Going to the Netherlands? You may need a local SIM card for your phone. It is generally most convenient for tourists to get one at the airport after arrival. In the Netherlands, there are several international airports where patrons can purchase SIM cards for all different mobile operators. This guide shows you what to know about purchasing a SIM card for use in the Netherlands.
Table of Contents
1. Which airport in the Netherlands offers SIM cards for tourists
The Netherlands has 15 airports, both international and domestic.
Some major airports in the Netherlands that offer SIM cards for tourists include:
- Schiphol Airport (Amsterdam)Schiphol – Schiphol is the largest and busiest airport in Holland. It sells SIM cards from all the major Dutch mobile operators, including KPN, Vodafone, and Odido (T-Mobile).
- Rotterdam The Hague Airport – The Rotterdam airport has Lycamobile, Lebarla, and KPN SIM card choices. The Lycamobile store is in the arrivals hall, while the Lebara and KPN outlets are outside of it.
- Eindhoven Airport – The Eindhoven airport offers less than either the Schiphol or Rotterdam airports. For example, Lycamobile and Lebara have shops at Eindhoven airport that only sell prepaid SIM cards or recharge vouchers.
- Maastricht Aachen Airport – closing to borders with Germany and Belgium, this small regional airport only offers simple SIM cards.
As such, all the main international gateways of Amsterdam, Eindhoven, and Rotterdam airports have made it very easy for tourists by charging reasonable rates in their prepaid Dutch SIMs which you can pick up at airports. This enables you to maintain contact when traveling in the Netherlands.
2. Where to buy Netherlands SIM cards at airports
Here are some options for buying SIM cards at Netherlands airports in the Netherlands:
- Kiosks/shops in the airport terminals – In most major Dutch airports such as Amsterdam Schiphol, Eindhoven, and Rotterdam The Hague there will be kiosks or small shops in the terminals selling SIM cards for the big three operators-T-Mobile, Vodafone and KPN. Look for signs that say “SIM Cards” or ask for information desks.
- Online pickup – Some carriers allow ordering SIM cards online in advance and picking them up upon arrival from designated desks or machines in the airport. This may be a good option if arriving late at night when shops are closed. T-Mobile and Lebara offer this pickup option.
- Mobile carrier counters – Check signs or kiosk maps for counters of individual carriers inside the airport. T-Mobile, Vodafone, and LycaMobile often have airport counters.
- Convenience/newsagent stores – Small stores selling magazines, snacks, and necessities (AH To Go, Starbucks) sometimes stock no-frills SIM cards alongside souvenirs.
- Supermarkets – Grocery stores like Albert Heijn inside/outside the airport may carry prepaid SIM packs from service providers like LycaMobile.
The options available can vary by airport size, so check the airport website or ask staff at info counters upon arrival. Many Dutch airports make it quite easy to get a local SIM.
In most airports, following the signboards is the easiest way to find SIM card stores. Airport staff can also guide you to the nearest mobile operator shop.
3. What to prepare to buy a SIM card at Netherlands airports
To buy a SIM card at Netherlands airports, you need to be prepared with the following:
- Passport or Photo ID – Your passport or other photo ID is necessary, as operators need to verify your identity before selling a SIM card.
- Unlocked Phone – Ensure your phone is unlocked and supports the required network frequencies in the Netherlands for the SIM card to function properly.
- Know Your Data Needs – Decide your data, talk time, and SMS needs beforehand to choose the right prepaid Netherlands SIM card package.
- Cash/Debit Card for Payment – Have Euro cash or a debit card ready for payment. Credit cards may not be accepted at some stores.
- SIM Card Format – Check if you need a mini, micro, or nano SIM for your device. Newer phones use nano SIMs. Some stores sell SIMs with removable adapters.
Following the above preparation will make buying a SIM card at Netherlands airports a smooth process once you land there.
4. Netherlands eSIM – an Alternative to Airport SIM Card
Besides physical SIM cards, eSIM is a viable alternative for tourists arriving in the Netherlands. An eSIM is a digital SIM profile that can be activated remotely on supported device models.
Major benefits of using Netherlands eSIM instead of airport SIM cards:
- Convenience of digital activation instead of visiting stores
- Avoid airport queues and save time
- Flexibility to change plans anytime
- Services from eSIM providers are often cheaper than airport SIMs
Some recommended Netherlands eSIM providers for tourists are: netherlandsesim.com, Dent, etc.
They are Netherlands eSIMs that can be purchased and activated online before your trip. Short-term use prices include data packages. Using eSIM tech, abroad there are no worries of having to deal with SIM cards.
Had enough of expensive data roaming in the Netherlands? Get a Dutch eSIM from netherlandsesim.com now and enjoy 4G/LTE data from $3. No physical SIM card needed – just scan the QR code and you’re connected. Take advantage of local data rates during your stay in the Netherlands. Purchase your Netherlands eSIM directly from netherlandsesim.com.
5. FAQs about SIM Card at Netherlands Airports
Can I buy a SIM at Netherlands airport arrivals?
Yes, all major airports in the Netherlands offer prepaid SIM cards from various local operators at arrivals halls and stores.
How much do Netherlands airport SIMs cost?
Costs range from $10 to $30 based on the data allowance. Average prices are $15 for 5GB and $25 for 15GB data packages.
Are Netherlands SIM cards available at departure halls?
Netherlands departure halls generally don’t have SIM card options. Arrival halls are the designated areas with stores selling SIMs.
Can I use the Netherlands SIM in other EU countries?
Yes, Netherlands SIMs can be used across the EU for roaming under EU roaming regulations. But additional roaming charges may apply.
Do I need to show a passport to buy a SIM at the Netherlands airport?
Yes, you need to show your original passport or ID proof at the SIM card store for registration requirements.
6. Conclusion about SIM Card at Netherlands Airports
Many people prefer to obtain a local Netherlands SIM card when they arrive at the airport, and that is indeed what tourists will find fastest. Prepaid SIMs from leading Dutch carriers are available at major airports such as Schiphol, Rotterdam, and Eindhoven. If you prepare properly, the process of buying a SIM card at these airports is simple and easy. The same goes for eSIM, which also looks set to replace physical SIM cards.
