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Yevhenii Kuznietsov
Published on
May 12 2024
Are you planning a trip to Belgium or thinking about upgrading from a traditional physical SIM card to the latest eSIM technology? This complete guide is designed to help you understand everything you need to know about using an eSIM in Belgium—from what an eSIM is and how it works, to the many benefits it offers, how to activate eSIM, and the easiest ways to stay connected with reliable mobile data.
Whether you're a Belgian resident looking to simplify your mobile setup or a tourist aiming to avoid roaming fees, this guide will walk you through every step.
An eSIM (short for embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built directly into your smartphone or tablet. Unlike traditional SIM cards, you don’t need to insert a physical card to connect to a mobile network. Instead, you install an eSIM profile on your device compatible—often with just a few taps.
This modern SIM technology is revolutionizing how we connect in different countries, including Belgium. You can easily activate an eSIM, switch eSIM plans, and even manage multiple numbers on a single device without swapping out hardware.
Before using an eSIM, ensure your Android devices or iPhone supports eSIM compatibility. Most recent iPhones, Android phones, tablets, and smartwatches are eSIM compatible.
Switching to an eSIM offers a range of advantages for both residents and travelers in Belgium:
Seamless Connectivity: Instantly connect to mobile networks without inserting a physical SIM, with setup taking just a few taps.
Local High-Speed Data Access: Access reliable, fast mobile data through a wide range of local eSIM data plans.
Cost Savings on Roaming: Avoid costly international roaming by using local or travel eSIMs tailored for Belgium.
Easy Plan Switching: Switch between eSIM profiles across countries or carriers without physically changing SIM cards.
Eco-Friendly and Minimalist: Eliminate plastic waste and packaging by choosing a fully digital, environmentally friendly solution.
Belgium offers broad eSIM support through major carriers, with activation typically done online or in-store by scanning a QR code.
Belgium’s largest carrier with extensive 4G/5G coverage and full eSIM support.
Pros: Reliable service with excellent nationwide coverage and strong network performance.
Cons: Plans can be more expensive and less flexible compared to competitors.
Best for: Users who prioritize network quality and consistent internet connection across Belgium.
A well-known provider offering a wide range of eSIM-enabled prepaid and postpaid plans.
Pros: Affordable pricing with strong performance in most urban and suburban areas.
Cons: Slightly weaker coverage in remote regions and fewer prepaid eSIM options.
Best for: Tourists and locals looking for a good balance of value and performance.
A budget-friendly carrier known for simple, flexible plans and growing eSIM support.
Pros: Low-cost plans and an easy eSIM activation process.
Cons: Network speed and coverage are not as strong as other top carriers.
Best for: Budget travelers or users who need basic, affordable additional data.
A provider focused on bundling mobile with TV and internet, with postpaid eSIM support.
Pros: Convenient for existing Telenet customers using multiple services.
Cons: Not ideal for short-term users due to limited prepaid eSIM options.
Best for: Residents already using Telenet’s home or business services.
If you're visiting Belgium and want to avoid high roaming charges, international eSIM providers offer convenient, flexible, and affordable travel eSIMs that work immediately upon arrival. These services often provide data-only plans, making them perfect for tourists who just need internet connectivity without a local phone number.
One of the most popular global eSIM marketplaces offering country-specific and regional data plans.
Pros: Instant activation, competitive pricing, and multiple plan sizes.
Cons: Data-only plans—no local number or call/SMS support.
Best for: Travelers seeking a quick, low-cost eSIM setup for short trips to Belgium.
Focuses on unlimited data plans for various countries, including Belgium.
Pros: Easy setup and unlimited data with no throttling in most plans.
Cons: Higher cost than limited-data plans and no support for tethering in some cases.
Best for: Heavy data users who want a worry-free, unlimited internet experience.
A flexible eSIM provider offering short- and long-term plans with competitive pricing.
Pros: Good range of affordable data plans and smooth user interface.
Cons: Limited customer support availability in some regions.
Best for: Digital nomads or travelers who need a tailored data plan based on length of stay.
A growing eSIM provider offering flexible global and local data plans for travelers in over 140 countries, including Belgium.
Pros: Competitive pricing, instant activation, and the ability to keep the same eSIM across different countries.
Cons: App interface could be more intuitive for first-time users.
Best for: Frequent travelers looking for a reusable eSIM with reliable coverage across multiple destinations.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to activate a Belgium eSIM:
Choose a mobile plan or data plan from your preferred local carrier or international travel eSIM provider.
Ensure your phone is a compatible device and connected to Wi-Fi.
Your carrier will send you a QR code.
On your device, go to:
iOS: Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan
Android: Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Add Carrier
Scan the QR code to automatically activate your new eSIM.
Your eSIM profile will be downloaded and activated immediately.
In just a few steps, you can simply switch to your new eSIM without a physical SIM card.
Choosing the right eSIM for Belgium depends on your travel plans, how much data you need, and your device compatibility. Here’s a structured guide to help you decide:
Data-only or full mobile plan: Do you just need internet, or do you also need to make and receive calls with a local number?
Short-term or long-term use: Are you visiting for a few days, or do you need ongoing service?
Local carriers (e.g., Proximus, Orange, BASE) offer strong coverage and full-service plans for residents or extended stays.
International eSIM providers (e.g., Airalo, Holafly, Global Yo) offer flexible, prepaid travel eSIMs that work instantly in a new country.
Check for 4G/5G availability in the areas you’ll visit.
Look for reviews or coverage maps if using an international eSIM provider.
Light use: ~1–3 GB for email, maps, and messaging
Moderate use: ~5–10 GB for social media and browsing
Heavy use: 10+ GB for video streaming or hotspot use
Look for eSIMs that let you easily switch plans or top up data without needing a new QR code.
Some eSIMs allow multi-country use, great for travelers visiting multiple EU nations.
Make sure your smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch supports eSIM technology.
Check the settings or the manufacturer’s website for confirmation.
Most eSIMs are activated by scanning a QR code.
Choose a provider with clear setup instructions and responsive customer support.
To get the most out of your eSIM experience in Belgium, keep these practical tips in mind:
Check compatibility before you buy: Make sure your device supports eSIM and is unlocked to avoid activation issues.
Compare providers and plans: Local carriers offer full-service plans, while international eSIMs are ideal for short trips—choose based on your needs and trip length.
Activate before you travel: If possible, activate your eSIM while still connected to Wi-Fi at home to avoid setup issues on arrival.
Save your QR code: Keep a copy of your activation QR code in your email or cloud storage in case you need to reinstall your eSIM.
Use Wi-Fi when available: To save data, connect to Wi-Fi in hotels, cafés, or airports whenever possible.
Monitor your data usage: Use your device’s data tracker or the provider’s app to avoid running out of mobile data unexpectedly.
Know your support options: Choose a provider with clear instructions and accessible customer service, especially if it’s your first time using an eSIM.
Whether you're a local resident or a visitor exploring Belgium, switching to an eSIM delivers a level of convenience, flexibility, and efficiency that traditional SIM cards simply can't match. As more devices and carriers embrace eSIM technology, the need to manage plastic SIM cards, swap slots, or visit physical stores is quickly becoming a thing of the past.
With just a few taps, you can enjoy high-speed data, switch between local or international plans, and avoid costly roaming fees—all while staying connected across Belgium and other European countries. Whether you're upgrading your mobile experience or looking for a smart travel solution, choosing the best eSIM for your connectivity needs in Belgium is a forward-thinking, hassle-free decision that truly matters.
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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