Traveling to Brazil but don’t want to deal with expensive roaming fees? A prepaid Brazil SIM card is the perfect solution for keeping in touch while exploring the beautiful country. As a tourist visiting Brazil, having reliable data and calling services is important so you don’t miss out on any part of your trip. This guide will help you understand choosing a Brazil SIM card, where to buy one, how to activate and use your SIM, and tips for getting more data.
Table of Contents
I. Should I Buy a New SIM Card for Brazil Trip?
Getting a nearby Brazil tourist SIM card is recommended if you will be traveling inside the United States and need cellular statistics.
There are a few options to consider for internet connectivity. Public WiFi is available but not very secure. Roaming with your home cellular plan can get very expensive. Renting a pocket WiFi device gives you portable internet access but coverage may be limited. So, the best option is usually to buy a prepaid SIM card in Brazil.
However, obtaining a SIM card can be difficult as you need a CPF, which is a Brazilian tax identification number. If getting a CPF isn’t possible, an alternative is to purchase an eSIM online before your trip. An eSIM can be activated remotely, allowing you to have cellular service set up without having to find a store in Brazil.
Note: Don't forget to find out about a few key factors that may affect your ability to use your phone while traveling.
II. SIM Card and eSIM for Brazil – Which is The Best Option?
If you’re planning a trip to Brazil, you’ll want to consider your cellular data and call options. The most common choices are to purchase a local SIM card or opt for an eSIM:
| Brazil SIM Card | Brazil eSIM |
|---|---|
| Pros | Pros |
| – May have better network coverage depending on provider | – Can be activated before trip without a Brazilian ID number |
| – Unlimited data plans available | – No need to locate a store in Brazil |
| – Can switch plans as needed | – Pre-purchase plans provide budget control |
| Cons | Cons |
| – Requires a Brazilian tax ID (CPF) to purchase | – Data-only |
| – Must find a store to purchase and activate | – Requires compatible device |
| – May have issues activating without Portuguese skills | |
| – More expensive roaming fees if lose/damage SIM card |
In conclusion, for most travelers coming to Brazil, an eSIM is likely the best connectivity alternative. While local SIM card offers superior networks and plans once arranged, the challenges of obtaining a SIM without a CPF make it an inconvenient option for short-term visitors. eSIMs conveniently allow cellular service to be set up before arriving in country without any documentation.
III. Where to Buy a Brazil Tourist SIM Card?
You can purchase a SIM card for Brazil several ways:
- At airports – Many major Brazil airports have SIM card kiosks or stores after exiting customs. Prices may be marked up, but it’s convenient upon arrival. Discover the best place to get SIM card at Brazil airport.
- Carrier stores – Shops for major providers like Claro, TIM, Oi or Vivo sell SIMs with activation assistance. Service will be good nationwide on their networks.
- Local phone shops – Smaller independently owned shops often sell SIMs from a variety of providers. This allows price comparisons.
- Online – Certain SIM card companies enable online purchase and delivery before you depart for Brazil. This allows time to set up but can’t provide local assistance.
For the best deals as a tourist, smaller local SIM card shops are often a good choice. Tell them your data usage needs and they can suggest options.
IV. How Much Does A SIM Card For Brazil Cost?
Brazil has three major cellular carriers – TIM, Vivo, and Claro – that offer prepaid SIM cards providing data and calling services for both short and long stay visitors. Here is the best Brazil SIM card plans for tourists:
| Provider | Plan | Data | Price (USD) | Duration | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TIM | TIM Black Original | Up to 95GB | $26.70 | Monthly | Disney+ included, 20GB international roaming |
| TIM Black 25GB | Up to 120GB | $30.40 | Monthly | Choice of subscription, 25GB international roaming | |
| TIM Black 15GB | Up to 80GB | $22.80 | Monthly | 15GB international roaming Americas | |
| Vivo | Vivo Pré | 6GB + 6GB YouTube | $4.00 | 15 days | Unlimited calls, digital services |
| Vivo Pré | 10GB | $6.00 | 30 days | Unlimited calls, digital services | |
| Claro | Claro Flex 5GB | 5GB | $3.60 | 30 days | WhatsApp unlimited usage |
All carriers have widespread 4G coverage. Tourists can pick one depending on needs, assured of competitive data, call inclusion and convenience from Brazil major mobile providers.
V. Brazil eSIM – Alternative to Physical SIM Card
Rather than dealing with the hassle of obtaining a physical SIM card upon arrival in Brazil, travelers can now easily stay connected with an affordable eSIM from esimbrazil.net. Their flexible data packages starting from as low as $6 offer fast 4G LTE speeds for a week, two weeks or month via convenient digital SIM profiles.
Best of all, esimbrazil.net plans utilize Vivo’s high-quality cellular network, allowing travelers to experience fast speeds and reliable coverage across Brazil. Once scanned onto your eSIM compatible device using the provided QR code, you’ll gain instant access to Vivo’s extensive network without any retail store visits or long activation waits.
VI. How to Activate Brazil SIM
Activating and using your Brazil tourist SIM card is a quick process:
- Power off your device: Power off your phone before inserting the SIM card.
- Locate the SIM card slot: Usually on the side/back of the phone or under the battery.
- Insert the SIM card: Insert the SIM card with gold contacts facing downwards.
- Power on your device: Turn on your device and wait for it to recognize the SIM card.
- Configure network settings: Enable data roaming or SIM card data in mobile network settings.
- Set APN settings: Check APN settings on your provider’s website and manually add if needed.
- Check connection: Check signal bars to confirm network connection.
- Test the SIM card: Make a test call/text to ensure the SIM is working properly.
Once activated, you’ll have a local Brazilian number and data service anywhere the carrier has coverage. Monitor your usage to avoid surprise bills. Top up as required online or at local shops based on the data bundles you choose.
VII. Best Mobile Operators for Brazil Tourist SIM Card
When traveling throughout Brazil, having reliable cellular connectivity is important. The major mobile operators in Brazil include Claro, Vivo, and TIM. Here is a comparison of the pros and cons of each provider:
| Mobile Operators | Coverage | Pros | Cons | eSIM Available? |
| Claro | Nationwide coverage with a strong presence in urban areas | Good coverage across the country | Customer service could be improved | Yes |
| Vivo | Extensive coverage in urban areas and major cities | Good network quality and speeds | Limited coverage in some rural areas | Yes |
| TIM | Good coverage in urban areas and major cities | Competitive pricing | Network coverage can be inconsistent in remote areas | Yes |
While Claro has nationwide presence and TIM provides acceptable coverage in main locations, their networks can be inconsistent or lacking in remote regions where coverage is spotty. Vivo stands out as offering the best coverage for reliable access across the country. With its extensive network coverage in major urban centers and cities, Vivo ensures service in populated areas where travelers are likely to spend most of their time.
Tips: For a more detailed comparison, check out the article "Best Mobile Operators in Brazil" before choosing.
VIII. FAQs
Where is the best place to buy a Brazil SIM card for my phone?
Local SIM card shops frequently offer the best prices and options. Major carrier shops also sell SIMs. Buying at the airport is fast but likely more expensive.
How long does a Brazil SIM card last before expiring?
Prepaid SIM cards typically expire anywhere from 30-180 days after the last top up. As long as you add more data periodically, the SIM card will continue working.
Can I use a Brazil SIM card in other South American countries?
Brazil SIM cards only provide service nationally. You would need to purchase local SIMs in each South American country you visit for service.
Should I acquire a local SIM card for 10 night visit to Sao Paulo?
For your 10-night trip to São Paulo, Brazil, getting a local SIM card is recommended. A Brazil eSIM is most convenient if your phone supports it. Otherwise, be aware that purchasing a physical SIM requires a CPF number for activation. Retailers can help with the CPF process. Having Brazil cellular service allows you to navigate, use transportation apps and stay connected during emergencies while exploring São Paulo.
IX. Conclusion
A prepaid Brazil SIM card enables fast 4G speeds and affordable data rates for your device. Major providers like Vivo and TIM offer reliable service for tourists. Alternatively, getting a Brazil eSIM is now a simple and cost-effective way for visitors to stay in touch with friends and family back home, use navigation apps, and make the most of their Brazilian experience.
