Mobile Phone & Internet in Germany — SIM Card and Contract

Mobile Phone — Prepaid or Contract?

Prepaid (no contract binding)

• No SCHUFA check — ideal for newcomers
• Buy SIM card in supermarkets, drugstores or online
• Top up balance, no monthly commitment
• Providers: Aldi Talk, Lidl Connect, Congstar Prepaid, Lebara, Lycamobile
• Costs: from approx. €7–10/month (3–5 GB data + unlimited calls)

Contract (24-month term)

• Better conditions, latest smartphone possible
• SCHUFA check and German bank account required
• Providers: Telekom, Vodafone, O2, 1&1
• Costs: from approx. €15–30/month (10–30 GB data + unlimited calls)

Activate SIM Card

Since 2017, every SIM card in Germany must be activated via identity verification:
- Video-Ident (smartphone camera + ID document)
- In a shop with your ID

Internet for Your Apartment (WLAN)

DSL / Cable / Fiber Optic

• Minimum contract term: usually 24 months
• Providers: Telekom, Vodafone, O2, 1&1
• Tip: Ask your previous tenant or landlord which connection is available

Without Contract

• Congstar Homespot, O2 Homespot — Internet via mobile network, no technician appointment
• Ideal as a temporary solution

Tips for Foreigners

• Start with Prepaid — no risk, immediately usable
• Lebara and Lycamobile offer cheap international rates (calls to your home country)
• Sign internet contract only after finding permanent housing

Status: March 2026. All information without guarantee.