As a popular tourist destination, Brazil receives millions of international visitors every year. Many tourists want to stay connected to the internet during their trip in Brazil. Getting a local Brazil SIM card can provide affordable data coverage and avoid international roaming charges from their home carrier. This guide will cover everything you need to know about purchasing SIM card at Brazil airports.
Table of Contents
I. Which airport in Brazil offers SIM cards for Tourists?
Unfortunately, it is currently not possible to purchase a prepaid SIM card for tourists upon arrival at the major international airports in Brazil, including São Paulo Guarulhos (GRU) and Rio de Janeiro Galeão (GIG).
1. Sao Paulo Guarulhos International Airport (GRU)
This is the largest airport in South America and Brazil’s busiest international gateway. In 2020, GRU handled over 19 million passengers. It serves as a hub for major domestic and international airlines. At the Conveniencia Livraria bookstore on the second floor above international arrivals, you may be able to buy a SIM before 7pm if you have a CPF. Having a CPF is mandatory.
Explore some SIM card plans at GRU airport before your arrival.
2. Rio de Janeiro International Airport (GIG)
This is the main international gateway in Rio de Janeiro. Located 15 kilometers north of the city center, GIG airport serves over 30 million passengers annually with domestic and international flights. Here, you can buy a SIM card at Drogerias Farmais store, located past the domestic arrivals hall. However, you need a Brazilian tax ID (CPF) number.
With a CPF, you can purchase a prepaid SIM from Correios Celular, which provides some convenient options worth exploring.
II. Where to buy SIM card at Brazil airports?
Here are the main places to buy SIM cards inside the arrival areas of GRU and GIG airports:
- Airport convenience/newsstand stores – Small shops located post-security in airport terminals often sell SIM cards from the major carriers alongside snacks, magazines, etc. Try looking in newspaper/gift shops in GRU, Fortaleza airport, etc.
- Online pick-up – You can also order SIM cards online from carriers while in-flight or on your way to the airport, then pick them up upon arrival at designated booths located pre-security.
Pro Tips: Getting a SIM card at the airport in Brazil can be challenging - get a Brazil eSIM instead. Activation is online in minutes. With an eSIM downloaded before your flight, you can connect immediately upon landing without waiting for a physical SIM card.
III. What to prepare to buy a SIM card at Brazil airports?
Buying a SIM card at Brazil airports arrival is convenient but requires some preparation:
- Passport – Carry your passport when purchasing a SIM card at Brazil airports. Most providers require passport verification to register new SIM purchases in Brazil.
- CPF number – Brazil’s tax ID number. Get a temporary number beforehand if possible.
- Unlock Phone – Your smartphone must be unlocked to accept a Brazilian SIM card. Contact your home carrier in advance to request an unlock if needed.
- SIM Tool – Bring a small SIM eject tool to swap out your existing SIM for the new Brazilian SIM card.
- Cash (Brazilian Reais) – Credit cards may not be accepted, so have some local cash.
That’s some of the key things to have prepared to ensure a smooth SIM card purchase at a Brazilian airport. Come ready with the right paperwork, cash, and information about your device and needs.
IV. Brazil eSIM – An Alternative to Airport SIM Card
Travelers with newer model smartphones may consider using an eSIM plan instead of a physical SIM card in Brazil. An eSIM is a digital SIM card integrated into your phone and allows you to activate mobile data plans remotely.
When arriving in Brazil, many travelers find themselves stuck in long lines at the airport just to get a local SIM for connectivity. Potential issues include sold out SIM inventories, difficulties with activation, or lack of assistance if problems arise. Now there is a better option – esimbrazil.net. With esimbrazil.net, you can purchase an eSIM plan online before your flight and have instant mobile data delivered straight to your email. Just scan the QR code upon arrival and you’ll be connected immediately without any waiting.
V. FAQs
What network coverage is best in Brazil?
The top 4 providers are Claro, Vivo, TIM, and Oi. Claro and Vivo tend to have the most extensive coverage nationwide.
How much does a SIM card at Brazil airports cost?
SIM card at Brazil airports start from around R$30. Data packages are extra, often R$50+ for 1 to 5GB data plans.
Can I use WhatsApp with a Brazil SIM card?
Yes, Brazilian SIM cards include access to apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, etc. Some data packages allow using WhatsApp without deducting from your data allotment.
Do I need to show ID to buy a SIM card?
Yes, you’ll need to show your valid passport when purchasing a SIM card in Brazil to register the cell number.
Can I use a SIM card in multiple devices?
Typically one SIM card can only be actively used in one device at a time. You’d need to purchase additional SIMs to use cellular data across multiple devices simultaneously.
VI. Conclusion
Getting a local Brazil SIM card at Brazil airport arrival is the most convenient way for tourists to stay connected during their trip. With some advance preparation, travelers can swiftly purchase affordable data plans at Brazilian airports to avoid costly roaming fees when exploring this exciting country. An alternative such as esimbrazil.net provides instant connectivity without waiting in airport lines.
