SIM Card at Russia Airports: All you need to know

Getting a local SIM card at Russia airports is very convenient for tourists who want immediate connectivity on their phones.

Here is a complete guide on getting a Russia airport SIM card.

I. Which airport in Russia offers SIM card for tourists

The main international airports in Moscow and St Petersburg have shops and kiosks that sell local SIM cards for tourists.

Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) in Moscow

• SVO has SIM card kiosks in the arrival halls of Terminals D, E, and F that are operated by Beeline, Tele2, and Megafon – three major providers in Russia.
• The kiosks are open 24/7. You can quickly buy a SIM card with an activated number and data plan.
• SIM cards cost around 600-1200 Rubles ($10-20) and come with varying amounts of domestic data, minutes, and SMS.
• Pick the provider that best matches your travel needs. Beeline has good nationwide coverage, while Tele2 and Megafon better cover Moscow/St Petersburg.

Tips: Check SVO’s maps before landing

Pulkovo Airport (LED) in St Petersburg

• LED has SIM card kiosks from Megafon and Tele2 in the arrival zone.
• There are also MTS and Beeline shops in the public area of LED airport.
• SIM card rates and packages are comparable to the Moscow airports.

So in summary, all the major Russia airports have kiosks and stores where you can easily buy local SIM cards from leading providers like Beeline, MTS, Megafon etc.

II. Where to buy SIM card at Russia airports

Here are some tips on where to buy SIM card at Russian airports:

• SIM kiosks in arrival halls – These kiosks located right as you exit immigration offer the quickest and easiest option. Look for the branded kiosks of Beeline, MTS, Tele2, Megafon etc.

• Mobile phone shops – There are dedicated mobile phone shops like Svyaznoy, Euroset in the public areas of airports that also sell SIM cards. These shops may have longer wait times compared to the kiosks.

• Convenience stores – Shops and mini-marts in the arrival and public zones also stock prepaid SIMs from various providers. Selection may be smaller than dedicated mobile shops.

In terms of opening hours, SIM card shops/kiosks are typically open from early morning 6-7am until the last flight lands late night. Stick to the arrival zones during your airport transit to find a SIM.

Pricing for airport SIM cards is not inflated and similar to downtown rates. Expect to pay 600-1200 Rubles ($10-$20) for SIM card bundles.

Waiting times are minimal, around 5-10 minutes on average, at airport SIM shops and kiosks. Much faster than downtown stores.

Tips: Buying at vending machine if you need connectivity right away.

III. What to prepare to buy a SIM card at Russia Airports

You’ll need only a few things handy when buying a SIM card at Russia airport:

• Passport – Your passport is required for identification and registration when buying any SIM card in Russia.
• Passport photos – Some providers may ask for passport-size photos to register the SIM. Carry a few just in case.
• Cash – Have some local Rubles cash on hand. Credit cards generally not accepted for SIM purchases.
• Unlocked phone – Your phone must be unlocked to use a local Russian SIM. Check with your home carrier that your device is not SIM-locked.
• SIM tool – A paperclip or SIM eject tool to insert the new SIM once purchased.
• Activation code – Text any activation code if prompted after inserting the new SIM.

Other than the above, no prep-work is needed. Store staff usually speak English and can help set up the SIM, including data plan selection. Have your passport open on the registration page to speed things up.

IV. Russia eSIM – An Alternative to Airport SIM Card

While physical SIM cards are easily available at Russia airports, eSIM offers some unique advantages for travelers:

Convenience

• eSIMs can be purchased and activated entirely online, even before you reach Russia.
• No need to locate shops or kiosks after your long flight. Get connected quickly with eSIM.
• eSIM works on dual SIM phones. Keep using your existing SIM and add a Russia eSIM.

Flexible Plans

• eSIM providers offer flexible short-term data packages perfect for trips. Get data you’ll actually use.
• Physical SIMs often have data bundles that expire quickly. eSIM plans can be customized to your travel dates.
• eSIM allows multiple data plan purchases. Top up anytime when you run low during the trip.

Support

• eSIM providers have English language support and activating the eSIM profile is designed for travelers.
• Buying a regular SIM as a foreigner can involve sign-up steps in Russian. eSIM customer service is traveler-friendly.

For these reasons, Russia eSIM is the most convenient and flexible connectivity option for international tourists. Consider eSIM from Russia eSIM, its package data from only $5.50 for 1GB. Let’s take a look at their best plans:

eSIM tips: Check eSIM-compatible device list before purchasing your eSIM. 

V. FAQs

VI. Conclusion

Getting a SIM card at Russia airports is easy and convenient for immediate connectivity. Major airports have dedicated kiosks and shops selling SIMs from leading providers like Beeline and MTS

However, for short trips, Russia eSIM offers greater flexibility and can be purchased online in advance without airport hassle.