Data Roaming in Cyprus for Tourists 2024: Rates & How to Avoid it

Data roaming in Cyprus can challenge tourists trying to stay connected without incurring hefty charges.

what to know about data roaming in cyprus

If you’re planning a trip to Cyprus, understanding data roaming in Cyprus is crucial to avoid unexpected expenses. This article is tailored for travelers who want to navigate the complexities of staying online while abroad. You’ll learn how roaming in Cyprus works, the potential costs, and practical ways to save money, including exploring eSIMs as a reliable alternative.

I. Overview of Data Roaming in Cyprus for Tourists

overview of data roaming in cyprus

Many travelers dream of visiting Cyprus for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. Understanding data roaming in Cyprus helps tourists share their experiences, navigate, and stay in touch with loved ones without high costs.

Below is the overview of data roaming in Cyprus:

  • Roaming Partners

Most major international mobile operators have agreements with local Cypriot networks. Your current SIM card will work smoothly, provided your home carrier offers roaming in Cyprus.

  • Network Coverage

Cyprus has excellent 4G coverage, with most areas receiving reliable signals. However, rural areas might experience some patchiness, so it’s essential to plan.

  • EU Roaming Regulations

As a member of the European Union, Cyprus adheres to the “Roam Like at Home” policy, which means that EU citizens can use their domestic data allowance while roaming in Cyprus without incurring additional charges.

  • Non-EU Citizens

Visitors outside the EU can buy a SIM card or portable Wi-Fi hotspots to stay connected. Many cafes, restaurants, and hotels also offer free Wi-Fi.

  • Data Speeds

Cypriot networks typically offer fast data speeds, with average download speeds ranging from 20-50 Mbps.

II. How does Roaming in Cyprus Work?

Roaming works by establishing a connection between your home network and the local network in Cyprus. Here’s a simplified breakdown of how it works:

  • Network Identification: When you arrive in Cyprus and turn on your phone, it looks for local networks to connect to.
  • Authentication: The local network checks your phone’s ID (like IMSI) with your home network to confirm your account.
  • Billing Agreement: After authentication, the local and home networks set up billing for data, calls, and texts based on your usage in Cyprus.
  • Data Transmission: When you use your phone, the local network sends your data to your home network, which directs it to the right place quickly for smooth connectivity.

III. Roaming Charges in Cyprus – Is It Expensive?

Yes, the roaming rates in Cyprus can be considered relatively expensive, especially for international calls and data usage. This table provides more insights.

OperatorServiceLocal (Within Cyprus)InternationalIncoming
CYTAOutgoing Calls (per minute)$0.31$0.91$0.26
SMS (per message)$0.04$0.04Free
Data (per MB)$0.22N/AN/A
MTNOutgoing Calls (per minute)$0.29$0.86$0.25
SMS (per message)$0.03$0.03Free
Data (per MB)$0.21N/AN/A
PrimeTelOutgoing Calls (per minute)$0.29$0.85$0.25
SMS (per message)$0.04$0.04Free
Data (per MB)$0.21N/AN/A

IV. How to Activate Roaming Service for Cyprus in Your Cell Phone?

Activating roaming for Cyprus on your phone is simple, but you need to pay attention to details to avoid extra charges. Here’s a quick guide.

Step 1: Choose Your Preferred Service Provider

Most major international carriers work with local networks like CYTA, MTN Cyprus, and PrimeTel. Check which provider your carrier partners with for the best coverage and rates.

Step 2: Activate the Roaming Function for Your Service Provider

Roaming activation differs by carrier, so check your operator’s website for instructions.

Examples of Activation:

  • CYTA: To activate roaming, text “ROAM” to the number given by your provider or log into your account online or in the app.
  • MTN Cyprus: You can activate roaming by dialing a code like *135# or using their app.
  • PrimeTel: Call customer service or activate roaming through their website.

Tip: Some carriers turn on roaming automatically when you enter a new country, but checking and activating it yourself before you travel is best.

Step 3: Buy a Mobile Package with Roaming

These plans usually offer a set amount of data, calls, and texts for a fixed price, making them cheaper than paying for each use.

Types of Packages:

  • Daily Passes: Some carriers offer daily roaming passes that provide a set amount of data and calling minutes for 24 hours. 
  • Monthly Plans: A monthly plan can save you money, as it offers larger data and lower rates for calls and texts. 
  • Pay-As-You-Go: For light use, pay-as-you-go options let you pay only for what you use.

Step 4: Turn on Your Phone’s Roaming Function

On Android:

  • Open Settings on your Android device.
  • Select Network & Internet or Connections (depending on your device model).
  • Tap on Mobile Network.
  • Toggle the switch next to Roaming to On.
turn on data roaming on android

On iPhone:

  • Open Settings on your iPhone.
  • Tap on Cellular or Mobile Service.
  • Select Cellular Data Options or Mobile Data Options.
  • Toggle on Data Roaming.
turn on data roaming on iphone

Once roaming is on, your phone will connect to a local network in Cyprus, letting you use your mobile services as normal.

V. How to Avoid Roaming Charges To Save Money When Traveling to Cyprus?

When traveling to Cyprus, avoiding roaming charges can save you significant money. Here’s how you can do it efficiently:

1. Use an eSIM for Local Data

  • Purchase an eSIM before departure: Look for eSIM providers that offer data packages specific to Cyprus. You can purchase these online and activate them as soon as you land.
  • Pro Tip: Check compatibility – Ensure your phone is eSIM-compatible. If not, consider purchasing a portable Wi-Fi hotspot instead.

2. Opt for an International SIM Card

  • Buy a local SIM upon arrival: SIM cards from local operators like Cyta, MTN, or PrimeTel can be easily found at the airport or nearby shops. These often offer much cheaper data plans than international roaming.
  • Pro Tip: Choose tourist-specific plans – Some local operators offer packages designed specifically for tourists, providing a better deal on data and calls.

3. Disable Data Roaming on Your Phone

  • Turn off data roaming: To avoid accidental charges, go to your phone’s settings and switch off data roaming.
  • Pro Tip: Set up app restrictions – Some apps consume data in the background. Disable data access for non-essential apps to conserve your data package.

4. Make the Most of Messaging Apps

  • Switch to messaging apps: Instead of traditional calls, use apps like WhatsApp, Viber, or Messenger for calls and texts over Wi-Fi.
  • Pro Tip: Set up before leaving – Ensure all your contacts are on these platforms before your trip, so you don’t have to worry about using international SMS or calling.

VI. Cyprus eSIM – Alternative to Data Roaming in Cyprus to Get Internet

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a tiny chip that lets you activate a cellular plan without a physical SIM card. It’s great for travelers because it keeps you connected abroad without the trouble of getting a SIM or dealing with pricey roaming fees.

Gigago eSIM – Your Travel Companion

Gigago offers eSIM solutions for travelers, including a Cyprus eSIM for data, voice, and text services while you’re in Cyprus. It’s user-friendly, with easy installation and automatic activation upon arrival.

We provide several benefits compared to traditional SIM cards and roaming services. Here are some key advantages:

  • Easy to use: Gigago’s eSIM is simple to install and activate without needing to go to a store or wait for a SIM card. 
  • Affordable: Plans start at just $3.00 for a 3-day option. 
  • Good coverage: Enjoy coverage across Cyprus with major networks like MTN Cyprus and Orange. 
  • Flexible options: Choose from various plans, including 500MB/day or unlimited data.
cyprus esim gigago

For Cyprus, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 500MB/day for three days with $3.00 . What is great about Gigago’s Cyprus eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $3.00$95.90 .

Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you have and how long your trip is in Cyprus; there is always an option for you with Gigago.

VII. How to Turn Off Data Roaming When Traveling to Cyprus?

1. Turn off International Roaming on Android 

turn off data roaming on android
  • Open the Settings menu
  • Select Connections > Mobile Networks
  • Turn Data Roaming on or off as needed

Note: If the Data Roaming option is greyed out, check if Mobile data is turned on. Go to Settings u0026gt; Connections u0026gt; Data usage u0026gt; Mobile data.

2. Turn off International Roaming on iPhones

turn off data roaming on iphone
  • Open the Settings app 
  • Tap on Cellular 
  • Select Cellular Data Options 
  • Ensure the Data Roaming switch is off (it should be grey. If it’s green, it’s turned on)

VIII. FAQs

How do I check my data roaming charges before traveling to Cyprus?

Contact your mobile provider or visit their website for a breakdown of the data roaming charges specific to Cyprus. This will help you plan and avoid unexpected costs.

Is data roaming in Cyprus covered under the EU’s Roam Like at Home policy?

Yes, if you’re from an EU country, your mobile data usage in Cyprus is covered under the Roam Like at Home policy, meaning you won’t pay extra for data, calls, or texts.

Will I receive a notification when I start data roaming in Cyprus?

Yes, most mobile providers will send you an SMS notification upon arrival in Cyprus, informing you of the applicable roaming charges and options.

How can I prevent excessive data usage while roaming in Cyprus?

To avoid high data roaming charges in Cyprus, set a data usage limit on your phone, turn off automatic updates, and use WiFi whenever possible.

IX. Conclusion

I hope you find this guide on data roaming in Cyprus helpful as you plan your trip! Keeping an eye on your data usage can help you avoid surprise charges and make your travels more enjoyable. I highly recommend you check out a Gigago eSIM for an easy solution. This is the best solution for your travels.