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

Discover the easiest way to get a SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO). This guide covers where to buy, pricing information, and alternative options.

SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO)

Getting a SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) allows visitors to stay connected throughout their trip. This guide will help you find the right place to buy, understand the pricing, and explore other options. By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to stay connected during your trip.

Highlights

  • Russia SIM card is available at kiosks and shops in the arrival halls.
  • Major Russian carriers such as MTS, Beeline, and Megafon offer a variety of prepaid SIM cards for tourists
  • Tourists must present a valid passport to purchase a SIM Card at Sheremetyevo Airport
  • Purchasing eSIM allows for immediate connectivity

I. How to Get a SIM Card at Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO)?

There are three convenient ways to purchase a SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO):

  • Pre-order Online: Order your SIM card from carriers like MTS or Beeline before your flight and pick it up at the airport.
  • Buy at the Airport: Head to the SIM stalls near the arrival exits to purchase a SIM card and activate it.
  • Get an eSIM: Purchase and activate a digital SIM online before your trip and download it to your phone.

II. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO)?

Travelers can purchase a SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) at various kiosks and shops operated by mobile network providers, as well as at convenience stores if available.

To find these SIM card sales points, look in the arrival halls and around the baggage claim area. Signs indicating mobile services or SIM card purchases are typically displayed prominently, making them easy to spot. 

1. Buy MTS SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport

Buy MTS SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport
Buy MTS SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport

MTS is one of the major mobile operators in Russia, and it has a presence at Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO), making it convenient for tourists to purchase a SIM card upon arrival. 

  • Location: You can find the MTS kiosk in the arrival hall after passing through customs. 
  • Opening hours: MTS kiosks generally operate from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, but it’s advisable to check for any changes in hours, especially during holidays.
  • Price: MTS offers a range of prepaid SIM cards, with prices starting from around 500 RUB for basic plans that typically include data and local call allowances. 

2. Buy Beeline SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport

Beeline is a major mobile network operator in Russia, offering reliable coverage and a range of data plans to suit various travel needs. It is easy to find the Beeline kiosk at Sheremetyevo Airport.  

  • Location: SIM card kiosks in the arrival halls of Terminals D, E, F.
  • Opening hours: operate from early morning until around 9:00 p.m.
  • Price: 600 rubles (about $7), providing data, domestic minutes, and SMS, usually valid for 14 to 30 days
Beeline kiosk at airport
Beeline kiosk at airport

3. Buy Megafon SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport

MegaFon Internet Cafe sell SIM Card at Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO)
MegaFon Internet Cafe sell SIM Card at Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO)

You can easily buy a Megafon SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport.

  • Location: Megafon has an internet cafe which also sells Russia SIM card there. 
  • Opening hours: They open all days, except Saturday.
  • Price: MegaFon offers various prepaid SIM card bundles with varying data, call minutes, SMS, and validity periods, ranging from $6.34 to $47.49.

If you’re unsure which provider to choose, we recommend Beeline. Beeline offers extensive coverage across Russia, ensuring you stay connected even in remote areas. Beeline’s network is known for its reliability and fast speeds, especially in major cities in Russia. You can find a Beeline store to buy SIM Card at Sheremetyevo Airport, in the city center or online.

III. Do SIM card shops at Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) open after midnight?

Yes. At Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO), some SIM card shops do operate after midnight, particularly in Terminal D, which has 24-hour availability for certain services.

Recommendation: The precise hours of operation, however, sometimes change, so it’s best to confirm with the stores directly or at the airport information desk when you get there. Additionally, Terminal D is your best option for late-night purchases because other terminals can have stores with varied hours.

IV. Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) SIM card Price?

MTS, Beeline and Megafon are the three major Russian mobile providers that sell prepaid SIM card packages at Sheremetyevo International Airport. Here’s an overview of what’s available and the average cost: 

CarrierProductAllowanceValidityCost (RUB)Cost (USD)
MTSPrepaid SIM500MB Data3 Days300~$4
MegafonStarter Pack1GB Data, 200 Minutes30 Days400~$5
BeelineTravel Pack1GB Data7 Days550~$7

Note: When purchasing your SIM, tell the staff how long you'll be staying and how much data you'll need so they can recommend the optimal package.

V. Registration Process on Buying a SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO)?

To buy a SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO), tourists need the following:

  • Passport: Required for registration.
  • Unlocked Phone: Ensure your phone is unlocked to accept the new SIM card.
  • Payment Method: Cash or credit/debit card to pay for the SIM card and plan.

The registration process can be complex, and many tourists may feel uncomfortable sharing personal information. A simpler alternative is to purchase an international SIM card online before departure or to buy an eSIM, which does not require showing your passport.

If you want to avoid the complications of purchasing a physical SIM card, consider using an eSIM. However, ensure that your device is eSIM-compatible and that you have a stable internet connection for activation. This method allows for quick and easy setup without the need for personal information registration.

VI. eSIM at Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) – Alternative to Russia SIM Card  

Skip the airport lines and purchase your Russia eSIM online with Gigago.
Skip the airport lines and purchase your Russia eSIM online with Gigago.

Forget about queueing for a traditional Russia SIM card, now you can easily buy eSIM and activate online for a few simple steps. This allows tourists for immediate activation, even before landing in Russia. Plus, you can easily switch between local and international networks without changing SIM cards. 

Numerous online retailers offer Russia eSIM. Instead of buying online, you can also buy eSIM from Russia operators when you are at the Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO). However, buying online from retailers is still the best option for tourists when it comes to Russia eSIM.  

Among a lot of travel eSIM retailers, Gigago provides Russia eSIM powered by Beeline, a leading mobile network operator in Russia, ensuring excellent network coverage. Gigago offers various Gigago Russia eSIM data plans (ranging from $2.50$175.90 ) to suit your needs, starting at $2.50 for 500MB of data valid for one day. 

VII. FAQ about SIM Card at Sheremetyevo Airport

Where can I buy a SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport?

You can find SIM card retailers at various locations within the airport terminals. Look for signs indicating mobile operators’ booths like MegaFon, MTS, or Beeline.

Do I need to provide identification to buy a SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport?

Yes. You will typically need to show your passport to purchase a SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport, as this is a requirement in Russia.

What payment methods are accepted when buying SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport?

Most kiosks accept cash (RUB) and credit/debit cards. It’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

VIII. Conclusion 

In conclusion, buying a SIM card at Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) is easy for tourists, with kiosks available in the arrival hall offering various prepaid options at competitive prices. However, the requirement to show a passport can complicate the process. To avoid this hassle, travelers may consider purchasing an international SIM card online before departure or opting for an eSIM, which does not require personal registration. This preparation ensures a smooth communication setup upon arriving in Russia.