Which carriers matter, what buying a SIM involves, and when an eSIM is the smarter move.
Reliable mobile internet at better prices than most travel eSIMs, with polished iOS and Android apps and support for making and receiving phone calls.
One of the biggest travel eSIM brands, with a very large destination catalog.
Known for unlimited-data plans in many destinations, at a higher price per gigabyte.
Despite what some guides claim, North Macedonia is not in the EU roaming zone: an EU SIM still pays roaming charges here, capped but far above domestic rates, so a local SIM or travel eSIM is worth buying. What does exist is roam-like-at-home among the six Western Balkans countries, which is why local Balkans roaming allowances matter: Telekom's 30-day plan includes 10 GB usable across the region, A1's prepaid reportedly includes none, and MTEL's just 1 GB, so a multi-country Balkans trip should decide your operator, not price. If you are driving, take A1 or Telekom rather than MTEL. On an mSTART SIM, top up immediately so you have usable credit.
Reliable nationwide coverage and, crucially, the only operator whose prepaid plans include meaningful Western Balkans roaming.
Good coverage including motorways and rural areas like Mavrovo and Galicica, and the best choice for a small cheap package. Its prepaid plans reportedly include no Balkans roaming at all.
The cheapest option, running on A1's network, but it reportedly loses signal outside urban areas, so it is not suited to a driving trip. Formerly Lycamobile, relaunched as MTEL after a late-2024 sale.
Mandatory by law: the clerk scans your passport (an EU national ID card also works) and activation follows within about ten to fifteen minutes. Depending on where you buy, ID is not always asked for, and some shops may ask for accommodation details, but carry your passport regardless.
Airport prices are reported as slightly higher with limited options, but the real issue is availability: sources disagree on whether a carrier kiosk exists at Skopje Airport at all, and those that say it does mention late-night closures. Buying in central Skopje is both cheaper and more certain.
Guac eSIM covers North Macedonia 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.
SIM cards and eSIM in North Macedonia