Lifecell Ukraine SIM card & eSIM: What you need to know

Harper Thomas

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Published: April 2025

This article will go over where to get prepaid Lifecell SIM cards, and how to get Lifecell Ukraine SIM card & eSIM step-by-step.

One of the main network providers in Ukraine is Lifecell, making it easy for internet users to use mobile data, send texts, and make calls. Everything you need to know about obtaining a Lifecell Ukraine SIM card & eSIM while visiting is covered in this article.

I. Overview about Lifecell Ukraine – What you need to know

Lifecell is a Kyiv-based Ukrainian telecom provider. It is the third-largest provider of mobile phone networks in Ukraine.

• Founded: 2005; 20 years ago
• Headquarters: Kyiv, Ukraine. DVL Telecom is the parent company of Lifecell. 
• Products: Mobile phone services, mobile phone related goods
• Customer support: 24/7 assistance in Russian and Ukrainian is available through company-owned stores, web chat, social media, and a contact center (toll-free 0800 50 50 50). In 103 Ukrainian cities, there are 193 unique stores and six Lifecell customer care centers.
• Number of agents/stores: More than 1,200 Lifeshop-branded locations nationwide. 

II. Lifecell Coverage in Ukraine

Lifecell’s signal is typically robust in urban areas like Kyiv, Lviv, and Odesa, with dense 4G availability. Coverage thins out in rural regions, particularly in western highlands or eastern conflict zones like Donetsk and Luhansk, where disruptions are common. The map likely reflects Lifecell’s claim of reaching 98.82% of inhabited areas, though signal quality varies. (According to nperf)

• Southern and Eastern Ukraine: Lifecell’s network is notably dense in these areas, providing reliable connectivity for users. 
• Urban Centers: Major cities such as Kyiv, Lviv, and Odesa experience strong Lifecell signals, ensuring dependable service for both residents and visitors.
• While Lifecell provides good coverage, Kyivstar and Vodafone generally offer more extensive networks across the entire country. 

III. Lifecell Speed in Ukraine

As of the latest updates, Lifecell typically ranks behind Kyivstar, which has consistently won awards for mobile speed—for example, in 2019, Kyivstar hit average download speeds of 22.02 Mbps and uploads of 12.88 Mbps. Lifecell’s speeds are competitive but often slightly lower, with 4G averaging around 15-20 Mbps in urban areas like Kyiv or Lviv, dropping in rural spots.

Check the site directly for the latest rankings and exact Mbps stats for Lifecell. Coverage-wise, it reaches 98.82% of inhabited areas, but speed tests reflect stronger performance in cities over remote regions.

IV. Types of Lifecell Ukraine SIM Card Options for Tourists

There are 4 ways for visitors to the Ukraine to connect to Lifecell: purchasing a Lifecell Ukraine SIM card & eSIM, roaming services, and pocket WiFi. 

Depending on personal preferences, each option provides its own mix of pros and cons. To enhance understanding, kindly refer to the following table: 

V. Top Lifecell SIM cards for Tourists & Prices

Lifecell offers a variety of Lifecell Ukraine SIM card & eSIM plans tailored for tourists in Ukraine. Here are some of the top plans:

These plans are reasonably priced and cater to different needs, from basic data and calls to unlimited options. However, Lifecell’s offerings may not be as diverse as some competitors, like Kyivstar, which offers more flexible packages.

► Recommendation: It’s recommended to purchase a tourist SIM card before arriving in Ukraine through online services that partner with Lifecell for smoother access.

VI. Where to buy Lifecell Ukraine SIM cards for tourists?

Tourists can purchase Lifecell Ukraine SIM cards in several ways: airport upon arrival, in various city center locations such as official Lifecell stores, or online before their trip for a more convenient and pre-arranged option.

1. Buy Lifecell SIM at Ukraine airports

Purchasing a Lifecell SIM card at Ukraine’s international airports is a convenient way to stay connected during your trip. You can buy a Lifecell SIM card at Lifecell kiosks at airports and convenience stores. You can refer some of place buying Lifecell here: 

• Kyiv Boryspil airport, Lviv Danylo Halytskyi International Airport (LWO), Odesa International Airport (ODS) in the arrivals area, often near the baggage claim or main exit.
• Novus store, located near Terminal D arrivals. 

To buy a Lifecell SIM, you should prepare to present your passport or personal identification documents; some vendors may also take a photo for registration purposes.The staff will assist you with the activation process, ensuring your SIM is ready for immediate use.

SIM cards at the airport may be slightly more expensive than those in the city, with prices around $3.50 for 1.5GB of data valid for 10 days. 

2. Buy Lifecell SIM in Ukraine city center

To buy a Lifecell Ukraine SIM card & eSIM in Ukraine city centers, tourists can visit official Lifecell stores or authorized kiosks located in popular areas of cities like Kyiv, Lviv, and Odessa. Some well-known spots include:

• Kyiv: Lifecell Store on Khreshchatyk Street, near Maidan Nezalezhnosti.
• Lviv: Lifecell shop at 5, Hrushevskoho Street.
• Odessa: Lifecell kiosk at Odessa Central Railway Station.

You can also use Google Maps to locate the nearest Lifecell store. Keep in mind that you’ll need to provide personal identification when buying a SIM card, as this is a registration requirement in Ukraine.

3. Buy Lifecell SIM online before departure

Buying Lifecell Ukraine SIM card online is considered one of the most convenient and proactive options for travelers. You can buy a Lifecell SIM card online, either from travel SIM card websites, Amazon, eBay, or other online marketplaces that offer SIM cards compatible with Lifecell’s network.

When purchasing a Lifecell Ukraine SIM card online, you usually do not need to present any personal identification. Simply provide basic information such as your name, phone number, and delivery address. The Lifecell SIM card will then be shipped to you before your departure.  This option is favored by many travelers due to its proactiveness and the reasonable price of the SIM cards.

VII. A Better Alternative to Lifecell SIM cards – Ukraine eSIM

If your phone supports eSIM, consider switching to a Gigago Ukraine eSIM for a better alternative to traditional Lifecell SIM cards. Gigago eSIM offers reliable connectivity without the need of changing physical cards.

Gigago provides an easy, stress-free experience by bypassing the complex registration process and passport requirements. Gigago affordable plans start at $3.00 , offering 500MB of data daily for 3 days. Flexible options are available from $3.00 – $95.90 , catering to different data needs and travel durations.

VIII. How to top up your Lifecell Ukraine SIM card & eSIM

To top up your Lifecell Ukraine SIM card & eSIM, there are two convenient ways you can do so:

• Using Lifecell Online Services: Visit the official Lifecell website or use the My Lifecell app then choose the “Top Up” option and follow the instructions to complete the top-up.
• Visit retailers: Visit any authorized Lifecell store or partner location across Ukraine and ask for a top-up.

Both options make topping up your Lifecell account convenient and flexible, whether you prefer the ease of online services or the face-to-face experience of visiting a retailer.

IX. FAQs about Lifecell Ukraine SIM card & eSIM 

X. Conclusion

In conclusion, Lifecell Ukraine SIM card & eSIM offers reliable coverage and competitive speeds across Ukraine. Whether you choose a SIM card or eSIM, Lifecell provides flexible options. For convenience, buying an eSIM online before your trip is a great choice, offering instant activation without the need to visit a store.