We’ll give you three guesses to tell you what the first thing to do after landing in a new country should be. If buying a SIM card is not on your list, you lose. Buying a SIM card in Cambodia as a foreigner is pretty simple, provided you know a few essential things. In this guide, we explain where to buy a SIM card, the documents required, who the best network provider is, and everything else you need answered!
Table of Contents
What Documents Are Required?
To buy a SIM card in Cambodia, you only need a passport. You do not need passport-size photographs or any other documents.
SIM Card Providers
Cambodia’s three main SIM providers are Metfone, Smart, and Cellcard. We observed that they all offer competitive prices, speed, and coverage.
eSIM Cards
All three operators in Cambodia – Metfone, Smart, and Cellcard – offer eSIM cards. If you prefer, you can also purchase SIM cards in advance from companies like Nomad, Airalo, and SimOptions. While prices may be a bit on the higher side, it’s convenient for travelers exploring multiple countries.
How Much Does It Cost?
We’ll discuss and compare the costs of Metfone, Smart, and Cellcard below. In addition to the data, you can send SMS and make free local calls for limited minutes. The prices mentioned are for your reference and are subject to change.
| Metfone (Airport & Online) | 7 Days | 15 GB | 1.5 USD |
| 15 Days | 25 GB | 4 USD | |
| 30 Days | 60 GB | 6 USD |
| Smart (Airport) | 30 Days | 45 GB | 5 USD |
| 60 GB | 8 USD | ||
| 100 GB | 13 USD | ||
| 160 GB | 20 USD | ||
| 200 GB | 25 USD |
| Cellcard (Airport & Online) | 7 Days | 15 GB | 1.5 USD |
| 28 Days | 25 GB | 4 USD | |
| 30 Days | 60 GB | 6 USD | |
| 30 Days | 100 GB | 10 USD |
Which One To Buy?
Smart is hands down the go-to SIM card in Cambodia. While Metfone had some issues around Angkor Wat, Smart was rock solid, even in remote spots and on the islands. The locals swear by it, and so do we! Twins recommend Smart in Cambodia.
Where To Buy The SIM Card?
At The Airport
Phnom Penh International Airport and Siem Reap International Airport have SIM card outlets near the exit gates. In Siem Reap, they’re just outside the airport. Cellfone, Metfone, and Smart have outlets conveniently located nearby.
In Cambodia, SIM card prices remain consistent between the airport and official retail stores, except for Smart. Payment options include US dollars and Cambodian Riel (KHR), although card payments are not accepted; however, staff assistance is available for SIM card activation at both locations.
Official Retail Stores
Official retail stores for Smart and Cellcard are conveniently located throughout Cambodia. You can use the store locator on their websites; for Metfone, a quick Google search will help you find their stores.
While the staff may have limited English proficiency, they will assist you in selecting a plan, inserting your SIM card, and activating it. Purchasing SIM cards from official retail or partner stores after leaving the airport is advisable.
Convenience Stores
A few convenience stores and mini-marts have partnered with companies. They are commonly found in the capital city of Phnom Penh.
- Smart SIM cards can be found at the convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Chip Mong supermarket, Lucky supermarket, and Aeon.
- Cellcard is found in Caltex, 7-Eleven, Chip Mong supermarket, Lucky supermarket, and Aeon.
Buying a SIM card from convenience stores is cheaper than getting one at the airport or official retail stores. However, you’ll need to activate the SIM card by following the instructions. It’s simple and easy to do, though.
Tourist Agencies/ Shop Vendors
SIM cards are widely available from tourist agencies and street vendors across Cambodia. However, prices tend to be higher due to additional service charges.
Purchasing SIM cards from tourist agencies or street vendors in Cambodia is not advisable, as reliability can be an issue. If problems arise or the internet isn’t functioning, you won’t have recourse for complaints or refunds.
Land Border Crossing Immigration Office
Cambodia shares borders with Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand, where locals sell SIM cards at immigration offices. For remote areas, buying from them is convenient. However, it’s best to purchase from official retail stores for city visits.
How To Activate The SIM Card?
You’ll activate the SIM at convenience stores, but staff elsewhere will assist you. Simply follow the instructions on the SIM card’s packaging for quick activation, usually within minutes.
How To Recharge or Top Up?
We think recharging your SIM card from the official retail stores or even online is best. Another quite simple alternative is to download the mobile application and recharge it. The data we had initially was sufficient for our whole trip. We did not need to use the recharge or top-up service.
Self Service Numbers
The self-service numbers come in handy when you cannot connect to the internet. To check the balance,
- Cellcard – dial *1201# and call
- Smart – dial *123# and call
- Metfone – dial *1201# and call
How Is The Internet Speed? Is 5G Available In Cambodia?
Cambodia hasn’t rolled out 5G services yet, but you can enjoy high-speed 4G in the cities. However, connectivity might be patchy in remote areas.
Helpful Tips
- Download your network provider app to check the details of your current plan or if you want to recharge online.
- Generally, the telephone number bought in Laos starts with +855 followed by 9 digits.
- The plug adapter has Type A (2 vertical pins), Type C, and Type G ports for charging your device.
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