Getting a local SIM card at Lithuania airports is very convenient for tourists when arriving this country. However, it may be a little bit difficult to know where to buy, which mobile operator is available. Understanding that, this comprehensive guide provides detailed information about buying SIM Cards at Lithuania airports for tourists.
Table of Contents
1. Which airport in Lithuania offers SIM card for tourists
There are 3 international airports in Lithuania, Vilnius, Kaunas, and Palanga while Vilnius International Airport is the main international airport and serves as a gateway for many tourists visiting the country.
Lithuania Airport Map
- Vilnius Airport: It’s located just 5 km south of the capital Vilnius. It handles the majority of air traffic into and out of the country.
Vilnius Airport
- Kaunas Airport: The second busiest airport in Lithuania, located about 10 km north of Kaunas city centre. It serves as a prominent hub for low-cost airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air.
Kaunas Airport
- Palanga Airport: It handles mostly seasonal holiday charter flights as it serves the popular Baltic seaside resort town of Palanga.
Palanga airport
2. Where to buy SIM card at Lithuania airports
At each of Lithuania’s international airports, there are various options to purchase local SIM cards from major Lithuania mobile operators like Tele2, Telia, and Bite, which are designed for newly arriving tourists who want mobile data during their stay.
- Mobile Network Provider Kiosks: Look for kiosks or stores operated by major mobile network providers in Lithuania, such as Bite, Telia, or Tele2.
- Airport Retailers and Convenience Stores: Various retailers and convenience stores located within the airport premises may offer SIM cards for sale.
- Airport Information Desks: The airport’s information desks or customer service centers may be able to provide guidance on where to purchase SIM cards.
- Vending machines: Another very convenient and easy option is through SIM card vending machines located in the terminal buildings.
Easy to buy SIM Card at Lithuania airports
3. What to prepare to buy a SIM card at Lithuania airports
When looking to get a Lithuania SIM card for your phone immediately upon arrival by air, there are a few things to prepare in advance:
- Passport: A valid passport is usually the primary identification document required when buying a SIM card in Lithuania.
- Proof of Address: In some cases, you might be asked to provide proof of your local address in Lithuania.
- Travel Itinerary: It’s a good idea to have your travel itinerary readily available.
- Unlocked device: Ensure your smartphone or mobile device is unlocked to accept SIMs from different carriers.
- Credit or debit card: To pay for the SIM card credit and data packages, you will need a major credit or debit card (VISA, MasterCard, etc).
- eSIM compatibility: Check the compatible of your device if you want to use eSIM service.
4. Lithuania eSIM – an Alternative to SIM Card at Lithuania Airport
In addition to SIM card at Lithuania airports also offer eSIM for data connectivity. Here are some key benefits when using eSIM in Lithuania.
- Convenience: No need to physically insert or swap SIM cards in your device.
- Dual SIM Capability: eSIM allows you to have multiple phone numbers on a single device.
- Easy Activation: can be done quickly and easily through an app or website.
- Flexibility: eSIMs offer the flexibility to switch between different mobile network providers.
- Environmentally Friendly: By using an eSIM, you eliminate the need for physical SIM cards, reducing plastic waste.
However, eSIMs may not work for basic-level mobile phones without built-in eSIM chipsets. Check details in eSIM compatibility list.
5. FAQs about SIM Card at Lithuania Airports
Can I use eSIM and physical SIM card together?
On select high-capability phones like newer iPhone Dual SIM models, its possible to activate both an eSIM mobile plan and a standard nano-size SIM card at the same time for dual standby. But its not universally supported across devices yet.
How long does airport SIM card registration take?
Purchasing a standard tourist SIM card from shops at Lithuania airports involve providing passport details. This registration step is required by law for all SIM users, but normally takes just 5-10 minutes total at point of sale.
Can I use SIM card in multiple devices?
Typically, the Lithuania tourist SIM cards allow data connectivity on one device only. Though you may be able switch the registered SIM between devices a limited number of times, using one SIM card actively for multiple gadgets simultaneously often violates provider policies.
Do I need to cancel SIM card plan before leaving?
For prepaid SIM cards acquired at Lithuanian airports, there is no binding service contract or required cancellation. You can simply let remaining prepaid credit expire after departure. But if wanting to retain plan longer term, check with your mobile provider for extension policies for tourists.
6. Conclusion
Obtaining a local Lithuania SIM card with mobile data is highly useful for newcomers upon arrival by air. All three of the main international airports in Lithuania offer easy SIM card acquisition options through retail shops, vending machines or network booths located right in the terminals. As an alternative to physical SIMs, eSIMs present a small but growing solution. Overall, though, getting standard SIM card at Lithuanian airports is a simple and convenient process enabling every tourist to stay connected while visiting.