Jorge Newbery Airport, located in Buenos Aires, is the main international airport in Argentina. As an international travel hub, many visitors pass through Jorge Newbery Airport each year. Having access to mobile data during your trip can be invaluable for maps, translations, and communication.
For short-term travelers, getting a local SIM card for your unlocked phone is usually the most affordable and convenient option. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about buying a SIM card at Jorge Newbery Airport.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Jorge Newbery Airport
There are several options for purchasing a SIM card at Jorge Newbery Airport upon arrival:
1. Kiosks in the Arrivals Area
- After passing through immigration and customs, there are a few small kiosks located in the arrivals area that sell SIM cards from major providers like Claro, Movistar, and Personal.
- Prices and plan options will vary between providers. Many kiosks will have staff that speak English and can help you choose the right plan.
- This is often the fastest and most convenient option if you need connectivity right after landing.
2. Shops on the Departures Level
- On the upper departures level of Jorge Newbery Airport, you’ll find some larger shops that also sell SIM cards, like MP Digital Shop.
- Shop around for the best deals on SIM cards and top-up credits. Many also sell unlocked phones and other electronics.
- Large retailers may have better SIM card deals than the smaller kiosks downstairs.
3. City Center Locations
- If you don’t need a SIM immediately after landing, you can also buy one once you reach central Buenos Aires.
- Large providers like Claro, Movistar, and Personal have shops located within the city.
- Prices may be better downtown, but you’ll need to factor in the time and transportation required.
Overall, buying a SIM card at the airport kiosks is the simplest option for most travelers arriving at Jorge Newbery. Be sure to compare plans and prices from different providers to get the best deal.
II. SIM Card at Jorge Newbery Airport – Options and Costs
There are three major mobile networks in Argentina to choose from when buying a SIM card at Jorge Newbery Airport: Claro, Movistar, and Personal. Here is an overview of what each provider offers:
| Operator | Availability | Data Rates | Data Packages | Notes |
| Claro | Available from Claro stores and many shops/kiosks. Can also register online with passport. | Default data is 50MB for $20 for 0-24 hours. | Various daily, weekly and monthly packages from 1GB for 3 days ($120) to 6GB for 30 days ($700). | Good nationwide coverage including 4G/LTE. Offers international roaming packs. |
| Movistar | Available from Movistar stores and many shops/kiosks. Tourist SIM can register online with passport. | $20 daily "flat" for 50MB, then $0.18/MB. | Packages from 200MB for 1 day ($45) to 5GB for 30 days ($660). Also "Arma tu Pack" flexible plans. | Widest 4G coverage. Special plans for tourists. International roaming available. |
| Personal | Available from Personal stores and shops. Need to visit store to activate foreign SIM. | Default is $27/day for 50MB, then $27 for each 50MB block. | Packages from 1GB for 1 day ($80) to 2GB for 7 days ($240). | Best coverage overall according to OpenSignal but fewer plan options. |
When comparing options, be sure to ask about each provider’s coverage in your destination region and current prepaid promotions.
Find out which mobile operator has the best coverage in Buenos Aires and where to buy a SIM card easily in our comprehensive guide: How To Buy A SIM Card In Buenos Aires: Tips from locals
III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Jorge Newbery Airport
Before buying your SIM card at Jorge Newbery Airport, there are a few things you’ll need to prepare:
1. Unlocked Phone
- Your smartphone must be unlocked to accept a foreign SIM card. Contact your home provider in advance to request an unlock.
- Try inserting the new SIM to test it is unlocked before leaving your home country.
2. Passport or Travel ID
- When purchasing a SIM in Argentina, you’ll need to show your passport as identification.
- Make sure your passport is easily accessible when you arrive at the airport.
3. Know Your Data Needs
- Consider how much mobile data you’ll need during your trip for GPS, internet access, calls, etc.
- Opt for a plan with enough data and minutes for your travel timeframe. Most providers offer top-up options.
4. SIM Card-Compatible Phone
- Standard-size SIM cards will fit most modern smartphone models.
- Some phones use smaller nano or micro SIMs – the retailer can provide adapters or cut down the SIM if needed.
5. Power Adapter
- You may need a plug adapter to charge your phone in Argentina. The standard voltage is 220V with a Type C or Type I plug.
IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Jorge Newbery Airport
While physical SIM cards are still the norm, eSIM technology is emerging as a digital alternative. Here’s what to know about eSIM for your trip:
1. What is eSIM?
- eSIM allows you to securely download a mobile plan digitally, without needing to insert a plastic SIM card.
- eSIM profiles are scanned by your phone and work the same as regular SIM cards.
2. eSIM Benefits
- With eSIM, you can pre-purchase a data plan before departure and activate it on landing.
- Switching between eSIM profiles is easy for frequent travelers.
- eSIM saves you from having to find and purchase SIM cards in each country.
While eSIM usage is increasing worldwide, visiting a provider kiosk for a physical SIM card is still the simpler option for most travelers arriving at Jorge Newbery Airport today. But eSIM can be a convenient future alternative as the technology progresses.
Consider using eSIM from top Argentina eSIM provider – argentinaesim.com which provides diverse eSIM plans for any traveling goals.
Find the best options for your trip below:
Plan that may interest you
V. FAQs About Buying a SIM at Jorge Newbery Airport
Do I need to register my SIM card at Jorge Newbery Airport?
Most Argentinian prepaid SIM cards just require showing your passport, without further registration needed. Some providers may request minimal account details.
Can I use mobile data immediately after activating my SIM?
Yes, you can start using mobile data right after inserting and activating the SIM, by purchasing a top-up/recharge credit.
How long does the SIM card credit last?
The initial and top-up credit expiry will vary by provider but is typically valid for a set number of days from activation. Unused data/minutes will roll over with additional recharges.
Are there SIM card scams to watch out for?
Only purchase SIM cards from authorized airport kiosks or mobile provider stores in Buenos Aires to avoid scams. Beware of street vendors selling SIM cards.
Can I use my SIM card in other South American countries?
Argentinian SIM cards will not work abroad. You’ll need to purchase a local SIM card in each country you visit.
VI. Conclusion
In summary, purchasing a local Argentina SIM card at Jorge Newbery Airport for your unlocked phone is the most convenient and cost-effective option for short-term travelers arriving in Buenos Aires. Major providers like Claro, Movistar, and Personal operate sales kiosks in the airport arrival halls, offering prepaid plans that can be topped up as needed during your stay.
Be sure to compare packages and prices from different providers. Look for a plan that suits your intended mobile data usage and length of visit. With an unlocked smartphone, passport, and adapter plug, you’ll be all set to stay connected across Argentina with a new SIM card immediately after landing at Jorge Newbery Airport.
