Best eSIM Cards in Austria for Expats
Last updated: March 2026
As of March 2026, all three Austrian mobile network operators (A1, Magenta, Drei) support eSIM activation, and international providers like Airalo offer data-only eSIMs for Austria from EUR 4.50 for 1 GB. An eSIM lets you get connected instantly before you even land in Austria, no physical SIM card swap needed, no store visit required. This is especially useful for expats who need data on arrival for navigation, translation, and registration appointments.
What Is an eSIM and How Does It Work in Austria?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM chip built directly into your phone. Instead of inserting a physical card, you activate your plan by scanning a QR code or downloading a carrier profile. The eSIM connects to the mobile network just like a physical SIM, but entirely digitally.
Most modern smartphones support eSIM, including iPhone (XS and later), Samsung Galaxy (S20 and later), Google Pixel (3a and later), and many others. Some phones support dual eSIM, allowing two digital SIMs simultaneously without any physical card.
Dual SIM advantage for expats
Should You Get an eSIM or Physical SIM in Austria?
| Feature | eSIM | Physical SIM |
|---|---|---|
| Activation | Instant (scan QR code) | Same day (buy at store) |
| Available before arrival | Yes (Airalo, Holafly) | No (must buy in Austria) |
| Store visit needed | No | Yes (or order online) |
| Dual SIM possible | Yes (keep home number) | Only with dual-SIM phones |
| Best for | Travelers, first days in Austria | Long-term residents, cheapest plans |
| Cheapest option | Airalo from EUR 4.50/1 GB | spusu from EUR 4.90/month |
| Austrian phone number | Only with Austrian providers | Yes, always |
Best strategy for new arrivals
Which Austrian Providers Offer eSIM?
All three Austrian network operators and some MVNOs now support eSIM activation. You get an Austrian phone number and full local plan, just without the physical card.
| Provider | eSIM Support | Prepaid eSIM | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | Yes | Yes, from EUR 9.90/month | Online or in-store |
| Magenta | Yes | Yes, from EUR 9.90/month | Online or in-store |
| Drei | Yes | Yes, from EUR 8.00/month | Online or in-store |
| spusu | Yes | Yes, from EUR 4.90/month | Online only |
| HoT | No | N/A | Physical SIM only |
Austrian carrier eSIMs require passport ID verification. Contract eSIMs additionally require a Meldezettel and Austrian bank account. See our telecom overview for full provider comparisons.
What Are the Best International eSIM Providers for Austria?
International eSIM providers offer data-only plans that work in Austria without needing a Meldezettel, Austrian bank account, or in-store visit. These are ideal for your first days in Austria or short-term visits. Most provide EU-wide coverage, so your plan works across all Schengen countries.
Data only, no Austrian phone number
Top 5 Best eSIM Providers for Austria in 2026
Based on coverage in Austria, pricing, activation speed, and ease of use for expats and travelers, here are the top 5 eSIM providers for Austria.
1. Airalo
The world's largest eSIM marketplace with dedicated Austria plans and Europe-wide packages. Buy and activate before you even board your flight.
Best for: Travelers and expats who want data ready before landing in Austria
Pros
- +Austria plans from EUR 4.50 for 1 GB / 7 days
- +Europe-wide plans available (30+ countries)
- +Activate instantly via QR code
- +No Meldezettel or ID required
Cons
- −Data only, no Austrian phone number
- −No voice calls or SMS included
- −Short validity on cheapest plans
2. spusu (eSIM)
Austria's best-value MVNO now supports eSIM. Get an Austrian phone number with data rollover at the lowest prices in the country, all activated online.
Best for: Expats who want the cheapest Austrian eSIM with a local number
Pros
- +Cheapest Austrian eSIM from EUR 4.90/month
- +Austrian phone number included
- +Unused data rolls over monthly
- +No contract, cancel anytime
Cons
- −Drei network (weaker in rural areas)
- −German-only support
- −Requires passport for verification
3. Holafly
Unlimited data eSIM plans for Austria and Europe. No data caps, no throttling. Ideal for heavy data users who stream, navigate, and video call.
Best for: Heavy data users who want unlimited data without caps
Pros
- +Unlimited data plans (truly unlimited, no throttle)
- +Europe-wide coverage (30+ countries)
- +Plans from 5 to 90 days
- +24/7 English customer support
Cons
- −Data only, no phone number
- −More expensive than metered plans
- −No voice calls or SMS
4. A1 (eSIM)
Austria's largest network with the best nationwide coverage. A1 eSIM gives you a local Austrian number on the most reliable network, including Alpine regions.
Best for: Expats in rural areas who need the best coverage with an Austrian number
Pros
- +Best network coverage in Austria (98% 4G)
- +Austrian phone number included
- +5G access in cities
- +English customer support
Cons
- −Higher prices (from EUR 9.90/month)
- −Requires passport verification
- −Contract plans need Meldezettel
5. Drei (eSIM)
Generous data plans on eSIM with unlimited options. Drei's eSIM is great for heavy data users who want an Austrian number at competitive prices.
Best for: Data-heavy users wanting an Austrian eSIM with unlimited options
Pros
- +Unlimited data plans available
- +Austrian phone number included
- +Competitive pricing from EUR 8.00/month
- +Online activation
Cons
- −Weaker rural/Alpine coverage than A1
- −Limited English support
- −5G coverage still expanding
How Do You Activate an eSIM for Austria?
- 1
Check compatibility
Confirm your phone supports eSIM. Go to Settings > Cellular/Mobile > look for "Add eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan".
- 2
Choose your provider
For instant data: Airalo or Holafly (no ID needed). For an Austrian number: spusu, A1, Drei, or Magenta (passport required).
- 3
Purchase and scan QR code
Complete the purchase online. You will receive a QR code by email or in the provider's app. Scan it with your phone's camera.
- 4
Activate and connect
Follow the on-screen prompts to install the eSIM profile. Once installed, enable it and you are connected. The process takes 2–5 minutes.
eSIM in Austria: Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Meldezettel to get an eSIM in Austria?
International eSIM providers (Airalo, Holafly) do not require a Meldezettel. Austrian carriers require passport ID for prepaid eSIMs, and a Meldezettel for contract eSIMs.
Can I keep my home number while using an Austrian eSIM?
Yes, if your phone supports dual SIM. Keep your home number on one SIM slot and use the Austrian eSIM on the other for local data and calls.
Is an eSIM better than a physical SIM for expats?
An eSIM is better for the first days in Austria (instant activation, no store visit). For long-term use, Austrian physical SIM cards from HoT or spusu may offer better value. Many expats use both via dual SIM.
Does EU roaming work with Austrian eSIMs?
Yes. All Austrian carrier eSIMs include EU roaming at no extra charge under the "Roam Like at Home" regulation. International eSIMs (Airalo Europe plan, Holafly) also cover multiple EU countries.
Which phones support eSIM in Austria?
iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, Google Pixel 3a and later, and most recent flagship phones from OnePlus, Xiaomi, and others. Check your phone settings for "Add eSIM" to confirm.