If you’re planning a trip to Armenia or simply looking for a convenient and budget-friendly way to stay connected, prepaid SIM cards are your best bet. Armenia offers excellent mobile network coverage, competitive prices, and user-friendly services through several major telecom providers. Whether you’re in Yerevan or exploring the scenic countryside, you can easily pick up a prepaid SIM card and enjoy affordable calls, texts, and mobile internet.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about prepaid SIM cards in Armenia: the top providers, prices, data plans, where to buy, and some tips for getting connected smoothly.
Major Telecom Providers in Armenia
Armenia has three main mobile network operators that offer prepaid SIM card services:
1. Viva-MTS (ՄՏՍ Արմենիա)
Viva-MTS is the largest and most popular mobile network provider in Armenia. It has widespread coverage, including rural areas and mountainous regions.
- Network: 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE
- Coverage: Excellent throughout the country
- SIM Cost: Around 1,000 AMD (~$2.50), sometimes free with a plan
- Top-up Options: Via app, website, kiosks, and mobile stores
Popular Prepaid Packages:
- Y: 1,500 AMD (~$3.75) for 6 GB data, 150 minutes, and unlimited on-net calls, valid for 30 days
- Level Up 1500: Offers 7 GB, 200 minutes to all Armenian networks, and social media access
2. Ucom
Ucom is known for offering good value and generous data plans. The coverage is strong in urban and semi-urban areas.
- Network: 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE
- Coverage: Great in cities; decent in rural areas
- SIM Cost: Around 1,000 AMD (~$2.50)
- Top-up Options: Ucom app, kiosks, online, physical stores
Popular Prepaid Packages:
- U!3000: 20 GB data + 300 minutes to all Armenian networks + 300 SMS for 3,000 AMD (~$7.50)
- U!2000: 10 GB + 200 minutes for 2,000 AMD (~$5)
Ucom also offers tourist-friendly SIM packages with higher data bundles and short-term validity.
3. Team Telecom Armenia (formerly Beeline)
Team Telecom is a rebranded version of the old Beeline Armenia, offering competitive pricing and good urban coverage.
- Network: 2G, 3G, 4G/LTE
- Coverage: Good in cities; spotty in remote areas
- SIM Cost: Around 1,000 AMD
- Top-up Options: App, online banking, stores, and kiosks
Popular Prepaid Packages:
- Smart 1500: 15 GB + 200 mins + unlimited Team-to-Team calls for 1,500 AMD (~$3.75)
- Smart 2500: 30 GB + 300 mins for 2,500 AMD (~$6.25)
Where to Buy a Prepaid SIM in Armenia
Buying a SIM card in Armenia is simple. You can purchase one at:
- Official stores of Viva-MTS, Ucom, or Team Telecom
- Yerevan Zvartnots International Airport (Viva-MTS and Ucom kiosks available)
- Shopping malls or mobile phone shops
- Supermarkets and convenience stores
Important: You’ll need to show a valid passport for registration due to Armenia’s telecom regulations.
Coverage & Internet Speed
All three providers offer solid 4G/LTE service in cities and towns. Viva-MTS leads in rural and mountainous coverage, making it a good option for adventure travelers. In Yerevan and other urban areas, Ucom and Team Telecom provide fast and reliable speeds ideal for streaming, navigation, and video calls.
Armenia ranks well in terms of mobile internet affordability and speed. You can expect download speeds between 20–60 Mbps in most urban areas, which is sufficient for most tasks.
Top-Up & Balance Check
Topping up your prepaid SIM is convenient:
- Use the provider’s mobile app or website
- Recharge at terminals (TelCell, EasyPay, iDram, etc.)
- Buy physical recharge cards from shops
- Use international top-up services (like Ding or MobileRecharge)
Balance and data usage can be checked through the provider’s USSD codes or mobile app.
SIM Cards for Tourists
Some providers, especially Viva-MTS and Ucom, offer prepaid plans tailored for tourists:
- Short Validity: 7 or 15 days
- Large Data Bundles: Up to 30 GB
- Affordable Prices: Starting at 1,000 AMD (~$2.50)
- Ease of Purchase: Available at airports and tourist centers
These plans are great for short visits and don’t require long-term commitments.
Final Tips
- Check Compatibility: Ensure your phone is unlocked and supports GSM bands 900/1800 MHz (for 2G), 2100 MHz (3G), and LTE Band 3/7/20 (1800/2600/800 MHz).
- Ask for Activation: Staff can help you activate your plan and set up mobile data if needed.
- Use Wi-Fi Smartly: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafés, and public places, allowing you to save on data.
Conclusion
Armenia’s prepaid SIM card options are affordable, flexible, and accessible for both locals and tourists. Viva-MTS offers the best nationwide coverage, Ucom shines with data-heavy deals, and Team Telecom is ideal for budget users. With quick setup, good speeds, and cheap rates, staying connected in Armenia has never been easier. Whether you’re hiking in Dilijan or enjoying a café in Yerevan, a local SIM card will keep you online and in touch without breaking the bank.