Iceland: Buy the Best SIM Cards | 2024 Guide

You can get an Icelandic SIM card for 990 ISK (7.05 USD) or 1990 ISK (14.15 USD) from Nova, 1790 ISK (12.70 USD) or 2000 ISK from Vodafone & 2900 ISK (14.20 & 20.60 USD) from Sínimm in their stores and from resellers, like convenience stores and grocery stores. SIM Cards are also sold at Reykjavík–Keflavík Airport (KEF).

Original publication: 28th of May 2020. Last updated: 7th of November 2023.

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Table of Contents

Can You Buy a SIM Card in Iceland?

Anyone living in or visiting Iceland can buy an Icelandic SIM card from Sínimm, Nova & Vodafone with no restrictions.

Your phone has to support the frequencies used in Iceland.

Furthermore, your phone needs to be unlocked (SIM-lock free) to use an Icelandic SIM card.

Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Iceland?

You can get an Icelandic SIM card in Sínimm, Nova & Vodafone stores. Resellers, like grocery stores and convenience stores, also sell SIM cards. They are also sold at Reykjavík–Keflavík Airport (KEF).

You can expect to pay the following for Icelandic SIM cards:

• Sínimm: 3000 ISK
• Nova Iceland: 990 ISK & 1990 ISK
• Vodafone Iceland: 1790 ISK (data-only) & 2000 ISK (regular)

For up-to-date ISK:your currency (let's say USD) exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Can You Use Your Phone in Iceland?

Iceland uses GSM technology for mobile communications. CDMA phones will not work in Iceland. If your phone has a SIM card slot, then it supports GSMA (99% of the phones do support GSM nowadays).

Traditional European frequencies are used in Iceland, which are mostly used in ITU Regions 1 and 3 (Africa, Asia (including the Middle East), Europe & Oceania).

The Americas (North-, Central– & South America + the Caribbean – ITU Region 2) use American frequencies, which differ from the European ones.

If you bought your phone in Africa, Asia, Europe, or Oceania (ITU Regions 1 and 3), you should not experience any issues with using your phone in Iceland.

If you purchased your phone in the Americas (ITU Region 2) and have a low/medium-end device (without Tri-Band or Quad-Band) support, then there is a possibility you cannot use your phone when in Iceland or can only use slower networks (3G or 2G).

If you have a medium/high-end device with Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, you can use your phone in Iceland (to some extent) – also on 4G/LTE and 5G NR.

Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Iceland

Iceland has three mobile operators offering prepaid services easily accessible to travelers:

• Sínimm
• Nova Iceland
• Vodafone Iceland (Vodafone Ísland)

The following frequencies are used in Iceland:

• 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
• 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
• 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 800 MHz (Band 20), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
• 5G NR: 3500/3600 MHz (n78)

You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.

To check whether your phone will work in Iceland, check out this page by Kimovil or this one by Will My Phone Work (outdated, unfortunately, but extremely user-friendly – useful for phones launched in or before 2019. It does not check for 5G NR compatibility).

Again, make sure your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, you will not be able to use any SIM card except the one from your home operator (meaning you have to roam internationally or buy another unlocked phone that does support the frequencies listed above).

If you want to learn how international roaming works, this guide explains it in-depth. If you wonder why it is often so expensive to roam, this article explains the hidden reason they do not want you to know.

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VoLTE & VoWiFi in Iceland

Both VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G) – also known as HD Voice) and VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi – also known as WiFi calling) are available in Iceland. However, not all Icelandic mobile operators offer VoLTE or VoWiFi.

This means that your phone does not have to downgrade to 2G or 3G when making a call in Iceland (unlike mobile operators that do not support VoLTE).

The following mobile operators offer VoLTE and VoWiFi in Iceland:

• Nova Iceland

The following mobile operator does not offer VoLTE or VoWiFi in Iceland:

• Sínimm

I am not sure whether Vodafone offers any of these services or not.

VoWiFi is, as the name implies, calling on a WiFi connection as opposed to on a cellular network.

5G NR in Iceland

Commercial 5G NR has been available in Iceland since February 2019. It is available on the Sínimm, Nova & Vodafone networks. Sínimm and Nova offer 5G NR to prepaid customers. It is unknown whether Vodafone prepaid users can use 5G NR as well or not.

Best SIM Card in Iceland

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Best eSIM in Iceland

Nova is the only mobile operator offering eSIMs to prepaid customers. However, they can only be used in smartwatches – not smartphones.

Sínimm and Vodafone have no eSIMs – not even for postpaid customers.

However, you can also get a travel eSIM from various eSIM providers.

The list below is not exhaustive – many more providers have eSIMs for Iceland.

But these are the ones I have tried and had pleasant experiences with.

Moreover, they are reasonably priced, which I find very important (you will not see me recommending an eSIM I would not buy myself).

So here are the 12 best eSIMs for Iceland:

• Airalo Nenna Mobile eSIM with six choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (best value for money)
• Alosim Iceland eSIM with six choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (priced roughly the same as Airalo with a bit more options – use code PTW for 5% off)
• Holafly Iceland eSIM with unlimited data for 5 to 90 days (unlimited data eSIMs) + ability to make and receive calls (new) – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off)
• Nomad Iceland eSIM with ten choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (best value for money… too – use code ADU123 for 3 USD off)
• Airalo Eurolink eSIM with 5G NR access in Iceland with six choices between 1 GB and 100 GB (best value for money for 39 European countries) – read my ongoing Airalo Eurolink eSIM review too!
• Alosim Europe eSIM with five choices between 1 GB and 10 GB (priced roughly the same as Airalo with worse coverage)
• Holafly Europe eSIM with unlimited data for 5 to 90 days (unlimited data eSIMs for 32 European countries) + ability to make and receive calls (new)
• Nomad Europe eSIM with 11 choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (the best of both worlds in terms of pricing and performance for 35 European countries)
• SimOptions Europe eSIMs with seven choices between 8 GB (choice from multiple mobile operators + calling & texting options (the only one in this list))
• Airalo Discover(+) eSIM (formerly Discover Global) with 12 choices between 1 GB and 20 GB (extensive global coverage (130+ countries) at attractive prices) + ability to make and receive calls & send and receive SMS (new) – read my ongoing Airalo Discover(+) (Global) eSIM review too!
• AIS eSIM2FLY Global eSIM through SimOptions with one 6 GB option (eSIM with the most 5G NR supported countries (53/143) at a reasonable price but with a short validity)
• Nomad Global eSIM with six choices between 1 GB and 5 GB (extensive global coverage (109 or 139 countries) at high(er) prices – use code ADU123 for 3 USD off)

Because this is the SIM card buying guide for Iceland, I will not spend too much time about travel eSIMs here and throughout this guide (but I will still do here and there).

If you want to learn more about the best eSIMs for Iceland, you better check out my Iceland eSIM buying guide.

It is as helpful and comprehensive as this guide but about eSIMs instead 😜.

SIM Card Registration in Iceland

SIM card registration using your passport information is not needed when buying a SIM card in Iceland.

However, SIM card registration may sometimes be required if you wish to roam in the EU/EEA with your Icelandic SIM card (more about that later).

EU Roaming in Iceland

Iceland is part of the European Economic Area (EEA) but not part of the European Union (EU).

While the difference between the EU and EEA is not too relevant for this guide, you need to know is that since June 2017, those with EU/EEA SIM cards can roam for free in other EU/EEA nations, including Iceland.

This means that, in the majority of cases, you do not need to purchase an Icelandic SIM card if you already have an EU/EEA SIM card because you can roam without additional costs.

However, conditions do apply. Mobile operators in some countries may impose a roaming Fair Use Policy (FUP).

In countries where local mobile data rates are extremely low (such as in the Baltics and the Nordics), mobile operators may still charge you for roaming in the EU/EEA.

Be sure to head over to the international roaming page to learn whether your mobile operator offers free roaming while in Iceland or if restrictions apply.

Roaming in the EU with Icelandic SIM Cards

Iceland and the Icelandic mobile operators have largely adopted the roam like at home regulations principles early on.

However, some plans have an EU/EEA roaming cap.

Moreover, the standard Fair Use Policy applies where you should not be roaming over 50% of the time over a four-month period.

If you do so, EU roaming rates will apply. You are then better off buying local prepaid SIM cards in other EU nations.

Iceland Mobile Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights

Being redone.

Currency in Iceland

Iceland uses the Icelandic Króna with the symbol ISK (which will be used throughout this guide).

However, prices are often listed as kr. For example, 25 ISK = 25 kr.

For reference, below are some exchange rates between ISK and USD (US Dollars):

• 1 ISK = 0.0070 USD
• 10 ISK = 0.070 USD
• 100 ISK = 0.70 USD
• 1000 ISK = 7.10 USD
• 10 000 ISK = 71.05 USD
• 100 000 ISK = 710.65 USD

For up-to-date ISK:your currency (let's say GBP – (British) Pound (Sterling)) exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Icelandic Prepaid SIM Cards

Below, I will guide you through Sínimm, Nova Iceland & Vodafone Iceland, and go through:

• Background information
• Mobile coverage
• SIM card types, prices, and availability
• Recharge/top-up information
• Combo plans, data plans, and special packs (such as social media packs) 

With that being said, let’s see what Iceland has to offer to us.

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Sínimm

Sínimm is the largest mobile operator in Iceland.

Sínimm uses the following frequencies:

• 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
• 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
• 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
• 5G NR: 3500/3600 MHz (n78)
• VoLTE: No
• VoWiFi: No

This is what you will learn about Sínimm:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Sínimm SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Sínimm

Sínimm has the best coverage in Iceland.

Below is Sínimm's 2G coverage map:

Furthermore, we have a Sínimm 3G coverage map:

Now we have Sínimm's 4G/LTE coverage map:

At last, we have a combined Sínimm coverage map produced by Speedtest:

Coming soon – the tool is down 🙃.

SIM Card Price – Sínimm

You can get a Sínimm SIM card for 2900 ISK with 5 GB of data, 50 local/EU minutes & 50 local SMS for 31 days, or for the same price with 10 GB for 31 days in Sínimm stores and from resellers, like grocery stores, gas stations & convenience stores. Sínimm SIM cards are also sold at Reykjavík–Keflavík Airport (KEF).

• Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)

Sínimm has no eSIMs – not even for postpaid customers.

You can consider getting a travel eSIM for Iceland, which can, in specific scenarios, be cheaper than getting a SIM card from Sínimm.

Especially if you get a Europe-wide eSIM (for when you visit at least two or more supported European countries) or a global eSIM (for frequent travelers visiting multiple continents).

In my Iceland eSIM buying guide, I analyze various eSIM options of eSIM providers I have tested extensively worldwide.

But I will introduce them here quickly:

• Airalo: Nenna Mobile (Iceland only), Eurolink (39 countries in Europe) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + up to 200 worldwide minutes & 200 worldwide SMS) – use code DEC15 (15% off – first-time users only) or DEC10 (10% off)
• Alosim: Iceland & Europe (32 countries) – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
• Holafly: Iceland & Europe (32 countries) – all variants in both options include unlimited data + up to 120 Europe-wide calls – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
• Nomad: Iceland, Europe (30 or 35 countries, depending on the variant) & Global (109 or 139 countries, depending on the variant) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)

Once again, check out my Iceland eSIM buying guide to learn more about these eSIM options.

For now, I will continue with Sínimm.

Be aware that there is no VoLTE or VoWiFi with Sínimm.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Sínimm

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Sínimm

Sínimm has only one data-featured prepaid plan: Netið/Mobile Broadband (with 5G NR access).

While you also have the Þrenna (Regluleg áfylling) Prepaid Plans (data), you need to have an Icelandic Identification Number (Kennitala) to activate those plans.

I will list all the prices in ISK (Icelandic Króna).

To convert ISK to your currency (let's say USD) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Netið/Mobile Broadband can be activated online:

Price	Data	Validity
800 ISK	500 MB	31 days
1800 ISK	1 GB	31 days
2800 ISK	5 GB	31 days
3800 ISK	10 GB	31 days
5800 ISK	50 GB	31 days

EU Roaming – Sínimm

You can use your Sínimm allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:

As Sínimm does not have dedicated EU/EEA roaming allowances, you can use your full allowance without restrictions in other EU/EEA member states.

APN/Internet Settings – Sínimm

• Name: Sinimm
• APN: internet

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Nova Iceland (Ísland)

Nova uses the following frequencies:

• 2G: N/A – never had it (but uses Vodafone Iceland's 2G network)
• 3G: 2100 MHz (also uses Vodafone Iceland 3G network)
• 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
• 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78)
• VoLTE: Yes
• VoWiFi: Yes

This is what you will learn about Nova:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Nova SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Nova Iceland

Nova has extensive coverage in Iceland.

Below is Nova's 2G coverage map:

Furthermore, we have a Nova 3G coverage map:

Now we have Nova's 4G/LTE coverage map:

Then we have the Nova 4.5G map (faster speeds than regular 4G/LTE):

Additionally, we have the Nova 5G NR coverage map:

Here we have a map of Nova's 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE(+) & 5G NR networks combined:

At last, we have a combined Nova coverage map produced by Speedtest:

Coming soon – the tool is down 🙃.

SIM Card Price – Nova Iceland

You can get a Nova SIM card for 990 ISK or 1990 ISK in Nova stores and from resellers, like grocery stores, gas stations & convenience stores. Nova SIM cards are also sold at Reykjavík–Keflavík Airport (KEF).

While Nova has eSIMs, they can only be used for select smartwatches – not smartphones.

You may want to get a travel eSIM for Iceland, which can be cheaper than getting a SIM card from Nova (in some cases).

Especially when getting a Europe-wide eSIM if you do not stay in just Iceland or a global eSIM valid for up to a year if you want one eSIM to work practically worldwide.

My Iceland eSIM buying guide analyzes various eSIM options of eSIM providers I have tested extensively worldwide.

Here is a quick introduction to them:

• Airalo: Nenna Mobile (Iceland only), Eurolink (39 countries in Europe) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + call and text feature) – use code DEC15 (15% off – first-time users only) or DEC10 (10% off)
• Alosim: Iceland & Europe (32 countries) – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
• Holafly: Iceland & Europe (32 countries) – these eSIMs have unlimited data + calling feature – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
• Nomad: Iceland, Europe (up to 35 countries) & Global (up to 139 countries) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)

For more information, such as the prices and data allowances, check out my Iceland eSIM buying guide.

But let's continue with Nova for now.

Note that Nova offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and you have enabled it in the settings.

Oh, you can also use VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Nova Iceland

Plans, Packages, Bundles & Offers – Nova Iceland

Nova has two data-featured plans: Netáfylling/Online Filling (combo) & Data Plans.

I will list all the prices in ISK (Icelandic Króna).

To convert ISK to your currency (let's say USD) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Netáfylling (Online Filling) Freedom Plans – Nova Iceland

The Netáfylling (Online Filling) Freedom plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

The following Netáfylling are available, which can be activated online:

Price	Data	EU/EEA Data	Local/EU Minutes 1	Local/EU SMS 1	Validity
2290 ISK	2 GB	Shared with data allowance	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
3290 ISK	10 GB	10 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
5290 ISK	100 GB	16 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days
7290 ISK	250 GB	22 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days

¹ for local use and to call/SMS other EU/EEA member states when in other EU/EEA member states and back to Iceland (NOT from Iceland to other EU/EEA member states)

Data Plans – Nova Iceland

The Data Plans are, as the name suggests, data bundles (with 5G NR access).

These Data Plans are available, which can be activated online:

Price	Data	EU/EEA Data	Validity
1990 ISK	2 GB	2 GB	30 days
2690 ISK	20 GB	10 GB	30 days
3490 ISK	100 GB	15 GB	30 days
6690 ISK	250 GB	25 GB	30 days

EU Roaming – Nova Iceland

You can use your Nova allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:

Be aware that, in some cases, the EU/EEA roaming allowance is lower than the domestic allowances.

APN/Internet Settings – Nova Iceland

• Name: Nova
• APN: net.nova.is

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Vodafone Iceland (Ísland)

Being redone.

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The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Iceland

Getting a SIM card from Sínimm, Nova, or Vodafone would do you well when considering an Icelandic SIM card.