Basics
This article is about the Kingdom of Spain including the Canary Islands in the Atlantic and the enclaves of Melilla and Ceuta in Northern Africa.
Networks and coverage
Spain has 4 network operators:
- Movistar (owned by Telefónica)
- Vodafone
- Orange
- Yoigo (with free roaming on Orange and Movistar)
All others are resellers or MVNOs reselling the three major operators, except of Yoigo. They are very strong in Spain on the prepaid market caring for 17% of all customers. The o2 brand has also been launched short ago by Telefónica, but it focuses exclusively on contract and optic fiber broadband.
The country is all covered by 2G and mostly by 3G up to HSPA+ and DC-HSPA and 4G/LTE in towns. Nationwide the big three providers Movistar, Vodafone and Orange are neck on neck with a similar coverage and market shares. 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 free roaming on Orange and Movistar, giving it a very good coverage too.
4G/LTE was launched by all operators in 2013 using 800 (B20), 1800 (B3) and 2600 (B7) MHz frequencies. In 2017 Vodafone had the best 4G/LTE coverage at 96.5% followed by Orange with 91.7%, Movistar and Yoigo at 89% of the population.
Summing up, all three major providers are more or less on par as far as customer numbers, coverage and speeds are concerned with slight advantages for Vodafone in 4G/LTE. Only Yoigo has much less spectrum and fewer base stations, but compensates for this deficiency with free domestic roaming on both Movistar and Orange networks.
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:
- 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, partly no LTE yet, but can be cheaper. These virtual providers are listed:
- on Movistar network:Tuenti, DIGI Mobil, Lycamobile, Lobster
- on Vodafone network: Hits Mobile, Lebara mobile
- on Orange network:
Freedom Pop,Carrefour Móvil, MasMóvil,Happymóvil,Jazztel, Simyo, República Móvil, Llamaya móvil
There are a few SIM card stands in major airports like Madrid or Barcelona, but they are very overpriced. It's advised to go to a branded shop downtown or in shopping malls instead.
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, kiosks and service stations, where you need to give them your number. Carrefour markets are a safe bet for top-ups of all providers mentioned here. Just mention the word recarga, your operator, your number (in Spanish, written down or on phone screen) and the amount in € to recharge.
This guide shows the most important players, 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.
EU roaming
This new principle is generally adopted in Spain without restrictions by most Spanish providers to all of their prepaid plans. For specifics about the new regulation check the European Union chapter and every provider in the article below.
Orange
Network: 2G up to EDGE, 3G up to HSUPA. 4G/LTE up to 150 Mbit/s with a coverage of 91.7% of the population in 2017. For 4G/LTE you need to have a 4G-enabled Orange SIM card and have activated a data package.
Availability
Their SIM card can be obtained for free, but a registration showing an ID document and a top-up of €10 to €20 has to be made at the point of purchase. They are sold in every Orange store in Spain (store locator) and other outlets in all three sizes.
Top-ups can be made almost everywhere in the country, where they sell recargas like supermarkets, service stations, kiosks, etc... To reload from abroad use topup.orange.com as Orange.es choose to decline most non-Spanish credit cards online. Check balance by *111#, by app or in your client's area called mi Orange.
Mundo SIM
The Mundo SIM has different packages to choose from. It can be set at purchase, by app or online in the client's area. The are valid for 28 days and renew automatically, if credit is available. Its default rate is horrendous €0.60 are charged for 10 MB per day (of use). So be sure to be on a package. Like on all offers of Orange data can be used in the EU/EEA without surcharges:
| Plan | Data | Voice | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mundo | no | no base price | |
| Mundo Esencial | 3 GB | €7 | |
| Mundo Plus | 7 GB | €10 | |
| Mundo Total | 10 GB | €15 | |
| Tú Mundo Mini | 3 GB | 200 mins | €10 |
| Tú Mundo | 7 GB | 400 mins | €15 |
Included voice minutes are domestic and to about 50 countries worldwide.Activation at purchase, online in the client's area, by app or by texting "ALTA MUNDO #GB" or "ALTA TU MUNDO" to 1470. If having used up all data, speed will be throttled to 16 kbit/s. But you can renew the packs ahead of time by sending a free SMS to 1470 with the following text: "MAS GIGAS MUNDO #GB", For # fill in '1GB', '2GB' or '3GB' and be sure to have enough credit. Deactivation by changing to Mundo SIM without data pack by app, in the client's area or by texting "ALTA TARIFA MUNDO"
Other prepaid plans
Online in your client's area called mi Orange, by app or by calling customer service, all of their prepaid tariffs are interchangeable without fees. You can change to their base plan called Llama without data, if you like to pause.
An Orange SIM can also be changed to or from these combo plans:
- Go Walk: 5 GB, 20 domestic mins: €9.95
- Go Run: 7 GB, 40 domestic mins: €14.95
- Go Fly: 15 GB, 80 domestic mins: €19.95
- Go Navega: 3GB, 0 cents/min, €8.95 [only appears on their English version website]
Standard call rate is 6 cents/min and an expensive 30 cents connection fee,
The first top-up of a Go plan is doubled in value as a promotion. Update June 2019: the new promotion is 10GB extra free on all three Go plans when you recharge an amount higher than each of the Go plan, promotion from June 3 to Sept 30. Presumably this 10GB extra is also available in RLAH roaming within EU/EEA.
Above plans auto renew if enough balance, otherwise will revert back to €3/100MB/day. Data quota do not accumulate/roll over upon renewal.
To all plans (Llama base plan included) you can add a Bonus 500 MB per month add-on for €4 online or by texting 'ALTA BONO 500MB' to 1470. Otherwise you are on a rather expensive default rate of €3 per 100 MB per day.
Balance check by customer web portal or Mi Orange app, or free SMS to 1470 with text INFO *** where *** is GO, WALK or FLY or NAVEGA.
Roaming options
In 2017 Orange updated their portfolio and introduced roaming without surcharges in all EU/EEA countries at domestic Spanish rates. That's why their old EU roaming option called "Go Europe" has been discontinued and you can use now their usual domestic packages in the EU.
A new option called "Orange Everywhere" has been introduced for countries outside the EU: 100 MB for €5 valid in the USA, Canada, Switzerland, China, Japan, Mexico and the Dominican Republic. Using more volume or for longer than a day, another €5 will be charged. To activate, text 'EW' to 22095; to deactivate, text 'BAJA EW'.
Tethering
Orange used not to provide a tethering profile for iOS devices. This has changed now. Users reported no issues anymore tethering from Apple devices in Spain. It has always been working on Android, Windows, Blackberry etc. as well as tablets, routers and modems.
Client's area (Mí Orange)
You can check balance, data balance, expiration date of your sim, change your plan, add/remove services and more in your Mí Orange area. There are two options, to use iOS/Android app (only available in Spanish store, just register separate Spain account to install it) or use https://www.orange.es/ website. You can access website without login/password, if you go directly from SIM card to https://areaprivada.orange.es/. If you want to access Mí Orange later without SIM card, you need to set password for this area:
- If you are still in Spain, send SMS with text "CLAVE PASSWORD" to 222. PASSWORD can be 4-6 digits only.
- If you are outside Spain, go to password recovery page and enter your phone number. You will get SMS with confirmation code, enter it to page. After you will be able to set your password (4-6 digits only) to access Mí Orange.
More information
- APN: orangeworld /or/ internet
- Username and Password: orange
- VoIP not allowed, but possible
- Website in English: https://en.orange.es - if doesn't work, link at the bottom of the website in Spanish https://www.orange.es/
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.
Vodafone has won the latest network tests for best 4G/LTE carrier in the country as far as speed and coverage are concerned. For international roaming, all surcharges in the EU/EEA plus Switzerland, Albania, Turkey, Kosovo, Monaco, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Mazedonia, Serbia, Montenegro and the US are scrapped.
Availability
Vodafone sells its prepaid SIM cards in its stores (locator) and outlets for the price of the first package and possibly a few euro for activation. SIM cards without a plan require a recharge of €10 . You need to show your passport or national ID card for registration.
Top-ups can be made by electronic recharges sold all over Spain in supermarkets, kiosks, service stations and many more places. Most international credit cards are accepted for online recharges on their website. Minimum top-up amount is €5 . Check balance by *134#.
Vodafone charges an inactivity fee of €0.50 per month after 3-4 months of outgoing inactivity of your prepaid SIM card. Furthermore, you need to top-up your SIM card every 6-7 months to keep it alive.
In February 2018 they partially renew their prepaid porfolio and added their unlimited Passes as first Vodafone market in Europe to their prepaid offers.
Vodafone yu
The SIM is sometimes free in promotions but can be up to €12 with no credit included. It's a combo plan with calls and 4G/LTE data sold in 3 different packages with these allowances for 28 days:
- Yuser: 5 GB, 15 mins voice - €10 , activation: *525*51#
- Mega Yuser: 15 GB, 60 mins voice plus Social and Chat Passes included (see below) - €20 , activation: *525*53#
All packages include free calls and texts among Vodafone yu numbers too (not in roaming). You can subscribe or change the package by typing *525*5# and choose plan. All packages last for 28 days, but can be renewed anytime ahead by typing *525*6#. Otherwise the packages will renew automatically after 28 days if there is credit and unused data or minutes will roll over to the next month. After the data volume is used up, bandwidth is reduced to 16 kbps as long the package is valid or €3 /day for 200 MB beyond.
To all Yu prepaid an Mí País plans the following Vodafone passes are included or can be added for unlimited messenging social media and streaming:
- Chat Pass: €2 including WhatsApp, SMS, MMS, WeChat, Telegram, Line etc. (no VoIP calls) - included for free in. Mega.Yuser
- Social Pass: €3 including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, LinkedIn, Tinder, Grindr, Flickr, Tumblr etc. Included for free in Mega Yuser
- Music Pass: €3 including Spotify, Soundcloud, Deezer, Apple Music, Napster, Tidal
- Maps Pass: €3 including Google Maps and Earth, Waze, iCoyote, Here, TomTom etc.
- Video Pass: €8 in 480p including YouTube, Netflix, HBO, Amazon Video, Rakuten, Vimeo, Vivo, Fox, Vodafone, Orange and Movistar TV, RTVE etc.
All data consumption through the mentioned apps, but not through the web browser versions is unlimited in Spain and limited to 5 GB in EU roaming.
Vodafone fácil
They sell this prepaid standard SIM card without a monthly fee 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#.
Some franchises don't like selling these fácil SIM cards as they don't make a profit with them, so you might get told they are not available, so it's recommended to go to an official Vodafone store for purchase instead.
You can activate a 500 MB data package for €5 on 4G/LTE valid for 30 days by typing *525*51#. This is a very easy way to get a small data amount and a convenient way to "park" your SIM as no base rate is charged for at least 4 months. That's the only package for this card, but it can be renewed anytime. Default rate outside of package is €3 /day for 200 MB.
Vodafone Mí Pais
This is a new set of plans with discounted international calls from Spain. It contains 8 GB data and 800 minutes to Spain and more than 58 countries. The starter can be bought in shops for €15 vaild for 28 days. This package auto-renews or can be renewed ahead of time by *565*2#. Vodafone Passes can be added (see Yu above)
Vodafone Tourist in Spain
This SIM plan is aimed at tourists in Spain and sold for €25 containing 10 GB data valid for 15 days and includes €5 free credit to spend and the Maps Pass (see yu above). Activation of the bundle is by *116#. It can be done on a Vodafone Facil SIM too. Roaming in the EU and the USA is included. It can be renewed anytime by adding €20 for another 10 GB and USSD code *116#. In this case unused voice or data will roll over.
Internet Móvil Prepago (Data-only SIM)
Their data-only SIM is called Internet Móvil Prepago and offers 4G speeds up to 150 Mbit/s. Starter packs are available in Vodafone stores for €15 with 1.5 GB valid for 3 months. Beyond 200 MB for €2 are given for up to 1 GB per day, when speed will be throttled to 8 kbit/s thereafter. These two add-on packages are offered:
- 750 MB: €10 , activation: text 'C AVA' to 2207
- 1.5 GB: €15 , activation: text 'C PRE' to 2207
The data-only SIM card can be managed online and on data-only plans VoIP is allowed. It can't 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.
International roaming
Vodafone scrapped all surcharges for roaming in the EU/EEA on all of their prepaid plans. Data allowances can be used for roaming at the domestic Spanish rate. Vodafone has even included the US on AT&T (3G/4G) and T-Mobile US (2G/3G/4G) networks to the surcharge-free roaming zone. Update Nov. 18: This free US roaming was supposed to come to an end in 2018, but was extended until March 2019. Update March 19: From April 2019 USA roaming at domestic Spanish prices will be a constant feature of all Yu plans and is valid indefinitely. As Vodafone offers both T-Mobile and AT&T networks in 4G/LTE this is one of the best roaming options from Europe for the US.
Meanwhile other countries outside the EU/EEA are added to the surcharge-free roaming zone with Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia-Herzegovina, (North) Mazedonia, Turkey, Switzerland, Kosovo and Albania.
Roaming calls (meaning calls when roaming out of Spain in an foreign network to anywhere within the common roaming zone) can be made from included package minutes. But all international calls (meaning all calls made from Spain directed abroad even to this roaming zone) are charged extra. The Vodafone streaming passes are said to be limited to 5 GB in international roaming, but this seems not to be enforced (yet).
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 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. They claim 85% 4G/LTE coverage on their own, but even more with their free roaming partners.
In 2016 they have been sold from Telia to Másmóvil. From beginning of 2018 Yoigo prepaid and contract customers can roam on Orange and Movistar networks on 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE for free as well as Yoigo's own antennas giving it a very good coverage in the country.
Availability
SIM card with new number is sold for €20 to €25 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
These packages are valid for one month:
- La Prepago de 1 GB: 1 GB, 20 mins - €8.50
- La Prepago de 2 GB: 2 GB, 50 mins - €10
- La Prepago de 4 GB: 4 GB, 100 mins - €15
After having used the included data, speed is reduced to 64 Kbps and an add-on is offered: 300 MB extra for €3.63 . The package will renew automatically every 28-31 days, if there is credit. Data rates outside a package are at 3.63c per MB.
To check remaining balance and consumption you need to use their App "Mí Yoigo".
EU roaming
Domestic allowances can be used without surcharges all over the EU/EEA for roaming.
More Information
- APN: internet
- Yoigo actively blocks VoIP on its plans
- Website in Spanish: http://www.yoigo.com/
Movistar (by Telefónica)
Movistar by Telefónica is on 2G up to EDGE, 3G up to HSPA+ and 4G/LTE. Telefónica is still the incumbent and main landline provider and used to be market leader in Spain, but its prepaid offer is not very competitive. That's why in this article it's downgraded to 4th position. For better rates on this network, Tuenti (see below) is a better option.
Availability
Their SIM card is sold for €10 with the same credit in every Movistar store and outlet in all three sizes. Do the registration there.
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:
- Habla 6: no base rate, data only at the default rate (see below) or add a weekly package of 200 MB at €1 .
- Tarifa #1: 1 GB for 30 days on 4G/LTE: €9
- Tarifa #2: 2 GB for 30 days on 4G/LTE: €15
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.
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 one week at €2 online, by app or by calling 1200 for free.
EU roaming
All roaming surcharges have been scrapped within the EU/EEA and your allowances can be used at domestic Spanish rates.
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 good coverage in Spain and is one of the cheapest choices for data on the Movistar network.
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.
Buy a SIM card from their website, in most Movistar stores, Telecor, FNAC and lots of other places: Tuenti points of sale. The SIM card is a trio-SIM comprising mini, micro and nano sizes. Recharges can be made using the Tuenti app or online using an international credit card. Top-ups can be bought at Movistar stores too. You cannot order a SIM card online to be sent to the Canary Islands, but since 2014 Tuenti SIM cards are sold in 140 Movistar stores in the Canary Islands 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.
Validity and recharges
The remaining balance is valid for use within 6 months. In practice, any increase of balance of any kind and for any amount will keep your account active and running. After this time the account will fall into a suspension. Officially, after that, outgoing activity (calls, SMS and data) are theoretically blocked, but not always in practice. 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 ability to reactivate. The full expiry policy is explained here (in Spanish).
Extra rules for foreigners
There are some special rules when buying in shops for foreigners using passports: unlike holders of Spanish national and alien identity cards (DNI, NIE), you'll have to pay €25 and the only option to choose is the €6 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
They offer three monthly allowances for prepaid:
- 3 GB: €6.95
- 5 GB: €9.95
- 11 GB: €13.95
When bundle runs out, speed is throttled at 64 kbps.
Packages and add-ons must be activated online using the Tuenti app, over 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 credit. This can be disabled online. Add-on packages are only valid for the rest of the running time of the base plan. The default rate outside bundles is €0.04 per MB.
VozDigital
This VoIP feature used to be automatically activated when you purchased a bundle. It allowed you to make calls for free to national and international numbers (within your included allowance) using the app, and credit or data was not be debited from your account. This service was discontinued in May 2019. It remains possible to receive calls via the Tuenti app, which is useful when out of coverage or when using another SIM card.
EU roaming
From June 2017 all roaming surcharges in the EU/EEA have ended and you roam at the domestic rate.
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/
Simyo
Simyo is one of the oldest and most established MVNOs in the country. It operates on Orange's network too. In 2015 4G/LTE was opened to all prepaid 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 cheapest and most flexible 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 to a Spanish postal address for a €7 shipping fee. In shops you can find it at the holaMOBI chain (holaMOBI locator), in some hipermercados of Carrefour (locator) in front at the phone department and in 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 (called prepago or de tarjeta), not a contract (contrato) SIM. Finally, they have released an online map of their sales points (map). There, for registration often a passport is required as an ID document instead of a non-Spanish ID card. For your first login to your online account or Simyo app use the number of your ID document as username and the PUK as password.
For top-ups there are many locations in supermarkets like Carrefour or Eroski, small internet stores, post offices or some service stations. Online they only accept Spanish credit cards and decline all foreign cards. To top up from abroad, you might use a 3rd party agency with surcharges. To check your 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 data packages called bonos for one month (30 days with roll-over, see below):
- 100 MB: €1
- 500 MB: €2.50
- 1.5 GB: €5
- 3 GB: €7
- 6 GB: €10.50
- 12 GB: €12.50
- 22 GB: €15.50
- 28 GB: €17
- 35 GB: €28
These special bonos are sold:
- 1 GB for 1 day: €1
- 7 GB for 7 days: €7
- 15 GB for 15 days: €15
You can add one of these packages:
- night bono 1 GB: €1.99 , only valid 10.30pm-8am, can be added several times
- weekend bono 1 GB: €1.99 , only valid Friday 3pm to Sunday midnight, can be added again
- Telegram and WhatsApp 300 MB: €0.99
- Social Networks (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat) 4 GB: €1.99 (free in promotion until May 2019)
All packages are for 30 days and auto-renew, if you have enough credit and you don't stop them from doing so. To purchase, check your personal Simyo account, use their app or call customer support at 121. For voice different packages of 20 minutes to unlimited can be combined with data.
If you need more data, you can renew any package ahead of time or add another pack. All unused data volume of the regular bonos roll over to the next month for up to 3 months, if you buy any new bono (that can be as low as 100 MB). For a monthly bono you need to buy another monthly bono to be rolled over, but it can be of a different volume.
EU roaming
All roaming fees in the EU are scrapped and roaming is at domestic rates. Simyo is one of the few operators in Spain that states a Fair Usage Policy (FUP). So you might face surcharges after 4 months of continuous roaming. But this hasn't been verified yet and all of the package is given out without any volume restrictions.
More information
- Tethering and VoIP calls are allowed
- APN: orangeworld
- Website in Spanish: http://www.simyo.es/
MásMóvil
Másmóvil is currently using the Orange network on 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE for its prepaid product. They have recently acquired the Yoigo network.
In 2018 Másmóvil has begun migrating its mobile customers from Orange's mobile network to that of Yoigo. The migration will require customers to change their SIM card and will take place over the next few months, starting with new postpay and ported clients in April followed by the remaining customer base starting in June 2018.
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
- 2 GB + unlimited voice (connection fee 18 ct, from 6th minute 3,6 ct/min): €7
- 2 GB + 150 mins (no connection fee): €11
- 2 GB + unlimited voice (connection fee 18 ct, from 6th minute 3,6 ct/min): €7
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.
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:
- 5 GB: €19.90
- 10 GB: €29.90
- 20 GB: €39.90
- 50 GB: €89.90
Default rate applies outside of packages. For overuse they offer a 200 MB add-on with throttling instead for €2 .
Data-only SIM
For tablets and routers they offer this product called Internet móvil that is also available on prepaid with a high volume monthly data allowance on the same data packages mentioned above.
EU roaming
From 2017 all roaming surcharges are scrapped in the EU/EEA. Másmovil mentiones a "reasonable use" of data, but doesn't specify this.
More information
- APN: internetmas
- Tethering and VoIP are allowed
- Website in Spanish: http://masmovil.es/es/tarifas-prepago/
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. In 2017 4G/LTE was added to all customers. They now offer the lowest rates on the Movistar network.
Note that DIGI mobil has been exempt from "Roam like at home" rules in other EU countries and applies surcharges instead. It might not be so suitable to be used outside Spain (except in Romania).
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 MVNOs. Credit can be checked by *134# and data credit by *130# free of charge.
Data feature packs
All their packages are valid for 30 days and come with data-only or data and voice:
| Data | EU cap | Voice | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIGI Naveg@ with data only: | |||
| 2 GB | 1.5 GB | not included | €5 |
| 5 GB | 2.75 GB | not included | €10 |
| DIGI Combo with voice and data: | |||
| 500 MB | no cap | 100 mins | €3 |
| 1 GB | no cap | 100 mins | €5 |
| 3 GB | no cap | 400 mins | €10 |
| 6 GB | 4.25 GB | 800 mins | €15 |
| 20 GB | 5.75 GB | 2000 mins | €20 |
| DIGI Ilimitado with unlimited voice and data: | |||
| 3 GB | 2.75 GB | unlimited | €10 |
| 6 GB | 4.25 GB | unlimited | €15 |
| 20 GB | 5.75 GB | unlimited | €20 |
All bundles auto-renew, if not deactivated before. Since May 2018 all unused data roll over to the next month, if you renew any plan. To subscribe enter *100# choose option 2 "internet móvil" and 1 "Alta DIGI naveg@". You can unsubscribe on the same menu with "Baja DIGI naveg@". Voice allowances in combo packs are domestic and to about 50 countries.
After having used up all package volume, speed will be reduced to GPRS or you can buy add-ons called "Extra":
- 200 MB: €1 , no roaming cap
- 1 GB: €3 , no roaming cap
To buy an add-on use menu *100# option 2 "internet móvil" and choose option 4 "Aumenta MB".
EU roaming
Spanish regulator CNMC has authorised DigiMobil to opt out of the roam-like-at-home requirement in the EU on grounds of economic viability. However, in July 2018 Digi finally implemented RLAH with an FUP rule. You can use packages up to the specified volume above without surcharges.
It is impossible to use in Lithuania and to use in the UK you have to manually find the operator....... Not the best outside of Spain.
More information
- 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. In April 2018 4G/LTE was opened to its postpaid and from June 2018 4G has been available on prepaid as well after contacting customer services on 1212 or visiting a store.
Availability
The SIM card can be bought for €5 with €10 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.
They offer two tariff lines: The classic "La del 5" and another one called "Recarga Automatica" for which you need to enable auto-pay and link it to a credit card. Credits are valid for 90 days, and after not recharging for 180 days, the line will be deactivated. but it is possible to keep the number active for €5 a year by texting KEEP 12 to 22321. This service automatically renews for €3 in each subsequent year unless you send the text REMOVE KEEP 12.
Data feature packs
The default rate for internet is 6.05 cents per MB on La del 5 and 3.63ct/MB with automatic recharge as long as no package is activated. They offer the following data packs:
- 5 GB: €13.90 - activation: 5GB PACK
- 7 GB: €24.90 - activation: 7GB pack
For national voice and data they offer:
- 1 GB + 100 mins: €4.90 - activation: NAT 1GB PACK
- 4GB + 1000 mins: €9.90 - activation: NAT 4GB PACK
They also offer packages for national and international calls out of Spain and data:
- 100 min + 3 GB: €9.90 - activation: ALL 3GB PACK
- 500 min + 2 GB: €14.90 - activation: ALL 2GB PACK
- 1000 min + 5 GB: €19.90 - activation: ALL 5GB PACK
The packs are valid 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'.
International calls include all mobile numbers to 36 countries and landlines to 22 more (see list). To activate, renew or suspend auto-renewal just follow steps shown above
You can also add one of these packs for extra data during the running time of the base pack:
- 500 MB: €4.90 , activation: EXTRA 500MB
- 1 GB: €9.90 , activation: EXTRA 1GB
Activation is by sending code to 22321
EU roaming
EU/EEA roaming is at the domestic rate without surcharges valid in packages too without any restrictions.
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
new logo
The MVNO of the British Lebara Group is heavily marketed and operates in Spain on the Vodafone network giving good coverage and speeds. In June 2018 finally Vodafone's 4G/LTE network was opened to Lebara users and later that year Lebara was bought by Másmovil.
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. It's 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. All first top-ups receive 50% more allowances for free.
You might need to add 4G/LTE manually, if it doesn't work from the start by texting "SI4G" to 22333.
Data feature packs
Pay as you go rate is €0.06 per MB. This rate is charged without booking a package or for overuse. The following data packages are valid for 28 days. For activation text code to 22333 or go online to your account:
| ESP Data | EU cap | dom. Voice | Price | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 GB | 2.2 GB | €6 | NAVEGA3GB | |
| 6 GB | 3.7 GB | 200 mins | €10 | SURF6GB |
| 10 GB | 5.5 GB | 200 mins | €15 | SURF10GB |
| 20 GB | 7.3 GB | 200 mins | €20 | SURF20GB |
Excess data is at €0.05 per MB or these extra data packages as add-ons can be activated for the running time of the base plan to all the passes above:
- 300 MB add-on: €5 . Activation: D300
- 1 GB add-on: €7 . Activation: D1GB
For activation text code 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.
EU roaming
Roam like at home has been implemented for all roaming in EU/EEA countries. However, there are limits for data usage of some data packages at the domestic rate according to a hidden FUP and specified in the table above.
More information
- APN: gprsmov.lebaramobile.es
- Tethering is possible. Tethering on iPhone (tested on iPhone 7 MN922RU/A, iOS 10.3.3) can be enabled by filling in tethering APN in cellular data settings with the aforesaid one.
- Website in English: https://mobile.lebara.com/es/en/
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 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's €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 ct per MB on the standard plan, 3.6 ct per MB on the Smart plan and 0.9 ct 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 with domestic data in Spain only:
| ESP Data | EU data | Price | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 GB | 2.25 GB | €6 | *139*9150# |
| 4 GB | 3.5 GB | €9 | *139*9300# |
| 7 GB* | 3.75 GB | €10 | *139*9107# |
| 10 GB* | 5.75 GB | €15 | *139*9110# |
| 20 GB* | 7.5 GB | €20 | *139*9115# |
| 25 GB* | 9.25 GB | €25 | *139*9120# |
(*) - These packages come with 100 domestic minutes and 100 minutes to other Spanish Lycamobile numbers.
Customers can use certain these monthly bundles, that include unlimited voice and SMS and a data quota:
| Bundle | ESP data | EU data | Price | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| National XS | 3 GB | 3.75 GB | €10 | *139*3014# |
| Illimitado S | 1 GB | 3.75 GB | €10 | *139*3017# |
| Illimitado M | 3 GB | 4.5 GB | €12 | *139*3019# |
| Illimitado L | 6 GB | 5.75 GB | €15 (#) | *139*3020# |
| Illimitado XL | 10 GB | 7.5 GB | €20 (#) | *139*3030# |
| Illimitado XXL | 20 GB | 11.25 GB | €30 (#)(*) | *139*3035# |
(#) = 2 GB domestic data can be added for free to these packs by texting 'DATOSGRATIS' to 3535.
(*) - This package has been discounted by 50% if buy a new SIM card.
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 by *221# and your data balance by *137#. For more data you can add bonos extensibles valid for the rest of the running time of the base packages:
- 500 MB: €4 , for activation text 601 to 3535
EU roaming
For roaming in the EU Lycamobile applies roam like at home to its data and combo packages above up to the specified limit or at their high default rate.
Technical settings
- APN: data.lycamobile.es
- Username: lmes (that's lowcase L, not capital i)
- Password: plus
More information
- Website in English: http://www.lycamobile.es/en
Llamaya móvil
Llamaya móvil is an ethno provider like Lycamobile or 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 and since 2018 finally on 4G/LTE too. In 2017 they were acquired by MásMóvil.
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. The Spanish branches of The Phone House sells them too (locator).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.
Note that the prepaid terms and conditions state a minimum monthly consumption of €5 . If you don't consume that amount, €1.50 will deducted from your balance every month and only 60 days after the last top-up you SIM falls into passive mode.
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#.
Data feature packages
Default rate for prepaid data is €0.05 per MB. These packages called bonos valid for 30 days can be added:
| Data | Voice | Price | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 GB | 150
mins to all domestic lines |
€5 | LLYALTAPLAN3GB |
| 7 GB | €10 | LLYALTAPLAN7GB | |
| 12 GB | €15 | LLYALTAPLAN12GB | |
| 20 GB | €20 | LLYALTAPLAN20GB |
For activation text code to 22951. All packs auto-renew after 30 days. For extra data you can add 1 GB for €2 valid for the rest of the base plan period by calling 2376. For unlimited domestic calls a bono for €5 surcharge is offered as well as special plans for calling to 167 countries at reduced rates.
EU roaming
All data allowances including bonos can be used for roaming in the EU/EEA too without surcharges. You may need to activate roaming in your clients area to use this service.
More information
- APN for prepaid: internetmas
- Website in Spanish: http://www.llamayamovil.com/
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's sold at at holaMOBI located in around 100 places in Spain (holaMOBI locator) with a lot other shops for €10 with the same credit preloaded.
Recharges
You can top-up online, but many foreign credit cards may not be accepted. In Spain you can use all shops of The Phone House, Yoigo, HolaMOBI, Carrefour supermarkets, many service stations, kiosks, and 24 hour shops.
Check credit on your personal online account or by app.
Data feature packages
Standard rate for data is low 1.5 ct per MB. These plans are offered valid for one month:
| Plan | Data | EU cap | Voice | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cero | 0 | 0 | €0 | |
| Mini ∞ | 0 | unlimited | €7 | |
| Mini + | 3 GB | 1.85 GB | 150 mins | €5 |
| Pequeña ∞ | 3 GB | unlimited | €10 | |
| Pequeña + | 7 GB | 3.32 GB | 150 mins | €10 |
| Mediana ∞ | 7 GB | 5.52 GB | unlimited | €15 |
| Mediana + | 12 GB | 5.52 GB | 150 mins | €15 |
| Única ∞ | 23 GB | 7.36 GB | unlimited | €20 |
Thus a voice flatrate plus 23 GB data are sold at €20 which is the lowest price for prepaid in the country for such a combination. For more data you can later add 1 GB for €5 and 10 GB for €10 .
EU roaming
No more roaming surcharges in the EU and roaming rates are at domestic prices including all data packages up to the specified limit in the table as EU cap. All use beyond is charged at the default rate of 1.5 ct per MB.
More information
- Tethering and VoIP calls are allowed
- APN: orangeworld
- Website in Spanish: https://www.republicamovil.es/
Lobster.
In December 2018 the first provider started aiming at the British expats community in Spain called Lobster. It's managed by Gibtelecom from Gibraltar and operates on Movistar's network with 4G/LTE included. Over all it boast an all-English support.
Availability
You can order the starter pack on their website for the price of the first month with free shipping to a Spanish postal address in 1-3 days. In shops they sell it in two varieties (locator): in instant setup stores you can do all the activation there, in Quick Buy stores, you only buy the SIM there and need to do the activation (as well as for the delivery version) online. For this you need to scan your ID documents and send it online through their website.
You’re free to stop the plan any month you like by visiting your Lobster account. You can keep using your plan until the end of your month, then it will be stopped. Your number and emaining credit balance will be kept for you for up to 12 months. You’re able to receive calls and texts only in the first month of your plan being stopped. You can start your plan again at any time by re-visiting your Lobster account and your monthly plan will restart from that day. If after 12 months you have not started your plan again, then your account will be closed.
Recharges
Lobster is hybrid prepaid. This means it's linked to a credit card with auto-renew plans.
Payment will be taken automatically on the date your plan expires e.g. if your plan started on the 23rd of the month, payment will be taken from the card registered on your account on the 23rd of each subsequent month. Your monthly plan and allowances will kick in that day if the payment is successful.
Check balance by *100#.
Data feature packages
They offer three monthly plans with auto-renew:
- for €12 : unlimited calls and texts + 2 GB of data
- for €18 : unlimited calls and texts + 7 GB of data
- for €24 : unlimited calls and texts + 15 GB of data
Calls and texts are to UK, Ireland, Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, Norway, Sweden, United States (!), whether you’re calling from Spain or any other EU country, are all included in each of the plans too.
You can change to a new plan any time you like; you don’t have to wait until the end of your month. If you want more data, you can change to a new plan any time you want. Or you can simply buy extra data to get you to the end of that month for 1 GB at €6 .
More information
- Package allowances can be used without surcharges roaming in the EU/EEA
- APN: lobster
- Website in English: https://www.lobster.es/
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.
| Rental
Duration |
SIM Card
(2 GB /day) |
WiFi 4G
(4 GB /day) |
WiFi 4G
'unlimited' |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 days | €20 | €30 | €40 |
| 8 days | €34 | €50 | €76 |
| 15 days | €55 | €81.50 | €125 |
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
Discontinued Offers
Carrefour Móvil
Carrefour Movil, which became Spain’s first MVNO when it launched on 27 October 2006, terminated its service at the end of 2017.
Jazztel prepago
Jazztel was another MVNO on the Orange network. Orange Spain has confirmed that its Jazzcard Movil prepay plan will be finally phased out in May 2018, with users urged to port their tariffs to other plans or else lose any remaining credit. The operator has announced the definitive closure of the service.
HappyMóvil
Spanish operator Másmóvil has shut down and phased out its HappyMóvil brand, some 4 years after striking a deal to acquire the smaller player. The Happy Movil website now redirects customers to a page on the Masmóvil website, and new subscriptions are no longer being sold.
FreedomPop
FreedomPop used to be a 'Freemium' provider from the US giving out a small amount of data, calls and texts for free in hope that you buy more allowances later.
As of May 2018, the free plan was been discontinued, with existing users being forced to the €2.99 per month plan. In November 2018 they announced to leave the Spanish market by 29/DEC/2018.