A2English
Getting a Phone / SIM Card
Use these phrases when you want to buy a mobile phone plan or SIM card in a new country.
Key Phrases
Voice
Asking for a SIM · 3 ways to say it
I need a prepaid SIM card, please.
politeUS
I need a pay-as-you-go SIM, please.
politeUK
Do you sell SIM cards here?
neutralAsking about data · 2 ways to say it
How much data does this plan have?
neutralI need a plan with unlimited data.
casualAsking about price
How much does it cost for thirty days?
neutralProviding ID · 2 ways to say it
Do you need to see my passport for this?
politeHere is my ID.
casualHand the ID to the staff when you say this
Adding money · 2 ways to say it
How do I add more money to this?
neutralUS
How do I top up this SIM?
neutralUK
Asking about coverage
Is the signal strong outside the city?
neutralAsking for setup help
Can you put the SIM in my phone?
casualPractice Dialogue
Traveler
Hi, I need a prepaid SIM card, please.
Staff
Sure. How much data are you going to use?
Traveler
I will use the internet a lot.
Staff
Okay. We have an unlimited plan for thirty dollars.
Traveler
That sounds perfect. Do you need my passport?
Staff
Yes, please. I will also need your phone.
Traveler
Here you go. Can you set it up for me?
Staff
Of course. It will only take a minute.