Mobile Phone Service #
You must have active phone service (calls and data) and provide staff with an active phone number where you can be reached during your term in Stockholm. This is a safety requirement.
Some students choose to purchase an international plan from their current provider, some set up an eSIM for calls and data in Europe before departure, and still others purchase a physical SIM card upon arrival in Stockholm. To reduce costs, many students use internet-based services such as WhatsApp or Facetime to stay in touch with friends and family.
In order to use an international SIM or eSIM, your phone must be carrier-unlocked for global use. Before departure, please contact your current mobile service provider to ensure that your phone is unlocked. We recommend doing this even if you believe your phone is already unlocked.
eSIM #
If your phone supports eSIM, you can get a European mobile plan from companies such as Orange Travel, Airalo, Holafly, and others. We do not endorse any particular company and provide these suggestions only as a convenience, not as a recommendation. If you have any questions about your eSIM or plan, please contact your mobile operator.
Physical SIM Card #
If your phone has a physical SIM card slot, you can get a SIM card (SIM-kort) and prepaid plan (kontantkort) from a Swedish mobile operator.
We strongly recommend selecting an operator with brick-and-mortar stores so that you can get help setting up your plan in person. For example, mobile operator Telia has locations in Vällingby (closest to student housing) and on Kungsgatan in the city center (closest to campus). When you go to the mobile store, bring your passport to verify your identity. Swedish law requires that all SIM cards be registered to a verified owner before use, and your SIM card will not work until it has been registered to your passport. Please note that you cannot order a Swedish SIM card online because you do not have a Swedish personal number or BankID (an identity verification tool).
Swedish mobile service tend to be less expensive than American plans, typically costing $15–$35 per month depending on data use. Another advantage is that EU law requires Swedish mobile providers to allow you to use your Swedish plan in any other EU country that you may visit without roaming charges (up to 18 GB). The Swedish Program will reimburse students up to 200 SEK for a Swedish phone plan to cover the orientation period. To receive the reimbursement, please email a copy of your receipt to stockholm@swedishprogram.org.
If you have any questions about your SIM card or plan, please contact your mobile operator.