Best Moldova SIM cards for Travelers
|
This article is for those looking for ways to stay connected while traveling in Moldova.
Many travelers worry about getting internet access and keeping in touch with family and friends. One popular option for connectivity in Moldova is getting a local SIM card. Here, we’ll explain whether you should consider using one during your trip, the best plans available, updated prices, and alternatives to prepaid SIM cards.
In this article
I. What are the Best Moldova SIM cards for Tourists?
Good to know: 1 USD = 17.66 MDL
Orange Moldova is generally recommended due to its extensive coverage and competitive plans.
1. Orange
Orange has four prepaid plans:
- Opţiuni Nelimitat/Unlimited Options (combo)
- Combo Optiunea/Combo Options
- Extra Optiunea/Extra Options (combo)
- Opţiuni Internet/Internet Options
Opţiuni Nelimitat/Unlimited Options (combo)
| Price | Data | Local Minutes | Validity |
| 10 MDL | N/A | Unlimited | 1 day |
| 50 MDL | 1 GB | Unlimited | 15 days |
| 150 MDL | 20 GB | Unlimited | 7 days |
Combo Optiunea/Combo Options
| Price | Data | Local Minutes | Validity |
| 30 MDL | 2 GB | 100 minutes | 15 days |
| 50 MDL | 10 GB | 250 minutes | 15 days |
| 60 MDL | 15 GB | 500 minutes | 15 days |
Extra Optiunea/Extra Options (combo)
| Price | Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
| 40 MDL | 500 MB | 60 minutes | Shared with call allowance | 30 days |
| 60 MDL | 1 GB | 100 minutes | Shared with call allowance | 30 days |
Opţiuni Internet/Internet Options
| Price | Data | Validity |
| 10 MDL | 1 GB | 1 day |
| 10 MDL | 2 GB | 1 day |
| 25 MDL 1 | 2 GB | 7 days |
2. Moldcell
Moldcell has prepaid plans:
- Optiunea bum (combo)
- Internet Plans
- Internet Add-Ons
- Social Media Plan
Optiunea bum (combo)
| Price | Data | Social Data | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
| 30 MDL | 300 MB | 1 GB | Unlimited | 30 minutes | 300 SMS | 30 days |
Internet Plans
| Price | Data | Validity |
| 10 MDL | 200 MB | 1 day |
| 20 MDL | 250 MB | 30 days |
| 25 MDL | 1 GB | 7 days |
| 50 MDL | 1 GB | 30 days |
| 90 MDL | 3 GB | 30 days |
| 100 MDL | 5 GB | 30 days |
| 140 MDL | 10 GB | 30 days |
| 200 MDL | 20 GB | 30 days |
Internet Add-Ons
| Price | Data | Validity |
| 10 MDL | 500 MB | 1 day |
| 25 MDL | 1 GB | 7 days |
Social Media Plan
| Price | Social Data | Apps | Validity |
| 15 MDL | 1 GB | Facebook, Odnoklassniki, Twitter & VK | 30 days |
3. Moldtelecom
Opțiunea Național (National Options) – Moldtelecom (formerly Unité)
| Price | Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
| 15 MDL | 500 MB | 40 minutes | 40 SMS | 30 days |
| 30 MDL | 1 GB | 90 minutes | 90 SMS | 30 days |
| 40 MDL | 2 GB | 120 minutes | 120 SMS | 30 days |
| 60 MDL | 3 GB | 180 minutes | 180 SMS | 30 days |
| 80 MDL | 4 GB | 260 minutes | 260 SMS | 30 days |
Fly Prepay – Moldtelecom (formerly Unité)
| Price | Data | Social Data | On-Net Minutes | Off-Net Minutes | Validity |
| 30 MDL | 5 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 100 minutes | 30 days |
| 50 MDL | 20 GB | Unlimited | 250 minutes | 250 minutes | 15 days |
| 70 MDL | 25 GB | Unlimited | 300 minutes | 300 minutes | 30 days |
| 100 MDL | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 300 minutes | 15 days |
Internet Plans – Moldtelecom (formerly Unité)
| Price | Data | Validity |
| 10 MDL | 1 GB | 24 hours |
| 20 MDL | 1 GB | 7 days |
| 20 MDL | Unlimited | 24 hours |
| 25 MDL | 1 GB | 30 days |
| 30 MDL | 3 GB | 7 days |
| 40 MDL | 3 GB | 30 days |
| 50 MDL | 5 GB | 7 days |
| 60 MDL | 5 GB | 30 days |
| 100 MDL | 10 GB | 30 days |
| 100 MDL | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 150 MDL | 20 GB | 30 days |
Rețele Sociale Gratuite (Free Social Media) – Moldtelecom (formerly Unité)
| Price | Social Data | Validity |
| 25 MDL | Unlimited | 30 days |
II. Where to Buy SIM Cards in Moldova for Tourists?
You can buy a tourist SIM for Moldova in three ways:
- Purchase an eSIM online before your trip
- Buy a SIM card at the airport
- Purchase a SIM card in major cities
1. Purchase an eSIM online before your trip
- How to buy : Order your eSIM through websites that specialize in providing eSIMs for Moldova before you arrive like Gigago.
- Advantages : It’s convenient, saves time, and reduces the chance of losing your SIM.
- Disadvantages : You might face issues with activation or installation if something goes wrong.
2. Buy a SIM card at the airport
- How to buy : Get a physical SIM card from a mobile service counter at the airport.
- Advantages : It’s very convenient upon arrival, and activation is usually quick.
- Disadvantages : The price may be higher than if you buy it online.
3. Purchase a SIM card in major cities
- How to buy : Visit mobile stores in major cities to buy a SIM card.
- Advantages : It’s easy to find, and you can check the network quality before buying.
- Disadvantages : Prices can vary by location, and it may take time to find a store.
In summary, each option has its pros and cons. Consider factors like price, availability, and variety to choose the best option for you.
III. How Much is a Tourist Moldova SIM Card?
A tourist SIM card in Moldova typically costs around:
Moldcell :
- 10 MDL (about 0.55 USD) for a basic card with 2 GB of data and 100 local minutes.
- 29 MDL (about 1.60 USD) for 20 GB of data and 250 local minutes.
- 50 MDL (about 2.80 USD) for a data-only plan with 4 GB valid for 30 days.
Moldtelecom (formerly Unit) :
- 39 MDL (about 2.20 USD) for 30 GB and unlimited social media data valid for 30 days.
Orange Moldova :
- 29 MDL (about 1.60 USD) for a SIM card that includes 10 GB of data and 250 local minutes for 15 days.
III. What types of Moldova SIM cards are available for tourists?
There are two main types of SIM cards available to tourists in Moldova. Let’s take a closer look at each type to help you decide which is best for you.
1. Prepaid Physical SIM Card
A prepaid physical SIM card requires you to purchase a specific amount of data or services before use. Here are the common types:
- Data-Only SIM Card: This type provides mobile data for internet access, app usage, and email communication.
- Data + Voice and Text SIM Card: This option offers voice, text, and data services all in one card, allowing tourists to stay in touch with family and friends.
- International SIM Card: This card enables users to access mobile network services in multiple countries, making it ideal for travelers.
2. Prepaid Tourist eSIM
An eSIM functions like a physical SIM card but is built into your device. You can activate it entirely online using a QR code. However, not all devices support eSIMs, so check your device’s compatibility before ordering.
eSIMs also come in various types, including data plans and voice/text options.
| Feature | Prepaid Moldova SIM Card | Prepaid eSIM for Moldova |
| Pros | Affordable and easy to change services. | No need to swap SIM cards when traveling; convenient for fixed setups; easily managed online; no risk of losing it as it’s built-in. |
| Cons | Can be inconvenient for international travel; complicated service restoration if lost or damaged. | Limited compatibility with devices and carriers; requires an unlocked phone. |
► Recommendation: For tourists in Moldova, an eSIM is the best choice if your device supports it. If you need basic communication, consider opting for data-only eSIM plans.
V. Do I Need to Buy a Sim Card for Moldova travel?
Yes, travelers need a SIM Card when traveling to Moldova. Using a SIM card is a traditional and effective way for tourists to stay connected while traveling in Moldova.
| Feature | SIM Card | Free Wi-Fi | Roaming | Pocket Wi-Fi |
| Cost | Reasonable | Usually free | Very expensive | More expensive than a SIM |
| Convenience & Flexibility | Easy to use after setup | Easy, but needs Wi-Fi access | Limited to specific areas | Easy, but requires an extra device |
| Privacy | Good security | Less secure | Generally secure | Secure, but could be lost |
| Connection Speed | Reliable | Depends on location | Depends on network | Good, but device-dependent |
| International Availability | Available upon arrival | Limited to specific locations | Requires activation | Must rent and return device |
From the table above, it’s clear that using a SIM card is a strong option for tourists in Moldova. It offers cost-effectiveness and provides a stable, secure connection throughout your trip.
Pro Tip: Many tourists visiting Moldova for a short time prefer data-only SIM cards. These are economical and allow you to browse the internet and make calls through apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. Just make sure your phone is unlocked so it can connect to local networks in Moldova.
VI. What to prepare when buying a SIM card in Moldova?
When buying a SIM card in Moldova, be ready to show some identification and provide a few basic details:
- Moldova Address : You may need to give a valid address, such as where you are staying (hotel, hostel, or a friend’s place).
- Proof of Phone Ownership : Some providers may ask for the receipt or warranty card for your phone.
- Passport or ID Card : You must present a valid government-issued ID to buy a SIM card.
- Phone’s IMEI Number : Know your phone’s IMEI number, which you can usually find on the phone’s packaging.
Make sure you have all this information ready to make the process easier!
VII. Moldova eSIM – alternative to Tourist SIM cards
Using an eSIM in Moldova offers many advantages. Here’s what you need to know about eSIMs in the country.
Benefits of Prepaid Moldova eSIM
- Space-Saving: eSIMs take up less physical space and lower the chance of losing a SIM card. This is especially useful for people with multiple devices or those who frequently switch phones.
- Easy Management: Users can manage their mobile services directly through their phone’s settings or apps. This makes it simple to monitor and control data usage, calls, and messages.
- Convenient for Travelers: eSIMs allow international travelers to easily connect to mobile networks in various countries without needing a physical SIM card.
- Enhanced Security: Information is securely stored on the device’s built-in chip, which reduces the risk of data loss.
Overall, eSIMs provide a flexible and convenient option for anyone who wants to stay connected while traveling.
eSIM Providers in Moldova
- Gigago: This reputable eSIM provider offers a variety of data plans for tourists at competitive prices, along with excellent support.
For Moldova, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 500 MB/day for 3 days with $3.00 . What is great about Gigago’s Moldova eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $3.00 – $95.90 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Moldova, there is always an option for you with Gigago.
VIII. How long does a tourist SIM card last in Moldova?
In Moldova, a tourist SIM card typically comes with various validity periods from 7 to 30 days. For example:
- Moldtelecom offers a SIM card with a package lasting 30 days which includes data and minutes.
- Orange Moldova can also provide plans with similar 15 to 30-day validity depending on the specific package selected.
When purchasing, be sure to check the details of the specific plan to confirm the duration of validity.
IX. How to activate a SIM card in Moldova?
Here’s how to use prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs in Moldova, depending on your needs.
1. Using Prepaid Moldova Tourist SIM Cards
- Buy a SIM Card: First, purchase a prepaid travel SIM card. You can find these at cell phone stores or retail shops.
- Choose a Package: Select a package that suits your needs. Moldova has three main carriers: Orange, Moldcell and Moldtelecom. Each offers different plans that include data, calls, and texts.
- Registration and Activation: When you buy the SIM card, you’ll need to show identification and fill out some registration forms. Your SIM will be activated during this process.
- Deposit Money: Add funds to your account to start using the service. You can deposit money online, through a mobile app, at retail stores, or at card deposit machines.
- Check Settings: Make sure your phone’s settings are configured for the correct network based on your chosen carrier.
- Service Usage: You’re now ready to use your Moldova SIM card! You can make calls, send messages, and use mobile data according to your plan.
2. Setting Up and Activating a Moldova eSIM
- Compatibility Check: Ensure your phone supports eSIM technology. Most modern smartphones do, but check your phone’s settings to confirm.
- Buy an eSIM: You can purchase an eSIM at mobile carrier stores or from resellers. Buying from resellers is often more convenient, as it may not require personal registration.
- Provide Registration Information: During the purchase, you might need to provide some personal information and identification to register the eSIM. This information is used to activate it.
- Receive Activation Code: After your purchase, you’ll get an activation code or a QR code from the network provider.
- eSIM Activation: To activate your eSIM, select a plan, set up your network settings, and enter the necessary information.
- Check Connection: After activation, test your eSIM connection by making a call, sending a text, or using mobile data.
► Remember: Always check that your phone is compatible and choose a network plan that fits your budget. If you need help, don’t hesitate to ask store staff or contact your carrier’s support hotline for assistance.
X. FAQs
What is the best SIM card for tourists?
Orange Moldova is generally recommended due to its extensive coverage and competitive plans.
Are eSIM options available in Moldova?
Yes, both Orange and Moldcell offer eSIM options.
Do SIM cards come with starter bonuses?
Yes, many operators offer starter bonuses, including free data or minutes, with the purchase of a new SIM card.
Can I keep my number if I switch operators?
Yes, you can port your number between operators, but you will need to follow specific procedures set by the operators.
What are the best options for social media data?
Moldtelecom offers unlimited social media data for popular apps like Facebook and Instagram, which can be a great option for heavy users.
In short, whether to choose a Moldova SIM card or an eSIM depends on your individual needs. Physical SIM cards are great with affordable prices. On the other hand, eSIMs offer convenience, especially for travelers moving between countries, allowing you to manage your network services through apps. Choose the option that best fits your travel style for a smooth experience. Have a great trip!