Getting a SIM Card
Last updated Last verified
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Choose a provider
Croatia has three main mobile providers. All have good coverage in cities. Coverage in rural areas can vary.
Hrvatski Telekom (HT) is the largest provider. It has the best coverage, especially outside cities.
A1 Croatia is the second largest. It offers good value for data-heavy plans.
Telemach (formerly Tele2) is the cheapest option. It works well in most cities.
Expected costs
Item Cost Notes HT prepaid starter pack ~10 EUR Includes some data and call credit A1 prepaid starter pack ~7 EUR Includes some data and call credit Telemach prepaid starter pack ~5 EUR Budget-friendly option - 2
Where to buy a SIM card
You can buy a SIM card at official provider stores in any major city. Look for HT, A1, or Telemach shops.
You can also buy SIM cards at Tisak and iNovine newsstands. They are everywhere in Croatia. However, you may still need to visit a provider store to activate it.
Airport shops sometimes sell SIM cards, but prices are higher.
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What to bring
You need your passport. Croatian law requires SIM card registration with a valid ID.
You also need a local address. Your hotel, Airbnb, or hostel address is fine.
The staff will make a copy of your passport and register the SIM card in your name.
What you need
- Passport or national ID
- Local address (hotel, Airbnb, or rental address)
- Cash or card (5-15 EUR)
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Complete the registration
The registration process takes 5-15 minutes in store. The staff will activate your SIM card on the spot.
You will receive a phone number right away. You can start making calls and using data immediately.
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Top up your credit
You can top up your prepaid credit in several ways.
In store: visit any provider shop or Tisak newsstand and buy a top-up voucher.
Online: each provider has a website and mobile app where you can add credit with a debit or credit card.
Now that you have a phone, make sure to save the emergency numbers. See our Emergency Numbers guide.