Traveling to Belarus and landing at Minsk Airport soon? Want to stay connected with mobile data during your visit? Getting a local SIM card should be one of your top priorities upon arrival.
A SIM card allows you to access mobile data networks, make calls, and send texts in Belarus without incurring massive roaming charges from your home provider. With the right SIM card, you can have constant connectivity during your time in Belarus at very affordable rates.
This comprehensive guide will highlight everything you need to know about purchasing a SIM card at Minsk Airport. From exploring the best SIM card options, costs, documents required, and more, you’ll have all the necessary information to get connected right after stepping off the plane.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Minsk Airport
Minsk National Airport has two terminals – Terminal 1 for domestic flights and Terminal 2 for international arrivals and departures.
If you are arriving on an international flight, head to Terminal 2. There are several options for buying a SIM card right at the airport:
- A1 Kiosks: A1 is one of the major mobile carriers in Belarus. They have SIM card kiosks located in the Arrivals area of Terminal 2, right after you exit customs. The staff can help set you up with an A1 SIM card, activate it, and get you started with mobile data.
- velcom Kiosks: velcom is another leading mobile operator in Belarus with kiosks in Terminal 2 Arrivals. Like A1, their staff can assist in getting you set up with a velcom SIM card on the spot.
- MTS Kiosks: MTS Belarus has booths in the Arrivals area as well where you can purchase one of their SIM cards and get connected.
In short, the major telecom providers in Belarus make it very convenient to buy a SIM card right at Minsk Airport. Their kiosks and helpful staff allow you to get connected as soon as you land.
II. Minsk Airport SIM Card Options and Costs
The main mobile carriers at Minsk Airport offering SIM cards are A1, life:), and MTS as mentioned above. Here is an overview of what SIM card options they provide and how much they typically cost:
| Network | Plan | Data | Calls | Price |
| MTS | Bezlimitishe+ | Unlimited data (throttled after 100MB) | 400 mins to domestic networks | BYN 26.75/month |
| MiniBit | 100MB/day | N/A | BYN 0.26/day | |
| Bit | 250MB/day | N/A | BYN 9.67/month | |
| SuperBit | 500MB/day | N/A | BYN 18.14/month | |
| UnlimitedVIP | 1GB/day | N/A | BYN 32.34/month | |
| Picnic | 2GB/day | N/A | BYN 1.08/day | |
| Unlimited per day | Unlimited data/day | N/A | BYN 3.12/day | |
| A1 | No Limits 2.0 | Unlimited data (30 days) | 600 mins to domestic networks | BYN 15 (BYN 29.99/month) |
| life:) | Shake Mini | 5GB* | 300 mins | BYN 9.90 (BYN 5 first month) |
| Shake | 10GB* | 500 mins | BYN 13.90 (BYN 7 first month) | |
| All inclusive | Unlimited data | Unlimited calls | BYN 21.90 (BYN 14.90 first month) | |
| Play | 50GB* | Unlimited calls | BYN 19.90 (BYN 15.90 first month) |
Overall, a tourist SIM card at Minsk Airport costs around $5, usually includes 5GB-7GB data, and provides great connectivity options for short visits to Belarus. Topping up data is easy if you need more during your trip.
III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Minsk Airport
To purchase a SIM card at the Minsk Airport kiosks, you will need:
- Passport: Your original passport is required for verification and registration purposes when buying a SIM card in Belarus.
- Passport Photo: Some providers like velcom may ask for a passport-size photo for registering your SIM card. Have one ready to speed up the process.
- Cash: Have local currency (Belarusian Rubles) ready to pay for your SIM card. There may be long lines at currency exchange kiosks at the airport.
- Unlocked Phone: Your phone needs to be unlocked to use a foreign SIM card. Confirm this with your home provider before traveling.
- SIM Card Size: Bring your own standard size or nano SIM card if your device requires that. Micro SIMs and adapters are available at airport kiosks too.
- Patience: Buying a SIM card, setting up your plan, and getting activated may take some time. Be patient as the staff assists other travelers.
With your passport, photo, local currency, and an unlocked device, you’ll be set to get connected with mobile data via a SIM card at Minsk Airport.
IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Minsk Airport
If you prefer not to deal with physical SIM cards, eSIM presents a great alternative for connectivity. eSIMs are embedded digital SIMs that are configured remotely on your phone by scanning a QR code.
Some advantages of eSIM over physical SIM are:
- No need to find a SIM card that fits your phone
- Remote setup – no staff help required
- Ability to change plans instantly
- Maintain your home eSIM and switch between them
The major downside is eSIM availability is still limited globally. Major carriers in Belarus do offer eSIMs but usually require existing subscriptions. However, esimbelarus.com by GIGAGO provides eSIM options for travelers without this requirement.
Compared to prepaid plans in Belarus, esimbelarus.com has flexible data packages in durations suitable for visitors to stay connected while exploring the country.
Check out your device compatibility here.
Plans that may interest you
V. FAQs about Buying a SIM Card at Minsk Airport
Can I buy SIM cards outside of the airport in Minsk city?
Yes, you can easily purchase SIM cards from mobile provider stores and kiosks throughout Minsk city. However, Minsk Airport provides the convenience of getting connected right upon arrival.
How much data do I need during my visit?
5GB is generally sufficient for short trips. If staying longer, 10GB data SIM cards are also available. Topping up data is easy if you consume more than expected.
Can I use mobile internet throughout Belarus?
Yes, leading providers like A1, velcom, and MTS have nationwide coverage in Belarus for mobile data and calls.
Are there any activation or registration fees?
No, the SIM cards are ready to use. The $5 tourist SIM cards at Minsk Airport come with an allotted data amount – no added activation charges.
Can I use the SIM card in other countries?
No, the Belarus SIM cards only provide service within the country. You can simply switch back to your home SIM or get a new local SIM when traveling to a new country.
VI. Final Words
Getting a SIM card at Minsk Airport should be a top priority when arriving in Belarus. This guide covers where to buy SIMs, the best options and costs, documents required, and answers common questions travelers may have. With the right local SIM, you’ll stay conveniently connected throughout your trip in Belarus.
