Prepaid Georgia SIM Cards for Tourists: A-Z Guide

This guide covers everything visitors need to know about prepaid Georgia SIM cards, from popular options to finding the best value.

To stay connected while traveling in Georgia, purchasing a prepaid Georgia SIM card is essential. These SIM cards allow visitors to make affordable local calls, send text messages, and access the internet on their mobile devices. This article will guide you through the process of buying and using a prepaid SIM card in this country.

I. What are the Best Georgia SIM cards for Tourists?

For tourists in Georgia, the best SIM cards are those that offer good coverage, competitive data plans, and easy accessibility. Here are the top options: Geocell, Cellfie and Magti. 

1. Geocell SIM cards

Geocell is the primary telecom brand, and its prepaid sim cards are branded Silknet. There are no additional activation fees when you purchase a Geocell/Silknet sim card for Georgia. They provide a Tourist Pack prepaid SIM card.

• 4 GB data + 30 minutes + unlimited sms + 15 minutes international for 15 days = 15 GEL – $5.5 USD
• Unlimited data + 30 minutes + unlimited sms for 7 days = 15 GEL – $5.5 USD
• Unlimited data + unlimited calls/sms + 30 minutes international for 15 days = 30 GEL – $11 USD

2. Cellfie SIM cards

Cellfie is a popular choice, providing convenient prepaid SIM cards suitable for both travelers and residents. They offer tourist-specific SIM cards with validity periods of 7, 14, and 30 days. The 14-day option is often considered the most economical choice for most trips. 

More affordable 7-day SIM cards are available from 7 GEL (around $3 USD) with 7 GB of data, while 30-day SIMs range from 3 GEL to 25 GEL (approximately $1-$29).

3. Magti SIM cards 

Magti provides a range of mobile internet packages:

• 1,000 MB, valid for 30 days: 5 GEL ($1.77)
• 3,000 MB, valid for 30 days: 9 GEL ($3.20)
• 5,000 MB, valid for 30 days: 12 GEL ($4.28)
• 20,000 MB, valid for 30 days: 30 GEL ($10.68)
• Unlimited Internet, valid for 30 days: 32 GEL ($11.39)

II. Where to Buy SIM Cards in Georgia for Tourists?

You can buy Georgia SIM cards at various locations, including airports, local stores, and online.

1. Buy Georgia SIM Card Online 

You can purchase Georgia SIM cards online through platforms like Gigago, Holafly, or other international eSIM providers.

How It Works:

• Online Purchase: You can buy an eSIM through a website or app before your trip.
• Activation: Once purchased, you will receive a QR code via email or app, which you can scan to activate the eSIM on your phone.

Pros:

• Convenience: Activate the eSIM immediately upon arrival, no need to visit physical stores.
• No Need for a Physical SIM: Saves space and eliminates the risk of losing a SIM card.
• Global Coverage: Some providers offer coverage in multiple countries, which is ideal if you’re traveling across borders.

Cons:

• Device Compatibility: Only works with eSIM-enabled devices.
• Limited Physical Presence: If you need support or assistance, you can’t directly visit a store.
• Initial Setup: You might need a stable internet connection for the initial activation.

2. Buy SIM card at Georgia airports

Georgia SIM cards are readily available at most Georgian airports, including Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi, through desks or vending machines. At Tbilisi International Airport, you can purchase a SIM card from kiosks, conveniently located in both the arrivals and departures halls. These kiosks provide local SIM cards, allowing you to stay connected during your time in Georgia.

Best for: Short business trips or travelers without pre-arranged SIM cards.

Pros: Immediate access to mobile services, potential setup assistance.

Cons: Higher prices, fewer choices, and more complex registration compared to city stores.

Buying a SIM card at the airport can be complicated by the need for passport verification or a photograph for registration.

3. Buy SIM Card in Georgia City

You can purchase a Georgia SIM card from several places within Tbilisi, Batumi and Kutaisi city centers. Here are some places you can refer to:

• Official Operator Stores: Major operators like Magti, Cellfie, and Geocell have stores throughout the city center. These offer a wide range of plans and direct assistance from knowledgeable staff.
• Supermarkets: Many supermarkets like Carrefour and Goodwill also sell SIM cards from various providers.
• Kiosks and Convenience Stores: Smaller shops often stock SIM cards for convenience.

Pros: You’ll likely find a greater variety of plans and providers compared to the airport. This allows for better price comparisons.

Cons: Finding the best deal and purchasing a SIM card will take more time than simply buying one at the airport.

You can easily find the nearest Official Operator Stores by using Google Maps. 

• Magti: 22 Shota Rustaveli Ave, Tbilisi, Georgia
• Cellfie: 40 Zurab Gorgiladze St, Batumi 6000, Georgia
• Silknet – Geocell: 26 May Street, Poti, Georgia

III. How Much is a Tourist Georgia SIM Card? 

A tourist SIM card in Georgia typically costs around 10-30 GEL (Georgian Lari), depending on the carrier and the data plan included. Most SIM cards include a certain amount of data, minutes, and texts, and you can top up the balance as needed. Keep in mind that the price can vary slightly based on location (airport, stores) and promotional offers.

IV. What types of Georgia SIM cards are available for tourists? 

There are 2 types of Georgia SIM cards: Prepaid SIM Card (Physical) & Tourist eSIM for Georgia.

Criteria	Prepaid SIM Card	Tourist eSIM for Georgia
Convenience	Easy to buy at the airport, stores, or kiosks. Requires physical insertion.	No physical SIM needed, activate instantly via QR code.
Compatibility	Works with most unlocked GSM phones.	Requires eSIM-compatible phones (most newer models).
How to Use	Insert SIM card, dial activation codes, set up mobile data if needed.	Scan QR code or input activation details to activate.
Plan Example	2GB data, 100 minutes, 100 SMS for ~15-25 GEL.	1GB data, 30 minutes for ~15-25 GEL.
Price	Typically 10-30 GEL depending on carrier and plan.	Typically 15-25 GEL for data and minutes.

Both options are suitable for tourists, but the eSIM offers more convenience for those with compatible phones, as it eliminates the need for a physical card.

V. Do I Need to Buy a Sim Card for Georgia travel? 

Yes. Buying a SIM card for Georgia travel is a reasonable ways for several reasons: 

• Cost-Effective: Roaming charges from your home provider can be extremely expensive, especially for data. A local SIM card offers significantly lower rates for calls, texts, and data.
• Reliable Connectivity: Local SIM cards connect to Georgian networks, providing better coverage and faster speeds, especially outside of major cities where Wi-Fi can be scarce.
• Simple to get: In Georgia, SIM cards are easily obtained with a photo ID at airports, retail outlets, or phone shops.

VI. What to prepare when buying a SIM card in Georgia?

Prior to purchasing a prepaid Georgia SIM card, you should ensure you have the following:

• Passport: This is the most essential item. You’ll need to present your passport for identification and registration with the Georgian mobile network provider. Without it, you won’t be able to purchase a SIM card.
• Payment Method: While most places accept both cash (Georgian Lari – GEL) and credit/debit cards, it’s a good idea to have both on hand. This gives you flexibility in case a particular vendor has issues with their card reader or if you prefer to pay with cash.
• Unlocked Phone: Make absolutely sure your phone is unlocked. This means it’s not tied to a specific carrier in your home country and can accept SIM cards from other networks.

VII. Georgia eSIM – alternative to Tourist SIM cards 

An alternative to traditional Georgia SIM cards for tourists is Georgia travel eSIM, offering convenience and ease of use. Georgia travel eSIMs eliminate the need to carry and switch physical Georgia SIM cards, allowing you to stay connected throughout your trip.

Consider buying a prepaid Gigago Georgia eSIM data plan while visiting Georgia. Gigago plan starts at $6.50 with a minimum of 1GB of high-speed data for 7 days, covering Georgia on the Geocell mobile network. It includes hotspot or tethering and starts working upon installation. Prices range from $6.50 – $38.50 , depending on the chosen data allowance and validity period.

VIII. How long does a tourist SIM card last in Georgia?

The validity period of a tourist SIM card in Georgia can vary depending on the specific plan you choose. You’ll often find options for 7 days, 15 days, and 30 days. Tourists can look for details on the official website of the mobile operator you choose.

IX. How to activate a SIM card in Georgia 

To activate a SIM card in Georgia, follow these steps:

1. Using Prepaid Georgia tourist SIM Cards

You can buy prepaid SIM cards from several providers at Tbilisi International Airport (and other major locations in Georgia). The main mobile operators are Magti, Geocell, and Beeline.

• Buy a SIM card at the airport or a local store (Magti, Geocell, Beeline). Present your passport.
• Insert the SIM card into your phone.
• Activate the SIM card: Geocell (Dial *100#), Magti (Dial *100# or *110#), Beeline (Dial *110#)
• Set up mobile data (if needed, follow the provided APN instructions).
• Check balance by dialing *100#. 

2. Setting up and activating Georgia eSIM

If you’re using an eSIM (electronic SIM), you can activate it without needing a physical SIM card. You can either use an international eSIM service or get a local Georgian eSIM from providers like Magti or Geocell. 

• Choose an eSIM provider (international or local like Magti/Geocell).
• Scan the QR code or enter activation details provided by the eSIM provider.
• Restart your phone and ensure network connection.
• Set up mobile data (automatic or manually, if needed).
• Check balance using the same dialing codes as for physical SIM.

X. FAQs about Georgia SIM card

XI. Conclusion

In conclusion, purchasing a prepaid Georgia SIM card can significantly enhance your travel experience. By carefully researching options and choosing a plan that suits your needs, you can stay connected and enjoy affordable communication throughout your trip. Remember to compare data allowances, call rates, and coverage areas before making your decision.