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SIM cards and eSIM in Mexico

Which carriers matter, what buying a SIM involves, and when an eSIM is the smarter move.

Mobile internet eSIM Best option when traveling

Guac app icon

Guac

Recommended

Reliable mobile internet at better prices than most travel eSIMs, with polished iOS and Android apps and support for making and receiving phone calls.

App StorePlay StoreSee plans

Airalo

One of the biggest travel eSIM brands, with a very large destination catalog.

Holafly

Known for unlimited-data plans in many destinations, at a higher price per gigabyte.

Buying a local SIM card ID registration required

Registration
Mobile lines must be registered. Foreign visitors should use an official store and bring a passport; a temporary CURP and live facial check may also be required.
Tourist plans and prices
Telcel Amigo sin Limite includes 3.5GB for 30 days and costs around 200 MXN ($12).
Where to buy
Buy at an official carrier counter at the airport or at an official city store, and test the SIM before leaving.
Airport prices
Airport prices are usually higher than city or online prices.

Good to know

Convenience-store SIMs require self-activation, often through Spanish menus; an official carrier shop is easier.

Local carriers

  • Telcel

    Best choice for broad coverage, including rural areas.

  • AT&T Mexico

    Strong in major cities, with weaker rural coverage.

  • Movistar

    Strong in major cities, with weaker rural coverage.

  • Bait

    Good-value option when price matters most.

eSIM and SIM cards by country→
Sources and how current this is

Data checked July 2026

Source dates: Traveltomtom MEX airport: ~29 Jun 2026 (first-hand) | Too Many Adapters: 28 Mar 2026 (first-hand) | ExpatDen: ~29 Jun 2026 | Prepaid Data SIM Card Wiki: ~16 Jul 2026 | AUDIT 30 Jul 2026 added: CRT/gob.mx Boletin 021/2026, 25 Jun 2026 (OFFICIAL MEXICAN GOVERNMENT) | Infobae 26 Jun 2026 | El Imparcial 14 Jul 2026 (full staggered calendar) | Selectra.mx ~9 Jul 2026 (foreigner route: passport + temporary RENAPO CURP)

Sources disagree: Registration practice or tourist eligibility still varies between published accounts. Quoted prices or bundle details vary by seller and may change at short notice.

Sources

  • traveltomtom.net
  • toomanyadapters.com
  • expatden.com
  • prepaid-data-sim-card.fandom.com
  • gob.mx
  • infobae.com
  • selectra.mx

Frequently asked questions

Do I need my passport to buy a SIM card in Mexico?

Mobile lines must be registered. Foreign visitors should use an official store and bring a passport; a temporary CURP and live facial check may also be required.

Should I buy a SIM card at the airport in Mexico?

Airport prices are usually higher than city or online prices.

What is the best eSIM for Mexico?

Guac eSIM covers Mexico with data plans starting from $1.50 per GB and instant activation, so your phone is online the moment you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular alternatives.

← All essential apps for Mexico