How to Buy an International SIM Card

Traveling abroad and being left without internet access can be frustrating. An international SIM card ensures global connectivity and high-speed internet on your smartphone. In this guide, you’ll discover the best options for physical SIM cards and eSIMs to use mobile networks outside Brazil, along with tips on how to buy and activate your SIM card.

Stay connected effortlessly during your trips.

 

What Is an International SIM Card?

An international SIM is a card that works in mobile phones outside of Brazil. It provides internet, calls, and allows using apps like WhatsApp with your Brazilian number.

Travelers use it to access maps, social media, email, and stay in touch across Europe, the U.S., South America, Asia, or Africa. Options like eTravelSIM, Airalo, and Holafly offer both physical and virtual (eSIM) cards for iPhone and Android devices.

It’s a smart solution for travelers needing:

• Stable, high-speed connectivity

• Customer support in Portuguese

• Avoiding high roaming costs from traditional providers

 

Types of International SIM Cards

Physical SIM Card

The traditional SIM card is compatible with most phones and comes in triple size to fit all slot types. Delivery options vary from same-day (in São Paulo) to 5–10 business days in other cities.

Use:

• Insert into your phone

• Activate mobile data

• Works seamlessly in Europe, Latin America, etc.

Example:

“I used a physical SIM in Portugal and had instant signal. Delivered to São Paulo the same day. It worked flawlessly in Argentina and Italy too.”

eSIM (Digital SIM)

An eSIM is a virtual version of the SIM card. It’s emailed to you and activated via QR code—no physical chip required.

• Fast activation (minutes)

• Supports 5G and unlimited data

• Covers 165+ countries including Mexico, Thailand, and South America

Example:

“I used an eSIM from eTravelSIM on my iPhone across Europe. Setup took under 3 minutes and I was connected upon landing.”

 

Where to Buy an International SIM Card

Online Purchase

Websites like AmericaChip, Airalo, Holafly, Easy SIM 4U, A Casa do Chip, and eTravelSIM offer delivery or instant eSIM access. You can choose your plan, number of days, and data volume.

Why choose eTravelSIM?

• Instant delivery of eSIMs via email

• Affordable global plans starting at just $4.99

• Excellent customer support in Portuguese and English

• Easy activation process and high-speed 5G data

Stores at Destination

Buying a SIM card abroad may involve long queues, language barriers, or in-person activation. That’s why buying in Brazil—or even better, getting an eSIM from eTravelSIM—is more practical.

 

Best Companies for International SIM Cards

Below is a comparison of top providers:

Company	Type	Starting Price	Highlights
eTravelSIM ⭐	eSIM (Digital)	$4.99	Best value. Instant activation, global coverage, 24/7 support, works in 165+ countries.
America Chip	Physical + eSIM	From $31	Popular for US travel. Unlimited data options.
Airalo	eSIM (Digital)	From $9	Great for digital users. Easy QR activation.
Holafly	eSIM or Physical	From $40	Good for EU/Asia travel. Data-focused plans.
Easy SIM 4U	Physical	From R$110	5G unlimited, delivery in Brazil.
A Casa do Chip	Physical + eSIM	From R$110	Local presence. Real support in Brazil.

 

Why choose eTravelSIM?

• Cheaper plans than most competitors

• No physical delivery required

• One of the fastest setup processes

• Trusted by thousands of global travelers

 

How to Choose the Best SIM

1. Coverage by Region

Pick a SIM provider that matches your destination (e.g., Europe, Americas, Global). For example:

• eTravelSIM covers 165+ countries with one plan

• Airalo and Holafly are also strong in Europe and Asia

2. Data Quantity

Choose plans based on your needs:

• Light users: 500MB – 1GB

• Heavy users: Unlimited plans

eTravelSIM offers flexible options from 1GB to unlimited.

3. Validity

Most SIMs are valid for 5, 10, 15, or 30 days. eTravelSIM offers options to match your travel duration, with flexible recharges if needed.

 

Tips for Activating and Using an International SIM

1. Check Compatibility

   For eSIMs: iPhone XR/XS or newer, or Androids from 2019+

   Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM

2. Enable Data Roaming

   On iPhone:

   Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Enable Data Roaming

3. Activate Before Departure

   For eSIMs: Scan the QR code from your provider (e.g., eTravelSIM) before your trip

   For physical SIMs: Insert and test before boarding

4. Don’t Forget

   • Bring a SIM ejector (for physical SIMs)

   • Save your provider’s WhatsApp or email for support

    

Conclusion

An international SIM card makes travel easier and keeps you connected. Providers like eTravelSIM, AmericaChip, and Airalo offer global data plans at affordable rates. You can order online and activate in minutes via QR code.

Whether you’re visiting Europe, the US, or Asia—eTravelSIM is the best choice for fast, secure, and seamless global connectivity.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

1. How can I buy an international SIM card for my iPhone?

You can purchase from websites like eTravelSIM, Airalo, or AmericaChip. Ensure your iPhone supports eSIM before ordering.

 

2. Will it work during my whole trip?

Yes. Plans range from 5 to 30 days, and some offer unlimited data. eTravelSIM ensures global coverage with high-speed internet.

3. Do I need to configure anything?

Yes. Enable data roaming and follow setup steps from your SIM provider. With eTravelSIM, the activation process takes just minutes.

4. Can I order from Brazil before my trip?

Absolutely. eTravelSIM delivers eSIMs instantly via email. No waiting. No shipping delays.