How to get a North Macedonia SIM Card

So, you’ve touched down in North Macedonia, ready for an adventure that goes beyond breath-taking landscapes and historic wonders. One thing you’ll need to stay connected is a reliable North Macedonia SIM card. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of why, where, and how to get your hands on one.

Why Get a North Macedonia SIM Card?

First things first, why bother with a local SIM card? Well, picture this: unlimited Instagram uploads of your scenic adventures, smooth navigation with Google Maps, and the ability to call and text without draining your wallet on international roaming charges. But in all seriousness, a local SIM card is your ticket to staying connected and making the most out of your North Macedonian adventure.

eSIM North Macedonia

Now, let’s talk tech. eSIMs are the new cool kids on the block, and North Macedonia is catching up. eSIM stands for an “embedded” SIM card and let you switch between carriers without swapping physical cards – it’s the future of mobile flexibility.

Ensure your device supports eSIM functionality. Most modern smartphones do, but it’s worth a quick check or a glance at your user manual just to be sure. Activating an eSIM is a breeze. Providers usually give you a QR code or a simple online process to follow, and voilà – you’re digitally connected.

As of now, not all carriers in North Macedonia offer eSIMs and although Telekom is leading the pack in this regard, ordering your eSIM through their site can be problematic. Our personal recommendation would be to use Airalo, who offer a range of eSIM packages that you can order and set-up through their app.

Personally I have used Airalo eSIM’s on holidays to Thailand, Morocco and Spain, finding the network coverage to be great and the setup process being so simple!

Airalo North Macedonia Prepaid SIM Packages

4G Data-only eSIM. Rechargeable online with no expiry. Operates on the Telekom.mk network in North Macedonia.

1GB Data – 7 Days – $4.50
2GB Data – 15 Days – $7.00
3GB Data – 30 Days – $9.50
5GB Data – 30 Days – $13.00
10GB Data – 30 Days $21.00
20GB Data – 30 Days – $32.00

Prices may be slightly higher than if you were to buy a local SIM card once in North Macedonia, but the fact that you don’t need to waste any of your trip looking for somewhere to buy a SIM card and setting it up, to us makes it worth it.

Where to Get a Regular North Macedonia SIM Card

If eSIM’s aren’t for you, then don’t worry as North Macedonia boasts several network providers, with Telekom, VIP, Lycamobile or A1 all being great options. Out of the four, our choice would be to go for Telekom which is owned by T-Mobile and has good 4G network coverage across the country.

You can pick up a North Macedonia SIM card in tobacco shops, petrol stations, newsstands or grocery stores. Once you get in to the city you will also find shops ran by the network providers, where they can provide assistance in setting it up as well. Costs vary depending on the provider, however you should expect to pay around 400 den (€6.50/$7.08) for 10GB of data, unlimited minutes and texts to MK numbers.

• If you are arriving at Skopje International Airport? They have a small Telekom Shop, between the Check In desks and Arrivals.
• Or arriving to Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport? No worries – You can pick up a SIM Card from one of the newsstands or grocery stores on arrival.

Wrapping It Up

With your North Macedonian SIM card in hand (or digitally stored in your eSIM compatible device), you’re ready to explore with ease. Stay connected, share your adventures, and navigate the cobblestone streets and breath-taking landscapes hassle-free. Welcome to the land where ancient history meets modern connectivity!

Looking for ideas for your trip to North Macedonia, then check out our Skopje, Bitola and Ohrid travel guides.