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Last Update: 14 September 2024

1. Vodafone SIM Card and eSIM: Phoning and Data in Germany

The free Vodafone SIM Card grants you access to the mobile provider’s prepaid services in Germany. Customers can choose between traditional SIM cards and digital eSIMs. The latter option eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, facilitating a more straightforward setup process and instant activation. Vodafone’s prepaid users can access 4G LTE and the latest 5G networks.
Vodafone has dedicated offers for those who prefer to make frequent phone calls or consume substantial amounts of data. Our review describes all available pay-as-you-go and monthly data plans. We also investigate international use, SIM activation, recharge processes, and customer service.

2. Overview: All Vodafone Prepaid SIM Card Plans

Vodafone’s prepaid cards are marketed under the brand “Vodafone CallYa “. The Vodafone prepaid SIM is entirely free. It is sent to you either by post or as an eSIM. When selecting the eSIM option, you receive a code to install the eSIM on your device. Then, you can be online within a few minutes without leaving home.

For all prepaid cards, you can either select the pay-as-you-go option without monthly base fees or a data plan renewed every four weeks. You can easily switch between the various plans or terminate your subscription anytime. Vodafone offers six different prepaid plans.

  • CallYa Classic does not have a monthly base fee. You can use data for 3 cents per MB. Domestic calls cost 9 cents per minute or text.
  • CallYa Start includes 1 GB LTE or 5G data, unlimited calls or texts to Vodafone numbers in Germany, and 200 minutes or texts to other numbers in Germany and the EU.
  • CallYa Allnet Flat S includes 10 GB LTE or 5G data and unlimited minutes and texts to mobile and landline numbers within Germany. Moreover, you have 200 minutes or text messages per 4 weeks of international calls from Germany to the EU.
  • CallYa Allnet Flat M includes 20 GB of high-speed data, unlimited domestic calls or texts, and 500 minutes or text messages from Germany to the EU.
  • CallYa Digital is only available online. The first payment has to be made by direct debit (SEPA) from a local bank account. The plan includes 30 GB of high-speed volume and unlimited phone and text messages within Germany.
  • CallYa Black is the Unlimited Data option. You can use as much data in Vodafone’s LTE and 5G network as you require. Moreover, there are unlimited domestic calls or text messages, and 500 minutes of text messages from Germany to the EU.
  • CallYa Yearly (“Jahrestarif”) is the yearly plan. You can use 120 GB of high-speed data and 2,400 minutes or text messages from Germany to EU countries flexibly for 365 days. Furthermore, there is a flat rate of phoning and texting in Germany.

3. Details: Vodafone’s German SIM Card with Unlimited Data and 5G

For users with high data consumption, Vodafone’s German SIM card plan “CallYa Black” features unlimited data and access to the 5G network. It is an attractive, flexible option without committing to a long-term contract. This plan caters to the demands of streaming enthusiasts, gamers, and professionals who require a reliable, high-speed internet connection for their daily activities. Vodafone’s 5G network can download up to 300 MBit/s and upload up to 100 MBit/s.

Furthermore, the Vodafone CallYa Black plan includes unlimited minutes and texts to all German networks. It particularly contains 500 monthly minutes or texts from Germany to other EU countries.

Vodafone’s unlimited plan features flat rates for phone and texting when roaming within the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and the UK. For data, the monthly data limit is capped according to the EU Fair Use Policy.

4. International Phoning, Texting, and EU Roaming

Vodafone’s prepaid SIM card options in Germany extend beyond national borders, offering additional benefits for international calling, texting, and EU roaming.

You can easily stay connected with friends and family abroad. Vodafone is probably the only German provider that offers up to 500 complimentary minutes or texts per month from Germany to the EU with its prepaid packages.

Moreover, with EU roaming included in all prepaid plans, users can roam freely within the European Union, using their allotted calls, texts, and data just as they would at home. This recognizes the importance of seamless connectivity for travelers and expatriates. Whether in the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or the UK, you can easily phone back to Germany or perform local calls in your current location with your booked flat rate.

5. Opting for a Vodafone Prepaid eSIM Card

Vodafone is the only one of Germany’s large network providers offering immediate, simple access to prepaid eSIMs. After selecting the plan, you can easily choose the eSIM option instead of a physical card in the shopping cart. Upon finishing the order, you receive a QR Code by e-mail. After scanning it with your smartphone, the plan is already set up.

The Vodafone prepaid eSIM card presents a modern and efficient way to connect your mobile device in Germany. eSIM allows instant activation and easier management of your mobile services because it eliminates the need for physical SIM cards. This option is perfect for those who seek a quick setup and wish to start using their phone immediately without visiting a store or waiting for SIM card delivery. With a Vodafone eSIM, customers enjoy the same wide range of plans and features as traditional SIM card users, including access to Vodafone’s 4G LTE and 5G networks.

By opting for a prepaid eSIM card, you not only contribute to reducing environmental impact but can also manage multiple carriers simultaneously.

6. How to get a Free SIM Card with Vodafone

All Vodafone prepaid SIM cards are provided free of charge. You can select between a free eSIM or a physical free Vodafone SIM card. You then top up the card with the desired amount and choose between the pay-as-you-go or package options. 

The easiest way is to get your free Vodafone SIM card online. The eSIM is sent to you by e-mail immediately after you finish the purchase. If you prefer a physical SIM, it is mailed to your German address free of charge within a few days. Alternatively, you can also visit a local Vodafone store during opening hours.

The absence of any upfront costs or contractual obligations with the free SIM card offer makes it a risk-free way to try Vodafone’s network quality and service.

vodafone-esim-selection
SIM and eSIM selection on Vodafone website (Source: vodafone.de)

7.  Activating Your Vodafone Prepaid SIM Card or eSIM

Since 2017, Germany has introduced an identification process for prepaid SIM cards. It shall prevent misuse and fraud. This process is streamlined and quick. You only require a German address (it can also be temporary) and your ID or passport. The process with Vodafone looks like this:

  1. Select your SIM card and plan on the Vodafone website.
  2. Choose between the eSIM or SIM card option.
  3. Enter your personal details and a German address.
  4. Select your method of identification. There are three options.
    1. Video Chat: You will perform a video call to verify your identity using your ID or passport.
    2. eID: This option is only available with an electronic German ID card or residence permit.
    3. Post Office: You can visit a post office to confirm your identity. Remember to bring an ID or passport.
  5. Click the confirmation button to finalize the purchase.
  6. Perform the identification according to your selected method.
  7. You immediately receive your eSIM in the form of a QR code. A physical SIM is shipped by mail within a few days. Install it on your phone, and you’re good to go!
Choose your free Vodafone SIM card!

8. How to Recharge Your Prepaid Credit

Recharging your Vodafone prepaid credit in Germany is convenient, with multiple options available:

  • Online through the Vodafone website or the mobile app by Google Pay, PayPal, direct transfer (“Sofortüberweisung”), Visa, or MasterCard
  • Top-up cards “CallNow” purchased at numerous retail outlets across the country contain a voucher code that you can redeem via phone
  • Perform a traditional bank transfer (SEPA) to a dedicated Vodafone bank account
  • Send credit from other Vodafone prepaid or postpaid numbers
  • Use an ATM, enter your bank card, and select the option for mobile top-ups

This flexibility ensures you can top up your balance from anywhere in the world. Except for bank transfers, most options allow immediate credit to your account. Vodafone also offers automatic recharge options (Komfort Aufladung), where customers can set up their accounts for regular top-ups using a credit card or bank transfer.

Furthermore, Vodafone credit does not expire. However, if you do not use your card for 90 days in a row, Vodafone might cancel your prepaid contract. You can object to the decision to continue using your prepaid SIM card or decide to disburse the remaining credit to your bank account.

9. Vodafone Network Quality

Vodafone’s network quality in Germany is just a little behind Telekom’s leading network, boasting widespread coverage in urban and rural areas. It has a solid infrastructure supporting both 4G LTE and the advanced 5G network. According to the German surveillance authority “Bundesnetzagentur” data from July 2023, Vodafone’s 4G network reaches 90.7% of German territory. 5G coverage is at 65.3%. Visit the Vodafone website to see the map of network coverage. Vodafone currently invests continuously in network enhancement and expansion, mainly focusing on its 5G network. This will offer faster data speeds and reduced latency.

10. Vodafone Customer Support in Germany

With multiple channels available, including phone lines, e-mail, and physical stores, customers can easily access help whenever they encounter issues or have questions about Vodafone’s services. The only official language of customer care is German. However, you might be lucky to encounter staff speaking English at stores or on service hotlines.

11. Alternative Carriers and Networks: Deutsche Telekom and o2

Alternative carriers with their own networks are Deutsche Telekom and o2. Deutsche Telekom is renowned for its robust network infrastructure, steadily winning prizes for the best mobile network. It especially appeals to users seeking reliability and top-tier connectivity. o2 offers more competitive pricing and flexible plans and attracts budget-conscious customers. Each carrier offers a range of SIM card and eSIM solutions, catering to different device compatibility and user preferences. However, Telekom and o2 do not allow ordering prepaid SIM cards directly online. First, You must request a physical SIM card and exchange it for an eSIM by contacting customer care.

In general, all carriers offer a variety of prepaid SIM card plans designed to accommodate different user requirements without the commitment of a long-term contract. These plans range from basic options, perfect for users primarily focusing on calling and texting, to more comprehensive packages with generous data allowances suitable for heavy internet users. By selecting a plan that aligns with your usage patterns, you can enjoy uninterrupted access to the internet, social media, and streaming services. The extension of all 5G networks significantly enhances the mobile experience, offering faster download and upload speeds, reduced latency, and improved network reliability.

Get your free Vodafone SIM card!

Banner image source: www.freepik.com

Disclaimer:

The information in this post is non-binding and for informational purposes only. It is not a complete market overview. We do not take responsibility for the accuracy and up-to-dateness of the data. Please re-check the final conditions and prices on the providers’ websites (§18 ZKG).

Some of the links in this article are promotional links. We gain a commission if you purchase an item or open an account following this link. It helps us keep this site running and does not come at any cost to you.

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