Mobile Communication in Serbia: From Buying a SIM Card to Choosing an Operator
Purchasing and Registering a SIM Card in Serbia
You can purchase a SIM card in Serbia without any documents. However, a foreign passport is required for its full activation and use. After purchase, it is recommended to visit the operator's office to link the card to your passport.
A SIM card acquires a special status after you obtain a residence permit (ВНЖ). To make the card 'resident-based,' you need to visit the operator's office again and add your residence permit number to it. This procedure unlocks advanced features, including long-term plans and the ability to switch operators while keeping your number.
Tariff Types: Prepaid vs. Postpaid
All mobile operators in Serbia offer two main types of tariffs, which differ significantly in terms and availability for users. The choice between them directly depends on whether you have a residence permit.
It's important to note that the option to switch mobile operators while keeping your number only becomes available after obtaining a residence permit and switching to a postpaid plan. Until then, changing operators will require getting a new number.
Overview of Mobile Operators in Serbia
There are several key players in the Serbian mobile communications market. The operator MTS is considered the leader in terms of coverage quality and internet speed throughout the country. It offers a user-friendly mobile app and a wide selection of plans with internet.
Another popular choice, especially among relocants, is Yettel. This operator often runs promotions and offers discounts, and has many plans with large amounts of internet data. However, its postpaid plans can be more expensive than those of MTS. Both operators, Yettel and MTS, offer bundled packages for mobile and home internet, allowing you to pay for both services with a single bill.
It is also worth mentioning the operator Globaltel, which acquired MTS. Some users complain about unstable connection and problems with receiving SMS messages from banks, which should be taken into account when choosing.
Where to Buy and How to Top Up Your Account
The process of buying a SIM card and topping up your account in Serbia is quite simple and can be done at various locations. Activation, including for an eSIM purchased online, requires a personal visit to the operator's office with your foreign passport.
- At numerous street kiosks.
- In official branches of the mobile operators.
- Online on the operator's website or in the app (for eSIM).
- With cash at any kiosk in the city.
- At a branch of your mobile operator.
- Through the operator's mobile app, but this requires a bank card issued outside of Russia.
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