2019.

Starter SIM card packs and recharges are available at their shops, newsstands, kiosks like the ubiquitous Narvesen convenience stores, filling stations, supermarkets and other places. You don't need to show an ID or do any registration to get a Latvian SIM card.

EU flag
Latvia is part of the EU, where from June 2017 new international roaming rules are enforced based on the 'roam like at home' principle. However, Latvian providers are mostly exempt from the new rules because of their very low domestic prices. They either disable most EU roaming, apply surcharges or give out hardly any roaming data at the domestic rate. For specifics about the new regulation check the European Union article and the remarks given specific for every provider below.

LMT (LMT Karte)

Lmt

LMT stands for Latvijas Mobilais Telefons and is owned by Telia and the state of Latvia. Its network has the best 3G and 4G coverage, while its 4G/LTE reaches more than 90% of population in 2016, 70% on LTE-A: 2-4G coverage map

Availability

Their prepaid SIM is dubbed LMT Karte. It's available from LMT service centres (locator), service stations, newspaper kiosks, post offices and some supermarkets. The starter kit costs between €1.50 and €3, although LMT service centres deny the existence of the €1.50 starter kit, which can mostly be found in supermarkets, sometimes old stock but with a long expiry date by which it must be activated.

To activate the SIM call 29202010 and follow the instructions. You will be given an option to change language into Latvian, Russian or English.

Recharging

Refill vouchers are available for €1.42, €2, €3.50, €5, €10 and €20 all over the country. You can recharge online using international credit card (Visa or MasterCard) online through this page. Most EU credit cards are accepted.

Account validity time varies and depends on last recharge amount. When your credits lifetime has expired, you can only receive calls and SMS messages but not make or send them. After some more time (as grace period) if not recharged, your number will be terminated without any way to restore it.

Recharge

amount

Credit

validity

Number lifetime

(grace period)

€1 10 days 70 days
€2-€4 30 days 90 days
€5-€9 60 days 120 days
€10-€19 120 days 180 days
> €20 240 days 300 days

You can check your account balance and expiry date by dialing *120*# (for free).

LMT is also offering an ongoing "daily bonus" event- any top-up made over €3 will result in either unlimited domestic calling, unlimited domestic SMS, or unlimited data until midnight the following day (the bonus is different each day). These bonuses can only be used in Latvia, not in roaming.

Data feature packages

Standard rate is 6.05 cents per MB. LMT sells daily, weekly, and monthly data packages for their LMT Karte:

dom. data dom. voice dom. SMS EU cap Validity Price Activation Deactivation
unlimited none none 184 MB 1 day €0.50 ID ID-
100 MB unlimited unlimited no cap 7 days €2 NSA NSA-
1 GB 10 mins unlimited 551 MB 7 days €1.50 NIA NIA-
unlimited 10 mins unlimited 918 MB 7 days €2.50 NIPA NIPA-
unlimited unlimited unlimited 8.93 GB 1 month €14.89 MV MV-

For activation text SMS with code to 1626. After using the included data volume, speed is throttled to 64 Kbit/s for the rest of the month. You can buy another weekly pack anytime. All packages auto-renew after one week if not cancelled. To check data balance, text the letter 'i' to 1626. Overuse will be charged on the standard rate.

Note that all texts for activation and checks are charged at €0.0213 and EU roaming at domestic rates is capped according to table above. The EU cap is the max. share of domestic data volume to be given out without surcharges.

Mobile Broadband SIM

Their data-only SIM is called "Priekšapmaksas mobilā interneta SIM karte" = prepaid mobile internet card. It's sold at their agencies or at Statoil or some Narvesen outlets:

  • SIM-only valid for 120 days, preloaded with a weekly package (max. 10 GB / EU cap: 2.03 GB): €5.65

You can activate these two packages on this SIM:

  • daily (for 24 hours): 1 GB domestic data (EU roaming cap: 514 MB): €1.40
  • weekly (for 168 hours): 10 GB domestic data (EU roaming cap: 2.03 GB): €5.65

To activate, text DI for daily or NED for weekly to 29202010. SIM is for data only and not for calls. After having used up volume, speed will be reduced to 64/16 Kbit/s. New packages can be booked ahead of time up to 1 GB per day or 10 GB per week.

EU roaming

LMT has chosen not to opt-out from EU roaming rules, but to use a rigid FUP cap on all plans where only a small share is given out at domestic rates for roaming in the EU. This data volume is specified above for every package. All volumes outside these limits are charged by the standard roaming rate of 6.05c per MB. One further monthly package is offered for roaming data in the EU:

  • 800 MB for 30 days: €4.22 , for activation: text 'ICE' to 1688

There is also a pass available for the Channel Islands, Isle of Man, Faroe Islands, Switzerland, and Turkey, as well as certain other countries further afield:

  • 1 GB for 15 days: €12.99, for activation: text 'PAS1' to 1688

More info

  • APN for LMT Karte: okarte.lmt.lv
  • APN for Mobile Broadband: internet.lmt.lv
  • Website in Latvian and Russian: http://www.lmt.lv

Zelta Zivtiņa (ZZ, by Tele2)

Tele2

Tele2 is mostly on par with LMT on 2G and 3G covering 95% with 3G and 90% on 4G/LTE open for prepaid. They don't sell prepaid SIM cards under their own brand Tele2 but through the brand Zelta Zivtiņa better known as ZZ meaning goldfish. For a 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE coverage map click on: šeit

Availability

ZZ

Zelta Zivtiņa - prepaid brand of Tele2

Zelta Zivtiņa SIM cards are available in their stores (shop locator) , newsstands, kiosks like Narvesen, petrol stations like Statoil or Lukoil and others for between €1.49 and €3.99. The SIM has a default rate of €0.36 per day for 30 MB. Extra data is charged at €0.07 per MB.

To check account balance and expiration date, dial *245#.

You can use online management website Mana ZZ (available only in Latvian and Russian), and official mobile app (in Google Play) to check your account and modify packages.

They sell three different plans:

  • ZZ TRIO: €3.90 with 150 domestic minutes, 150 SMS domestic SMS and 150 domestic MB. Activation: Text 'TRIO' to 1616.
  • ZZ VISI: €4.90 for 30 days with unlimited calls and SMS in Latvia. Activation: Text 'V' to 1616.
  • ZZ EIROPA: €6.99 for 7 days with 60 mins, 60 SMS and 200 MB data, that can be used in EU roaming too. Activation: text 'E' to 1616
  • ZZ VISI BEZLIMITA DATI: €4.49 for 7 days with unlimited data and unlimited calls and 1000 SMS, activation: text 'DATI' to 1616.

To disable automatic renewal of plans go online to your personal account or text 'STOPATA' to 1616.

Data feature packages

You can add these monthly packages to wach plan valid for 30 days (except XS package - is valid 7 days):

Package Data Price Activation
XS 100 MB €0.99 XS
S 500 MB €2.99 S
M 1 GB €3.99 M
L 2 GB €5.99 L

For activation, text code to 1616. Speed is up to 100 Mbit/s on 4G/LTE. Note that all package allowances can only be used in Latvia, not for roam like at home in the EU (see below).

ZZ Data SIM

Furthermore, they sell a data SIM starter pack for €4.99 with 5 GB included valid for 10 days, which is on 4G/LTE too. The starter pack including an USB modem is for €11.99 , which doesn't support Windows 10. Data volume can be checked by texting T to 1616 or in Mana ZZ selfcare or their ZZ app. The following data packages can be added via refill bought in any kiosk or petrol station:

Data Time Price
5 GB 2 days €1.50
5 GB 7 days €3
5 GB 14 days €5
15 GB 30 days €10
25 GB 60 days €20

This data SIM only works in Latvia and doesn't offer international roaming.

EU Roaming

EU roaming is only included with 200 MB in their ZZ EIROPA plan and not in any other data pack. The other 'plan' it works is charge per unit (no plan at all). Data is charged at €0.0093 per MB. There is available roaming packages for these countries (all valid 30 days and cost €9.99 , to activate send SMS to 1601 with activation code):

  • 400 MB for Russia: activation: RUS4
  • 500 MB for USA: activation: USA5
  • 1 GB for Switzerland: activation: CH1
  • 400 MB for Turkey: activation: TR4

To activate all roaming packages, you must have activated ZZ EIROPA plan before.

More info

  • APN for voice and data SIM: internet.tele2.lv
  • APN for data-only SIM: data.tele2.lv
  • Website in Latvian, Russian and English: http://www.zeltazivtina.lv

Bite (Bites karte)

Bite-0

new logo

Bite is the smallest network in Latvia, but has good coverage and speeds in 3G on 900 MHz which is not so common worldwide. In 2016 private equity firm Mid Europa Partners sold Bite to funds affiliated with Providence Equity Partners.

Bite's 4G/LTE covers already 90% of population in 2016: coverage map. Bite is the local partner of Vodafone, but its prepaid product can only be used in Latvia.

Availability

Their prepaid SIM cards called Bites karte starter kits are available only in Bite stores (list), however the refill tickets can be bought also in Rimi, Maxima, Narvesen and Statoil shops between €1 and €5, mostly with a balance of €2.

Buy your refill vouchers for €2, €3, €5 or €8 there.

After inserting a SIM card in your phone, use a PIN code written on the card. You should make a first call (does not need to complete) to activate the SIM card.

All-in-one packages

There are available 2 combo plans in Bite, all valid 30 days:

  • Bite Priekšapmaksa: unlimited calls and SMS in Latvia, 100 MB in Latvia: €4.75 , activation: B2 LV
  • Bite Priekšapmaksa Eiropa: 100 mins and 100 SMS in Latvia, 100 mins and 100 SMS to other EU countries, 100 MB in Latvia and EU: €6.75 , activation: BITE EUROPE

If overuse intenet in EU, you'll be charged at €0.14 per MB. To deactiavte, add STOP after activation code.

Data rates

The first 5 MB per month are free on Bites karte. You don't need to activate a package, as default rate is cummulative according to your consumption:

  • up to 100 MB: €1.42
  • up to 500 MB: €3.56
  • up to 2 GB: €6.40
  • up to 6 GB: €9.96
  • up to 10 GB: €12.09

After, you'll be charged €0.04 per MB. For social media you can add internet packages for €1 per app for 30 days: Waze, Facebook, Viber and Draugiem. You need to text the name of the app to 1600.

EU roaming

Note that all prepaid plans of Bite (except Bite Priekšapmaksa Eiropa) only offer national options in Latvia, international roaming is blocked and you can't use it outside the country.

More info

  • No international roaming available
  • APN: internet
  • Website in Latvian and Russian: http://www.bite.lv/

Amigo

Amigo

Amigo operated by ZetCOM was the only MVNO in the country. It used the network of LMT in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE (see above) until 2019.

In June 2019 Amigo suspended its own operations and moved all customers to its host network LMT. No new SIM cards are given out anymore and all clients are being transferred to LMT.

More info