Staying connected in Kosovo is easy and affordable thanks to reliable mobile networks, fast 4G coverage, and competitively priced prepaid SIM cards. Whether you’re visiting Pristina, Prizren, or rural areas, local SIM cards provide excellent data speeds, low costs, and simple activation without long contracts.
This guide covers everything you need to know about prepaid SIM cards in Kosovo, including IPKO and Vala, coverage, prices, registration rules, tourist SIMs, and eSIM alternatives.
Basic Information
- Country: Kosovo
- Country Code: +383
- Main Operators: IPKO, Vala
- Network Types: 2G / 3G / 4G LTE (limited 5G testing)
- SIM Type: Nano, Micro, Standard
- eSIM: Available via international providers
- ID Required: Yes (passport or national ID)
Availability
Prepaid SIM cards in Kosovo are widely available and can be purchased by both locals and tourists. SIM activation is usually completed on the spot after ID verification.
Where to Buy a SIM Card in Kosovo
- Pristina International Airport (limited options)
- Official IPKO & Vala retail stores
- Mobile phone shops
- Shopping malls
- Authorized kiosks
- Supermarkets (activation required in-store)
Tip: Buy from official stores for fast registration and correct plan activation.
Mobile Network Frequencies in Kosovo
| Technology | Frequency Bands |
|---|---|
| 2G (GSM) | 900 MHz, 1800 MHz |
| 3G (UMTS) | 2100 MHz |
| 4G LTE | 800 MHz (B20), 1800 MHz (B3), 2100 MHz (B1), 2600 MHz (B7) |
Most unlocked European, Asian, and US phones work perfectly in Kosovo.
Coverage & Speed Comparison
| Operator | Coverage | Average 4G Speed | Rural Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| IPKO | Excellent | 40–80 Mbps | Very Good |
| Vala | Very Good | 30–70 Mbps | Good |
At a Glance: Kosovo Prepaid SIM Comparison
| Feature | IPKO | Vala |
|---|---|---|
| 4G LTE | Yes | Yes |
| Tourist SIM | Yes | Yes |
| Unlimited Data Plans | Yes | Yes |
| Social Media Packs | Yes | Yes |
| Data-Only SIM | Yes | Yes |
| App Support | Yes | Yes |
Biometric User Registration
Kosovo requires mandatory SIM registration:
- Passport or valid ID required
- SIM registered in-store
- Fingerprints not required
- Registration takes 5–10 minutes
Device Registration
- No device IMEI registration required
- Foreign phones work without restrictions
SIM Card Price in Kosovo
| Operator | Starter SIM Price |
|---|---|
| IPKO | €2 – €5 |
| Vala | €2 – €5 |
(Some starter packs include bonus data or credit.)
How to Top Up (Recharge Methods)
- Scratch cards (shops & kiosks)
- Operator mobile apps
- Online banking
- Authorized resellers
- ATM top-ups
IPKO Prepaid SIM Cards
IPKO is Kosovo’s largest private mobile operator, offering strong coverage and flexible data plans.
Prepaid Data Add-Ons IPKO
| Data | Price | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 2 GB | €3 | 7 days |
| 5 GB | €5 | 15 days |
| 10 GB | €8 | 30 days |
| 20 GB | €12 | 30 days |
IPKO Unlimited Data Plans
| Plan | Speed Policy | Price | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unlimited Basic | Fair Use | €15 | 15 days |
| Unlimited Max | High Speed | €25 | 30 days |
IPKO Feature Packages
| Feature | Price | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Calls + SMS Bundle | €3 | 7 days |
| International Minutes | €5 | 15 days |
Social Media Offers IPKO
| Platform | Data | Price | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Facebook + Messenger | Unlimited | €2 | 7 days |
| Instagram + WhatsApp | Unlimited | €3 | 7 days |
| TikTok | Unlimited | €4 | 7 days |
IPKO Data-Only SIM
Ideal for tablets, routers, and hotspots:
- Available in stores
- Same data pricing as prepaid SIM
- No voice or SMS
Vala Prepaid SIM Cards
Vala is Kosovo’s national operator with strong local coverage and affordable plans.
Prepaid Data Add-Ons
| Data | Price | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5 GB | €2.5 | 7 days |
| 5 GB | €5 | 15 days |
| 10 GB | €7 | 30 days |
| 25 GB | €12 | 30 days |
Vala Unlimited Data Plans
| Plan | Speed Policy | Price | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unlimited Smart | Fair Use | €14 | 15 days |
| Unlimited Plus | High Speed | €22 | 30 days |
Vala Data Feature Packages
| Feature | Price | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Local Calls + Data | €4 | 7 days |
| International Pack | €6 | 15 days |
Social Media Offers
| Platform | Data | Price | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unlimited | €1.5 | 7 days | |
| Unlimited | €2 | 7 days | |
| WhatsApp + Viber | Unlimited | €2.5 | 7 days |
Vala Data-Only SIM
- Designed for hotspots and tablets
- Same data bundles
- No voice services
How to Check Remaining Balance
IPKO
- Dial:
*110# - Via IPKO App
Vala
- Dial:
*121# - Via Vala App
How to Check Your SIM Number
- IPKO: Dial
*108# - Vala: Dial
*100#
Tourist SIM Cards in Kosovo
Both IPKO and Vala offer tourist-friendly prepaid SIMs with:
- Short validity
- High data allowance
- Easy airport or store activation
- No local address required
Digital eSIM Providers for Kosovo
If you prefer not to swap SIM cards, eSIM options include:
- Airalo
- Nomad
- Holafly
- Yesim
Pros: Instant activation, no ID
Cons: Higher price, no local calls
Other Internet Options
- Pocket WiFi rental
- Hotel & café WiFi
- Cross-border Balkan roaming SIMs
Activation Process
- Purchase SIM
- Present passport or ID
- SIM registered instantly
- Insert SIM and restart phone
- Activate data plan
Customer Support & Helpline Numbers
| Operator | Helpline |
|---|---|
| IPKO | 123 |
| Vala | 144 |
Official Websites
- IPKO: https://www.ipko.com
- Vala: https://www.vala.rs
Mobile Apps
(Available on Google Play & App Store)
Conclusion
Buying a prepaid SIM card in Kosovo is simple, affordable, and ideal for travelers. IPKO offers faster speeds and wider coverage, while Vala provides budget-friendly plans and solid nationwide service. Whether you choose a local SIM, tourist bundle, or international eSIM, Kosovo ensures reliable mobile connectivity throughout your stay.