Singapore is one of the most technologically advanced countries in Asia. Its telecom infrastructure provides excellent connectivity and supports the latest innovations like eSIM Singapore. But does Singapore have widespread eSIM availability and compatibility yet? Let's explore further.

As a frequent traveler and remote worker, having constant internet access is essential for me. Recently, while planning an extended trip to Singapore, I started researching connectivity options to ensure I stay connected during the visit. In particular, I wanted to understand if getting an eSIM in Singapore would be possible.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM or embedded SIM is a digital SIM integrated into the phone or device itself instead of using a physical nano-SIM card. eSIMs provide the same functionality but are programmable to connect to available cellular networks remotely.

eSIMs offer significant flexibility and convenience benefits over traditional physical SIM cards:

• No need to obtain a separate SIM card in each destination
• Ability to quickly switch between plans and carriers
• Remote provisioning without visiting phone stores

These advantages make eSIM an ideal solution for frequent travelers who need the flexibility of connecting securely..

​Photo by What is an eSIM​
 

ESIM availability in Singapore

After digging into the topic in some detail, I found that Singapore does have widespread eSIM availability from all three of its major telecom providers:

1. Singtel

As Singapore's largest telecom operator, Singtel has offered eSIM compatibility since 2020. Most modern smartphone models, including iPhones and many Android devices, can use Singtel's eSIM service.

You can purchase Singtel's eSIM data plans starting from 1GB for S$10. Their prepaid eSIM for tourists provides data-only connectivity, ideal for short vacations.

2. StarHub

StarHub activated eSIM functionality on its network in 2021. If you have an eSIM compatible device, you can easily get StarHub's eSIM plans with a few taps on their app.

Their eSIM data offerings include both prepaid and postpaid options. For tourists, StarHub provides prepaid eSIMs with LTE data at affordable rates.

3. M1

The third major telco, M1, also launched eSIM support in 2021 across compatible smartphones. Their rollout enables using M1's regular data plans on eSIM for added flexibility.

Tourists can purchase M1's prepaid eSIM packs starting from S$5 for 1GB data up to S$18 for 5GB with 7-day validity.

So all top providers in Singapore now offer prepaid data eSIMs for foreign tourists. The availability is on par with global standards.

How to get eSIM in Singapore

If you have an unlocked phone that supports eSIM, getting mobile data connectivity through an eSIM in Singapore is straightforward:

Step 1: Book a prepaid eSIM pack from Singtel, StarHub, or M1 online portals. You can also buy at stores.

Step 2: Receive the eSIM QR code and installation instructions via email instantly.

Step 3: Scan the QR code using your phone's camera to add the plan profile. Follow activation steps.

Step 4: You're all set! Your eSIM is now active in Singapore, ready for internet access.

And remember - no roaming charges! The eSIM data bucket is for local Singapore use only.

Why choose eSIM for Singapore travel?

Here are the top reasons to get an eSIM for your Singapore visit:

1. Avoid roaming shocks

International roaming can get very expensive quickly without a local data SIM. eSIM data plans provide affordable high-speed data.

2. Enhanced connectivity

You'll get better connectivity with a local eSIM instead of relying on roaming networks.

3. No SIM card logistics

Skip the hassle of finding and inserting physical SIM cards in a new destination.

4. Quick activation

eSIM data packs activate remotely within minutes versus in-store activations.

5. Flexible data usage

Most tourists won't need too much data. eSIM data wallets with 1 - 5GB are perfect for light usage.

6. Uses existing phone number

You can use an eSIM for data while retaining usual connectivity through your home country SIM. No need for temporary Singapore phone numbers.

So in summary - getting and using an eSIM in Singapore offers the best connectivity experience, doing away with roaming hassles. Avoid bill shocks after your trip caused by unintended international mobile data usage.

Does your phone support eSIMs?

However, first, ensure your device is compatible with eSIM functionality before getting an eSIM for Singapore:

• Most iPhones from iPhone XS onwards have eSIM capability.
• Many recent premium Android models also support eSIM. Common examples are flagship Samsung Galaxy phones, Google Pixel series, etc.
• Specific model availability varies across manufacturers. Refer to the device specifications to confirm.

If your smartphone does not explicitly state eSIM compatibility, then unfortunately, you cannot use eSIMs on that phone. Consider getting a compatible device for your next trip!

Wrap Up

I'm happy to have researched and confirmed that getting eSIM for Singapore is quite convenient. All major Singapore telcos offer prepaid tourist eSIMs on par with global standards.

I no longer need to worry about finding and carrying physical SIM cards while visiting Singapore. A quick online purchase of eSIM data is all I need for affordable, uninterrupted connectivity throughout my trip!

Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions on using eSIMs in Singapore or other Asian destinations. I'm glad to help fellow travelers leverage eSIM's flexibility when roaming internationally across this digitally progressing region.