Expat Essentials

Compare Dutch Mobile Providers

You will need a Dutch phone number (+31) for almost everything: opening a bank account, DigiD registration, and signing a rental contract.

Clicking a provider will take you securely to their official website.

TOP CHOICE

Lebara

From € 5.00 /mo

The most popular choice for expats and international students. Extremely affordable, runs on the premium KPN network, and offers flexible 1-month contracts.

  • Flexible 1-month contracts
  • Free calling to 44 countries
  • Uses the KPN network (best in NL)
  • English customer service
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Odido

From € 14.00 /mo

Formerly T-Mobile Netherlands. Odido offers premium unlimited data plans and great combo discounts if you also get home internet with them.

  • Unlimited data options
  • 5G network included
  • Customer discount combos
  • eSIM available immediately
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KPN

From € 15.00 /mo

The national telecom provider of the Netherlands. They offer the most reliable network coverage, especially outside of the major cities.

  • Voted best mobile network
  • Premium customer support
  • Great family plans
  • High-speed 5G
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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a BSN or Dutch bank account to get a SIM card?

For a long-term contract (1 or 2 years), you usually need a Dutch bank account (iDEAL) and sometimes a BSN. However, providers like Lebara offer prepaid or flexible 1-month SIM-only plans that you can often buy with an international credit card or PayPal before you even arrive.

Can I keep my WhatsApp number?

Yes! When you put a Dutch SIM card in your phone, WhatsApp will ask if you want to update your phone number. You can choose to keep your old number for WhatsApp while using the Dutch SIM for data and local calls.