Is eSIM Allowed in Brazil

Is eSIM Allowed in Brazil in 2025?

Yesim Team
Yesim Team05 Aug 2025
9 minutes to read

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Brazil is an amazing country to visit, as it houses up to 70% of the Amazon basin, dense rainforests, world-class beaches, and some of the biggest metropolises on the planet. Fortunately for tourists, Brazil is one of the most developed countries in the region, but Wi-Fi is often still slow and unreliable. If you need decent internet, a local SIM card or travel eSIM for Brazil is the way to go.

If you're planning a trip to Brazil and wondering if eSIM is available in Brazil, the short answer is yes, but there's more to the story. In this article you will learn everything about Brazil eSIM support, how to get reliable mobile internet in Brazil, and why choosing the right provider matters for your trip.

Is eSIM Available and Allowed in Brazil?

Does eSIM work in Brazil? Yes, eSIM is fully available and legal in Brazil since 2019. Major Brazilian telecom providers, including Claro, Vivo, and TIM, support eSIM services. Visitors can acquire eSIMs from these carriers, or from international eSIM providers like Yesim, Airalo, Holafly, and others, to enjoy connectivity without needing a physical SIM card.

The catch is that while physical SIM card registration often requires a CPF (Brazilian tax ID) or passport, using an eSIM from an international provider typically eliminates this bureaucratic hurdle, offering a more streamlined way for travelers to stay connected.

How to Get an eSIM in Brazil

How to Get an eSIM in Brazil

Getting an eSIM in Brazil depends on whether you choose a local operator or an international provider. Each approach has distinct requirements and advantages.

Local Brazilian Operators

Claro eSIM Brazil, Vivo eSIM Brazil, and TIM eSIM Brazil all offer eSIM services, but they're designed primarily for residents and long-term visitors.

  • CPF requirement: Most Brazilian operators require a CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas), Brazil's tax identification number. Tourists can sometimes use their passport, but this varies by location and staff knowledge.
  • Physical presence: You need to visit a store in person for identity verification and eSIM activation.
  • Language barrier: Customer service is primarily in Portuguese, which can complicate the process for international visitors.
  • Registration fee: Expect to pay around 10 BRL ($1.83) for SIM card registration on top of your plan cost.

International eSIM Providers

International providers like Yesim eliminate these friction points entirely. You can purchase, download, and activate your eSIM before leaving home: no CPF, no store visits, no language barriers. How to get eSIM in Brazil through international providers:

  • Choose your provider and plan based on your data needs and trip duration.
  • Purchase online through the provider's website or app.
  • Download the eSIM to your device (can be done before travel).
  • Activate upon arrival in Brazil, or even before if the provider supports it.

This approach works particularly well for short-term visitors who want guaranteed connectivity from the moment they land.

Read also: Mobile Internet and SIM Cards for Brazil

eSIM Compatibility in Brazil: iPhone and Android

eSIM Brazil iPhone and eSIM Android Brazil compatibility is straightforward, if your device supports eSIM technology, it will work with Brazilian networks.

iPhone eSIM Support in Brazil

All iPhone models from XS/XR onwards support eSIM:

  • iPhone XS, XS Max, XR
  • iPhone 11 series
  • iPhone 12 series
  • iPhone 13 series
  • iPhone 14 series (including 14 Plus)
  • iPhone 15, 16, 17 series

eSIM Brazil iPhone setup is identical to other countries: download the eSIM profile and add it through Settings -> Cellular.

Android eSIM Support in Brazil

Many Android devices support eSIM, including:

  • Google Pixel 3 and newer
  • Samsung Galaxy S20 series and newer
  • Samsung Galaxy Note 20 series and newer
  • Samsung Galaxy Z series (foldables)
  • Select OnePlus, Xiaomi, and other flagship models

eSIM Android Brazil activation varies slightly by manufacturer but follows similar principles: scan a QR code or enter activation details manually.

✅ Pro tip: Check your device's eSIM compatibility before traveling. Not all variants of the same model support eSIM (especially in markets where dual physical SIM is preferred).

Best eSIM Providers in Brazil: Local Options

If you prefer dealing with local operators, here's what Brazil's major carriers offer.

Claro Brazil eSIM Plans

Claro Panama

Founded 2003 | Brazil nationwide coverage

Claro is Brazil's largest mobile operator by subscribers, offering extensive 4G coverage and expanding 5G networks in major cities. Known for social media bundles and gaming partnerships.

PlanPrice/Month (USD)Features
23GB$9.30Unlimited WhatsApp; 3GB for YouTube; 15GB included; 5GB bonus
30GB$11.15Unlimited WhatsApp; 5GB for social media; 20GB included; 5GB bonus
30GB Gaming$12.95Unlimited WhatsApp; 5GB for social media; Gaming perks; 25GB included

Note: 10 BRL ($1.83) registration fee applies.

Vivo Brazil eSIM Plans

Vivo Brazil logo

Founded 1998 | Brazil nationwide coverage

Vivo operates Brazil's most extensive network infrastructure, particularly strong in rural areas and interior regions. Offers reliable coverage across tourist destinations.

PlanPrice (USD)DataValid For
Basic 4G$4.004GB15 days
Easy 4G$5.008GB30 days
Super 4G$7.0015GB30 days
Ultra 4G$10.0025GB30 days
Maxx 4G$20.0050GB30 days

TIM Brazil eSIM Plans

Tim logo

Founded 1998 | Brazil nationwide coverage

TIM focuses on competitive pricing and data-centric plans, popular among budget-conscious users. Offers specific tourist packages and flexible prepaid options.

Data PlanFeaturesPrice
TIM Visitor SIMTourist-focused; 1GB data, 7 days~$6
TIM Pré prepaid eSIM BrazilLocals/tourists; 180 days validity; from 250MB$0.52 per GB
TIM Connected DataData-only; 30 days; from 250MB$0.52 per GB

These local options work well if you're staying long-term or don't mind the registration process. But for most tourists, international providers offer better value and convenience.

International eSIM Providers for Brazil

Virtual SIM card Brazil options from international providers often deliver better tourist experiences.

Yesim

Yesim logo

Founded 2019 | 200+ countries coverage

Yesim stands out with its International eSIM (Pay As You Go) that works in 200+ countries, including Brazil. Instead of buying separate eSIMs for each destination, you get one global plan that follows you everywhere. Yesim Brazil eSIM plans:

  • 3 GB for 7 days = €10
  • 5 GB for 15 days = €14
  • 10 GB for 30 days = €20
  • 20 GB for 30 days = €35
  • Unlimited data plan for 1 day = €10
  • Unlimited data plan for 7 days = €26
  • Unlimited data plan for 15 days = €45
  • Unlimited data plan for 30 days = €59

Other International eSIM Providers for Brazil

There are also other virtual SIM card Brazil options from international providers which can deliver decent tourist experiences.

ProviderPlan DurationData OptionsBest ValuePrice Range
Saily7-30 days1GB-20GB$3.00/GB$3.99-$66.99
Airalo7-365 days1GB-20GB$3.45/GB$6.00-$89.00
Holafly1-90 daysUnlimited$3.05/day$7.50-$274.45
Jetpac4-365 days1GB-100GB$1.00/GB$1.00-$499.00

Best eSIM for Brazil depends on your needs:

  • ✈️ Short trips (1-7 days): Yesim or Saily for simplicity.
  • 🏝️ Medium stays (1-4 weeks): Yesim's global plan offers the best flexibility.
  • 🌊 Data-heavy users: Compare unlimited options from Yesim and Holafly.
  • 🌍 Multi-country travel: Yesim's one-eSIM approach eliminates complexity.

Local vs International: Performance Comparison

Mobile internet in Brazil through international eSIM providers typically performs identically to local SIMs because they use the same underlying networks. International providers purchase data wholesale from Claro, Vivo, or TIM, then resell it through their platforms.

When to Choose Local OperatorsWhen International Providers Work Better
Extended stays (1+ months)Short-term visits (days to weeks)
Need for a local phone numberMulti-country travel
Heavy data usage (50GB+ monthly)Value convenience over marginal cost savings
Want access to local customer serviceWant to avoid bureaucracy

Does eSIM Work Well in Brazil for Foreign Visitors?

eSIM for tourists in Brazil performs excellently in urban areas and major tourist destinations. Brazil's mobile infrastructure ranks among the best in Latin America.

Network Coverage in Brazil

São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, and other major cities enjoy excellent 4G coverage with emerging 5G networks. Data speeds typically range from 20-50 Mbps, more than sufficient for navigation, social media, video calls, and streaming.

  • Tourist destinations: Popular spots like Copacabana, Christ the Redeemer, Iguazu Falls, and Amazonian lodges near Manaus generally have solid coverage. Beach towns along the coast maintain good connectivity.
  • Rural and remote areas: Coverage drops significantly in the Amazon interior, remote mountain regions, and some agricultural areas. This affects both local and international eSIM providers equally — the limitation is infrastructure, not technology.

Pros and Cons of Using eSIM in Brazil

Using an eSIM in Brazil is one of the easiest ways to get online without the hassle of physical SIM cards. But is an eSIM the best option for Brazil? That depends on your needs. Below, we break down the pros and cons to help you decide if eSIM for Brazil is your way to go.

✅Advantages🚫Disadvantages
Convenience and speed: Download and activate your eSIM before landing.CPF complications: Local providers often require a Brazilian tax ID (CPF) to activate service.
No physical SIM needed: Avoid SIM swaps and tiny cards.Language barriers: Support is mostly in Portuguese with local carriers.
Multiple carrier options: Access Claro, Vivo, TIM via global providers.Higher per-GB costs: International eSIMs can be pricier than local prepaid SIMs.
Global compatibility: Great for multi-country South American trips.Limited local perks: No access to local bonuses like unlimited WhatsApp or bundled social data.

Tips for Travelers Using eSIM in Brazil

There are a few things to know before activating your virtual SIM card in Brazil. From choosing the best eSIM for tourists to avoiding CPF registration headaches, these tips will help you stay online smoothly and avoid common travel pitfalls.

Before You Travel to Brazil

  • ✅ Install your eSIM early: Download and configure your eSIM before departing. This ensures you can troubleshoot any issues while you still have reliable internet.
  • ✅ Keep your primary SIM active: Don't remove your home SIM entirely. You might need it for banking authentication or emergency contacts.
  • ✅ Download offline maps: Even with good coverage, having offline maps of your destinations provides backup navigation.
  • ✅ Check roaming charges: Ensure your home carrier's roaming is disabled to avoid surprise charges.

During Your Trip

  • ✅ Monitor data usage: Brazil's networks are generally reliable, but keeping track of consumption helps avoid overage charges or speed throttling.
  • ✅ Save important contacts locally: Store hotel, tour operator, and emergency numbers in your phone, not just in cloud services.
  • ✅ Test your connection upon arrival: Verify your eSIM works properly at the airport before heading to your accommodation.
  • ✅ Have backup plans: Download offline translation apps and keep some cash for SIM cards if needed.

eSIM + Brazil = Your Perfect Trip

Is eSIM available in Brazil? Absolutely and it works exceptionally well for travelers who choose the right approach.

For most tourists, international eSIM providers like Yesim offer the optimal balance of convenience, coverage, and cost. You skip the bureaucracy, language barriers, and physical store visits while getting identical network performance to local SIMs. Best eSIM for Brazil depends on your specific needs:

  • Multi-country travelers: Yesim's global approach eliminates complexity.
  • Short-term visitors: Any reputable international provider works well.
  • Extended stays: Consider local operators for potential cost savings.
  • Business travelers: Yesim's virtual numbers and B2B solutions add valuable features.

The key is preparation. Choose your provider based on your travel style, install your eSIM before departure, and enjoy Brazil's amazing destinations without connectivity worries. Brazil awaits and with the right eSIM strategy, you'll stay connected from Copacabana's beaches to the Amazon's heart.

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FAQ

How do I get an eSIM in Brazil as a tourist?

To get an eSIM in Brazil, you can choose between international eSIM providers (like Yesim or Airalo) or local carriers like Claro, Vivo, and TIM. For short visits, using a prepaid virtual SIM card from a global provider is often the easiest option: no CPF or local address required. Simply download the eSIM, scan the QR code, and activate on arrival.

Does eSIM work in Brazil for tourists?

Yes, eSIM works in Brazil for tourists on both iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM technology. Many international travelers use Brazil eSIM support from providers offering plans with access to local networks like Claro, Vivo, or TIM, ensuring reliable mobile internet in Brazil during their stay.

Which carrier offers the best eSIM for Brazil?

The best eSIM for Brazil depends on your travel needs. Local carriers like Claro, Vivo, and TIM offer strong network coverage. However, for short-term use, international eSIM providers often give tourists convenient access to these networks without requiring a CPF or visiting a physical store.

Can I use a Brazil eSIM on my iPhone or Android?

Yes, you can use a Brazil eSIM on iPhone and most modern Android phones that support eSIM. Just check that your device is unlocked and compatible with eSIM technology. From there, you can choose a prepaid eSIM Brazil plan and activate it digitally, no physical SIM card needed.

Is it better to buy a prepaid eSIM or a local SIM in Brazil?

For short stays, a prepaid eSIM for Brazil is often more convenient than a local SIM. It avoids the need for CPF registration and can be activated before you land. However, long-term visitors may prefer buying a Claro, Vivo, or TIM eSIM locally for access to local features like unlimited WhatsApp or app-specific bundles.

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