Can I get a German SIM card without an Anmeldung?

Yes, but you need valid ID (passport). German law requires identity verification for all SIM cards. Some providers accept passport + hotel address initially, but having an Anmeldung makes the process smoother.

Prepaid or contract — which is better for expats?

Start with prepaid. No SCHUFA needed, no commitment, and you can switch easily. Once you've been in Germany 6+ months and have a SCHUFA score, a contract plan offers better value (more data, 5G, lower per-GB cost).

Which network has the best coverage?

Telekom > Vodafone > O2. In major cities, all three work well. In rural areas and on trains, Telekom is significantly better. If you travel outside cities frequently, choose Telekom network (Fraenk or Telekom direct).

Can I keep my foreign phone number?

You can use your foreign SIM in Germany with EU roaming (if from the EU), but it's not meant for permanent use. Non-EU SIMs have expensive roaming. Get a German number — it's needed for bank accounts, two-factor authentication, and apartment applications.

What is eSIM and should I use it?

eSIM is a digital SIM built into newer phones — no physical card needed. You activate it instantly via QR code. Great if your phone supports it (iPhone XR+, most newer Android). Fraenk, O2, and Telekom all support eSIM.

Best Phone Plan (Handyvertrag) for Internationals in Germany(2026)

Getting a German phone number is one of the first things you'll need after arriving. Germany has three mobile networks: Telekom (best coverage, premium price), Vodafone (solid middle ground), and O2/Telefónica (cheapest, good in cities).

Comparing:

FFraenk

TTelekom (Deutsche Telekom)

AALDI Talk

OO2 (Telefónica)

4Providers

€9.95to €10/mo

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Quick Guide

How to Choose the Right Phone Plan (Handyvertrag)

Step 1

Check Eligibility

Use the filter above to see which providers accept your nationality and visa type.

Step 2

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Step 3

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Step 4

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Best Phone Plan (Handyvertrag) for Internationals in Germany(2026)

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Fraenk

Telekom (Deutsche Telekom)

ALDI Talk

O2 (Telefónica)

Fraenk

Telekom (Deutsche Telekom)

ALDI Talk

O2 (Telefónica)

12-Month Total Cost

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How to Choose the Right Phone Plan (Handyvertrag)

Check Eligibility

Compare Features

Check Total Cost

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Got Questions?

Best Phone Plan (Handyvertrag) for Internationals in Germany(2026)

Find Your Match

Filter by your situation

Compare Providers

Fraenk

Telekom (Deutsche Telekom)

ALDI Talk

O2 (Telefónica)

Fraenk

Telekom (Deutsche Telekom)

ALDI Talk

O2 (Telefónica)

12-Month Total Cost

Why Trust Our Comparison?

How to Choose the Right Phone Plan (Handyvertrag)

Check Eligibility

Compare Features

Check Total Cost

Sign Up

Got Questions?