travel sim starhub

Pre-order a StarHub Mobile Prepaid SIM

StarHub Prepaid SIM is the perfect travel buddy for all your data needs and is available for everyone!

• Data roam with plans from as low as $5 for 1GB for use in Singapore and in all 17 destinations: Australia, Canada, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Macau, Malaysia, New Zealand, Myanmar, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States of America
• No need to switch SIMs on a multi-city trip
• Easy top up, check your data usage and more with StarHub Prepaid App
• SIM collection at Singapore Changi Airport

Step 1: Select StarHub Prepaid SIM

$15 Prepaid SIM

The most affordable prepaid SIM

• $15 Credit for 180 days
• 180-Day 8GB local data^^
• FREE WeChat, WhatsApp and LINE #
• NEW:FREE 120GB local data for 28 days~
• NEW:FREE $100 IDD 018 credit for 28 days~
• NEW:FREE 5000 mins local calls for 28 days~
• NEW:FREE 200 local SMS for 28 days~

$50 Prepaid SIM

For the biggest data bundle

• $50 Credit 180 days
• 10-Day 100GB local data
• 30-Day 5GB roaming data*

$18 Internet SIM

Ideal for tablets and WiFi devices

• 2GB roaming data* daily for 5 days

$32 Internet SIM

• 2GB roaming data* daily for 15 days
• Stored credits in the SIM can be used for local/IDD/Roaming calls, SMS and activation of data plans for roaming
• Activate plans and top up through StarHub Prepaid App .
• *Data can be use in Singapore and in 17 destinations .
• ^^1.2GB from the first month and 200MB per month for the next 5 months plus 6GB for first 30 days. Promotion is valid till further notice.
• # FREE Unlimited use of text messaging on WeChat, WhatsApp Messenger and LINE is valid for 180 days from activation date of your SIM.
• ~Promotion valid until further notice. Free 120GB local data, $100 IDD 018 credit, 5000 mins local calls and 200 local SMS will be awarded within 3 days of SIM card activation.

Step 2: Enter Your Particulars and Collection Details

You are required to bring along your 1) original passport or identity card , 2) present the redemption QR code at the selected collection venue for registration. A valid email address is required for receiving a copy of the redemption voucher. For Singaporeans , only Physical NRIC is accepted for Prepaid SIM card registration. Passports will not be accepted. We apologize for any inconvenience caused. All fields are mandatory.

Terms & Conditions:

• Strictly no refund or exchange for cash once payment is successful and/or uncollected SIM within the stipulated collection period.
• Please present your passport or identity card and QR code printed on the redemption voucher at the point of collection. Note : For Singaporean, only Physical NRIC is accepted for Prepaid SIM card registration. Passports will not be accepted. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.
• As a mandatory requirement by the authorities in Singapore, each customer can only register up to 3 Prepaid SIM cards across all service providers and all SIM cards must be registered at point of collection before use. Please ensure that you have not exceeded the limit of 3 Prepaid SIM cards registered in your name with any service provider in Singapore.
• The redemption voucher cannot be used for more than one transaction.
• StarHub will not be responsible for the loss or damage of the redemption voucher.
• Any alteration(s) on this redemption voucher will not be accepted.
• Please ensure your SIM card is working before you leave the registration counter.

The SIM Card must be collected within Two(2) months from the order date at any of the following locations:

• UOB Currency Exchange - Changi Airport Terminal 1 Departure (Public/Transit Area)  View Map
• UOB Currency Exchange - Changi Airport Terminal 1 Departure (Public/Transit Area)
• UOB Currency Exchange - Changi Airport Terminal 2 Departure (Public/Transit Area)
• UOB Currency Exchange - Changi Airport Terminal 3 Departure (Public/Transit Area)  View Map
• UOB Currency Exchange - Changi Airport Terminal 3 Departure (Public/Transit Area)
• UOB Currency Exchange - Changi Airport Terminal 4 Departure (Public/Transit Area)

Step 3: Make Your Payment

Already pre-ordered a Prepaid SIM but have not received the redemption voucher in your mailbox? Click here to resend.

Terms & Conditions – Pre-order Prepaid SIM Card

Pre-order StarHub Mobile Prepaid SIM card

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Important note.

• dbsd2pay.dbs.com (for DBS/POSB account holder)
• pibenets.uob.com.sg (for UOB account holder)
• www.citibank.com.sg (for Citibank account holder)
• www.ocbc.com.sg (for OCBC account holder)
• www.plus.com.sg (for Plus! account holder)
• ibank.standardchartered.com.sg (for Standard Chartered account holder)

I would like to proceed with eNets

Alternatively, you may choose to pay with VISA/MasterCard instead.

Internet Explorer 7 to 10

Click the Tools

Point to Pop-up Blocker

Click Turn Off Pop-up Blocker.

Internet Explorer 11

Click or tap the Gear button or Tools menu.

Select Internet options . This will open the Internet Options window.

Click or tap the Privacy tab .

Uncheck the Turn on Pop-up Blocker box. Click or tap Apply to save the changes.

Click the Tools button

Click Option.

On the left panel, click Content.

Uncheck Block pop-up windows.

Google Chrome

Click the Chrome menu in the top right hand corner of your browser.

Select Settings.

Click Show advance settings.

Under the Privacy section , click the Content settings button.

In the Pop-ups section , select Allow all site to show pop-ups.

Click Done.

Safari on Desktop

Select Preferences from the drop down menu. Click Show advance settings

The preferences pane will open and select Security on the top row.

Uncheck the the Block pop-up windows box.

Safari on iPad

Go to the Settings app.

Select Safari , then disable the option Block Pop-Ups .

How to Use Singapore's Starhub GSM Tourist Prepaid Card

Cavan Images/Getty Images

Using your cellphone in Singapore shouldn’t be an expensive proposition; if you have a GSM phone that can access the 900/1800 bands. Make sure to learn about cellphone roaming in Southeast Asia for detailed preconditions. Buy a prepaid SIM card from one of Singapore’s cellphone companies and you’re ready to keep Grandma back home informed on the great shopping deals in Orchard Road .

Singapore is unique among all Southeast Asian countries in having a prepaid SIM card made especially for tourists. StarHub’s “Preferred Tourist Prepaid Card” offers plenty of perks for travelers who pop it into their GSM phones: apart from voice calls, SMS and data, the Tourist Prepaid Card allows access to the Singapore Tourism Board's mobile guide app (for Android and iPhone users only) and free IDD 018 calls to the U.S. and seventeen other countries.

Discounts and special prices at selected merchants and places of interest are also available to Tourist Prepaid Card holders.

All these perks aside, is it worth buying? Do you get unstinting coverage wherever you go in Singapore? Is the data bandwidth good enough? Let’s take a closer look.

Buying the Tourist Prepaid GSM Card, and Topping Up

Finding the Prepaid card is easy enough for travelers coming in through Changi Airport – look for a UOB Foreign Exchange counter upon exiting from the arrival area. These counters sell Tourist Prepaid Cards, and they advertise as much. Your guide purchased a kit for about SGD 33, or about US$26: SGD 15 went to the SIM card and SGD 18 went to a scratch card that tops up the SIM with an equivalent value in credits.

The Tourist Prepaid Card is a breeze to set up. You just pop it into your GSM handset and the phone will automatically set itself up for use. The SIM card is ready to use from the first minute, as the card includes SGD 18 in credits.

If you run out of credits, you can purchase a top up card at any 7-Eleven in Singapore, Starhub stores, and even newsstands. Just scratch the card to figure out the card number and PIN and follow the instructions on the card (handily written in English) to replenish your card credits.

As soon as you start using the Tourist Prepaid Card, calls and texts are available to you; the card comes with SGD 18 value (not including the SGD 17 top-up) and 20 free SMS texts.

SMS messaging: SMS text messages from a Tourist Prepaid Card-powered phone cost SGD 0.15 each (or about US$0.11), outside of the free texts each user is entitled to. If you make five SMS texts in a single day, though, Starhub awards you ten free texts valid only till midnight of that day.

Overseas calls: U.S. visitors calling home can just use the “018” prefix to make free IDD phone calls Stateside, or to the following countries: Australia, Brunei, Bangladesh, Canada, China, Hong Kong, India, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, Russia, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and the United Kingdom. The 018 prefix can also be used to call other countries, but rates apply.

Just dial the following to call the U.S. for free on your Tourist Prepaid Card-powered cellphone: 018 (country code) (area code) (number) (call button)

Surfing on the Internet

The card comes with a 30 MB data bundle that you can use to surf the 'Net with for three days from first use. Unlike texts and calls, you'll need to purchase an additional data plan if you plan to do more than 30 MB worth of Internet use.

Additional data bundles for your Tourist Prepaid Card can be purchased for as low as SGD 2 (for a 30 MB data bundle valid for only 3 days) to SGD 20 (for a 1GB bundle valid for a whopping 30 days). Your guide purchased a 1GB bundle good for only 7 days, which cost only SGD 7.

To purchase a data plan, dial *131 (call button) and follow the text instructions transmitted back to your phone.

The data coverage isn't perfect; about 20 percent of the time, the phone could not log onto the Web despite a uniformly strong signal around the island. In fairness, We'd just wait a few minutes and try again, and it usually got on afterward.

Detailed information on data bundles is available in the literature that comes with your purchase of the Tourist Prepaid Card.

Free YourSingapore Guide

The free YourSingapore Guide app (available only to Android and iPhone users) is perhaps the best thing about the Tourist Prepaid Card. Without using up your data plan, you can log on to the Guide and get information on tourist attractions in Singapore.

The app doesn't only provide information on places to visit around the island, it also offers transport information - route suggestions, maps, and travel fare estimates, all to help you get to where you want to go. The app even lets you call a taxi to your location.

The app also works in conjunction with the Singapore Tourism Board's official website, which permits visitors to customize their journey even before flying into Changi. As Sophia Ng, STB's Executive Director for Brand & Marketing, explains, "Visitors can begin their Singapore journey by designing their itinerary on the YourSingapore website, before arrival in Singapore , and make use of the myriad services found on the YourSingapore Guide app once they arrive."

The app must be downloaded first (using your existing data credits) before you can use it for free.

The Lowdown

There's plenty to like about this prepaid card: you get free calls to the U.S., cheap Internet access wherever you go, and a free app to help you discover Singapore . While data coverage wasn't perfect in your guide's experience, Starhub's phone and text coverage was uniformly strong wherever your guide went.

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Best Singapore Prepaid SIM Card for Travellers

By: Author Eva

Posted on February 26, 2024

Categories singapore

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Who can live and travel without data SIM card? I CAN’T.

SIM card is my second priority when I arrive in a new country, after local currency. Having a local SIM card with data gives me confidence and assurance that I can survive in a new country even if I don’t speak the language.

When my family and friends visit me in Singapore , they’re always asking me to help them buy SIM cards, so I had to analyze what’s the best SIM card for them. And I figured, why not post my analysis on this blog, maybe it will help somebody out there.

To be honest, choosing the best SIM card in Singapore is both easy and hard! Easy because there are only 3 major mobile operators in Singapore, namely Singtel, M1 and StarHub.

It’s hard because every operator offers so many different SIM cards with different features and validity, it’s so hard to choose what’s the most suitable card for you.

Let me spare you from the headache of choosing a SIM card. In the first section of this article, I’ll do detailed breakdown of each SIM card from each operator.

Then, in the second section, I’ll do comparisons of SIM cards for different scenarios based on length of stay and provide my analysis and recommendations.

Finally, I’ll have some FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) to answer common queries that I often receive. Let’s dive in!

No time to read the entire comparison? Here are my best picks: • For up to 10 days of stay:  StarHub $12 Travel Prepaid SIM (100GB for 10 days) • For 11 to 30 days of stay: M1 $14 Prepaid Tourist SIM (100GB for 30 days) • Best eSIM: M1 $12 Prepaid Tourist SIM (100GB for 15 days) • For people who also need EZ-Link card:  Singtel hi!Tourist 2-in-1 EZ-Link SIM Card (100GB 4G for 28 day, EZ-Link is valid for 5 years) • For data roaming outside Singapore: M1 $14 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 30 days in 5 countries) or StarHub $32 Travel Prepaid SIM (100GB for 30 days in 17 countries) • For budget traveller who doesn’t need a lot of data: Singtel’s $8 hi!Prepaid SIM (can’t pick up from airport)

Table of Contents

Overview of all Prepaid SIM Cards in Singapore

Singtel’s normal prepaid SIM card is called hi! SIM card , while Singtel’s tourist SIM card is called hi!Tourist SIM card . Here’s the overview of all Singtel’s prepaid SIM card and Singtel’s tourist SIM Card.

Have any questions about traveling in Singapore? Join All About Singapore Travel FB group, I'll be there to answer your questions!

Useful links for Singtel Prepaid hi! SIM Card: 1. List of Data Plans . 2. hi!SIM rates (including local call, overseas call, SMS, roaming charges) as of January 2021. 3. List of data roaming packages. 4. List of ways to top up hi! SIM card .

All hi! Tourist SIM cards offer unlimited usage of Facebook, Whatsapp, LINE and WeChat, however, if you read the fine prints, it says the usage of this is limited to 1GB a day. I’d say just ignore this gimmick because when you have 100GB free local data, why should you care about free 1GB data for social media.

Where to buy Singtel SIM Cards?

Normal Prepaid SIM (hi! SIM Cards):

• Singtel’s website
• Singapore Changi Airport (Terminal 1, 2 and 3): Travelex Currency Exchange Counters, Changi Recommends Counters.
• Singtel shops
• Singtel Exclusive Retailers
• Selected Authorised Singtel Prepaid Retailers
• Selected Cheers

Tourist SIM card (hi!Tourist SIM Cards):

• Selected Authorised Singtel Prepaid Retailers including Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, HarbourFront Ferry Terminal, Causeway Points, Sentosa FUN Shops
• Selected 7-Eleven and Cheers

Looking for ideas on what to do in Singapore? Here’s my guide on the best things to do in Singapore .

StarHub’s normal prepaid SIM card is called StarHub Prepaid , while StarHub’s tourist SIM card is called StarHub Travel Prepaid . Below is the comparison of StarHub’s prepaid SIM cards.

Notes about StarHub Prepaid SIM cards: 1. For $15 Prepaid, free 2GB data comprises 1.2GB first month; then 200MB/month for the next 5 months. FREE WeChat App, Whatsapp Messenger and LINE App is valid for 180 days from activation date. 2. List of data plans . 3. StarHub Prepaid SIM card rates . 4. Here’s the info about Happy Roam . 5. For $50 StarHub Prepaid SIM, the free 5GB data roam can be used locally as well as overseas in countries listed in the Happy Roam destinations. 6. List of ways to top up StarHub Prepaid SIM card . 7. Free 120GB local data, $100 IDD 018 credit, 5000 mins local calls and 200 local SMS will be awarded within 3 days of SIM card activation. Promotion valid until further notice. 8. 80GB data consists of 4GB local/roaming data & 76GB local data. 20GB will be awarded immediately upon successful purchase. Additional 60GB local data, 5000 mins local calls, 200 local SMS and $100 IDD credit will be credited within the same day.

Notes:  9. Free overseas calls can be used to make a call to the countries listed in the IDD 018 destinations. 10. Free data roam can only be used in countries listed in the Happy Roam destinations 11. Top-up for all prepaid cards can be done online, through StarHub Prepaid App or offline. See the complete Top up options .

Based on my past experience, I think StarHub is the most competitive operator, they often provide better value compared to other operators with their promotions. But, I feel that they have too many promotions, add-ons, bonuses and different top-up prices. Some promotions last for a long time, others disappear after a while.

It’s hard to make the right decision when trying to choose the best StarHub card or the best StarHub plans at any given time if the variables keep changing. To make it simple, I recommend that you ignore all the bonuses when trying to decide which card/plan is the best.

Where to buy StarHub Cards?

• Pre-order Starhub $12 Happy Travel Prepaid , and collect at Singapore Changi Airport.
• StarHub Shops
• StarHub’s Exclusive Partner outlets
• StarHub Authorised Retailers
• 7-Eleven stores
• Cheers convenience stores
• StarHub Counters (Terminal 1, 2, 3 and 4)
• UOB Currency Exchange Counters (Terminal 1, 2, 3 and 4)
• Travellers Counters (Terminal 2 and 3, Arrival Halls)

M1’s normal prepaid SIM card is called M1 Prepaid SIM Card , while its tourist SIM is simply called M1 Tourist SIM Card . Below is the comparison of all M1’s prepaid cards.

* International call rates ** $20 M1 Prepaid SIM comes with up to 1,000 IDD 033 mins (Bangladesh 400 mins / India 1,000 mins / China 1,000 mins / Indonesia 200 mins / Philippines 80 mins / Malaysia 500 mins) ## For use in Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia and Taiwan, you can use your existing data from your local data packs without extra charges (but you need to activate data roaming first). For other countries, you need to purchase a roaming pack . ^ Top up options for M Card

Where to buy M1 Cards?

M1 Tourist SIM Card:

• Pre-order $12 M1 Tourist SIM and collect from Changi Airport or city areas.
• M1 Shops ($12/$30 Tourist SIM)
• Changi Meet & Greet ($30/$50 Tourist SIM) at Changi Airport Terminal 1, 2, 3 & 4 Arrival Halls (Public Area)
• Changi Recommends ($30/$50 Tourist SIM) at Changi Airport Terminal 4 Arrival Hall (Public Area)
• Selected 7-Eleven and Cheers ($12 Tourist SIM)
• M1 Exclusive Distributors
• Appointed Authorised Retailers
• 7-Eleven and Cheers stores
• FairPrice Xpress
• Selected SingPost Branches

What’s the best SIM card for short-term travellers (less than 1 month stay)?

Now that I have covered every prepaid SIM cards from each operator, it is time to compare these SIM cards across different operators, based on several scenarios.

Different people have different length of stay, data usage and other preferences. To simplify, I’m going to assume that short-term travellers are leisure travellers who use a good amount of internet (1GB to 3GB) on a daily basis for the purpose of navigation, on-the-go research and social media.

For short-term travellers, I’ll be comparing SIM cards that give at least 80GB which is more than enough for 1-month stay in Singapore.

If you think you don’t belong in this category because you can survive without internet when exploring Singapore, then you can skip this section and jump to the next section where I discuss about normal prepaid SIM card for long-term travellers.

Best SIM Card for shorter stays (2 weeks or less)

For shorter stays of (2 weeks or less), there are 5 competing Tourist SIM cards, namely:

• Singtel $12 hi! Tourist SIM Card (100GB 4G for 14 days)
• Singtel $18 hi!Tourist EZ-Link SIM Card (100GB 4G for 28 days)
• StarHub $12 Travel Prepaid SIM Card (100GB for 10 days)
• M1 $12 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 15 days)
• M1 $14 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 30 days)

M1 has 2 very similar SIM cards, $12 and $14. The main difference between these 2 cards are roaming data allowance. M1 $14 comes with 100GB which is shared between local data & roaming data, while M1 $12 comes with 100GB local data only. Another difference would be the validity, M1 $12 is valid for 15 days while M1 $14 is valid for 120 days, but all the free stuffs (data, calls, SMS) are valid for 30 days only.

Case 1: If you’re visiting Singapore for up to 10 days , you can get any of the $12 Tourist SIM card from Singtel/StarHub/M1 Tourist SIM. My readers’ favorite is StarHub $12 Travel Prepaid SIM (100GB for 10 days) .

If you just want to get the cheapest one, you can choose either StarHub $12 Travel Prepaid SIM (100GB for 10 days) or M1 $12 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 15 days) ; both of which are retailing at SGD8.60 at the time of writing.

If you have a specific preference for eSIM, you can choose either Singtel $12 hi! Tourist SIM Card (100GB 4G for 14 days) or M1 $12 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 15 days) .

Case 2: If you’re visiting Singapore for 11 to 14 days , you can get either

Singtel $12 hi! Tourist SIM Card (100GB 4G for 14 days) or M1 $12 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 15 days) .

If you’re planning to visit other countries after Singapore , scroll down to the section about “Best SIM Card for travellers who need data roaming”

If you don’t need a lot of data because you can use your hotel or hostel’s wifi, or if you’re a budget traveler and you think paying $12 for data is a waste of money, but you need a SIM card to make calls, scroll down and read the section about budget long-term travellers.

If this is your first time visiting Singapore and you want to explore the country using public transportation, you need to have a transport card. To understand all the different transport cards in Singapore, read: Singapore Tourist Pass, EZ Link or Contactless Bank Card? Which One is Better?

If you have read my guide about travel cards and decide that you want an EZ-Link card , I recommend that you get Singtel’s $18 hi!Tourist EZ-Link SIM Card . Here are some details about this card:

• It is a 2-in-1 Tourist SIM and EZ-Link travel card
• Basically, you peel off the SIM card from the EZ-Link card, so you have 2 physical items: 1 small SIM Card and 1 EZ-Link.
• The SIM card validity is 7 days while the EZ-Link validity is 5 years from the manufacture date.
• The EZ-Link card has $3 free credit. However, please note that minimum balance you need to maintain in EZ-Link card is $3 (below $3, you can’t take any MRT or bus with it), so you still have to perform a top up of minimum $10 to the EZ-Link in order to use it for public transport.

PS: If you’re a first-timer visitor to Singapore, I recommend you check my comprehensive library of Singapore Travel Guide to help you plan your trip.

Best SIM Card for longer stays (2 weeks to 1 month)

Even though there are Tourist SIM cards that gives 100GB with validity of 28 days & 30 days, I do not recommend those SIM cards anymore because you can get cheaper SIM card with greater data, as seen in the above table.

The total data you can get from Singtel $15 card is 100GB, StarHub $15 card is 128GB, and M1 $14 is 100GB. Based on the data allowance alone, it’s clear that the winner is StarHub $15 Prepaid SIM card for 28 days. Meanwhile, for up to 30 days of stay, you should get M1 $14 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 30 days) .

However, among do note Singtel $15 and StarHub $15 can’t be picked up from the airport, they must be picked up from retail stores in the city. I personally think 100GB is more than enough for 30 days, so I highly recommend M1 $14 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 30 days) .

If you are planning to travel to Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia and Taiwan after Singapore, you should consider M1 $14 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 30 days) because the 100GB can be used in Singapore as well as those 5 roaming countries.

Best SIM Card for travellers who need data roaming

For people who are planning to visit other countries after Singapore, you can consider getting Singapore’s SIM card that provides data roaming.

In the above table, I’ve compiled a list of SIM cards that provide data roaming, the countries where the data roaming can be used, the amount of data roaming, and the data roaming duration.

The amount of data roaming is the total data roaming for all countries . For example: For StarHub $12, you get 1GB data roaming IN TOTAL, not in each country.

It’s clear that if we compare the amount of data roaming, the winner is M1 $14 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 30 days) . You get 100GB for 30 days for 5 overseas countries. However, do note that this 100GB is shared between Singapore data and overseas data.

If your next destination is not covered by M1, but it’s covered by StarHub, you can consider getting StarHub $12 Travel Prepaid SIM (100GB for 10 days) or StarHub $32 Travel Prepaid SIM (100GB for 30 days) , which gives 1GB or 3GB data roaming respectively. However, 1GB and 3GB are quite little and may only be enough for 3 days. If you need more days in other countries, do consider getting that country’s local SIM card instead.

What’s the best card for budget travellers, long-term travellers or residents?

For clarity, I define budget travellers as people who want to spend as little as possible, and don’t need a lot of data because they’ll be using the wifi from their accommodation.

I define long-term travellers as people who stays in the country for more than 1 month. And I define residents as people who live and work in the country.

Best SIM card for budget repeat visitors or budget long-term travellers who don’t need a lot of data

If you’re a budget type of person who keeps coming back to Singapore at least once a year, or you’re a budget long-term travellers staying in the country for more than 1 month, and you DON’T need a lot of data , it’s likely that you want to get a cheap SIM card that’s valid for months rather than the Tourist SIM card which is only valid for several days. But you have to remember to top up the card before it expires!

For this case, it looks like the best SIM card for you is the Singtel’s $8 hi!Prepaid SIM , which gives you free 1.5GB for 30 days, plus bonus 2GB if you register the SIM card yourself.

Best SIM card for long-term travelers or residents who need A LOT of data

If you’re a long-term traveller staying in the country for more than 1 month; or you want to keep a Singapore number because you visit Singapore about once every 6 months, and you NEED to use a lot of data because you don’t want to rely on wifi, I think the $15 category is suitable for you.

At first glance, both Singtel’s $15 and StarHub’s $15 give you more than 100GB for the first 30 days. So, if you intend to use A LOT of data in your first 30 days, you can forget about M1.

After 30 days, if you use Singtel, you’ll be left with 3GB free local data. With StarHub, you’ll be left with 200MB free data each month (which is too little, imo!).

In this case it’s clear that the winner is Singtel’s $15 hi!Prepaid SIM .

Now, let’s move to the next analysis!

If you’re a resident working/living in Singapore, I presume you’ll be using data most of the time, so the criteria to choose the best SIM card for you would be the price of data plans, especially the monthly plan.

Based on the above comparison table, $25 can get you 20GB data on Singtel, or 80GB data on StarHub. Meanwhile, $28 can get you 60GB on M1. To me, StarHub $15 Prepaid SIM has the most value for money in terms of data plan.

If course, if you’re a resident, you’re not constrained to only prepaid SIM cards. You are qualified to sign up for postpaid SIM cards from more than 3 operators.

Regarding coverage, personally I have used the service of all three mobile operators, and what I can say is, each operator performs well at certain locations and bad at other locations. No operator is truly better than other operators. This is just my opinion 🙂

Purchase on the spot or in advance?

First of all, not all SIM cards can be purchased in advance. For those cards that can be booked online, I highly recommend that you do, because you’ll never know how long the queue can be.

In busy city/tourist areas like Bugis or Orchard, queues at telecommunication shops can be insane (at least 30 mins of waiting).

At the airport, not every SIM card is available for sale (#truestory: they only sell the more expensive ones, but they keep changing strategy so you’ll never know).

If the SIM card that you want can’t be purchased online, I think your best bet is to go to not-so-busy 7-Eleven or Cheers convenient stores, or go to telecommunication shops in the morning (between 10 to 11am) or late at night (9pm onwards).

These are some of the most common questions that readers have asked me over the years.

1. What’s required to purchase SIM card in Singapore?

You need to bring passports during registration of the SIM card.

2. How many sim cards can I buy?

Each person is only allowed to have 3 prepaid SIM cards under their name, regardless of the service provider, in any 6 months period.

3. What are local data and roaming data?

Local data is the data that you can use in Singapore. Roaming data is the data that you can use when you’re outside Singapore.

4. Are incoming calls free?

Unfortunately, no. You will be charged when you receive local calls. If you have a lot of free local calls minutes, then these will be deducted when you receive incoming calls.

5. I want to maintain the validity of my SIM card so I can use it when I come back to Singapore in the future. How can I do so?

Get any prepaid SIM card, not the tourist SIM card. Then, download the apps (either Singtel hi! App, StarHub Prepaid App, or M1 Prepaid App) to check your card validity.

Finally, monitor your card validity consistently so that you can top up before its expiry date. These apps allow you to top up with credit card so it’s ok if you’re outside Singapore.

6. What is the cheapest SIM card in Singapore?

Singtel’s $8, StarHub’s $8 or M1’s $8.

So… that’s it!

I hope I have provided you with enough information to make your decisions 🙂 If you have any questions, let me know in the comment or ask me in All About Singapore Travel Group on Facebook where we discuss about traveling in Singapore.

Planning for a trip to Singapore? Here are some essential information to read next:

• Read my best articles about Singapore
• Awesome Places in Singapore You Can Visit for Free
• A Weekend Itinerary for Budget Travellers in Singapore

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you make any purchase through my links, I will receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. 

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Shashank Verma

Wednesday 4th of October 2023

Hi Eva, awesome blog! Keep it up! A lot of work gone into this!

Although I think know which SIM card I should be getting, it might be wise to pass it through you first.

We are travelling to Singapore (4 days), KL (2 days) and Thailand (8 days).

I was thinking - Singtel $30 Hi! Tourist. Do you concur?

On the FAQ, you said - Each person is only allowed to have 3 prepaid SIM cards under their name, regardless of the service provider, in any 6 months period.

So if I got two SIMs under my name, can I use one and give the other to my partner? Or does my partner order her own under her name?

And do I need to order online before arrival, or can I just pop over to one of their pickup locations (at the Airport) and get them there and then?

Will they help us set it all up to make sure its working fine?

Thursday 12th of October 2023

@Eva, I had another idea - I don't like giving my passport details everywhere. So what I was thinking is getting the $50 Hi! Tourist SIM. It's costly but in that way I will be covered for Malaysia and Thailand. I don't have to worry about Singapore as I get whopping 120GB. Having said that, the Thailand SIMs are much cheaper. But its just the inconvenience of it all.

I am a bit confused with people saying they charge more at the airport than says 7-11. If I got a $50 Tourist SIM from the airport, would the same SIM cost less at 7-11 or Cheers?

I soo appreciate your website and the way its all laid out and explained. I have been checking website on SIM for Thailand and there's hardly anything that comes close to yours. And whatever there is is either old or not really making sense.

Lastly, if I just wanted Roaming Data without any calls etc. then which SIM would you suggest? I will use Whatsapp etc. for calls. Only thing is I don't know if that would have any impact on using Grab.

The M1 $14 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card is a great SIM but sadly does not work in Thailand (or does it)? Or maybe I can get this for Singapore and Malaysia and then get a cheap SIM in Thailand. The 100GB is a lot even if its shared between local and roaming.

Tuesday 10th of October 2023

Hi Eva, many thanks for your advice.

What I will do is still get the $30 SIM and if I am close to running out of data in Thailand, I will buy a local SIM from there.

No point in topping up the Hi! SIM.

Monday 9th of October 2023

Hi Shashank, yes I agree that Singtel $30 hi!Tourist is the best choice in terms of data roaming availability. But do take note the data roaming allowance is only 5GB, which is pretty easy to blow up in a couple of days. If you don't really use data a lot, this sim card is fine. Otherwise, you may want to purchase another SIM card when you are in Thailand, since you'll be spending 8 days there.

If you buy 2 SIM cards, it should be fine to give one to your partner, but I'm not sure how strict Singtel is. It's definitely safer to let your partner buy the sim card under her own name. You can do either online booking or purchase during arrival. Online booking guarantees availability, from what I understand. You can consider getting esim so you don't need to physically collect the sim card. Yes, they will help you set up and register (bring your passport!).

Susanne Steinböck

Monday 4th of September 2023

Hi Eva, great blog, love it. The Singtel 2 in 1 Tourist SIM EZ card is back. It just costs $ 18.- now. Just for your information.

Thursday 7th of September 2023

@Eva, I am happy I found it. Your blog is the reason why my Singapore stopover in October has grown from one to two weeks. ;-) And this seams to be the best SIM card for me.

Tuesday 5th of September 2023

Thank you Susanne! I'll update it soon!

Monday 28th of August 2023

Hi, I plan to visit Singapore next week and move on to Taiwan. Do you know if the M1 tourist work well in Taiwan? I plan to buy the $14 one so that I don't have to buy another sim in Taiwan. Any one know the answer, thanks.

Refer to section "Best SIM Card for travellers who need data roaming"

Saturday 29th of July 2023

Hi! Great blog, really helpful! :)

I'm traveling to Singapore in a week. I just wanted to know, do Singtel tourist SIM cards allow sharing your data with another phone (hotspot)?

Also, "fair usage" is mentioned on their pages: Fair usage of 1GB per day per hi!Tourist SIM card applies for free access to Facebook; WhatsApp; Line; WeChat. Unlimited access to WhatsApp, Line and WeChat only includes messaging and does not include video/ voice calls. Can you tell me if the internet speed will be very slow when this 1GB per day is exceeded?

Monday 31st of July 2023

Hi L, Yes all cards allow you to do hotspot sharing. If you use their free social media data, yes after 1 GB you will experience slow connection speed. I suggest that you disregard the free social media data, and just use mobile data for all social media.

Hi Eva! We are visiting Singapore next week and I was exploring options for phone connections - wondering if I should activate international roaming on my phone, or get a local SIM card. Your article is amazing and so comprehensive. Thanks for all the tips. I am off to browse you other Singapore articles now. Have a great day!

Thank you so much Vidya =) Hope you have a great trip to Singapore!

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StarHub eSIM and SIM card: Full Guides for Travelers to Singapore

StarHub is a multinational conglomerate operating in the telecommunications industry based in Singapore. The company provides diverse services such as mobile, broadband, pay TV, fiber and wireless infrastructure, fixed network services, and enterprise solutions. 

In this article, we will explore the advantages of utilizing StarHub eSIM and SIM cards, which could prove beneficial for your future trips to Singapore. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler looking for a seamless way to stay connected, read on to learn why StarHub eSIM and SIM cards could be an ideal solution for your mobile needs.

Table of Contents

I. about starhub.

StarHub Limited , or StarHub, is a premier Singaporean enterprise that offers world-class communications, entertainment, and digital services. The company provides exceptional mobile and fixed services, a wide range of communication solutions, and premium content to individuals, homes, and businesses through its extensive fiber and wireless infrastructure and strong global partnerships. 

Along with its core telecommunications services, StarHub has diversified its offerings and ventured into data analytics, cybersecurity, content, and media production capabilities. 

StarHub places great importance on conducting its operations sustainably and environmentally responsibly. As a result, it has been recognized as the most sustainable telco in the Corporate Knights Global 100 2023. 

The company has subsidiaries in several countries, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, China, Mauritius, and the United States.

II. StarHub Mobile Operator Services

StarHub is a leading Singaporean telecommunications company offering its customers an extensive array of mobile operator services. Some of the mobile operator services delivered by StarHub include:

Prepaid mobile plans :

StarHub provides prepaid mobile plans that enable customers to make payments for their usage in advance. These plans come with a predetermined amount of SMS, talk time, and data, and customers can recharge their accounts when they exhaust their credit.

Roaming services :

StarHub provides roaming services that enable customers to use their mobile phones while traveling abroad. Customers can choose from different roaming packages that offer varying amounts of data, talk time, and SMS.

StarHub has revolutionized how tourists travel with its extensive 5G and 4G networks, providing seamless and ultra-fast speed and connectivity. With 5G roaming, customers can stay connected with their loved ones at over 13 destinations across the globe.

StarHub has a broad 4G network covering over 230 destinations, including Afghanistan, Albania, Armenia, Argentina, Bangladesh, Brunei, Brazil, China, France, Indonesia, and more. Customers can enjoy hassle-free roaming with instant connectivity on StarHub’s network.

Value-added services :

In addition to its core services, StarHub offers various value-added features, including Caller Number Display, Call Waiting, and Voicemail, to enhance customers’ experience.

Furthermore, customers can avail themselves of various services, such as Smart Support, SmartSupport Home, Travel Protection, EasyGo, Lifestyle, Call overseas, and more, to get additional benefits and value. These services are available as add-ons to customers’ mobile plans.

Mobile devices :

StarHub provides a diverse selection of mobile devices, which includes smartphones and tablets, that clients can buy along with their mobile plans. Clients can choose from various devices from renowned brands like Apple, Oppo, Samsung, and Huawei.

Postpaid mobile plan s:

StarHub provides various postpaid mobile plans that offer different levels of talk time, SMS, and data. Customers can opt for plans tailored to their requirements and financial constraints.

III. StarHub Coverage in Singapore

The coverage map for StarHub Mobile’s 3G, 4G, and 5G network in Singapore represents the geographical areas where the network is available. It shows the extent and strength of the network in different parts of Singapore. 

The coverage map can help customers determine the quality of the network in their area and the level of connectivity they can expect to receive.

In terms of mobile coverage, StarHub has extensive coverage across Singapore. StarHub has extensive coverage across Singapore, covering approximately 99% of the population. The network offers 3G, 4G, and 4G+ services, as well as 5G services, and its mobile services are generally reliable and of high quality. 

Where can clients experience 5G in Singapore?

StarHub’s 5G coverage encompasses 95% of the outdoor areas in Singapore. In addition, the company has extended its coverage indoors to particular shopping malls as an ongoing effort to enhance the 5G experience. 

StarHub employs 5G Non-Standalone and 5G Standalone networks to provide the optimal experience to its clients.

IV. Top StarHub eSIM and SIM Cards for Tourists

StarHub offers various eSIM and SIM card options for tourists visiting Singapore. To chat, surf, and share all your wonderful travel moments with ease, here are the top options:

All of the above options offer high-speed 4G/ LTE data and can be easily purchased at StarHub shops, StarHub authorized retailers, the airport, or online. It is also important to note that some options may require a compatible device, so check before purchasing.  

Tips: In addition to buying Starhub eSIM and SIM cards from mobile operators, you can purchase one from Singapore eSIM provider . They will provide more options for you based on the data volume and validity.

Refer to some Singapore eSIM plans for short trips from SingeSIM.com here:

V. Calls and SMS Rate of StarHub in Singapore

Below is valuable information about StarHub call rates and SMS rates in Singapore:

Prepaid SIM Card – Travel SIM

Happy Prepaid SIM

Call rates to popular destinations

Make FREE IDD 018 calls

By subscribing to the IDD 018 Value-Added Service (VAS) for a low price of $7/month, you can make free IDD 018 calls to 19 locations. However, customers have a limit of 700 minutes on certain plans. If you exceed this limit, you will be charged the prevailing IDD rates of the destination you are calling.

Applicable destinations:

• New Zealand
• Puerto Rico
• South Korea
• United Kingdom*

*FREE IDD 018 excludes:

• Australia mobile & special services: prefixes 611 and 614.
• Japan mobile: prefixes 8170, 8180, and 8190.
• UK special services: prefixes 4455, 4456, 448, and 449.

VI. StarHub Roaming Rate

The rate of using StarHub’s roaming services depends on the location you are visiting and the specific plan you choose. StarHub offers various roaming plans, including Inflight Connectivity, Data Travel, DataTravel Unlimited, Maritime Connectivity, and RoamEasy Daily.

DataTravel Unlimited : Unlimited data $19, $25 or $30/ day, depending on selected destinations.

Inflight Connectivity : Tourists can stay connected on chosen aircraft with Singapore Airlines or other airlines, SMS, access data, or read emails in the air.

Maritime Connectivity : Stayed connected on chosen cruises and vessels.

RoamEasy Daily: Enjoy hassle-free connection in 149 destinations worldwide. If you want to stay connected in distant locations such as Europe, the Middle East, and various parts of America but don’t require large amounts of data daily, this option would be perfect for you.

VII. How to Top up Your StarHub SIM

There are several ways to top up your StarHub SIM card in Singapore, including:

StarHub prepaid app Top-up : available for download on the App Store and Google Play. You can use the app to top up your prepaid SIM card or to add credit to your postpaid account.

Online Top-up : Available only for prepaid SIM and Travel SIM clients. You can add other data plans and Add-ons.

Digital Channels : POSB/DBS/OCBC ATMs, SAM Kiosk/Web/Mobile App, AXS Station/Web/Mobile App.

Top-Up Cards : Buy at StarHub shops, exclusive partners, authorized retailers, 7-Eleven, Cheers, and SingPost. To top up your account, scratch off the silver panel on the back of the card to reveal the top-up code, then dial 123<top-up code># on your phone and press send.

VIII. How to Check StarHub Balance – All StarHub USSD Codes You Need to Know

To check your StarHub balance, you can follow these steps:

• Dial *123# on your StarHub mobile phone.
• Press the call button.
• You will receive a message displaying your current balance and the expiry date of your plan.

Alternatively, you can also check your balance by logging in to the My StarHub app or by visiting the StarHub website and logging in to your account.

Note: The dialing of these codes will only work if you use your StarHub connection.

IX. Where to Buy StarHub eSIM and SIM Card?

Customers can purchase StarHub eSIM and SIM cards from many different places in Singapore including:

StarHub Shops: Plaza Singapura, Bugis Junction, Tampines, Causeway Point, Nex, Waterway Point, Jurong Point, Westgate.

Exclusive partner outlets : ESmart, Sworra.

StarHub Authorized Retailers : electronic stores, supermarkets. 

Convenience stores : 7-Eleven, Cheers.

Changi Airport : StarHub Counters (Terminal 1 and 3), UOB Currency Exchange Counters (Terminal 1 and 3), Travelers Counters (Terminal 3, Arrival Halls).

Pre-order online:

For the pre-order method, you can pre-order a prepaid SIM card and pick it up at Changi Airport before you travel, then activate the data plan and manage your account through the StarHub Prepaid App. Alternatively, using a WiFi device or tablet, you can choose an Internet SIM and enjoy 2GB of daily surfing.

• Data roaming plans for use in Singapore and 17 other destinations: Australia, Canada, Indonesia, Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, Philippines, India, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, the United Kingdom, the United States, with prices starting as low as $5 for 1GB.
• With no need to switch SIM cards during multi-city trips, you can easily top up and monitor your data usage using the StarHub Prepaid App. The SIM card collection point is located at Singapore Changi Airport.

Buying eSIM from SingeSIM.com:

SingeSIM.com offer various eSIM plans for tourist coming to Singapore. You can easily access the official website of SingeSIM and make an online purchase there. After that, the eSIM QR code and installation guides will be sent to you via email.

Notes: Please note that the availability of eSIMs may vary depending on your device model and network compatibility, so you should check with StarHub or its website for more information.

X. StarHub Mobile Operator Pros and Cons

Here are some of the potential pros and cons of selecting StarHub as your mobile operator in Singapore:

Extensive network coverage : StarHub has wide network coverage throughout Singapore, so you can expect to have a reliable mobile connection in most areas of this fantastic country.

Broad range of plans : StarHub delivers a variety of mobile plans to suit different needs and budgets, including prepaid, postpaid, eSIM, and SIM-only plans.

Additional perks : StarHub offers additional benefits to its clients like free WiFi and data for certain apps, discounts on movie tickets and other entertainment options, loyalty rewards programs, and roaming options for international travel.

Innovative features : StarHub is known for its innovative features, for instance, VoLTE (Voice over LTE), which allows for better voice call quality and video streaming over the mobile network. 

Sustainability : StarHub is committed to sustainability and environmentally responsible operations, reflected in its use of renewable energy sources and efforts to reduce e-waste.

Relatively high prices : StarHub’s plans can be relatively more expensive than other mobile operators in Singapore, which may not suit customers on a tight budget.

Limited data options : While StarHub offers unlimited data plans for selected destinations, their local plans may have lower data limits than those of other mobile operators.

Limited international roaming options : While StarHub offers free roaming in certain countries, it has limited options compared to other mobile operators, which may disadvantage frequent travelers.

No unlimited local voice calls: Unlike other mobile operators in Singapore, StarHub does not offer unlimited local voice calls on any of their plans.

StarHub is a reliable mobile operator with broad network coverage, innovative features, and additional customer perks. However, it may not be the best choice for clients on a tight budget, frequent travelers, or those who require highly customized plans. Remember to compare various choices before making a purchase.

XI. StarHub vs Other Singapore Mobile Operators

According to the Mobile Network Experience in Singapore Report conducted by OpenSignal in November 2022, StarHub was identified as the best performer in two primary categories: overall experience (including video, gaming, voice apps, download speed, and upload speed) and consistency (which considers both excellent and core quality consistency). 

Compared to the other major mobile operators in Singapore , Singtel and M1, StarHub stood out for its overall experience and consistency. Additionally, the company secured its second win for coverage, encompassing both availability and 4G coverage experience.

XII. StarHub SIM Card Alternatives for Tourists

Tourists can consider several alternative SIM cards instead of StarHub in Singapore. Here are a few options:

Singtel : Singtel is the largest mobile operator based in Singapore, with a well-established network and wide coverage across the island. The company offers a range of mobile plans and SIM cards for both tourists and residents. It also established its presence in many other countries in Asia, Australia, and Africa. 

M1 : M1 is another popular mobile operator in Singapore that tourists with SIM cards with calls, data, and SMS services. The company also has various additional benefits like discounts on entertainment options and roaming options for international travel.

Circles.Life: Circles.Life is a newer Singaporean mobile operator that delivers flexible, no-contract mobile plans with high data allowances. Furthermore, it offers additional benefits such as free data for certain apps and the ability to tailor your plan to suit your needs.

GOMO: GOMO is another mobile operator in Singapore that offers affordable mobile plans with no contract commitments and unlimited data choices. In addition to these features, it allows clients to earn rewards by referring friends and access to free data for specific apps.

Singapore eSIM:

When visiting Singapore, tourists frequently choose StarHub SIM cards ; however, other options are available, including eSIMs. E-SIMs, or embedded SIMs, are digital SIM cards built into mobile devices like tablets or smartphones. 

There are several benefits of using eSIMs as a suitable option for tourists in Singapore, including convenience. With eSIMs, there is no need to insert a SIM card into the device physically, and it can be activated remotely, providing a more convenient experience.

Furthermore, eSIMs offer flexibility, enabling users to switch between carriers or plans, which is particularly advantageous for tourists needing to modify their plan or carrier depending on their location or needs. 

Additionally, eSIMs offer superior coverage and connectivity in areas with weak signals since they provide access to multiple networks and carriers. Lastly, eSIMs are environmentally friendly as they eliminate the need for physical SIM cards, which can generate e-waste.

Note: It is important to do your own research and compare the different mobile operators and plans available in Singapore to find the best option for your needs and budget.

XIII. Final Words

To sum up, StarHub provides a range of eSIM and SIM card choices for both residents and visitors in Singapore, making it a dependable option for those needing a mobile operator. The company’s strong market position is attributed to its emphasis on innovation, diverse options for visitors and locals, significant investment in infrastructure, and sustainable and environmentally responsible operations. 

However, comparing plans and operators is always a good idea to find the best fit for your specific requirements and budget. Whether you are a resident or a tourist in Singapore, having a dependable mobile connection is vital for staying connected and accessing important information and services, making it critical to choose a mobile operator that works for you.

For more interesting information about eSIM plans for tourists in Singapore, you can visit singesim.com .

What is StarHub and what services does it provide?

StarHub is a mobile operator in Singapore that provides mobile, broadband, pay TV, and enterprise solutions to customers.

How do I pay my StarHub mobile bill?

You can pay your StarHub mobile bill through various channels, including online through their website or mobile app, at their retail stores, or through bank transfer.

How do I report a problem or issue with my StarHub mobile service?

You can report a problem or issue with your StarHub mobile service by calling their customer service hotline, visiting their retail stores, or sending them a message through their website or mobile app.

Does StarHub offer eSIM plans?

Yes, StarHub does offer eSIM plans. But for foreign tourists, it’s more convenient to order an eSIM from Singapore eSIM providers for more data and validity options.

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StarHub Happy Roam: My #1 Prepaid Data SIM Card for Travel

The StarHub Happy Prepaid data SIM card and StarHub Happy Roam service offer cheap mobile data roaming for 17 countries (and growing), including Canada and the United States.

Prices listed are in Singapore Dollars (SGD).

One of the essentials of modern-day travel is mobile Internet access. In this day and age, most of us rely on our smartphones to navigate, book hotels, and find tours on the go.

I’ve been using M1 Data Passport (a postpaid service for M1 customers) for the past few years, as it was good value for longer trips. Recently, however, they’ve raised their prices: countries like China, Japan, and South Korea went from $10 to $25 per month, and that’s while consuming the data allowance from my postpaid plan. Not such a great deal anymore.

This pushed me to finally give the StarHub prepaid data roaming service, Happy Roam, a shot.

How StarHub Happy Roam works

StarHub Happy Roam works like any local prepaid data SIM card you might get when arriving in a new country, except it  works in 17 countries  with more being added from time to time.

Asia:  China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand

Other countries:  Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United Kingdom, USA

The geographical coverage may disappoint if you’re traveling around Southeast Asia or Europe, but the clincher for me is that it covers Canada – where 1GB of prepaid mobile data costs $30 on average! This easily makes StarHub Happy Prepaid the best prepaid SIM card for Canada. Which brings us to pricing…

StarHub Happy Roam data prices

StarHub Happy Roam has rates that are easily cheaper than a local data SIM card. Their data plans start from as low as $5 for 1GB .

Here’s a quick comparison table between StarHub Happy Roam, M1 Data Passport, and a portable Wifi router rental for a two-week trip (14 days).

Activating StarHub Happy Roam

If you’re a tourist: to use the service, you must first purchase a StarHub Happy Prepaid SIM Card, either by ordering it online for collection at the airport (after customs/baggage) or at any of these locations in Singapore.

If you already have another StarHub prepaid SIM card, you can  also  use StarHub Happy Roam. You do not need to buy the Happy Prepaid SIM card.

Once you’ve got the SIM card in your phone, download the Happy Prepaid app ( iPhone / Android ). It will detect the SIM card and set up your account as shown in this screenshot.

With the StarHub Happy Prepaid app, you can check your SIM card balance and card expiry, as well as buy data plans. There’s no need to dial a service number to check your balance or top up your data plan, though that’s still available in case you lose your Internet connection.

Network coverage/reliability

As with all data roaming and portable Wifi router services, the network speed and coverage you get from StarHub Happy Roam depends on the local partner network being used.

Singapore by Night: 12 Things to Do After Dark

James and I have used Happy Roam in Australia, China, Japan, and Taiwan with no issues, but while on the very edge of China’s border with North Korea , my travel companion could not connect to a Chinese network via Happy Roam although I could surf just fine on M1 Data Passport. Several Happy Roam users recommend manually selecting the partner network when overseas as automatic selection doesn’t always work.

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Disadvantages of StarHub Happy Roam

You must register your StarHub Happy Prepaid SIM card. This is fairly straightforward and requires only your passport, but it means you must visit Singapore in person to use this service – you can’t just buy the SIM card online.

Your SIM card can expire after 90-180 days. You’ll have to top it up to extend its validity by another 90-180 days. I like that the Happy Prepaid app shows how many days you have left before expiry, so you can top up in time even when the SIM card isn’t in your phone.

You’ll need to switch SIM cards if you don’t have a dual-SIM phone.  This is a real hassle when you’re making online purchases or logins that send a security code to your usual mobile number, including when you top up your Happy Prepaid account via credit card.

Conclusion: get it if you can

Although its geographical availability is currently limited, I cannot stress enough how cheap the mobile data is on StarHub Happy Roam, especially for traveling in Canada (and Australia, where free WiFi is about as common as a Starbucks).

If you happen to be transiting through Singapore Changi Airport on your way to any of the 17 destinations covered by StarHub Happy Roam, clear customs and head to the StarHub counters at Level 1 (Arrivals) in any terminal to buy a Happy Prepaid SIM. You can also pre-order and collect it at UOB currency exchange counters, also landside.

Last but not least: The cost of the SIM card is actually included as credit, so the SIM costs nothing. Happy Roam, indeed.

Have you used StarHub Happy Roam? What other products do you recommend for convenient and cheap data roaming?

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Best Mobile Networks and Sim Cards for Tourists Visiting Singapore

• Written By Tahmid Munim Hossain,
• This article was first published on January 25, 2023,
• and last updated on 1 year ago
• In the Category Travel Tips

Home » Articles » Best Mobile Networks and Sim Cards for Tourists Visiting Singapore

In Singapore, the number of people who can use public data networks for free has grown a lot, and today 95% of the inhabitants can do so for free. In Singapore, the price of a mobile sim card and internet use has gone through the roof in the last few years. Because of this, a lot of people who visit Singapore use their phones while they are there.

If you are coming from a different country, There are a lot of things you should know before traveling to Singapore . However, it might be hard to choose the correct SIM card and cell plan.

Even though there are local mobile companies in Singapore, tourists often use prepaid SIM cards or international roaming plans. This article will save you time by giving you a full list of the best mobile networks and SIM cards that tourists in Singapore can use.

Can Tourists get SIM cards in Singapore?

Visitors and people in Singapore who are at least 15 or 16 years old can buy a SIM card from the nation’s mobile network providers as long as they follow the rules. In Singapore, you can buy a prepaid SIM card that works for up to 180 days or a tourist SIM card that works for one week.

Most of the time, these SIM cards only work for a certain amount of time and don’t come with a service agreement. So, they are better for tourists than for people who live there all the time.

Where can you buy a SIM Card in Singapore?

Tourist SIM cards from Singtel can usually be bought at the following places in Singapore:

• Singapore Changi Airport
• Travelex Foreign Currency Exchange
• Cheers store
• 7-Eleven store
• Authorized retailers at Harbourfront / Tanah Merah
• Other authorized retailers

The only places you can get the 5G S$30/S$50 Tourist SIM card are Travelex Foreign Currency Exchange, Changi Airport, Singtel Shops, and Singtel Exclusive Retailers.

You can pre-order a Singtel tourist SIM card through the following websites and apps and pick it up at Singapore Changi Airport or any Singtel Shop when you get there. To purchase a Singtel tourist SIM card, you should first place an order and expect to be paid for it. Then, you can pick it up at one of these places,

• Travelex at Singapore Changi Airport
• Changi Travel Services at Singapore Changi Airport
• Singtel Shops islandwide

Is it wise to buy SIM Cards at airports?

The best place to get a pre-paid sim card is at Singapore International Airport. There are three international arrivals terminals, but you can get a prepaid sim card for visitors no matter which one you use.

At Singapore’s Changi Airport, it’s easy to find one of the many stores that sell sim cards to travelers. You will see these shops as soon as you walk into the terminal. After getting your bag off the moving belt, you can leave through the glass sliding doors. To your left and right, you’ll see car rental agencies and people selling prepaid SIM cards.

Can you use your phone in Singapore?

The Global System for Mobiles (GSM) network makes mobile phone service possible in Singapore. CDMA phones will not work in Singapore. All 4 of Singapore’s major phone companies use the GSM network, so your unlocked phone should work with any of them.

Singaporeans use the more common European frequencies found in Africa, Asia (including the Middle East), Europe, and Oceania. North America, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean have frequencies which are different from those in Europe. If you bought your phone in Africa, Asia, Europe, or Oceania, you shouldn’t have any trouble using it in Singapore. If you buy a cheap or mid-range phone in the Americas that doesn’t support Tri-Band or Quad-Band, it might not work at all in Singapore or only work on slower networks (3G or 2G).

Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Singapore

In Singapore, a gigabyte of data costs about $0.61. This is much less than the average price of $1.47 across all of Asia. The average price around the world is 3.12 USD. Actually, Singapore is somewhere in the middle when it comes to the price of mobile data in Southeast Asian countries. In Singapore, you can get prepaid services from four different mobile network providers.

• M1 Singapore
• SIMBA (formerly TPG Mobile Singapore)

The following frequencies are used in Singapore:

• 2G: N/A–shut down on the 1st of April 2017
• 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
• 4G/LTE: 900 MHz (Band 8), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 2600 MHz (Band 7 & Band 38)
• 5G NR: 2100 MHz (n1) & 3500 MHz (n78)

Check again to make sure your phone is unlocked. Unless you change it, the only SIM card that will work is the one your home operator gives you.

What are the best SIM Cards and eSim in Singapore?

People are very different in how long they like to stay, how much data they use, and other such things. There are four Tourist SIM cards, and each one can be used in Singapore for up to seven days.

The best SIM card for a 7-day trip

To keep things simple, short-term travelers are vacationers who need a lot of data each day (1–3 GB) for things like online navigation, mobile research, and social networking.

Singapore 10 or 12 day Tourist SIM Cards

Singapore prepaid sim card for budget longterm visitors.

If you won’t need much data because your hotel or hostel has free WiFi, or if you’re on a tight budget and don’t see the point in paying $12 for data, take a look at this.

Best eSIM in Singapore

With the M1 platform, prepaid service providers can offer eSIMs to their customers. But only if you pay 12 SGD for a tourist SIM card (or eSIM, for that matter). Prepaid users can’t get an eSIM because there’s no way for them to get one (yet). With Asialink eSIM, you won’t have to buy a local SIM card or eSIM in each country you visit. This could save you a lot of money.

Best International/Travel SIM Card for Singapore

If you want the best international/travel SIM card for Singapore, I recommend getting one of SimCorner’s Singapore Travel SIM cards. You could use one of SimCorner’s Asia SIM cards in Singapore and more than 20 other countries, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, which are close by.

The SimCorner International Travel SIM card has 6 GB of data that lasts for 15 days and can be used in Singapore and more than 100 countries, including most of the Asian countries listed above as well as the Americas, Europe, and Oceania.

StarHub’s $12 Go Prepaid SIM is also a good investment if you plan to travel to any of 17 countries outside of Singapore: Australia, Canada, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom, or the United States. When it comes to calls to other countries, both the $12 StarHub Travel Prepaid SIM and the $12 hello! A tourist SIM card will give you 1GB of data roaming for free in Happy Roam countries like Malaysia and Indonesia.

How much does a SIM card cost in Singapore?

When you go to Singapore, you might save money if you buy a tourist SIM card instead of a local one.

SIM cards from Singtel cost between $8 and $38 (about $5.95 and $28.10), from $8 to $50 (about $37 USD) from StarHub, $10 (about $7.40 USD) from SIMBA (formerly TPG Mobile), and between $14 ($10.35 USD) and $27 ($20 USD) from M1. Tourist SIM cards with 100GB of space cost between $12 and $50 SGD. SIM cards can also be bought at Changi Airport in Singapore (SIN).

Singtel is the only company that sells 5G sim cards that are already paid for. Customers who pay as they go can now get 5G service from them. At Singapore Airport, a 5G sim card costs $70 SGD, but in the city, it only costs $30 SGD.

Since all mobile internet providers in Singapore offer a high-quality 4G network, we found that SIMBA is the best deal for tourists in 2023. You can get 30 days of service, 100 GB of data, and unlimited talk time for just $7 USD.

Singtel SIM Cards

• 120 GB, 15 days for SGD 50 ($35.03)
• 100 GB, 12 days for SGD 30 ($21.02)

M1 SIM Cards

• 150 GB, valid for 4 weeks for SGD 20 ($14.01)
• 56 GB, valid for 4 weeks for SGD 12 ($8.41)
• 168 GB, valid for 12 weeks for SGD 49 ($34.32)

Simba SIM Cards

• 100 GB, 30 days, SGD 10 ($7.01)
• 130 GB, 30 days, SGD 18 (12.61)

Can you buy a Singapore SIM card online?

If you pre-order a SIM card from a store like Amazon, it will be ready for you when you arrive. Various packages can be found on Amazon. You should check to see if the countries you want to visit are on the list, but there are many other options to think about.

Asian SIM cards that have already been paid for are another option. You can use this if you are from the US or Australia.

How to do SIM Card Registration in Singapore?

In Singapore, you need to use your passport information to sign up for a SIM card. This will happen when the real transaction is made.

Find out which countries require you to register your SIM card and what the rules are in those countries. I’ve written out the steps below so that any mobile service provider can use them.

• The first step is to get the app from the cell phone company.
• Next, give us the information that your ID card asks for. You need a valid ID, Work Permit, Employment Pass, or Passport from the government.
• The SIM card’s information must be typed in or scanned.
• Just use a scanner to take a picture of your ID and upload it. Only the front of a photo is needed for a passport, but both sides are needed for an NRIC, a work permit, or an employment pass.
• Finally, you have to use Facial Validation.

Is there free Wi-Fi in Singapore?

Most public and business places on the island have Wi-Fi connections. Here are the options we offer.

Wireless@SGx

Changi airport.

Thanks to #WiFi@Changi, the public and transit areas of Changi Airport have free Wi-Fi.

Shopping Malls, Restaurants and Cafes

Some restaurants, bars, and cafes in Singapore let their customers use Wi-Fi for free.

They often advertise WiFi to shoppers, but if you need it, you can always ask at the mall’s information desk.

You can actually buy local prepaid SIM cards, international SIM cards, mobile hotspots or pocket Wi-Fi. Each of these options has both good and bad things about it. If you buy a prepaid SIM card at Changi Airport, it will cost you more than if you buy the same card in the middle of Singapore. So, you shouldn’t buy a prepaid SIM card until you get to your final destination.

When you go to Singapore, it’s always better to have mobile data on hand. With the Best Mobile Sim Cards, visitors can get unlimited bandwidth on a super-fast 5G or 4G connection.

Tahmid Munim Hossain

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