Spain offers several value-priced mobile phone service providers that provide affordable plans with good coverage. Here are some of the best options:
Movistar: Movistar is the largest and most established mobile network operator in Spain. It offers a wide range of mobile services, including voice, data, and mobile broadband. Movistar provides extensive coverage across the country and offers diverse plans to cater to different needs.
Vodafone: Vodafone is another leading mobile network operator in Spain. It provides comprehensive mobile services, including voice, data, and mobile internet. Vodafone offers a variety of plans and packages, including prepaid and postpaid options, with additional features like international calling and roaming.
Orange: Orange is a prominent mobile network operator in Spain. It offers a range of mobile services, including voice, data, and internet. Orange provides competitive plans and packages, along with additional services like international calling and roaming options.
MásMóvil: MásMóvil is a popular mobile network operator in Spain known for its competitive prices and flexible plans. They offer a variety of affordable options, including prepaid and postpaid plans with different data allowances, call minutes, and SMS bundles. MásMóvil utilizes the networks of other major providers, ensuring reliable coverage across the country.
Yoigo: Yoigo is another well-established mobile operator in Spain that offers budget-friendly plans. They provide both prepaid and postpaid options with competitive rates for data, voice calls, and text messages. Yoigo utilizes the network infrastructure of Movistar, ensuring widespread coverage across Spain.
Simyo: Simyo is a virtual mobile operator that operates on the Orange network. They offer affordable prepaid plans with customizable options to fit individual needs. Simyo provides flexibility in terms of data, voice calls, and SMS allowances, allowing users to choose the combination that best suits their usage patterns.
Lowi: Lowi is a mobile operator owned by Vodafone Spain, offering simple and affordable plans. They provide no-contract postpaid plans with competitive pricing. Lowi’s plans include a base amount of data, along with the option to add extra data or international calling bundles as needed.
Pepephone: Pepephone is a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers in Spain. They offer no-contract mobile plans with competitive rates. Pepephone focuses on simplicity and transparency, offering plans with a fixed amount of data, voice calls, and text messages at affordable prices
Tuenti: Tuenti is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) owned by Telefónica. They offer prepaid plans with reasonable pricing and good data allowances. Tuenti is known for its simple and straightforward plans, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a no-frills mobile service.
When choosing a mobile phone service provider in Spain, consider factors such as network coverage in your area, data allowances, call rates, customer service, and any additional features or benefits that may be important to you. It’s also advisable to compare the prices and offerings of different providers to find the best value for your specific needs.
To get a mobile phone in Spain as an expat, you typically need the following documents:
- Valid ID or Passport: You will need to present a valid identification document, such as your passport or national ID card, to verify your identity.
- NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero): As an expat, you will need to obtain an NIE, which is a unique identification number for foreigners in Spain. It is often required for various administrative processes, including getting a mobile phone. Make sure to obtain your NIE before applying for a mobile phone service.
- Proof of Address: Some mobile service providers may require proof of your address in Spain. This can be a rental contract, utility bill, or any official document that shows your name and residential address.
- Bank Account Details: Having a Spanish bank account is often necessary for setting up a mobile phone contract. You may need to provide your bank account details to authorize automatic payments for your monthly phone bills.
- Residency Permit or Visa: Depending on your situation, you may be required to provide your residency permit or valid visa that permits you to stay in Spain for an extended period. This may apply to non-EU citizens.
- Tarjeta de Registro (Registration Card): If you are an EU citizen and have registered your stay in Spain, you may be asked to present your Tarjeta de Registro (Registration Card) as proof of your legal residence.
It’s important to note that specific requirements may vary depending on the mobile service provider and their policies. It’s advisable to contact the chosen provider directly or visit their website to inquire about the exact documentation needed for obtaining a mobile phone contract as an expat in Spain.
