Beeline Russia SIM Card and eSIM: Detailed Guide

Beeline Russia SIM card is one of the top choice for most tourists in Russia. Read on to know about using it for your trip in Russia.

I. Quick Facts about Beeline

Beeline is a major Russian telecommunications company, owned by VEON (based in Amsterdam).

• Established: 1993
• Branding name: Beeline
• Services provided: 2G/3G/4G mobile service, mobile internet, international roaming
• Number of subscribers: Over 45 million (Q3 2022)
• Number of stores: Over 5,000 branded sales points across Russia
• Customer service: 24/7 call centers, online chat, social media support
• Awards: Named Russia’s fastest mobile network by Ookla Speedtest (2021)

II. Why Beeline When You’re Exploring Russia – Coverage and Speed

Beeline Coverage in Russia

Beeline has one of the largest networks across European Russia, with reliable coverage reaching over 70% of the country’s population. Beeline provides strong 4G LTE connectivity in major cities and towns, with 3G networks available in most urban and suburban areas.

Some remote Siberian, Far Eastern and Arctic localities may have limited or absent signals.

Beeline Speed

Beeline is the second fastest mobile network with speed score of 36.89 and average download speeds of 24.59 Mbps by Ookla Speedtest. 

Major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg see average 4G speeds in the 30-40 Mbps range on Beeline.The carrier has enabled 5G roaming in a handful of locations and is continuing 5G trials.

In summary, Beeline offers excellent connectivity for exploring Russia as a tourist. Their coverage and speeds make them a great choice.

III. Beeline Connectivity Options for Travelers to Russia

When visiting Russia, travelers need to know the best way to get connected.

Connectivity Options

Getting a local Beeline SIM card is the most convenient and affordable way for short-term travelers who need data connectivity in Russia.

IV. Best Beeline Russia SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost

As a tourist visiting Russia short-term, a prepaid SIM card is recommended. Here are the top options from Beeline:

Shorter term SIMs save money, the Beeline Travel SIM provides excellent value for a full 30 days. So for most situations, this plan would be the ideal prepaid option.

V. Does Beeline Support eSIM in Russia?

Yes, Beeline does offer eSIM support for compatible phones in Russia.

Here are pros of using eSIM in Russia:

1. Convenience – No need to insert/remove physical SIM cards when changing plans or providers. Profiles can be activated remotely.
2. Flexibility – Multiple profiles from different carriers/operators can be stored on the eSIM, allowing easy switching between plans.
3. Remote management – Carriers can remotely manage eSIM profiles, activating/deactivating as needed without physical interaction.

Consider eSIM from third-party provider like Russia eSIM from GIGAGO, with affordable data packages start from $5.50 for 1GB. Let’s take a look at their plans:

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

VI. Where Can You Buy a Beeline Russia SIM Card and eSIM?

Where to Buy Beeline SIM for Russia

• Beeline Stores – Available in over 5,000 official stores across Russia. Offers the full range of SIM card options.

• Sheremetyevo Airport – SIM card kiosks in the arrival halls of Terminals D, E, F.

• Online – Can buy a SIM card on Beeline’s website for delivery in Russia.

Where to Buy Beeline eSIM in Russia

• Beeline Stores – Must visit an official branded store for eSIM activation and support.
• Sheremetyevo Airport – Some availability at SIM card kiosks depending on device.
• Online – No option to buy Beeline eSIM direct online. Must go to physical store.

So in summary, physical Beeline SIM cards are widely available at stores, airport kiosks, resellers, or online in Russia. But eSIM access is still primarily limited to Beeline stores in the country.

VII. How to Activate Beeline Russia SIM/eSIM in Russia

How to Activate and Use a Beeline SIM Card in Russia

1. Insert the SIM – Locate the SIM card tray on your device. Insert the Beeline SIM and ensure it clicks into place.
2. Power on Device – Turn on your phone and allow it to recognize the new SIM card.
3. Activate SIM – In most cases, the Beeline SIM will come pre-activated. If not, call +7 926 111 0555.
4. Set APN – Configure the APN settings if required for data services.
5. Check Services – Make a test call and use mobile data to confirm service activation.

How to Activate and Use a Beeline eSIM in Russia

1. Install eSIM – If you purchased at airport/store, scan QR code to add plan to device eSIM. For store activation, they will install.
2. Activate eSIM – Follow prompts to activate the Beeline data plan on the eSIM. Confirm activation with store rep if needed.
3. Set up eSIM – Select Beeline as the active mobile data line on the device if dual SIM.
4. Use eSIM – You can now start using mobile data through the Beeline eSIM in Russia.

That covers the basics of getting started with Beeline SIM cards and eSIM during your travel. Reach out to customer support if any issues.

VIII. Beeline Russia Call & SMS Rates

Here are the standard Beeline prepaid rates for calls and SMS while traveling in Russia:

Call & SMS Rates

These rates apply to prepaid SIM cards. Calling or messaging other Beeline numbers is less expensive. Data packages and bundles can provide discounted calling/texting. Overall, Beeline presents good value for domestic calls and texts for tourists.

IX. Useful USSD Codes for Beeline SIM/eSIM

Here are some useful USSD codes to check account status quickly on a Beeline SIM or eSIM:

USSD Codes

Enter these USSD codes directly on your phone dial pad and hit call/send to check your prepaid balance and usage. The codes work the same for physical SIM and eSIM.

X. How to Top-Up Beeline Russia SIM/eSIM

When your prepaid validity or data is running low, you will need to top-up your Beeline SIM/eSIM. Here are easy ways to recharge:

• Beeline Stores – Go to a store for instant top-ups via cash or card.
• Recharge Cards – Purchase Beeline top-up voucher cards at stores. Scratch to reveal code.
• Online – Recharge via credit card on Beeline’s website or using app.
• Call Center – Contact support line at 8 800 700 0800 to recharge via card or e-wallet.

Topping up can instantly restore your prepaid data, minutes, texts and extend validity. It’s easy to do both for physical SIM and eSIM plans.

XI. FAQs about Beeline Russia

XII. Final Words

In summary, Beeline Russia offers excellent connectivity through widely available prepaid SIM cards and eSIM for compatible devices.

However, consider using Russia eSIM for the best experience!