If you’re planning to visit Azerbaijan, getting a prepaid SIM card is one of the smartest and most cost-effective ways to stay connected. Whether you’re exploring the dynamic city of Baku or hiking through the Caucasus Mountains, a local SIM card ensures smooth communication, GPS access, and internet browsing. Here’s a complete guide to prepaid SIM cards in Azerbaijan, including prices, plans, and registration requirements.
Basics of Prepaid SIM Cards in Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan offers a competitive telecom market with three main mobile operators providing prepaid SIM cards:
These operators cater to tourists and residents alike, offering prepaid plans, tourist SIMs, and data bundles suitable for various needs and budgets. SIM cards are easily available at airports, kiosks, official stores, and shopping malls.
Frequencies Used in Azerbaijan
To ensure compatibility, your mobile device should support the following frequency bands used in Azerbaijan:
- 2G: 900 MHz, 1800 MHz
- 3G: 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 800 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz
- 5G: (Launched on a small scale by Azercell in Baku)
🔍 Tip: Most modern smartphones will work without issues, especially if they are unlocked and support global bands.
Coverage & Speed
Azercell is the market leader with the widest 4G LTE coverage, especially in urban and suburban areas. It was also the first to introduce 5G pilot zones in parts of Baku.
Bakcell and Nar Mobile offer decent coverage and competitive pricing, but their rural coverage may not be as strong as Azercell’s.
| Operator | 4G Coverage | Speed (Mbps avg.) | 5G Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Azercell | Excellent | 35–80 Mbps | Pilot only |
| Bakcell | Good | 25–60 Mbps | Not yet |
| Nar | Good | 20–50 Mbps | Not yet |
At a Glance Comparison
| Feature | Azercell | Bakcell | Nar Mobile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist SIM | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Price Range | ₼5 – ₼20 | ₼4 – ₼15 | ₼4 – ₼15 |
| Data Packages | Up to 50 GB | Up to 30 GB | Up to 40 GB |
| App Available | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 5G Support | Limited (Baku) | Not Yet | Not Yet |
Biometric User Registration
Like many countries, Azerbaijan mandates biometric SIM registration. Tourists and locals must present a valid passport or ID when purchasing a SIM. Your photo may also be taken for verification. This registration process helps prevent misuse and fraud and is usually completed within minutes at official sales points.
What to Expect
When buying a prepaid SIM in Azerbaijan:
✅ Expect to spend 5–15 minutes in-store
✅ Bring your passport for registration
✅ Receive a starter SIM with some credit or bonus data
✅ Prepaid options include data-only, voice + data, or tourist bundles
Receipts and printed info about plans are often provided. Many operators have English-speaking staff, especially at airport counters.
Device Registration
There is a mobile device registration requirement for long-term use. If you’re visiting for less than 30 days, you don’t need to register your phone. However, for extended stays, especially if using Azerbaijani SIMs beyond 30 days, your phone’s IMEI must be registered via the State Customs or Communication portal.
Registration fee for IMEI: ~₼30–₼50 (depending on phone value)
SIM Card Prices
Basic SIM cards cost between ₼4 to ₼10 AZN (Azerbaijani Manat), often including some starter data or talk time.
| Operator | Starter SIM Price | Included Credit/Data |
|---|---|---|
| Azercell | ₼10 | 1–3 GB + ₼3 credit |
| Bakcell | ₼5 | 2 GB or ₼2 balance |
| Nar | ₼4 | 1.5 GB + ₼1 credit |
Prepaid Plans
Most plans are valid for 7, 15, or 30 days, with options for light and heavy users. Common features:
- Unlimited on-network calls
- Social media packages
- Data rollover (in some plans)
Example Plans:
Azercell:
- ₼10: 5 GB + 100 mins
- ₼15: 10 GB + unlimited Azercell calls
Bakcell:
- ₼9.90: 7 GB + 100 mins
- ₼14.90: 12 GB + 200 mins
Nar Mobile:
- ₼7: 4 GB
- ₼12: 8 GB + SMS bundle
Tourist SIM
Azercell Tourist SIM is the most popular.
Azercell’s Tourist SIM:
- Costs ₼20
- Comes with 10 GB data, 200 on-net minutes, valid for 30 days
- Available at Baku airport, Azercell stores, and online
Data Add-Ons
Ran out of data? Topping up is easy via:
- Mobile apps
- Scratch cards
- Online banking
- Physical top-up kiosks
Popular Data Add-Ons:
- 1 GB: ₼2–₼3
- 5 GB: ₼6–₼8
- Unlimited Night Data (midnight–8am): ₼2–₼4
Most operators allow add-ons without plan renewal.
SIM Card Activation
Activating your SIM card is straightforward:
- Insert SIM
- Restart your phone
- Set APN (if not automatic)
- Dial a short code (*111# for Azercell)
- Start using immediately
Activation usually takes 1–5 minutes. Some plans activate automatically after first use.
Conclusion
Buying a prepaid SIM card in Azerbaijan is simple, affordable, and essential for staying connected. Whether you’re a tourist needing quick data access or a long-term visitor exploring remote areas, there’s a SIM option for everyone. Azercell leads in coverage and speed, but Bakcell and Nar offer great value for budget-conscious users.
✅ Best for Coverage: Azercell
✅ Best for Budget: Nar
✅ Balanced Choice: Bakcell
Just bring your passport, choose your plan wisely, and enjoy reliable connectivity as you explore the beauty of Azerbaijan from the shores of the Caspian Sea to the mountains of Sheki!