How to Get a French SIM Card and Phone Plan as an Expat
Moving to France? One of the first things you’ll need is a French SIM card so you can stay connected, make calls, and use mobile data without crazy roaming fees. But with so many options—from prepaid SIMs to long-term contracts—it can be confusing to figure out which phone plan is best for you.
No worries! We’re breaking down everything you need to know about getting a SIM card and mobile plan in France as an expat.
📱 Option 1: Prepaid SIM Cards (Best for Short-Term Stays)
If you just arrived in France or need a quick and easy phone solution, a prepaid SIM card (carte prépayée) is the best choice.
🔹 How it works:
✔️ Buy a SIM card (costs €5-€15)
✔️ Add credit or a prepaid data package
✔️ No contract, no bank account required
🔹 Where to buy?
✔️ Phone stores (Orange, SFR, Bouygues, Free)
✔️ Supermarkets (Carrefour, Auchan)
✔️ Tabacs (tobacco shops)
✔️ Online
🔹 Best prepaid SIM options:
✔️ Orange Holiday – Great for travelers (unlimited calls + 20GB data)
✔️ Lebara & Lycamobile – Budget-friendly, perfect for international calls
✔️ SFR La Carte – Decent data packages, widely available
📝 Best for: Expats on a short visit or waiting to open a French bank account.
📞 Option 2: No-Contract Monthly Plans (Best for Expats & Newcomers)
Want a better deal without a long-term commitment? Many French carriers offer no-contract (sans engagement) mobile plans, which you can cancel anytime.
🔹 Benefits of no-contract plans:
✔️ Cheap (plans start at €5-€20/month)
✔️ No French bank account needed (some accept foreign cards)
✔️ Easy to switch if you find a better deal
🔹 Best no-contract mobile plans:
✔️ Free Mobile – €9.99/month (100GB data + calls in France & abroad)
✔️ RED by SFR – €10/month (40GB data + calls)
✔️ Bouygues B&You – €15.99/month (100GB + 5G option)
📝 Best for: Expats staying for a few months to a year who want flexibility.
📋 Option 3: Contract Plans (Best for Long-Term Expats & Families)
If you’re planning to stay in France long-term, a contract phone plan (forfait avec engagement) might be worth it. These often include cheaper phones and better deals on data & international calls.
🔹 What you need to sign up:
✔️ A French bank account (for monthly payments)
✔️ A proof of address (rental contract or utility bill)
✔️ A French ID or residence permit
🔹 Best contract plans:
✔️ Orange – Starts at €19.99/month (good network, international options)
✔️ SFR – From €15.99/month (decent service, competitive prices)
✔️ Bouygues – From €12.99/month (affordable + good 5G options)
📝 Best for: Expats who need a new phone, want a family plan, or plan to stay in France for several years.
🔄 How to Keep Your Current Phone Number (RIB Code)
Want to keep your French number when switching providers? Here’s how:
1️⃣ Dial 3179 from your current phone
2️⃣ You’ll receive a RIB (Relevé d’Identité Opérateur) code via SMS
3️⃣ Give this code to your new provider
4️⃣ Your number will be transferred automatically 🎉
📝 Tip: Switching plans in France is super easy, and most providers handle the process for you!
✈️ What About Roaming & International Calls?
If you travel often or need to call home, check if your plan includes:
✔️ EU Roaming – Most French plans work across the EU at no extra cost
✔️ International Calls – Some providers (like Free Mobile) include calls to the US, UK, and Canada
✔️ WhatsApp & WiFi Calling – A great free alternative to international calls
🚀 Need Help Getting a SIM Card in France?
At Le Petit Guide, we help expats get set up in France without the stress.
✅ We recommend the best mobile plan based on your needs
✅ We assist with setting up a French bank account (for contract plans)
✅ We help you switch providers if needed