Getting a SIM card at Guarulhos Airport can make visiting Brazil much easier as it gives you access to mobile data right after you land. With a local SIM you can use maps, find information and stay connected throughout your journey without paying expensive roaming fees from your home provider. This comprehensive guide will show you everything you need to know about buying a SIM card at Guarulhos International Airport.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Guarulhos Airport
Unfortunately there is limited place provided for obtaining a SIM card directly from the postal service counter at the airport. You can consider several options for buying SIM cards at Guarulhos International Airport below. The main options are:
- Conveniencia Livraria bookstore: Located in 2nd floor, above international arrivals hall. Sells prepaid SIM cards from Correios Celular before 7:00pm. However, you need a CPF on hand.
- Online: Buy online from a provider like TIM, Vivo or Claro and select the option to pick up at GRU airport. This avoids needing a CPF on hand. Some providers allow pick up from partner stores near the airport as well.
Tips: Correios Celular inside the airport is a simple solution if you have all your documentation. Otherwise, don't panic - once you're in Sao Paulo city proper, SIMs from all providers are readily available and start from very reasonable prices.
II. Guarulhos Airport SIM Card Options and Costs
When purchasing a Brazil SIM card at Guarulhos International Airport, your main option inside the airport itself is to purchase a prepaid SIM card from Correios Celular, the Brazilian Post Office’s mobile service provider. Here’s an overview:
| Provider | Plan | Price (BRL) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Correios Celular | 3 GB data + 100 minutes | 30 | $6 |
| 5 GB data + unlimited minutes | 40 | $8 | |
| 9 GB data + unlimited minutes | 50 | $10 | |
| Claro | 2 GB data for 7 days | 9.99 | $2 |
| 6 GB data for 30 days | 29.99 | $6 | |
| TIM | 9 GB data** + unlimited calls/text for 15 days | 15 | $3 |
| VIVO | 4 GB data for 15 days | 14.99 | $3 |
| 5 GB data for 15 days | 19.99 | $4 |
Guarulhos airport SIM cards are affordable, with plans starting around $6 USD. They offer generous data allowances of 3-9GB depending on the package. An advantage is that minutes are usually unlimited, which is handy for travelers. However, do note you need a CPF tax ID number to buy one.
III. What I Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Guarulhos Airport
To make the process of purchasing a SIM card at Guarulhos International Airport goes smoothly, right here are some suggestions:
- Passport – Make sure to have your passport handy as you will need to show this as ID when purchasing your SIM.
- CPF – Brazilians require a Tax ID number (CPF) for certain activities like getting a SIM card. Have your CPF number ready if you have one.
- Cash – It is recommended that you pay for your SIM card using real Brazilian currency. Credit cards can be limited, and airport exchange rates can be high.
- Unlock your Smartphone – Confirm that your phone is unlocked and that you can use an international SIM. Contact your housing agent first and ask for an opening if necessary.
- SIM card size – Bring your SIM device to get the right of entry to the cardboard tray. Find out in case you need a trendy, micro, or nano SIM for your device.
With those items covered, you’ll be prepared for a smooth SIM card purchase when your plane lands at Guarulhos!
IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Guarulhos Airport
If you’re flying into GRU airport in Sao Paulo but don’t want to deal with finding and purchasing a SIM card once you land, consider signing up for an eSIM from esimbrazil.net instead. It offers affordable eSIM plans that you can activate online right from your phone, without having to go anywhere.
No need to stop at a booth in the airport to choose a plan and wait while they activate a physical SIM – just download the eSIM profile online, activate it on your phone, and you’ll have reliable LTE data for the duration of your stay.
Enjoy the best connectivity option with eSIMBrazil.net
Connect instantly without worrying about finding an open SIM kiosk or dealing with long airport lines - get your eSIM from esimbrazil.net today and be ready to explore Brazil from the moment you land!
V. FAQs
Do I need to show ID to buy a SIM card at Guarulhos International Airport?
Yes, you will need to show your passport as proof of identity when buying a SIM.
Can I pay with credit/debit card or does it need to be cash?
Cash in Brazilian real is recommended, as some carriers may impose minimums or charge fees for credit/debit transactions.
How is coverage outside the São Paulo area?
Vivo and Claro have the best nationwide coverage in Brazil. TIM and Oi have good networks as well, but less extensive.
How long does it take to set up the SIM card?
Activation can take 10-30 minutes depending on the carrier shop and how busy they are. Make sure to arrive early!
Can I use the airport WiFi to set up my eSIM?
Yes, Guarulhos Airport provides a free WiFi service that will allow you to activate your eSIM while waiting in the terminal.
What language do the SIM card agents speak?
English is hit or miss. Knowing some key Portuguese travel vocabulary can help make the process smoother. But the agents are accustomed to foreign travelers.
VI. Final Words
Getting a local SIM card at Guarulhos International Airport is an essential step to staying connected during your time in Brazil. Having mobile data and local connectivity right away allows you to access maps, translations, travel tips, and so much more during your visit. Consider purchasing a Brazil eSIM, leaving you free to fully explore and enjoy all that vibrant São Paulo and beyond has to offer.
