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Yevhenii Kuznietsov
Published on
May 12 2024
In our increasingly digital world, staying connected is no longer a luxury—it’s essential. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway in Bruges or moving to Brussels for work or study, having reliable mobile data and a seamless connectivity experience is a must. That's where eSIM technology comes in.
Unlike a traditional SIM card that you insert into your device, an eSIM—short for embedded SIM—is built into your phone or tablet. It lets you connect to mobile service networks, switch eSIM data plans, and stay online without ever touching a piece of plastic.
This guide covers everything you need to know about how to buy an eSIM in Belgium, which providers offer the best affordable mobile data plans, and how travelers and residents alike can benefit from this digital SIM solution. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, choosing the right eSIM for Belgium is key to staying online with ease.
An eSIM is a digital SIM card that’s already embedded in your phone or device. It functions the same way a regular SIM card does, except you activate it digitally—usually by scanning a QR code sent by your mobile provider or through their app.
Instead of swapping out local SIMs when you change countries or providers, you simply download an eSIM profile, and you're ready to go. This makes eSIM work especially well for international travel, remote workers, or anyone using two phones or multiple devices.
Compatible devices include most modern iPhones (XS and newer), Google Pixel phones, Samsung Galaxy S-series, and other Android phones that are eSIM compatible.
Belgium is located at the crossroads of Europe, making it a key destination for tourists, business travelers, students, and expats alike. Whether you're here for a few days or moving long-term, using an eSIM offers unbeatable convenience. Here's why it's the smart choice:
Don’t need to reach the queues: Skip the lines at airport SIM kiosks or local telecom stores. With an eSIM, you can connect as soon as you land—no physical card, no waiting.
No local SIM card hunt: Forget trying to find a shop that sells the right SIM. Just pick a plan online, scan a QR code, and activate it instantly.
Avoid costly roaming fees: Say goodbye to surprise charges from your home provider. eSIMs help you dodge high additional costs like international roaming.
Switch data plans easily: Whether you need more data or a different provider, you can change plans with just a few taps—no need to swap out SIM cards.
Enjoy fast mobile internet: Stay online with 4G or 5G speeds across most of Belgium, including cities and popular travel routes.
Use two numbers at once: Keep your primary number active while adding a travel eSIM—great for dual SIM users, business travelers, or anyone with multiple contacts.
Getting an eSIM in Belgium is now more accessible than ever. Whether you’re arriving for a short visit or planning to stay for several months, you have flexible options to choose from. Depending on your needs, you can either opt for a quick, online eSIM activation or go with a local provider that offers more permanent plans.
For tourists, business travelers, or digital nomads who want hassle-free, fast mobile connectivity, online platforms are your best bet. These services offer prepaid eSIMs that are easy to purchase and activate, even before you arrive in Belgium.
Here are some top options:
Airalo is a popular eSIM provider offering affordable, data-only plans for Belgium and across Europe. With options from 1 GB to 20 GB, it’s ideal for light to moderate usage. Activation is fast—just purchase, scan the QR code, and you're online within minutes.
Holafly is perfect for travelers who need unlimited data during short trips. It’s great for streaming, remote work, and navigation apps. With easy setup and quick activation, it’s a convenient choice for staying connected without data limits.
At Global Yo, we make it easy to stay connected in Belgium and across Europe. Our prepaid eSIMs are designed for travelers who want fast, flexible, and affordable data—without the hassle of physical SIM cards. Choose your plan, scan the QR code, and you're online in minutes. Whether you’re in Brussels for a few days or exploring multiple countries, our eSIMs give you reliable high-speed data wherever you go.
Choose the data plan that fits your travel needs and budget.
Receive a QR code via email or app after checkout.
Scan the QR code, and your eSIM is activated immediately—ready to use with no physical card or paperwork.
These providers are perfect if you're looking to skip the logistics and connect to the internet right away from the moment you land.
If you're planning to live in Belgium—whether temporarily or permanently—you might prefer a more traditional approach with a local mobile operator. These companies offer monthly plans, voice and data bundles, and customer service in multiple languages.
Here are the top telecom providers in Belgium that support eSIM:
One of Belgium’s top mobile providers, Proximus offers a variety of data-only and voice + data plans. It’s known for strong nationwide coverage, from major cities to more remote areas—ideal for reliable, everyday use.
A solid and reliable option, Orange Belgium provides competitive mobile plans, often bundled with home internet and digital TV. It’s a great choice for families or anyone looking for multi-service deals.
Popular with students and budget-conscious users, BASE offers affordable data plans and flexible options. It’s a good alternative to larger providers for those wanting lower prices without long-term contracts.
Pro tip: Ask your provider if they support dual SIM capability on your phone. That way, you can use both your home number and your new Belgian line without having to switch devices.
With a local eSIM, you’ll enjoy better integration with services like mobile payments, local number portability, and add-on options for additional data or international minutes.
Looking for the right eSIM for your stay in Belgium? Here’s a breakdown of some of the most recommended options for travelers and residents alike:
Airalo: Perfect for tourists, Airalo offers a Belgium 10 GB eSIM that includes 10 GB of data valid for 30 days. Prices range from €18–€22, and activation is quick and easy via online purchase and QR code.
Holafly: Ideal for short-term travel, Holafly’s Unlimited Europe eSIM gives you unlimited data for 5 to 30 days. Prices range from €19–€87, and activation is instant through their app.
Proximus: A great option for residents and expats, Proximus offers the Epic Combo plan with 8 to 20 GB of data per month. Plans cost between €15–€35 and can be activated in-store or online.
Orange Belgium: Suited for long-term residents, the Go Plus plan includes 8 to 20 GB of data per month. Prices range from €20–€40, and activation is available online with a QR code.
Global Yo: Built for frequent travelers, Global Yo offers flexible, prepaid data-only plans for Belgium. Plans typically range from 3 to 10 GB, valid for 7 to 30 days, priced between €8–€25. Activate easily through the app by scanning a QR code.
Many of these providers also offer multi-country Europe eSIMs, which are especially useful if you're traveling to other countries nearby—like France, Germany, or the Netherlands.
If you're living in Belgium or staying long-term, choosing the right SIM card or eSIM depends on your data usage, lifestyle, and where you spend most of your time. It’s all about balancing cost, coverage, and convenience.
Heavy Data Users: Go with Proximus for the most reliable coverage and consistently fast speeds across cities and rural areas—perfect for streaming, remote work, video calls, and daily digital tasks.
Budget-Conscious Users: BASE (by Telenet) is ideal for students and anyone looking for affordable mobile plans. It offers great value in urban areas like Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent, with solid coverage and low-cost options.
Balanced Users: Orange Belgium strikes a great balance between performance and price. Its packages are suitable for everyday use, whether you're commuting to work, studying, or exploring Belgium's cultural hubs.
Frequent Travelers Within Belgium: If you often travel around the country—visiting smaller towns or rural areas—Proximus is your best option, offering the strongest overall network coverage in remote and suburban locations.
Coming to Belgium for a short stay? Here’s how to choose the best SIM or eSIM based on your travel needs and habits.
For Instant Setup: Choose Global Yo or Airalo for fast, hassle-free eSIM activation. Get connected in minutes—no store visit is needed. Just scan a QR code, and you’re ready to explore.
For Reliable Rural Coverage: If your itinerary includes countryside villages, castles, or hiking in the Ardennes, go with Proximus for the most consistent network coverage beyond city centers.
For Unlimited Data: If you're planning to stream, work remotely, or rely heavily on mobile apps, Holafly offers unlimited data eSIMs—perfect for worry-free browsing.
For Budget Travelers: Airalo and BASE provide cost-effective prepaid and eSIM options, ideal for staying connected while keeping expenses low during your visit.
Activating an eSIM in Belgium is typically quick and user-friendly—especially compared to dealing with a traditional SIM card. With just a few steps, you can be online in minutes, without needing to visit a store or insert anything into your phone.
Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process:
Check eSIM compatibility on your device. Go to Settings > About and look for terms like “eSIM,” “Digital SIM,” or “Cellular Plans”. Make sure your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM functionality.
Choose a provider and purchase your eSIM plan online or in-store. This could be from local companies like Proximus, Orange Belgium, BASE, or global platforms like Global Yo, Airalo, or Holafly.
Scan the QR code provided after purchase. This code links your phone to your selected data plan and is usually delivered by email or through an app.
Follow the prompts on your phone to download and install the eSIM profile. The setup process may take a few seconds to complete.
Connect to the network once setup is complete. You should see signal bars or the carrier’s name appear, indicating that your eSIM is active. At this point, you can begin using mobile data, making calls (if supported), or tracking your data usage in your settings.
Tip: Keep your Wi-Fi on during the setup process to ensure a stable connection while activating the eSIM. Some providers also offer app-based activation, which can skip the QR code altogether for an even smoother experience.
Once you're activated, you’re ready to explore Belgium with fast, reliable internet—no need to hunt for public Wi-Fi or struggle with roaming fees.
Choosing the right eSIM plan depends on how long you're staying, how you use your phone, and what kind of coverage you need. Here are a few tips to help you make the best choice for your trip or stay in Belgium:
Look for a regional eSIM that works across multiple countries in the EU. These are perfect if you're hopping between Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, offering convenience and savings by avoiding separate plans for each destination.
A prepaid eSIM with a fixed duration (like 7, 15, or 30 days) is ideal. It ensures you won't be charged after your stay, and there's no need to cancel anything manually.
Some eSIM plans are data-only, so if you need a local number or voice capability, choose a plan that includes calls and texts—or keep your physical SIM active for calls while using eSIM for data.
Prioritize a plan with high-speed data and strong network coverage, especially if you're doing video calls, uploading content, or relying on a stable internet connection for work.
Compare the cost per gigabyte (€/GB) and watch for plans that offer top-ups or additional data if needed. Some providers also offer discounts for longer durations or multi-country use.
By picking the right plan upfront, you’ll enjoy smoother travel, better performance, and fewer surprises—so you can focus on exploring rather than troubleshooting your mobile connection.
Whether you're a tourist on a Eurotrip, a student abroad, a remote worker, or a new resident in Belgium, using an eSIM is one of the easiest and smartest ways to stay connected. With affordable data plans, strong network coverage, and instant activation, eSIMs offer a hassle-free alternative to traditional SIM cards—no paperwork, no store visits, just quick setup, and reliable internet.
Instead of dealing with roaming fees or searching for SIM cards at the airport, you can simply scan a QR code and get online in minutes. From short getaways to long-term stays, eSIMs are becoming the go-to solution for modern connectivity. So when you land in Belgium, skip the lines and let your digital SIM card handle your connection—fast, flexible, and ready when you are. It’s a fairly simple process that works, no matter how long you're staying.
Yevhenii Kuznietsov
[email protected]Yevhenii Kuznietsov blends journalism with a passion for travel tech. He explores eSIM's impact on communication and travel, offering expert interviews and gadget reviews. Outside of writing, Yevhenii is a hiking enthusiast and drone hobbyist, capturing unique travel vistas.
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