How to Buy a SIM Card at Carrasco Airport (MVD) for Tourists: Where and Price

William Jones

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Published: April 2025

This article will tell you about the prices, registration requirements, and other options for obtaining a SIM card at Carrasco Airport (MVD). 

In addition to highlighting the major carriers and available plans, this guide will give you a comprehensive overview of eSIM possibilities, answer some commonly asked questions, and explain where you can quickly purchase a SIM card at Carrasco Airport.

I. How to Get a SIM Card at Carrasco Airport (MVD)?

There are multiple simple ways to obtain a SIM card at Carrasco International Airport:

• Get online in advance: For an easier trip, get your SIM card online and pick it up at the airport when you get there.
• Buy when you arrive: As soon as you land, buy a SIM card from one of the airport shops.  It is easy to do and quick.
• Obtain an eSIM: If your phone is compatible with eSIM, you can purchase a digital SIM online to conserve space and activate it quickly.

II. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Carrasco Airport?

At Carrasco Airport (MVD) in Montevideo, Uruguay, travelers can conveniently purchase SIM cards from various carriers upon arrival such as Antel and XL shops. You can also find an Information desk located landside near the main entrance, open 24 hours. They can assist with SIM card purchases and other inquiries. 

It’s advisable to have your passport ready for registration purposes, as SIM cards in Uruguay require identification. Having local currency on hand can also facilitate smoother transactions. 

1. Buy Antel SIM card at Carrasco Airport

Antel, one of the main mobile service providers in Uruguay, has a presence at Carrasco International Airport (MVD), making it convenient for travelers to get connected upon arrival. You can pay for your SIM card using Uruguayan Pesos or credit/debit cards.

Location: 

• Antel shop: Terminal 1 – International arrival area, after passing customs
• Duty Free Uruguay located in boarding and arrivals area

Opening hours: Daily 7:00 am – 10:00 pm

Price: Antel offers various SIM card plans, such as 1 GB for a day or 40 GB for a week, with prices starting at around $150 UYU for the basic plans.

2. Buy XL SIM card at Carrasco Airport

XL is a private mobile service in Uruguay. Prepaid recharge coupons and SIM card packages can be bought at the convenient store at the airport. Both Spanish and English are used by the sales assistants to assist customers.  Payment can be made using cash or credit cards. 

• Location: there are a few convenience stores selling XL SIM cards in the domestic and international terminals.
• Daily hours of operation: 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
• Price: start from $3.50 USD

III. Do SIM card shops at Carrasco Airport (MVD) open after midnight?

Yes. The main telecommunication provider shops, like those from Antel and XL, generally operate within standard retail hours and typically close around 10:00 PM. So it is unlikely they would be open after midnight. However, some convenience-type stores within the airport might have extended hours, possibly even 24-hour operation.

► Recommendation: Consider these alternatives:

• Checking if your phone supports eSIM technology and purchasing an eSIM before your trip
• Being prepared to purchase a SIM card the following morning.

IV. Carrasco Airport (MVD) SIM card Price ?

At Carrasco International Airport (MVD), travelers can purchase SIM cards from major providers such as Antel and Movistar. Claro SIMs are not available to purchase at the airport. Prices vary based on data allowances and validity periods. 

Below is an overview of prepaid SIM options, packages, and rates available for purchase at the Carrasco Airport:

V. Registration Process on Buying a SIM card at Carrasco Airport (MVD)

To purchase a SIM card at Carrasco Airport (MVD), tourists must provide:

• Passport: Mandatory for registration as per Uruguayan regulations.
• Unlocked phone: Ensure your device is compatible with local networks.
• Payment method: Most kiosks accept cash (Uruguayan Pesos, USD) and credit/debit cards.

The registration process at Carrasco Airport (MVD) requires personal identification, which some travelers may find inconvenient. If you prefer to avoid sharing personal details or dealing with setup, you might find this process frustrating. To avoid the complexity of in-person registration, tourists can buy an eSIM or an international SIM card before departure. 

VI. eSIM at Carrasco Airport – Alternative to Uruguay SIM Card

eSIM technology is the ideal way to stay connected when traveling in Uruguay since it provides ease, flexibility, and simplicity. One of the best things about eSIM technology is that you don’t need to visit a store or kiosk to buy one, you can purchase and activate your eSIM online before you even arrive in Uruguay. However, if you forget to do so, you can still buy an eSIM after landing at Carrasco International Airport (MVD) or any other location with an internet connection.

In Uruguay, eSIMs are available from local mobile network operators (such as Antel, Movistar, and Claro) and international eSIM providers that specialize in tourist-friendly services. While local carriers may require registration and additional steps, purchasing an eSIM from a trusted retailer like Gigago is much simpler and more convenient.

Gigago Uruguay eSIM has options ranging from 1GB for 7 days (starting at just $9.90 ) to 5GB for 30 days at the price of $9.90 – $41.50 . Gigago uses a major Uruguay network for fast and stable coverage.

VII. FAQs about SIM card at Carrasco Airport

VIII. Conclusion

Buying a SIM card at Carrasco Airport (MVD) is a straightforward process for tourists. You can easily find Antel kiosks or XL in the International Arrival area, where you can purchase SIM cards.  The process is convenient, with payment options including both cash and credit/debit cards. For a simpler alternative, tourists who prefer to avoid registration or passport requirements can opt for an eSIM, which offers instant connectivity without the need for a physical SIM card.