SIM Cards & Phone Registration: How to Stay Connected in Medellín

✅ SIM Card Setup: Quick Checklist

1. Buy a SIM Card: Purchase one from the airport or a convenience store for around COP 10,000 ($2 USD).

2. Choose a Plan: Opt for a one-month data plan for about COP 40,000 ($10 USD).

3. Register Your Phone: If you’re staying longer than a month, don’t forget to register your phone with the local provider using your passport.

🚨 Why Phone Registration Matters

Colombian law regarding phone registration is primarily a security measure aimed at reducing phone theft and black-market devices. Unregistered phones will be blocked after 30 days, which means you won’t be able to access mobile networks for calls, texts, or data. Registering your phone ensures that you stay connected and can continue to use local networks.

Read more below to find out how to do this.

Getting a SIM Card in Medellín

One of the first things you’ll want to do after landing in Medellín is grab a local SIM card. The three main mobile providers in Colombia are Claro, Tigo, and Movistar. Each of these providers offers reliable service, and you can easily find SIM cards for sale in the airport, at local malls, or in convenience stores.

Costs & Plans:

💸 SIM Card Cost: A SIM card will typically set you back around COP 10,000 (about $2 USD), making it an affordable investment to stay connected.

🛜 Data Plans: For a basic one-month plan, expect to pay around COP 40,000 (approximately $10 USD). This will usually give you a solid amount of data, plus calls and texts, which should be more than enough for general use like Google Maps, messaging, and social media.

Pro Tip: Most mobile providers offer different package options that include a mix of calls, texts, and data. If you’re planning to make a lot of local calls, make sure you check the details of each package. Claro tends to have better coverage in rural areas, while Tigo and Movistar are competitive in urban zones like Medellín.

How to Register Your Phone (Staying More Than a Month) – MUST DO 🚨

If you’re staying in Medellín for longer than 30 days, Colombian law requires that you register your phone with the government. If you don’t, your phone will be blocked from accessing local networks, leaving you stranded without service. This rule is part of Colombia’s efforts to reduce phone theft and black-market devices.

Registering your phone is a straightforward process, but it can catch people off guard if they don’t know about it beforehand. Here’s how to get it done:

📲 Visit Your Mobile Provider’s Store: You’ll need to go to the official store of the mobile provider you bought your SIM card from (Claro, Tigo, or Movistar). This ensures they register your phone properly with the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number.

🛂 Bring Your Passport: You’ll need to provide your passport for the registration process. The staff will handle the paperwork and link your phone to the local network, so it’s officially registered for use in Colombia.

✅ Complete the Registration: Once your phone is registered, you’re good to go. It’s a simple process that usually takes about 15-20 minutes at the store.

Pro Tip: Keep an Eye on Your Data Usage

While Colombian data plans are affordable, they often come with limits. If you’re using your phone for navigation, video streaming, or work, it’s easy to burn through data faster than you’d expect. Here’s how to stay on top of your usage:

🗺️ Download Apps for Offline Use: Download Google Maps offline or set up playlists on Spotify to avoid using too much data on the go.

🪫 Track Your Usage: Most Colombian providers have apps that allow you to monitor your data usage. Claro, Tigo, and Movistar all offer easy-to-use apps where you can check how much data you have left.

💰 Top Up as Needed: If you run out of data, topping up is simple. You can buy data add-ons at local kiosks or even through the provider’s app.

Pro Tip: If you plan to use your phone primarily for internet and messaging, you might want to opt for a data-only plan, which could give you more bang for your buck.

Which Provider Should You Choose?

Each of the three main providers—Claro, Tigo, and Movistar—has its pros and cons. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you choose:

– Claro: Known for having the best coverage across Colombia, especially in more rural or remote areas. This is a good option if you plan to explore outside Medellín or visit smaller towns.

– Tigo: Popular among digital nomads and expats, Tigo offers competitive pricing and solid coverage within urban areas like Medellín. It’s a great option if you’re mostly staying within the city limits.

– Movistar: Another solid option for city dwellers, Movistar is known for having good data plans at reasonable prices. If you’re sticking to Medellín, you won’t have any issues with Movistar’s coverage.

Final Thoughts: Staying Connected in Medellín

Staying connected in Medellín is easy and affordable as long as you know the basics of getting a SIM card and registering your phone. Whether you’re here for a quick visit or planning an extended stay, making sure you follow these steps will keep you online, reachable, and ready to enjoy everything Medellín has to offer.

With a little planning and a quick trip to your local mobile provider, you’ll be set up and connected in no time. Stay aware of your phone’s data usage, register if you’re staying longer than a month, and enjoy your time in this amazing city!