Mobile Internet and SIM Cards for Brazil in 2025

Planning a trip to Brazil to dance at the famous Carnival in Rio de Janeiro or to sunbathe on stunning beaches? Amid all the excitement, one crucial aspect you shouldn’t overlook is staying connected. If you're eager to share your breathtaking moments on social media or coordinate with friends, getting a phone plan in Brazil is essential.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the best options for a Brazilian SIM card and eSIM, tailored specifically for tourists. We’ve gathered insights from fellow travelers, so you can easily find the most reliable and cost-effective mobile data packages in Brazil.

Learn what are the best SIMs for Brazil, where to purchase a Brazil SIM card for tourists and how to activate an eSIM Brazil that fits your itinerary. With the right mobile internet in Brazil, you'll be able to stay connected while exploring the breathtaking Brazil.

How and Where to Buy a SIM Card in Brazil

Getting a SIM card in Brazil is an important step to stay connected while you explore this beautiful country. With a reliable mobile data plan, you can share your adventures, navigate new cities, and keep in touch with friends and family. Luckily, there are several convenient places to buy a SIM card or an eSIM in Brazil.

• Airports. One of the best places to buy a Brazilian SIM card is right at the airport when you arrive. Major international airports like Guarulhos (São Paulo), Galeão (Rio de Janeiro), and Confins (Belo Horizonte) have kiosks and retail stores that offer various SIM card options.
• Mobile Carrier Stores. In big cities and towns across Brazil, you’ll find stores from the main mobile operators. These shops often have a wide range of SIM cards and plans to choose from.
• Electronics Stores. Another option is to check out large electronics retailers like Casas Bahia, Ponto Frio, and Magazine Luiza.
• Convenience Stores and Supermarkets. Many convenience stores and supermarkets throughout Brazil, such as Carrefour and Extra, also sell prepaid SIM cards.

To ensure a smooth experience when buying a SIM card, especially at airports, keep these tips in mind:

• Passport: Always bring your passport with you. Most providers require it for verification when registering a new SIM card.
• CPF Number: This is Brazil’s tax ID number. If you can, get a temporary CPF beforehand. Some stores may ask for it during the SIM purchase.
• SIM Eject Tool: Bring a small SIM eject tool or a paperclip so you can easily swap out your current SIM for the new Brazilian one.
• Cash (Brazilian Reais): While some places may accept credit cards, it’s better to have local cash on hand for your purchase.

This way you'll have a hassle-free experience when getting a SIM for Brazil. With the right mobile data plan, you'll have the connectivity you need to make the most of your travel adventures.

Major Mobile Operators in Brazil

Brazil’s mobile market is dominated by three main operators, which together account for 97% of the market. Vivo, owned by the Spanish company Telefónica, offers extensive coverage. TIM, part of Telecom Italia, is another popular choice. Lastly, Claro belongs to the Mexican firm América Móvil and provides competitive services. These three are the top options for mobile connectivity in Brazil.

Additionally, there are regional providers in Brazil, such as Algar Telecom, which operates in parts of Minas Gerais, and Sercomtel, which serves areas in Paraná and is currently in the process of privatization.

SIM Cards and Mobile Internet in Brazil: Data Plans and Coverage

If you're visiting and need a Brazilian SIM card to keep in touch, or if you're living in Brazil and want to choose the best data plans available, you’re in the right place.

In this section, we’ll break down everything you need to know about getting a SIM for Brazil. If you're looking for a Brazil SIM card for tourists or an international SIM card for Brazil, we’ll cover all your choices. Plus, we'll discuss mobile data packages and coverage to ensure you have the right plan for your needs.

Claro

Claro is one of Brazil's largest mobile network providers, with extensive coverage across the vast South American nation. Claro’s 4G/LTE network covers more than 92% of the Brazilian population, connecting all major cities as well as smaller towns and remote communities throughout Brazil's diverse regions.

Note that there is typically a 10 BRL ($1.83) fee for SIM card registration at the time of purchase.

Vivo

Vivo is one of the top mobile operators in Brazil and is part of the Telefónica group. It provides excellent 4G coverage and fast data speeds, particularly in major cities such as São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Vivo offers various prepaid data plans that are ideal for tourists.

These plans come with free WhatsApp usage and unlimited calls within Brazil. To purchase a Vivo SIM card, tourists may need a valid Brazilian Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas (CPF) number, which serves as a tax identification number and can be difficult for visitors to acquire.

TIM

Telecom Italia Mobile (TIM) is one of Brazil’s largest mobile operators and has been functioning in the country since the late 1990s. It allows foreigners to acquire a SIM card using only their passport, without the need for a CPF.

TIM’s plans offer a maximum speed of 1 Mbps on a 3G network and 5 Mbps on a 4G network.

eSIM for Brazil: Unlimited Data Plans and Benefits

If you're looking for a convenient way to stay connected, eSIM is a fantastic option. With eSIM technology, you can easily activate a mobile plan directly on your iPhone or other compatible devices without needing a physical SIM card. This is especially beneficial for tourists seeking the best eSIM for Brazil.

There are a variety of eSIM plans available in Brazil that offer unlimited data, making it simple to share your experiences online.

Read also: How to Unlock Your Phone to Use eSIM: Complete Guide

Why Yesim is The Best eSIM Provider for Brazil

Yesim stands out as the premier eSIM provider for Brazil, offering seamless connectivity and exceptional service. In Brazil, Yesim collaborates with reputable operators like Tim and Claro, providing robust LTE and 5G coverage throughout the country. If you need just a little data or more extensive usage, Yesim has flexible plans for Brazil to suit your needs:

• 3 GB for 7 days – €10.
• 5 GB for 15 days – €14.
• 10 GB for 30 days – €20.
• 20 GB for 30 days – €35.

There are also unlimited data plans for Brazil for 7, 15 and 30 days. With all these plans you will have the ability to automatically switch to the best available network. If a mobile operator in your area offers 5G, your eSIM will switch to it instantly, ensuring you enjoy the fastest speeds possible.

What’s more, Yesim offers dedicated 24/7 customer support, with an average response time of only six minutes. You can trust that assistance is always just a message away. Additionally, Yesim stands behind its service with a 100% money-back guarantee—if you’re not satisfied, you can easily get a refund without any hassle.

Read also: eSIM Glossary: Key Terms You Need to Know

How to Use SIM Cards and eSIM for International Roaming in Brazil

When traveling to Brazil, there are a few important things to know about international roaming and how to use SIM cards or eSIM for making calls and accessing the internet.

First, let’s talk about SIM cards. If you have a traditional SIM card from your home country, you can still use it in Brazil. However, international roaming charges can be expensive, so check with your mobile provider about their roaming rates before you go. If your plan allows it, you can make international calls and use mobile data while in Brazil, but be prepared for higher costs.

Read also: How to Avoid Roaming Charges

For a better experience, consider getting a local SIM card. Local operators offer several options that can be more affordable for data and calls. Once you arrive in Brazil, you can easily purchase a SIM card from providers like Tim or Claro. Just make sure your phone is unlocked, meaning it can accept SIM cards from different carriers.

Now, let’s discuss eSIM. If your phone supports eSIM technology, it can be a convenient choice for international roaming. eSIM allows you to have multiple mobile plans on your phone without needing a physical SIM card. You can easily activate a local eSIM for Brazil before your trip or as soon as you arrive.

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Using eSIM for international roaming offers several advantages. First, you can switch between different data plans without needing to replace a physical card, making it very convenient. Additionally, eSIMs often provide better rates for data usage compared to traditional roaming. This means you can stay connected without worrying about high costs.

Conclusion

In summary, choosing the best SIM card or eSIM in Brazil depends on what you need as a traveler. Think about how much data you'll use and whether you want to make calls. If you want something easy and flexible, an eSIM might be the best option for you.

It’s important to pick the right plan for mobile internet and communication. Doing some research before your trip can help you save money and stay connected, so you can enjoy everything Brazil has to offer without any worries.

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