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North Macedonia: 3 Best Prepaid SIM Cards Buying Guide (2023)

North Macedonia – formerly known as just Macedonia until the 12th of June 2018, when Greece and (North) Macedonia made an agreement for (North) Macedonia to change its name.

That agreement was implemented 8 months later.

Formerly part of Yugoslavia, like all West Balkan countries, it is a cheap travel destination.

With cheap but tasty food, affordable accommodation & relatively safe, it is understandable why the country attracts many tourists.

From a rich history to impressive mountains, North Macedonia has a lot to see and explore.

You probably want to share your experience online to show off… I meant to share your travels, which you should – it is your trip overall.

However, you should know that international roaming can be super expensive.

Some travelers come back home in a good mood only for it to be ruined by an excessive international roaming bill – do not let this happen to you.

Luckily, there is one way to stay connected for low rates, which is by getting local SIM cards when traveling.

This would be buying a SIM card in North Macedonia.

And everyone can do so without restrictions.

So how much will a North Macedonian SIM card cost you?

You can get a Macedonian SIM card for 100 MKD (1.70 USD) from Lycamobile, 399 MKD to 1199 MKD (6.85-20.65 USD) from Makedonski Telekom, or 299 MKD (5.15 MKD) from A1 in their stores or from resellers, including gas stations. SIM cards are sold at Skopje International Airport (SKP).

Those numbers are not too bad. But you will be surprised how cheap mobile data is in North Macedonia.

But before we get there, there are some things you should know about buying a SIM card in this country, so…

In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in North Macedonia. Let's do this.

Buying a SIM Card in North Macedonia Guide (logos of A1, Makedonski Telekom & Lycamobile)

Original publication: 29th of May 2020. Last updated: 1st of October 2023.


Table of Contents

In This Guide Show

Can You Buy a SIM Card in North Macedonia?

Anyone living in or visiting North Macedonia can buy a Macedonian SIM card from Makedonski Telekom, A1 & Lycamobile with no restrictions.

You do have to comply with the SIM card registration regulations.

Moreover, you need a phone that supports the frequencies used in the country (preferably all of them to have the most optimal experience while in North Macedonia).

Furthermore, you need to have a SIM-lock-free device.

Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in North Macedonia?

You can get a Macedonian SIM card in Makedonski Telekom and A1 stores. Resellers, like gas stations, also sell SIM cards (especially for Lycamobile). They are sometimes sold at Skopje International Airport (SKP).

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

  • Makedonski Telekom: 399 MKD (regular), 499 MKD (data-only) & 1299 MKD (regular)
  • A1 Macedonia: 299 MKD
  • Lycamobile Macedonia: free, but top-up of at least 100 MKD required. Else starting from 100 MKD

TIP: Check out my SIM card prices lookup tool for a detailed overview of SIM card starter pack benefits (for Macedonian SIM cards and SIM cards worldwide).

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Can You Use Your Phone in North Macedonia?

North Macedonia uses GSM technology for mobile communications. CDMA phones will not work in North Macedonia. 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 North Macedonia, 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.

ITU Regions Map by Phone Travel Wiz

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 North Macedonia.

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 North Macedonia 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 North Macedonia (to some extent) – also on 4G/LTE.

Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in North Macedonia

Cellular Connectivity Illustration by Phone Travel Wiz

North Macedonia has two mobile operators and one Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) offering prepaid services easily accessible to travelers:

  • Makedonski Telekom
  • A1 Macedonia
  • Lycamobile Macedonia (A1 Macedonia MVNO)

The following frequencies are used in North Macedonia:

  • 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
  • 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)

You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.

To check whether your phone will work in North Macedonia, 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 North Macedonia

VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G) – also known as HD Voice) is available in North Macedonia. However, VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi – also known as WiFi calling) is not available in North Macedonia (yet).

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

The following mobile operators offer VoLTE only in North Macedonia:

  • Makedonski Telekom
  • A1 Macedonia

The following mobile operators offer neither VoLTE or VoWiFi in North Macedonia:

  • Lycamobile Macedonia

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

5G NR in North Macedonia

5G NR Connectivity Illustration by Phone Travel Wiz

Commercial 5G NR has been available in North Macedonia since February 2022. It is available on the Makedonski Telekom and A1 networks. However, prepaid customers cannot use 5G NR (yet) – and neither can Lycamobile customers.

Best SIM Card in North Macedonia

If you want to buy the best SIM card in North Macedonia, I recommend going with Makedonski Telekom or A1. Makedonski Telekom has the best coverage. However, it throttles prepaid speeds to up to 21 Mbps. A1 does not throttle prepaid speeds, and its coverage is almost as extensive as Makedonski Telekom's.

Phone Travel Wiz Approved Seal
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Best eSIM in North Macedonia

Makedonski Telekom offers eSIMs to prepaid customers.

Note that the North Macedonian mobile operators require your identification (passport) for eSIMs and physical SIM cards (will be discussed later).

While you can enter North Macedonia with an EU/EEA ID card, most mobile operators only accept passports for registration purposes.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for North Macedonia (without personal detail capturing), you can get the North Macedonia (Matka Mobile) eSIM from Airalo.

North Macedonia Makta Mobile eSIM Airalo
© Airalo

You have these four options:

  1. North Macedonia/Matka Mobile 1 GB eSIM for 7 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  2. North Macedonia/Matka Mobile 2 GB eSIM for 15 days
  3. North Macedonia/Matka Mobile 3 GB eSIM for 30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  4. North Macedonia/Matka Mobile 5 GB eSIM for 30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

The Airalo links will automatically get you the available Phone Travel Wiz exclusive offers – a code is unnecessary.

For an in-depth analysis of the North Macedonia Matka Mobile eSIMs (covering pros and cons as well), check out my North Macedonia eSIMs Compared guide.

With these eSIMs, you can skip North Macedonia's SIM card registration scheme entirely and use it immediately upon arriving in North Macedonia!

  • Find out about the best local eSIMs, local travel eSIMs & regional travel eSIMs for every country (lookup tool)
Best Local & Travel eSIMs Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

TIP: check out my Best North Macedonia eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison of several eSIMs for North Macedonia, including ones not mentioned above.

If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Eurolink eSIM (six variants: 1 GB/7 days, 3 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers, 5 GB/30 daysmost popular with PTW readers, 10 GB/30 daysvery popular with PTW readers, 50 GB/90 days & 100 GB/180 days) in North Macedonia and these other countries:

Eurolink Europe eSIM Airalo
© Airalo
  • Albania
  • Andorra
  • Austria 2
  • Belgium 2
  • Bulgaria 2
  • Croatia 2
  • Cyprus 2
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark 2
  • Estonia 2
  • Finland 2
  • France
  • Germany
  • Gibraltar 1
  • Greece 2
  • Hungary
  • Iceland 2
  • Ireland 2
  • Italy 2
  • Latvia 2
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg 2
  • Malta 2
  • Montenegro
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Poland 2
  • Portugal
  • Romania 2
  • Serbia
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain 2
  • Sweden 2
  • Switzerland 2
  • Turkey
  • Ukraine
  • United Kingdom 2

1 on 3G only
2 (limited) 5G NR availability at no additional cost! (list updated in December 2022)

Airalo Eurolink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (August 2023 Version)

With the Eurolink eSIM, you can save a lot of money by skipping the initial SIM card costs per country you visit – averaging 10.78 USD/country in Europe (and get 5G NR access at no additional cost)!

Airalo Eurolink eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Holafly and Nomad also have eSIMs covering all of the European Union (and more).

SIM Card Registration in North Macedonia

SIM card registration with your passport information is required in North Macedonia. It will be done at the point of purchase.

EU Roaming in North Macedonia

European Union (EU) & European Economic Area (EEA)

Note that North Macedonia is not part of the European Union (EU) nor European Economic Area (EEA), meaning that EU roaming regulations do not apply in North Macedonia.

As a result, you should not expect to roam for free if you have an EU/EEA SIM card while traveling in North Macedonia.

It is unlikely that your mobile operator offers free roaming for North Macedonia.

Western Balkans Roaming in North Macedonia

Coming soon.

Roaming in the Western Balkans with Macedonian SIM Cards

Coming soon.

North Macedonia Mobile Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights

Flag of North Macedonia

Being redone.

Currency in North Macedonia

50 Macedonian Denar Note
© National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia/Народна банка на Република Северна Македонија

North Macedonia uses the Macedonian Denar with the symbol MKD (which will be used throughout this guide).

However, prices are often listed as den/ден. For example, 25 MKD = 25 den/ден.

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

  • 1 MKD = 0.15 USD
  • 10 MKD = 0.15 USD
  • 100 MKD = 1.70 USD
  • 1000 MKD = 17.20 USD

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

If your credit/debit card charges you foreign exchange fees, get yourself a Wise Borderless Account and Debit Card.

Their fees are MUCH lower than banks and credit card companies charge you (and Wise is transparent about their fees, unlike banks).

I have saved literal THOUSANDS of Australian Dollars and Euros, my main currencies, when using Wise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards.

Open a Wise account for FREE!

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise

Macedonian Prepaid SIM Cards

Below, I will guide you through Makedonski Telekom, A1 Macedonia & Lycamobile Macedonia, and go through:

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

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


Makedonski Telekom (formerly T-Mobile Macedonia)

Telekom Logo
© Telekom

Makedonski Telekom (Македонски Телеком АД), often referred to as just Telekom and formerly T-Mobile Macedonia, is the largest mobile operator in North Macedonia.

It is owned by Magyar Telekom from Hungary, which is in turn owned by Deutsche Telekom from Germany.

Makedonski Telekom uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
  • 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
  • 5G NR: Unknown (probably 700 MHz (n28) & 3500 MHz (n78) – not for prepaid (yet)
  • VoLTE: Yes
  • VoWiFi: No

This is what you will learn about Makedonski Telekom:

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

Coverage – Makedonski Telekom (formerly T-Mobile Macedonia)

Makedonski Telekom has the best coverage throughout North Macedonia.

Below is Makedonski Telekom's 2G coverage map:

Here we have Makedonski Telekom's 3G coverage map:

Then we have the 4G/LTE coverage map of Makedonski Telekom:

Lastly, we have a Makedonski Telekom coverage map with all technologies combined (2G, 3G & 4G/LTE):

Here we have a coverage map produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – Makedonski Telekom (formerly T-Mobile Macedonia)

You can get a Makedonski Telekom SIM card for between 399 MKD to 1299 MKD with various perks in Makedonski Telekom stores. SIM cards are also sold at Skopje International Airport (SKP).

Makedonski Telekom North Macedonia 399 MKD SIM Card
© Makedonski Telekom
Makedonski Telekom North Macedonia 1199 MKD SIM Card
© Makedonski Telekom

Below is an overview of the three Makedonski Telekom SIM cards:

PriceSIM Card TypeCreditDataOn-Net MinutesLocal MinutesOn-Net SMSValidity
399 MKDRegular181 MKD10 GBUnlimitedN/A100 SMS7 days
499 MKDData-OnlyN/A10 GBN/AN/AN/A30 days
1299 MKDRegularN/A20 GBN/AUnlimitedN/A30 days
  • 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)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

It is also possible to get a Makedonski Telekom eSIM for 295 MKD with 295 MKD credit.

Note that the North Macedonian mobile operators require your identification (passport) for eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

While you can enter North Macedonia with an EU/EEA ID card, most mobile operators only accept passports for registration purposes.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for North Macedonia without personal detail capturing, you can get North Macedonia Matka Mobile eSIMs from Airalo (four options):

North Macedonia Makta Mobile eSIM Airalo
© Airalo
  1. 1 GB/7 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  2. 2 GB/15 days (new)
  3. 3 GB/30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  4. 5 GB/30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

No idea what or who Airalo is? Check out my Airalo review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over four years.

Airalo General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Airalo Eurolink eSIM to be used in 39 European countries with six variants:

  1. 1 GB/7 days
  2. 3 GB/30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  3. 5 GB/30 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  4. 10 GB/30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  5. 50 GB/90 days
  6. 100 GB/180 days

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

Airalo Eurolink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (August 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Airalo review!

By the way, you get free 5G NR access in 22 of the 39 supported countries!

I have used the Airalo Eurolink eSIM in 11 countries so far, and my goal is to test it in all supported countries.

Airalo Eurolink eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in North Macedonia.

You can read about them in my Best North Macedonia eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for North Macedonia Guide (logos of Airalo and Matka Mobile)

Note that Makedonski Telekom offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and if you have enabled it in the settings but no VoWiFI (Voice over WiFi) yet.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Makedonski Telekom (formerly T-Mobile Macedonia)

Makedonski Telekom top-up vouchers are sold in Makedonski Telekom stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout North Macedonia.

The following (online) top-up options are available:

Top-UpValidity
100 MKD60 days 
150 MKD60 days 
200 MKD60 days 
250 MKD60 days 
300 MKD60 days 
590 MKD180 days 
900 MKD360 days 
2000 MKD500 days 
Makedonski Telekom North Macedonia Top-Ups

To top up your Makedonski Telekom SIM card, dial *122# or call 122 and follow the instructions.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Dial *122# to check your Makedonski Telekom balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the Telekom MK app (Android/iOS/Huawei AppGallery).

Makedonski Telekom North Macedonia Telekom MK App
© Makedonski Telekom

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Makedonski Telekom (formerly T-Mobile Macedonia)

Makedonski Telekom has five data-featured prepaid plans:

All Makedonski Telekom plans can be activated by dialing *122# or on the Telekom MK app.

Makedonski Telekom prepaid customers do not have 5G NR access (yet).

I will list all the prices in MKD (Macedonian Denar).

To convert MKD to your currency (EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise

Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.

Prepaid Cool + Plans – Makedonski Telekom (formerly T-Mobile Macedonia)

The Prepaid Cool + plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

The following Prepaid Cool + are available, which can be activated by dialing *122# or on the Telekom MK app:

PriceData 1, 2Local Minutes 2, 3Local SMS 2Validity
100 MKD100 MB100 minutes100 SMS7 days 
150 MKD – 250 MKD300 MBUnlimited300 SMS7 days 
300 MKD500 MBUnlimited500 SMS7 days 

1 speeds up to 21 Mbps
2 double perks when activated on the Telekom MK app
3 in the weekend only

Weekly Packages – Makedonski Telekom (formerly T-Mobile Macedonia)

The Weekly Packages are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

The following Weekly Packages are available, which can be activated by dialing *122#:

PricePlanData 1On-Net MinutesOn-Net SMSValidity
119 MKDOption 100100 MB (250 MB on promotions)Unlimited100 SMS7 days
169 MKDOption 500500 MBUnlimited500 SMS7 days

1 speeds up to 21 Mbps

Makedonski Telekom North Macedonia Weekly Packages
Internet Plans – Makedonski Telekom (formerly T-Mobile Macedonia)

The Internet plans are data bundles (without 5G NR access).

The following Internet are available, which can be activated by dialing*122# or call 140140:

PricePlanData 1, 2Validity
49 MKDDaily Internet1 GB24 hours 
59 MKDWeekly Internet S500 MB7 days 
99 MKDWeekly Internet M1 GB7 days 
129 MKDWeekly Internet L2 GB7 days 
129 MKDMonthly Internet S500 MB30 days 
249 MKDMonthly Internet M2 GB30 days 
499 MKDMonthly Internet L8 GB30 days 

1 speeds up to 21 Mbps
2 double the data allowances when activated on the Telekom MK app

Makedonski Telekom North Macedonia Internet Plans
© Makedonski Telekom Macedonia
Speak Out Припејд (Speak Out Prepaid) Plans – Makedonski Telekom (formerly T-Mobile Macedonia)

The Speak Out Припејд (Speak Out Prepaid) plans are data bundles (without 5G NR access @ 21 Mbps) for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Tinder, Twitter & WhatsApp.

The following Internet are available, which can be activated by on the Telekom MK app:

PricePlanData 1Social Media Data 2Validity
149 MKD Speak Out Припејд4 GBUnlimited1 week 

1 speeds up to 21 Mbps
2 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Tinder, Twitter & WhatsApp

Makedonski Telekom North Macedonia SpeakOut Plan
Stream On Plans – Makedonski Telekom (formerly T-Mobile Macedonia)

The Stream On plans are data bundles (without 5G NR access @ 21 Mbps) for HBO GO, MaxTV Go, Netflix & YouTube.

The following Stream On are available, which can be activated by on the Telekom MK app:

PricePlanData 1Social Data 2Validity
149 MKD Stream On4 GBUnlimited1 week

1 speeds up to 21 Mbps
2 for HBO GO, MaxTV Go, Netflix & YouTube

Makedonski Telekom North Macedonia StreamOn Plan

APN/Internet Settings – Makedonski Telekom (formerly T-Mobile Macedonia)

  • Name: Makedonski Telekom
  • APN: internet
  • Username: internet
  • Password: t-mobile

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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A1 Macedonia

A1 Logo
© A1

A1 Macedonia (Македонија), just A1, is the other mobile operator in North Macedonia.

Unlike Makedonski Telekom, A1 does not throttle prepaid speeds, allowing for much faster speeds throughout the country.

A1 uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
  • 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
  • 5G NR: Unknown (probably 700 MHz (n28) & 3500 MHz (n78) – not for prepaid (yet)
  • VoLTE: Yes
  • VoWiFi: No

This is what you will learn about A1:

* Coverage
* How to Get an A1 SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – A1 Macedonia

A1 has extensive coverage throughout North Macedonia.

Below is A1's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

SIM Card Price – A1 Macedonia

You can get an A1 SIM card for 299 MKD with 50 MKD credit, 100 GB of data (14 days) & unlimited on-net minutes (7 days) in A1 stores. A1 SIM cards are also sold at Skopje International Airport (SKP).

Call 0771234 and select option 4, or call 1770, select option 3, and select option 2 to change the system's language.

  • 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)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

A1 has no eSIMs – not even for postpaid customers.

Note that the North Macedonian mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

While you can enter North Macedonia with an EU/EEA ID card, most mobile operators only accept passports for registration purposes.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for North Macedonia without personal detail capturing, you can get eSIMs from Nomad (four options):

  1. 1 GB/7 days (price dropped)
  2. 3 GB/30 days (price dropped)
  3. 5 GB/30 days (price dropped)
  4. 10 GB/30 days

The best part is that you can get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off using code ADU123 on your first Nomad eSIM purchase!

No idea what or who Nomad is? Check out my Nomad review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over two years.

Nomad General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Nomad Europe eSIM to be used in 25 or 35 European countries, depending on the plan, with 13 variants:

  1. 1 GB/7 days (30 countries – new)
  2. 1 GB/7 days (35 countries)
  3. 3 GB/30 days (30 countries – new)
  4. 3 GB/30 days (35 countries)
  5. 5 GB/30 days (30 countries – new)
  6. 5 GB/30 days (35 countries) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers (that was before the 25 countries options were added)
  7. 10 GB/30 days (30 countries – new)
  8. 10 GB/30 days (35 countries) – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers (that was before the 25 countries options were added)
  9. 15 GB/30 days (30 countries – new)
  10. 20 GB/30 days (30 countries – new)
  11. 20 GB/30 days (35 countries)
  12. 30 GB/30 days (35 countries)
  13. 40 GB/30 days (35 countries)
Nomad Europe eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (August 2023 Version)

Remember to use code ADU123 for 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off your first Nomad purchase!

I have used the Nomad Europe eSIM in eight countries so far, and my goal is to test it in all supported countries.

Nomad Europe eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in North Macedonia.

You can read about them in my Best North Macedonia eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for North Macedonia Guide (logos of Airalo and Matka Mobile)

Note that A1 offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and if you have enabled it in the settings but no VoWiFI (Voice over WiFi) yet.

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – A1 Macedonia

A1 top-up vouchers are sold in A1 stores, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout North Macedonia

The following (online) top-up options are available:

Top-UpValidity
100 MKD90 days 
101 MKD – 499 MKD180 days 
500 MKD =>12 months 

To top up your A1 SIM card, dial *100*VoucherCode#.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *100*123456#.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Dial *101# or call 1700 and select option 1 to check your A1 balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the Mojot A1 (My A1) app (Android/iOS).

A1 North Macedonia Mojot A1 App
© A1 Macedonia

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – A1 Macedonia

A1 has four data-featured prepaid plans:

I will list all the prices in MKD (Macedonian Denar).

To convert MKD to your currency (EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise

Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.

Talks Plans – A1 Macedonia

The Talks plans are combo bundles with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

The following Talks are available, which can be activated by dialing the Activation Code to 1480 or 1430:

PricePlanDataOn-Net MinutesOff-Net MinutesOn-Net SMSOff-Net SMSValidityActivation CodeDeactivation Code
99 MKDUnlimited to А1 и 400 MB400 MBUnlimitedN/AUnlimitedN/A1 weekSTART to 1480STOP to 1480
149 MKDUnlimited to all networks и 1 GB1 GBUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited1 weekSTART to 1483STOP to 1483
A1 North Macedonia Разговори Talks Plans
Monthly Packages – A1 Macedonia

The Monthly Packages are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

The following Monthly Packages are available, which can be activated by dialing the Activation Code to 1474:

PricePlanDataOn-Net MinutesOff-Net MinutesOn-Net SMSOff-Net SMSValidityActivation CodeDeactivation Code
149 MKDMonthly Bundle SN/AUnlimitedN/AUnlimitedN/A30 daysSSTOP S
249 MKDMonthly Bundle M2 GBUnlimitedN/AUnlimitedN/A30 daysMSTOP M
299 MKDMonthly Bundle LN/AUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited30 daysLSTOP L
499 MKDMonthly Bundle XL5 GB 1UnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited30 daysXLSTOP XL

1 with unlimited data for unmentioned social networks

A1 North Macedonia Месечни пакети Monthly Packages
Internet Data Plans – A1 Macedonia

The Internet Data plans are, as the name implies, data bundles (without 5G NR access).

The following Internet Data are available, which can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 1410:

PricePlanDataValidityActivation CodeDeactivation Code
19 MKDDaily Bundle 100 MB100 MB24 hoursDEN STARTSTOP DNEVEN 100MB
39 MKDDaily Package 1 GB1 GB (sometimes just 500 MB without promotions)24 hoursDEN PROMO STARTSTOP DNEVEN 1GB
49 MKDWeekly Pack 400 MB400 MB (sometimes 200 MB without promotions)7 days NEDELA 200MBSTOP NEDELEN 200MB
79 MKDWeekly Bundle 1 GB1 GB7 days NEDELA 1GBSTOP NEDELEN 1 GB
99 MKDMonthly Bundle 1 GB1 GB (sometimes 500 MB without promotions)30 days 1GBSTOP 1GB
119 MKDWeekly Package 2 GB2 GB7 days PROMOSTOP PROMO
199 MKDMonthly Bundle 3 GB3 GB (sometimes 2 GB without promotions)30 days 3GBSTOP 3GB
299 MKDMonthly Bundle 20 GB20 GB30 days 20GBSTOP 20GB
399 MKDMonthly Bundle 15 GB15 GB (sometimes 6 GB without promotions)30 days 15GBSTOP 15GB
999 MKDMonthly Bundle 50 GB50 GB (sometimes 15 GB without promotions)30 days 50GBSTOP 50GB
A1 North Macedonia Интернет Internet Data Plans
A1 Go Social Plans – A1 Macedonia

The A1 Go Social Plans are data bundles (without 5G NR access) for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, Twitter & WhatsApp.

The following Internet Data are available, which can be activated by texting START to 1499:

PriceDataSocial Data 1ValidityActivation CodeDeactivation Code
119 MKD1 GBUnlimited7 days STARTSTOP

1 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Twitter & WhatsApp

A1 North Macedonia Go Social Plan

APN/Internet Settings – A1 Macedonia

  • Name: A1
  • APN: internet

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

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Lycamobile Macedonia

Lycamobile Logo New 2021

Lycamobile Macedonia (Македонија), just Lycamobile, is an A1 Macedonia MVNO.

Lycamobile, as a brand, is known for offering low rates for international calls abroad, and it is active in various other European countries.

To learn about Lycamobile's frequencies, jump back to A1 Macedonia's frequencies (but you have no VoLTE access).

This is what you will learn about Lycamobile:

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

Coverage – Lycamobile Macedonia

Lycamobile is an A1 Macedonia MVNO, meaning Lycamobile uses the A1 Macedonia network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

Unfortunately, Lycamobile does not have full access to A1 Macedonia's network.

In fact, its coverage is embarrassing compared to what A1 Macedonia offers.

Below is Lycamobile's coverage map:

SIM Card Price – Lycamobile Macedonia

You can get a Lycamobile SIM card for free if you top up at least 100 MKD on the spot or from 100 MKD (with a plan) from Lycamobile resellers, including gas stations. Lycamobile SIM cards are not sold at Skopje International Airport (SKP).

Dial *132# to see your Lycamobile phone number.

Call 1222 to change the system's language.

  • 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)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Lycamobile has no eSIMs.

Note that the North Macedonian mobile operators require your identification (passport) for (future) eSIMs and physical SIM cards.

While you can enter North Macedonia with an EU/EEA ID card, most mobile operators only accept passports for registration purposes.

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for North Macedonia without personal detail capturing, you can get North Macedonia Matka Mobile eSIMs from Airalo (four options):

North Macedonia Makta Mobile eSIM Airalo
© Airalo
  1. 1 GB/7 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  2. 2 GB/15 days (new)
  3. 3 GB/30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  4. 5 GB/30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

No idea what or who Airalo is? Check out my Airalo review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over four years.

Airalo General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other countries in Europe and others in other regions or continents, consider the Airalo Discover Global eSIM to be used in 84+ countries worldwide with 12 variants:

  1. 1 GB/7 days
  2. 1 GB/7 days
  3. 2 GB/15 days
  4. 2 GB/15 days
  5. 3 GB/15 days
  6. 3 GB/15 days
  7. 5 GB/30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  8. 5 GB/30 days
  9. 10 GB/60 days
  10. 10 GB/60 days
  11. 20 GB/180 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  12. 20 GB/180 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

Airalo Discover eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (August 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Airalo review!

From 2023 on, my goal is to test this eSIM in all eligible countries.

Airalo Discover Global eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in North Macedonia.

You can read about them in my Best North Macedonia eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for North Macedonia Guide (logos of Airalo and Matka Mobile)

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

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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Lycamobile Macedonia

Lycamobile top-up vouchers are sold by Lycamobile resellers, grocery stores, corner shops & electronics shops throughout North Macedonia.

The following (online) top-up options are available:

Top-UpValidity
100 MKD60 days 
150 MKD60 days 
200 MKD60 days 
250 MKD60 days 
300 MKD60 days 
590 MKD180 days 
900 MKD360 days 
2000 MKD500 days 

To top up your Lycamobile SIM card, dial *122# or call 1222 and follow the instructions.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Dial *122# or call 1200 to check your Lycamobile balance.


Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Lycamobile Macedonia

Lycamobile has two data-featured prepaid plans: National Bundles (combo) & Data Bundles.

I will list all the prices in MKD (Macedonian Denar).

To convert MKD to your currency (EUR – Euro) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise
National Bundles – Lycamobile Macedonia

The National Bundles are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

The following National Bundes are available, which can be activated by dialing the Activation Code:

PricePlanDataInternational Data 1On-Net MinutesOff-Net MinutesInternational Minutes 2, 3On-Net SMSOff-Net SMSValidityActivation Code
99 MKDWeekly 99 S2 GBShared with data allowance“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS7 days*139*1074#
200 MKD (sometimes 100 MKD on promotions)Super 20010 GB1 GB“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes“Unlimtied”, 5000 minutes“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS30 days*139*5200#
399 MKD (sometimes 299 MKD on promotions)Lyca Mega S12 GB2 GB“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS30 days*139*1026#
499 MKD (sometimes 399 MKD on promotions)Lyca Mega22 GB2.5 GB“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS30 days*139*51025#
499 MKDLyca Max1 GB/day (30 GB)2 GB“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS30 days*139*1040#

1 for Western Balkan
2 to Lycamobile Australia, Europe, South Africa, Tunisia & the United States
3 unused “unlimited” minutes will expire 30 days from bundle activation date

Lycamobile North Macedonia National Bundles Plans
Data Bundles – Lycamobile Macedonia

The Data Bundles are, as the name implies, data plans (without 5G NR access).

The following Data Bundes are available, which can be activated by dialing the Activation Code:

PricePlanDataInternational Data 1International Minutes 2, 3ValidityActivation Code
99 MKDData 992 GB (sometimes 3 GB on promotions)0.5 GB“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes7 days *139*1032#
129 MKDData M1 GB (sometimes 2 GB on promotions)0.5 GB“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes30 days *139*1003#
249 MKDData XL5 GB (sometimes 6 GB on promotions)1 GB“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes30 days *139*1005#
499 MKDMega Data25 GB3 GB“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes30 days *139*1075#

1 for Western Balkan
2 to Lycamobile Australia, Europe, South Africa, Tunisia & the United States
3 unused “unlimited” minutes will expire 30 days from bundle activation date

Lycamobile North Macedonia Data Bundles

APN/Internet Settings – Lycamobile Macedonia

  • Name: Lycamobile
  • APN: data.lycamobile.mk
  • Username: lmmk
  • Password: plus

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

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The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in North Macedonia

Getting a SIM card from Makedonski Telekom or A1 would do you well when considering a Macedonian SIM card.


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