Mobile Phones
Mobile Phone Use for Tourists in Medellín
Visiting Medellín? Ensuring that your phone works properly is an important part of staying connected while you’re traveling. Here’s everything you need to know about using your phone in Medellín, whether you’re considering using your American service plan, getting a local SIM card, or exploring eSIM options.
Will My Phone Work in Medellín?
Most modern smartphones will work in Medellín, provided they are unlocked and compatible with the local network frequencies. Colombia’s networks primarily operate on GSM technology, so if your phone supports GSM and is unlocked, you shouldn’t face any major issues. Most smartphones from the U.S., Europe, and Asia meet these requirements.
Check if your phone supports the following frequencies to ensure optimal functionality in Colombia:
- 3G: 850 MHz, 1900 MHz
- 4G/LTE: Bands 4 (1700 MHz), 7 (2600 MHz)
If your phone is locked to a specific carrier, you will need to unlock it before you can use a local SIM card.
Will My American Service Plan Work in Medellín?
Yes, your American service plan can work in Medellín, but this often comes with higher roaming charges, depending on your carrier. Many U.S. providers such as AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and Sprint offer international roaming plans that allow you to use your phone abroad. However, it’s important to check the costs associated with using data, making calls, and sending texts while in Colombia, as charges can quickly add up.
Some U.S. carriers, like T-Mobile, offer free or low-cost international data and texting as part of their regular plans, but others may require you to pay extra or purchase a specific international plan. Before traveling, contact your carrier to find out what’s included in your plan and whether it's cost-effective to use your American plan in Colombia.
Should I Get a Local SIM Card?
For many travelers, purchasing a local SIM card in Medellín is the most affordable and convenient option. With a local SIM card, you’ll get access to Colombia’s mobile networks at local rates, avoiding expensive international roaming fees.
Options for Local SIM Cards
The three major mobile providers in Colombia are:
- Claro: The largest provider in the country, known for having the widest coverage, especially in rural areas.
- Tigo: Another popular provider, often praised for its speed and network reliability in urban areas like Medellín.
- Movistar: Provides competitive data packages and solid coverage across major cities.
You can purchase a prepaid SIM card (called "SIM prepago") from convenience stores, shopping malls, or directly from the carrier’s stores. Setting up a SIM card is typically quick and easy. You'll need your passport to purchase one.
Is it difficult to get one? Getting a local SIM card is generally not difficult. After purchasing the SIM, you may need to ask the store to help with activating it and setting up the necessary data package. You can top up your SIM card at many stores or online, depending on the carrier you choose.
Local Data Packages Prices for prepaid data plans are affordable, with plans starting as low as $5-10 USD for 1-2 GB of data, depending on the provider.
How About eSIM Options?
If your phone supports eSIM (embedded SIM technology), this can be a great alternative to a physical SIM card. eSIM allows you to download a local data plan to your phone without changing out physical SIM cards.
Several eSIM providers offer plans for Colombia, including:
- Airalo
- Holafly
- Nomad
eSIM plans can be purchased online before your trip, or once you’re already in Medellín. These plans are typically easy to activate, and you can switch between your home SIM and eSIM as needed. Be sure to check the data packages offered by each eSIM provider to find the one that fits your needs.
Colombia’s Blacklisting System for Phones
Colombia has a policy that blacklists phones that are not registered with the government to combat phone theft. If you're staying in the country long-term (more than a few months), it's important to register your phone with a mobile carrier to avoid being blacklisted.
Will my phone get blacklisted during a short-term stay? For short-term visitors (staying less than 90 days), the chance of your phone being blacklisted is low. However, if you plan to stay in Colombia for an extended period, you’ll need to register your phone with a local carrier. If your phone is blacklisted, you won’t be able to use it on any Colombian networks.
How to Register Your Phone If your phone does get blacklisted or if you're staying long term, you can go to one of the major carrier stores (Claro, Tigo, Movistar) to register your device. You’ll need your phone, your ID (passport or Cédula de Extranjería), and proof of purchase for the phone in some cases. The carrier will then register your device, allowing it to function normally on local networks.
Conclusion
Using your phone in Medellín is relatively straightforward if you plan ahead. Your U.S. plan might work, but it could be costly due to roaming charges. For the best rates, consider purchasing a local SIM card from Claro, Tigo, or Movistar, or opt for an eSIM if your phone supports it. Keep in mind Colombia’s phone blacklisting system, though short-term tourists are unlikely to encounter issues. By staying informed, you can easily stay connected throughout your visit to Medellín.