Phone, SIM & eSIM Options for Spain
Getting a Spanish phone number is one of the first things you should do after arriving in Spain. You will need it for two-factor authentication with Spanish banks, government services, and everyday life. Many expats also want to keep their home country number active.
Updated October 2026Partners pay Spainguru a listing fee or a commission. Your price never changes.
By Bruno Bianchi, CEO of Spainguru (225,000+ community members) · Updated October 2026
eSIM for Arrival
The easiest option for your first days in Spain is an eSIM — a digital SIM card you can activate before you even land. This gives you data and a local number immediately without visiting a phone shop. Holafly offers eSIMs specifically designed for travelers and new arrivals to Spain.
We earn a commission or a listing fee when you use one of our vetted partners. Your price never changes and our recommendations are independent. How we choose partners
Ready to sort out your phone & esim?
Vetted by the Spainguru community — see the partner we recommend, with pricing and how it works.
Compare Spanish SIM and eSIM options →Spanish SIM Cards and Phone Plans
Once settled, most expats switch to a Spanish mobile plan. Popular options include Movistar, Vodafone, Orange (the big three), and budget MVNOs like Lobster Mobile (popular with English-speaking expats), Lycamobile, and Digi. Plans with 20GB+ data and unlimited calls typically cost 15-25 EUR per month.
Keeping Your Home Number
Many expats port their US or UK number to a VoIP service (like Google Voice for US numbers) before canceling their home country plan. This lets you receive calls and texts on your old number over WiFi at no monthly cost.
Get Connected
Ready to get expert help with your NLV?
Vetted by the Spainguru community — see the partner we recommend, with pricing and how it works.
Compare Spanish SIM and eSIM optionsDisclaimer: general information only — not legal, tax or immigration advice. Requirements change and vary by consulate; verify with your consulate or a qualified professional before acting.