Jazmin Li
Buying a SIM card at an airport is a convenient way for travellers to stay connected to data, calling, and SMS services in a foreign country. At Mumbai Airport, also known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), there are various onsite options for purchasing local SIM cards. However, it is important to note that stores at airports may charge a premium.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| SIM Card Providers | Airtel, Matrix, MTNL, BSNL |
| Location | Terminal 2, Arrival Hall, next to Exit B and currency exchange booths |
| Operating Hours | 6 am-10 pm |
| Payment Methods | Cash, Debit/Credit Cards |
| Requirements | Unlocked phone, Passport, Visa, Photo ID proof, Address proof |
| Plan | 28-day prepaid plan with 1.5GB daily data and local calling for ₹600 ($7.50) |
| eSIM | Not available at the airport |
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What You'll Learn
Where to buy a SIM card at Mumbai Airport
Mumbai Airport, also known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), offers SIM cards from two primary carriers for tourists: Airtel and MTNL.
Terminal 2
Airtel has a prominent booth in the arrival hall of Terminal 2, situated next to Exit B after baggage claim and customs clearance. The booth has two reps working there, and the process of getting a SIM card takes around 10-15 minutes. Airtel offers a 28-day prepaid plan at the airport booth, providing 1.5GB of daily data and local calling for ₹600 (approximately $7.50). This plan is available for ₹299 when bought directly from the Airtel website or app.
Terminal 3
MTNL previously had a small SIM sales counter located near the taxi stands in Terminal 3. However, recent confirmation of MTNL's continued presence at the airport could not be found.
Documents required
To obtain a SIM card at Mumbai Airport, you will need an address proof document (such as a rent agreement or bank passbook) and a government-issued photo ID (such as a passport or driving licence). For international passengers, a visa will also be required.
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Cost of a SIM card at Mumbai Airport
At Mumbai Airport, SIM cards are available for purchase from two primary carriers, Airtel and MTNL. Airtel has a booth in the arrival hall of Terminal 2, next to Exit B, which is open daily from 6 am to 10 pm. They offer a 28-day prepaid plan with 1.5GB of daily data and local calling for ₹600, which is approximately $7.50. However, it is important to note that the same plan can be purchased for ₹299 directly from the Airtel website or app.
MTNL previously had a small SIM sales counter near the taxi stands in Terminal 3, but their continued presence at the airport is uncertain.
It is recommended to check that your phone is unlocked and has a SIM card slot before travelling, as locked phones cannot use SIM cards from India. Additionally, eSIM packages offered by providers like Gigago through Jio, the largest mobile network in the city, can be a convenient option for travellers. Stores at airports may charge a premium for SIM cards, so purchasing them online or from stores near your destination may be more cost-effective.
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Documents required to buy a SIM card at Mumbai Airport
To buy a SIM card at Mumbai Airport, you must be aware of the documents required. The documents that you need to carry to purchase a SIM card at Mumbai Airport are:
- Passport: Your original passport is mandatory for verification to buy a SIM card as a foreign tourist. Also, have a passport photocopy.
- Visa: You will need a visa to purchase a SIM card at Mumbai Airport.
- Passport-sized photo: Have at least one passport-sized photo ready for forms that retailers may ask you to fill out.
- COVID vaccination proof: Some stores ask for full vaccination proof, so keep a soft copy ready on your phone.
- Payment method: You will need some local currency, Indian rupees (INR), to pay for the SIM card. Retail stores also accept credit/debit cards.
Additionally, ensure that your phone is unlocked and has a SIM card slot.
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Payment methods accepted for SIM cards at Mumbai Airport
Mumbai Airport (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport) offers SIM cards from two primary carriers for tourists: Airtel and MTNL. However, Airtel is currently the only carrier with a booth at the airport. The Airtel booth is located in the arrival hall of Terminal 2, next to Exit B after baggage claim and customs clearance. The booth is open daily from 6 am to 10 pm to cover most flight arrival times.
Airtel offers a 28-day prepaid plan at the airport booth, providing 1.5GB of daily data and local calling for ₹600 (approximately $7.50). Payments for this plan can be made using cash in Indian rupees (INR), or with debit/credit cards. It is important to note that foreign currency may not be accepted, so it is recommended to carry INR cash for SIM card payment.
If you are staying in the country for more than 28 days, reloading or recharging your prepaid Airtel SIM card is easy. You can use the Airtel app or PayTM to recharge your plan. The same 28-day plan can be purchased for ₹299 when bought directly from the Airtel app or website.
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SIM card activation process at Mumbai Airport
The SIM card activation process at Mumbai Airport is straightforward and can be completed quickly. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Locate the SIM Card Kiosks: Upon your arrival at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, proceed to the arrival hall after baggage claim and customs clearance. You will find SIM card kiosks or booths from different providers, such as Airtel, MTNL, and Matrix.
- Choose a Plan: Select a plan that suits your needs. Consider factors such as data allowances, network coverage, and add-on options. Prepaid plans are commonly offered and typically range from $2.50 to $30, depending on the provider and package.
- Provide Documentation: To obtain a SIM card, you will need to provide valid identification and proof of address. For international passengers, this typically includes a passport, visa, and government-issued photo ID. Two passport-sized photographs may also be required.
- Purchase and Activation: Purchase your selected plan and insert the SIM card into your phone. The activation process is usually instant or takes just a few minutes. The staff at the kiosk will assist you with the setup if needed. They speak English fluently and will guide you through the process.
- Recharging Options: If you plan to stay beyond the validity of your initial plan, you can easily recharge or reload your prepaid SIM card. You can use the carrier's app, PayTM, or visit their website to extend your plan or purchase additional data, talk time, or SMS benefits.
It is recommended to check that your phone is unlocked and has a SIM card slot before travelling. Additionally, while purchasing a SIM card at the airport is convenient, you may find more affordable plans with greater flexibility in monthly options if you buy a SIM card from city stores.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can buy a SIM card at Mumbai Airport. Airtel is currently the only carrier offering SIM cards at the airport, with a booth in Terminal 2's arrival hall, next to Exit B after baggage claim and customs clearance.
To buy a SIM card at Mumbai Airport, you will need an unlocked phone, your passport and visa, and cash in Indian rupees. Some sources also state that you will need two passport-sized photographs and a government-issued photo ID.
At Mumbai Airport, Airtel offers a 28-day prepaid plan with 1.5GB of daily data and local calling for ₹600 (approximately $7.50). This plan is available for ₹299 when bought directly from the Airtel website or app.
