Germany eSIM: Prepaid 5G Data Plans

There is one worth trying. nora is the official emergency app of the German federal states. It sends your location to the control centre and lets you reach police, fire or ambulance without speaking, and even a slow EDGE connection is enough. The app is in German and English. You register with a mobile number verified by SMS, and the official site does not say whether foreign numbers are accepted, so try it before you travel. Calling 112 always works.

Don't assume it does. The EU's roam-like-at-home rules cover EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway, so neighbours like Austria, France and the Netherlands are included, but Switzerland is not. If you plan to visit Basel, Zurich or the Swiss shore of Lake Constance, check that your data plan lists Switzerland, or turn off data roaming until you are back in Germany.

Yes. Munich Airport offers a free network called "Free Wifi - Munich Airport". Select it, enter an email address and accept the terms, and you're online. It's a handy backup if you still need to finish setting up your eSIM, download offline maps or message your hotel before heading into the city.

Yes. Install your eSIM before departure; once you land, simply enable data roaming to connect instantly at the airport.

Most iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, and Google Pixel 3 and later support eSIM. You can check in your device’s Settings.

For most plans, validity starts from the first time your eSIM connects to a network at your destination. You can safely install it at home before flying. Exact details for each plan are clearly stated on its product page.

Most plans allow topping up data or extending validity: supported plans are clearly marked on the plan card and on the product page. You can also purchase a new plan anytime; the QR code is emailed to you within minutes.

eSIM plans for Germany connect via O2 (Telefónica), Vodafone. Your device automatically selects the strongest local network; 5G is available where supported by the carrier, otherwise 4G/LTE applies. The specific carrier for each plan is listed on its detail page.

High-speed data is prioritized; after your daily allowance is used, speeds are reduced but remain sufficient for messaging, maps, and social media. You’ll never lose connectivity.

This data eSIM doesn’t include a phone number. You can still make calls and send messages normally using apps like WhatsApp, iMessage, Messenger.