There are 4 physical network operators (MNOs) in metropolitan France which are listed according to history and their number of subscribers:

Orange (by France Télécom)

Other providers are virtual mobile operators (MVNOs) or other resellers of the MNOs. You may notice, that prices for data on prepaid are somewhat higher in France than in most other European nations. This is because many locals prefer contracts (called forfaits, see below) to prepaid SIM cards. Unfortunately, most operators ban foreigners from subscribing to a contract. You'll need to have a French payment system for it. That's why the contracts of many providers like B&You, Sosh, and those of most MNOs can't be listed here as we don't list options which are inaccessible to foreigners.

This page only covers metropolitan France or "Métropole". Although overseas departments (DOMs) of France are as much part of France as metropolitan France is, they have their own separate networks and are therefore covered by separate pages. The island of Corsica is however considered as a part of mainland France, and covered by metropolitan France's mobile operators.

As regards overseas departments, see here for: The French Caribbean with Guyane, Martinique and Guadeloupe and the French part of St. Martin, special articles about Saint-Pierre et Miquelon and the islands of La Réunion and La Mayotte in the Indian ocean.

2G (= GSM, GPRS, EDGE) is on 900 and 1800 MHz, 3G (= UMTS, HSPA, HSPA+ and DC-HSPA+) is on 900 and 2100 MHz. The 4 MNOs have rolled out their 4G/LTE nationwide. 800 MHz (B20) mostly in the countryside, 1800 MHz (B3) and 2600 MHz (B7) in the cities are used. 700 MHz (B28) is progressively being added after digital TV has left. From 2017 the 2100 MHz band (B1) is also used for LTE.

In some rural areas the "F-CONTACT" network is shown, which is a common 2G/3G network of all four operators in the countryside that can be used without additional fees.

Up-to-date coverage maps in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE provided by the network operators can be found here:

There is also a map of all base stations by all carriers in France together with the frequency they are transmitting on a local scale. If you know where you will be located, you can check this map and see which carriers have good coverage close to you.

Orange continues to show the best overall network quality in France, followed by SFR and Bouygues Télécom, with Free Mobile which is slightly behind :

Network 2G 3G 4G Average DL Speeds Coverage Popul. Area Popul. Area Popul. Area 3G 4G Orange >99% 96% >99% 97% 99% 88% 5 Mbit/s 47 Mbit/s SFR >99% 94% >99% 96% 99% 86% 5 Mbit/s 27 Mbit/s Bouygues >99% 94% >99% 93% 99% 85% 5 Mbit/s 29 Mbit/s Free* >99% 94% >99% 94% 97% 83% 3 Mbit/s 26 Mbit/s

(*) including 2G/3G roaming on Orange

Coverage data according to ARCEP (French Telecommunications Authority), March 2020, speeds according to Open Signal May 2020.

SIM card activation [ edit | edit source ]

Activating a SIM card on a network may take up to 48 hours. You will need to show a photo ID at point of purchase to activate SIM cards in France, as it is a legal requirement. A passport or driving licence usually suffice.

Rolling Contracts (forfaits sans engagement) [ edit | edit source ]

This French particularity called "forfait sans engagement" = rolling contract or auto-renewing monthly offer is featured in the following articles and needs some explanation for non-French visitors. A rolling contract is a kind of hybrid tariff between pre- and postpaid: You pay in advance and have cost control like prepay, but you have to enable an automatically recurring payment system known as auto-pay in the US. This can be linked e.g. to a French bank account or sometimes to an international credit card. But the contract can be terminated at any time by free will. You can change the plan monthly, but usually you can't turn off automatic plan renewal completely to pause. That means that you have to pay a certain amount every month, even if you don't use the SIM card at all that specific month.

These rolling contracts normally give you a much better rate for data in France than regular prepaid cards. The problem is the payment system that is often not accessible to foreigners without French credit cards or bank accounts. Creating a French payment system will set you back more than 40 EUR. To draw a line here, offers which are confirmed to have been purchased at least by a single non-French payment system are shown while providers requiring French-only requisites are taken off the list. Please have this in mind, when you add an offer, that it needs to be accessible for foreigners too.

France is part of the EU, where from June 2017 new international roaming rules are enforced. In most European countries you can now 'roam like at home' at domestic rates rather than excessive roaming rates. France is part of the EU, where from June 2017 new international roaming rules are enforced. In most European countries you can now 'roam like at home' at domestic rates rather than excessive roaming rates. Some French providers apply the new regulations, but large data plans may be capped and others have stopped offering international roaming at all for their prepaid products. For specifics about the new regulation check European Union chapter and every provider below.

The French section was restructured to be in line with other countries. The first part consists of the 4 MNOs in the order described above. This is followed in the 2nd part by all resellers, MVNOs or other providers listed in alphabetical order. The last part is devoted to rental agencies, again sorted in alpha order, who rent SIM cards, routers or other devices for those travellers who prefer to rent.

(1) Network operators (MNOs):

Orange : prepaid voice/data SIM card ( Mobicarte ), prepaid data SIM card ( Pochette prêt à surfer)

: prepaid voice/data SIM card ( ), prepaid data SIM card ( SFR : prepaid voice/data SIM card ( La Carte ), prepaid data SIM card ( Kit á surfer )

: prepaid voice/data SIM card ( ), prepaid data SIM card ( ) Bouygues Télécom: prepaid voice/data SIM card ( Carte XL )

prepaid voice/data SIM card ( ) Free Mobile: contracts, either rolling (forfait sans engagement) or prepaid for one month only (prépayé)

(2) Resellers (MVNOs):

La Poste Mobile: prepaid voice/data SIM card ( Carte prépayée classique )

prepaid voice/data SIM card ( ) Le French Mobile: prepaid voice/data SIM card ( Euro SIM ), prepaid data SIM card ( Data SIM )

prepaid voice/data SIM card ( ), prepaid data SIM card ( ) Lebara: prepaid voice/data SIM card

prepaid voice/data SIM card Lycamobile: prepaid voice/data SIM card

prepaid voice/data SIM card Réglo Mobile : prepaid voice/data SIM card ( Carte prépayée, forfaits)

: prepaid voice/data SIM card ( Syma mobile: prepaid voice/data SIM card ( Carte prépayée )

prepaid voice/data SIM card ( ) Vectone mobile: prepaid voice/data SIM card (Carte prépayée)

(3) Rental Agencies:

Bienvenue WiFi : WIFI router rental

: WIFI router rental mywebspot : WIFI router rental

: WIFI router rental travelwifi: WIFI router rental

The order of this listing does not represent any kind of ranking or recommendation. There are other MVNOs too, but they don't offer good data rates so far.

Orange S.A., formerly France Télécom S.A., is a French multinational telecommunications corporation. Back in history, France Télécom was the French public operator. Nowadays it is still the market leader with the best coverage (94% of population in 4G/LTE as of October 2017) and the most subscribers, including extensive coverage of tourist areas (beaches / ski resorts) and transport corridors (high speed train lines, motorways). 4G/LTE is accessible for all prepaid plans.

Mobicarte (Voice & data SIM) [ edit | edit source ]

This is the Orange prepaid SIM card that allows making calls, sending SMS and internet usage in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE.

You can buy Orange prepaid Mobicarte SIM online from vendors, although this is much more expensive. On the other hand you get your number, before you depart and your card is activated to use your service as soon as you arrive.

To buy a SIM from an Orange Boutique (store locator) in France for 2.99-9.99 EUR, you must bring your ID card or passport to register. Triple-cut mini, micro, nano SIM are available. The bonus of that is that the card will work straight away and has 5 EUR of credit. If you buy from anywhere else, you will have to send in a copy of your ID and it can take several days to be able to access data. Be warned that Orange Boutiques may be crowded and you can't just grab an item off the shelf and activate it yourself. It may take an hour or more of waiting before you get assistance to set things up.

Dialing #123# for the first time gives you a menu of options on the Welcome / Information ("Accueil") screen. Here you see some options with offers, an entry to access a sort of account overview / usage ("suivi conso"), one to enter Mobicarte top-up codes called recharges ("recharger"), and finally where you manage your account's features ("Mon espace"). If you don't know French, it can be a bit daunting as it seems every menu presents options you can purchase. It is definitely over-complicated, just as every French site. To add credit to your SIM, buy one of the classic recharge vouchers "Les recharges classiques" from a tabac shop, magazine shop, or grocery store (the big ones like Monoprix, Franprix, etc. should have them). These are common everywhere, including airports and train stations (at CDG international terminal, you can buy them at the Relay newspaper stand at the RER-B station). To add credit, dial #123# then find the "recharger" option and enter the 14-digit code.

Data options [ edit | edit source ]

Without a data plan, internet is very expensive at 0.50 € per MB.

If you plan on going to a boutique to buy a SIM, you can purchase these packs called recharges there too. It's recommended that you load the recharge options page on your phone beforehand so you can show them exactly what you want. Some stores have employees who are not familiar with the packs or may not even know that data is available for pre-paid so it is helpful to show them the site, particularly if your French is not very good.

Since 2016, 7 million hotspots of Orange Wi-Fi in France and the French Caribbean are added for free (locator). To obtain your free password you need to dial #125#.

They offer different recharge schemes that give data for a certain period and validity of the SIM for a longer period:

Les recharges max Price Data Package Validity Line Validity Extras 5 € 20 MB 7 days 1 month 2 hour of calls, unlimited SMS 10 € 500 MB 10 days 6 months unlimited calls, SMS, MMS 20 € 2 GB 30 days 6 months unlimited calls, SMS, MMS 30 € 10 GB 30 days 6 months unlimited calls, SMS, MMS Le recharges monde Price Data Pack Validity Line Validty Extras 5 € 7 days 1 month 16 international mins 10 € 10 days 6 months 33 international mins 20 € 5 GB 30 days 6 months 66 international mins Le recharges Internet Mobile Price Data Pack Validity Line Validity 5 € 300 MB 7 days 1 month 10 € 1 GB 14 days 6 months 25 € 10 GB 30 days 6 months

All plans include calls, SMS and MMS valid domestic and for roaming in the EU.

Orange Holiday [ edit | edit source ]

For visitors and travelers Orange offers its Orange Holiday (formerly called Mobicarte Holiday). It's sold for 39.99 EUR and is valid for 14 days including:

120 minutes of international calls from anywhere in Europe to anywhere in the world

1000 international SMS from anywhere in Europe to anywhere in the world

20 GB data within Europe (roaming in all EU/EEA countries)

unlimited Orange WiFi

Orange Holiday is available for purchase on location in France or online with worldwide shipping through other official resellers including Orange USA via Amazon

If you still got an old active Mobicarte or need a refill for an existing Holiday SIM, they offer now two different recharges Orange Holiday:

for 20 €: 60 mins, 500 SMS and 5 GB for 14 days

for 40 €: 60 mins, 1000 SMS and 20 GB (promotion: 50 GB until 19/AUG/2020) for 30 days

Line stays active for another 6 months thereafter.

This plan is for mobile phones and may or may not work on other devices. If you're interested in data for a WiFi hotspot or dongle, you would be better off with the Pochette prêt à surf option (see below). P2P, VoIP and USENET are specifically banned. VoiP services will fail to initialize properly. There's risk getting your plan cancelled as well as the loss of any call credit remaining on your account if you use P2P, VoIP, or USENET services.

As for VPN, it may or may not work. There are examples when VPN worked, one of them is OpenVPN 2.1.1 on Windows 7 and VPN on iPhone worked in July 2012.

Supposedly you are to be notified by SMS as soon as it is activated but users have never received this in the 5 years they had their plan. The safest way to confirm an option is by looking at your account online .

Mobicarte SIM card credit expires, if no recharge is applied during this period. After registering your SIM for the first time and topping it up with credits, the SIM number will stay in operation for max. of 6 months. You can check the expiration date online when you create an account, but you will probably also get an SMS stating the expiration date. If you'd like to keep your number active, add a minimum 10 € recharge before the expiration date and it'll be extended another 6 months.

Expiration of recharge credits depends on the amount. For example, 10 € electronic recharge should be used within 12 days of adding to the SIM. Topping up further extends existing credit to match the new credit. Also, recharge codes have a time limit before they must be added (up to 2 years, read the ticket).

Tethering / WiFi-hotspot use is not included in data usage (tested on iPhone and Android Galaxy 4S). iPhone will NOT allow tethering, and you are redirected to a purchase page (25 € for 1 GB, 30 days) if you try to enable it. The page must be accessed over cellular and not WiFi.

It is possible to achieve tethering on Android devices by using the WiFi hotspot in conjunction with a proxy app, e.g. proxy server by Ice Cold Apps. The use of a 3rd party tethering app on an Android phone, or a jailbroken iPhone may just get you around this. Even apps like FoxFi are hit or miss with being able to use other devices through a hotspot (Facebook worked, but not other apps).

Pochette Prêt à surfer (= Data-only SIM) [ edit | edit source ]

This SIM was previously called Let's Go and is the data-only SIM offer from Orange to be used in tablets, portable WiFi hotspots (MiFis), USB dongles or any other kind of modem only. Orange prohibits the use in a phone. It's not clear, if this ban can be circumvented and how. When you were able to use this SIM in a phone, please add here how (see next paragraph). For the meantime a mobile hotspot is recommended, if you still want to use your phone.

SIM cards are available from Orange Boutiques throughout France (see locator above), but not every boutique may have it in store. Just ask for the 'Pochette prêt à surfer'. They will want to know on what device you will use it and what SIM size you require. At the time of purchase in the boutique, you will need to provide a passport or driving licence which is a requirement under French law.

Starter pack costs 14.90 € and includes 5 GB valid for one month which is a good deal. It takes on average 24 hours to fully update the system with your details and during that time you will not be able to top-up. However at least 2 GB will work as soon as you walk out of the shop and the rest will be added soon.

Data feature packages [ edit | edit source ]

There are three values of recharges for domestic use incl. EU roaming:

Value Data Validity 10 € 1 GB 14 days 25 € 10 GB 1 month 40 € 20 GB 1 month

All packages include 4G/LTE and unlimited WiFi from Orange hotspots in France. To log-on visit this site or use the app Mon Réseau for Android or iOS.

To obtain a recharge you must again visit the Orange Boutique (or some Bureaux de Tabac or Relay) and ask for a rechargement for the pochette. There may be some faffing about whilst they work out amongst themselves exactly what you want, but show them your SIM or documentation with your Orange internet number and they will soon get there. Often they will print out a sheet of paper for you which contains a telephone number for you to ring to activate the top-up and a 14-digit top-up number.

Topping up is also possible online once your new SIM card has been fully registered (go to the 'mon espace' section on the orange.fr website to set-up your account). This seems to be possible now for at least some non-French credit cards as well.

It's also possible to top-up using vouchers for the standard prepaid phone service called Mobicarte. You can then convert the account balance online to Pochette packages. The Orange site is far from user friendly, so this is not recommended unless you are well versed in French. Top-ups are often available on eBay and may well prove to be a good option for you to save messing about in shops upon arrival. But you will pay a premium for this option in so much as you will be paying extra for the time of the seller to obtain the vouchers etc. Note, you can also buy pre-activated SIM cards on eBay.

Restrictions and allowances [ edit | edit source ]

This SIM card does not allow the use of Peer to Peer downloads eg. torrents, or the use of some binary newsgroups . However for email, browsing and almost everything else it works just fine. You can receive SMS on your SIM which can be viewed in the control panel for your device, but the option to send SMS will not be available.

On the other hand, tethering is not restricted and VoIP is allowed. It seems the data SIM card stays valid for one year, vs. 6 months only for the Mobicarte without a recharge. If topping up with one of the data packages above, the validity is extended by 12 month counted from the end of the validity of the package.

Orange Mobile Hotspot [ edit | edit source ]

Orange sells its own portable 4G WIFI hotspot previously called Domino, now Coffret prêt à surfer. Currently it's a Huawei E5573 also called Airbox. This allows you to set up WiFi for multiple devices, i.e. to get around the issue of not being able to tether with the Mobicarte, and you don't need to set up data service on your phone. Cost is 59.90 EUR for the 4G device including 3 GB valid for a month. Recharge with "prêt à surfer" vouchers (see above).

Authentication: the blurb inside says you need to provide authentication, i.e. fill in a form and send a photocopy of a passport to Orange. If you buy from an Orange boutique, they should activate it for you. If you get it from elsewhere, then you will have to mail off copies of your ID docs. The device is locked to Orange France and won't be of much use elsewhere, unless you get it unlocked, but for less than 1 € you will be able to purchase an unlock code on eBay.

In order to top-up by phone, call 0800 224 from a mobile or landline. Free from Orange lines, a fee may be charged from others. You will be immediately asked by a female voice in French to enter your Orange number. This is the telephone number assigned to your SIM and normally begins with 06 or 07.

You will then be presented with two options, the first to top-up by credit card. Ignore this, the second option is to top-up using vouchers. Press 2 on your keypad. The same voice will ask you for your 14-digit voucher number. Enter that and depending on which service you got connected to, you may have the number read back to you with the option to confirm or try again.

You will then have a confirmation in the same voice but with a triumphant timbre to it. The process should take about 30 seconds from start to finish. The top-up should then be applied to your SIM and you will be ready to go.

Orange online account (Espace client) [ edit | edit source ]

You will automatically have a personal account called Espace client on the orange.fr website, you can log onto your account using the SIM telephone number. For your first visit click on "identifiez-vous" on the top right corner of their site. Once done, you can edit your personal information, email address etc. You can even set up an Orange France email address if you like. It's important to note that you can't top-up online using most credit cards that are not registered in France. But you can buy top-ups in the boutique using foreign credit cards.

EU roaming [ edit | edit source ]

From 2017 all allowances can be used for roaming in the EU too at domestic French rates under the Roam like at home provision. Contrary to many other European carriers, roam like at home of Orange also works in Switzerland, Monaco and Andorra and in the French Overseas Departments (DomTom).

More information [ edit | edit source ]

APN, password and username: for Mobicarte : orange for Pochette prêt à surfer : APN: orange.fr password and username: orange

Website in French: http://www.orange.fr/

SFR is historically the second network in France and one of the biggest rivals of Orange. It used to belong to Vivendi, but has been sold to the company Altice. It has good coverage nationwide in 2G, 3G, and 4G/LTE coverage is slightly less than Orange (see Basics). SFR is the local partner of Vodafone in France, but there is still no international data roaming on any SFR prepaid products.

La Carte [ edit | edit source ]

Their prepaid SIM is simply called la Carte. The starter pack called “Kit SFR la Carte” is available online to be send to a French postal address or in their shops (shop locator). The start-up price is officially 9.99 €, but often reduced to 3.99 € or even 1 € and it comes in mini, micro or nano size. It contains 5 € credit and 50 MB for 30 days. There is also a starter called la Carte Connect which may be harder to find. It comes with 15 GB included for 25 days and 5 € credit at 14.99 €.

When you buy it in their shops, let them activate it there showing your photo ID. Bought online or at other shops, you can activate it on their website or by calling 963 for free (in French only).

Recharges can be bought at many places like bureaux de tabac, Relay and big chains like Auchan, Carrefour, Leclers, FNAC. They can be bought online too, but you need at least an European credit card with a chip for payment. Send the 10-digit recharge code as an SMS message to 952 and activate it immediately.

These recharge packs all include domestic calls, unlimited domestic SMS, a data quota and unlimited SFR WiFi at 4 million access points:

Price dom. Voice Data Validity 5 € 1 hour 2 GB 7 days 10 € unlimited 5 GB 10 days 20 € unlimited 25 GB 30 days 30 € unlimited 60 GB 30 days

Three recharges are offered for data-only:

Price Data Validity Activation 5 € 3 GB 5 days WEB5 10 € 10 GB 8 days WEB10 25 € 35 GB 30 days WEB25 35 € 70 GB 30 days WEB35

Data is cut off, when quota is reached. Speed is up to 4G/LTE.

These Recharges Internet are also available as Pass Internet. Thus it can be debited from your general balance and activated by texting the activation code to 987.

All the recharges whether Ilimitées, Internet or Welcome can be renewed anytime to get more data or validity. Tethering and modem use is now allowed. No international roaming.

EU roaming (data roaming for Welcome Carte only) [ edit | edit source ]

Note that you can only roam for voice and SMS on a SFR La Carte at domestic rates abroad. All international data roaming is now disabled for SFR prepaid customers except on the SFR Welcome Carte.

More infomation [ edit | edit source ]

APN: sl2sfr /or/ slsfr /or/ wapsfr /or/ websfr - (if one does not work, try another)

Check balance: text ? to 950 or call 950

English speaking customer service: 1026 available Mon-Sat 8-20 hrs (this is for la Carte only)

only) Website in French: https://www.sfr.fr/

Bouygues Télécom [ edit | edit source ]

Bouygues Télécom is the 3rd largest network operator in France in term of subscribers. Unlike the other players, its 4G/LTE is mainly on 1800 MHz (and to a lesser extent 2600 MHz and 800 MHz) open for all prepaid users (coverage map). In October 2017 they cover 94% of population by LTE.

Their old prepaid card Formule 20/20 has been discontinued in 2015. They now only sell Card XL and Classique prepaid SIMs. The classic line doesn't include data. So it's not mentioned any further.

Note that Bouygues Télécom has restricted most prepaid plans for roaming, except for the tourist offer. This means that unless you pay the high price for the tourist plan, data roaming is not available even in the EU. For lower prices with EU roaming, look elsewhere.

Prepaid Card XL [ edit | edit source ]

Their prepaid line is available in their stores (store locator) with 12 months validity after the last top-up. Starter pack is sold for 10 € with around 4 € credit for calls.

Internet by default is 0.30 € per MB. It can be topped by these 4 combo packs with data:

Recharge Voice&Text Data IDD credit Time 5 € unlimited 500 MB 3 € 3 days 10 € unlimited 1 GB 5 € 10 days 20 € unlimited 2 GB 10 € 30 days 40 € unlimited 5 GB 25 € 60 days

All packages include 4G/LTE speed, unlimited domestic calls and domestic texts. The bonus credit can be used for international calling. Recharging of 10 € or 20 € can be done online, by calling 630 or by buying a prepaid card in stores (e.g. tabac) in France. Be aware that the 5 € reload can only be topped up by a French issued credit card which must be added online or by calling 630. International credit cards are not accepted for the 5 € recharge.

When topped up after the validity of the old package has expired, the new top-up will be effective right away giving more validity. So you can top-up 3 times 5 € for 3 days each and get 1.5 GB data for 15 € in a week (but only top up after 2 days or when the 500 MB data has been used, it does not add up). They give a bonus of 10 € for top-ups of more than 50 € within two consecutive months.

All of their other options are not accessible to foreigners without a French bank card or account.

Vacation SIM (Tourist offer) [ edit | edit source ]

Bouygues has now introduced a tourist SIM for visitors to France, which includes EU roaming.

39.90 € : Including unlimited domestic text and voice, 20 GB data and 25 € for international calls, valid for 30 days

At this price point, it is better value than the 40 € XL line for the larger data allowance and EU roaming. Tethering is allowed on this offer.

Also, unlike the XL cards, this SIM is sold ready to use at third-party stores in airports or ordered online for delivery worldwide, but you have to verify your ID within 30 days of first use or else the SIM shuts off after.

Also note that future top-ups are limited to XL or classic top-ups, so it is not valid for EU roaming beyond the initial 30 days.

EU roaming (Vacation SIM only) [ edit | edit source ]

All international roaming has been blocked on their prepaid offers except for the Vacation SIM initial plan, which is valid in EU/EEA, UK, Channel Islands, and Andorra as well as overseas departments and collectivities. Standard prepaid SIMs and further top-ups to the Vacation SIM can only be used in France and not for roaming.

More information [ edit | edit source ]

APN: mmsbouygtel.com (this is for web too, not only MMS)

Bouygues Télécom blocks OpenVPN and some other protocols by deep packet inspection, so you won't be able to use those protocols, even when you're changing to non-standard ports.

Website in French: http://www.bouyguestelecom.fr

Vacation Prepaid Plan Website in English: https://www.bouyguestelecom.fr/carte-prepayee/vacation-prepaid-plan/

Free Mobile [ edit | edit source ]

Free Mobile shook the French market when it arrived on the scene in 2012 with very low prices and new marketing methods.

Over the years Free Mobile kept adding more content to their main package "Forfait Free", such as large allowances of data, or included roaming agreements. With more than 65 destinations included worldwide, they may offer good options for travellers. But be aware of the SIM card can only be bought and activated in France and can't be paused.

Free Mobile network is still in the process of growing up: as of April 2019, the 3G coverage is 98% of population whereas all of its other competitors cover 99+% of population.

Free Mobile focuses mainly on 4G/LTE. Their network has a lower coverage then others (at 96% of population as of Jan 2020). They've started their deployment with high-frequency bands 3 and 7 as this was the only license they held at the beginning, resulting in typically very good speeds as long as you have 4G signal, but at a somewhat lower coverage. From 2018 lower frequencies on band 28 have been added for better coverage, and they rapidly caught up on coverage as well.

They now own 4G/LTE spectrum on 700 MHz (B28), 1800 MHz (B3) and 2600 MHz (B7) bands. Cell tower locations can be checked on a map .

National roaming

In its beginning, Free Mobile concluded an agreement with Orange to use its network as national roaming for 3G data, texts and voice.

This has been gradually disused over the years, and as of March 2020 users spend only an average of 7% of their time roaming on Orange. This agreement will come to an end in 2020, the maximum speed for 3G roaming on Orange network is being throttled to 384 kbps until then. Orange roaming users frequently report slow speeds, that makes it almost unusable in practice.

Free mobile offers three plans ("forfait mobile free"). These three plans can be either prepaid or rolling contracts without commitment ("forfait sans engagement"). With each plan you'll need to pay a one-off 10 € charge for a new SIM card. See the Pre-paid vs Rolling contract section for details.

2 € plan (“Forfait 2€”):

2 hours of calls to France and to landlines of a lot of countries and mobile lines of a few countries;

unlimited SMS/MMS in France;

50 MB of data, thereafter charged at 5 ct per MB (which adds up to 51 € per GB)

automatic and unlimited connection to EAP-SIM WiFi networks " Freewifi_Secure ", emitted by all the set top boxes of the operator (more than 5 million hotspots);

", emitted by all the set top boxes of the operator (more than 5 million hotspots); the possibility to use the package for roaming in EU and EEA countries (not included).

13.99 € plan (“Série Free 80 Go”):

unlimited calls to France and to landlines of some countries and mobile lines of a few countries;

unlimited SMS/MMS in France

80 GB of data, thereafter throttled to 128 kbps;

automatic and unlimited connection to EAP-SIM WiFi networks " Freewifi_Secure ", emitted by all the set top boxes of the operator (more than 5 million hotspots);

", emitted by all the set top boxes of the operator (more than 5 million hotspots); the possibility to use the package for roaming in EU and EEA countries up to 10 GB without surcharges

fare limited to 1 year, after which it falls back to the following offer.

19.99 € plan (“Forfait Free”):

You have two contract duration options within this plan —

Monthly rolling contract ("Pas de limite de validité") One month only contract ("Valide 1 mois")

The first option is a rolling one-month contract which you can cancel in writing (by registered post) at any time with 10 days’ notice. The second option comes to an end automatically after one month although you may be able to extend the plan in your online account. In both ways your SIM stops working without the chance to revive it again.

In both cases, it will effectively cost you 29.99 € for the first month (19.99 € + 10 € for the SIM).

With the rolling contract you'd pay 19.99 € every month thereafter, but you also need to count the cost (of at least 5.20 €) of sending a cancellation later on, by registered post, at the point you want to end the contract (see below).

The 19.99 € (“Forfait Free”) plan includes:

unlimited calls to France and landlines of a lot of countries and mobile lines of a few countries;

unlimited SMS/MMS in France;

100 GB of data in 4G/LTE (on Free network only) and in 3G (Free network + Orange roaming). Speed is reduced to 128 kbps afterwards, but no overcharges apply;

truly unlimited data in 4G/LTE for lines associated with a set-top box (no FUP);

automatic and unlimited connection to EAP-SIM WiFi networks " Freewifi" / "Freewifi_Secure ", emitted by all the set-top boxes of the operator (more than 5 million hotspots);

", emitted by all the set-top boxes of the operator (more than 5 million hotspots); roaming included is an excellent option, as it's not limited to the EU and constantly expanded to overseas countries. The package includes the following: 25 GB of 4G/LTE roaming data on top of your monthly national allowance, in many destinations: Europe: all EU & EEA countries, Channel Islands, Isle of Man, Switzerland, Ukraine, Serbia, Montenegro, Belarus, Macedonia. Middle East: Israel, Turkey, Armenia, Georgia. Asia: Russia, China, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Thailand. Africa: Algeria, Tunisia, South Africa. Oceania: Australia, New Zealand. America: Canada, USA, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina. Data is heavily charged beyond allowance in roaming destinations (you'll get a text warning before). Some countries are still limited to 3G (like Algeria, Argentina, Pakistan, Bangladesh); unlimited calls and texts to all of the EU & EEA from within EU & EEA (except from France); unlimited calls and texts to France and within the roaming country in Israel, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Canada and USA.



On all plans tethering is allowed. Connection to ISP wifi hotspots "Freewifi" / "Freewifi_Secure" through the EAP-SIM protocol is supported on all Apple products, but on fewer other devices so far: while all hardware sold by Free have it implemented by a firmware branding, it's missing on most Android and Windows phones.

The SIM cards come either in mini/micro format, or nano format. You need to choose the one you need when ordering (either from a vending machine or online).

Prepaid plan compared to rolling contract [ edit | edit source ]

In both cases, there's an activation fee of 10 € for your SIM card. There are no fines for cancelling early, however with a rolling contract it will effectively cost you 5.20 € (plus some time) to cancel the contract — which is it what it costs to send a registered cancellation letter (see below). Considering the bother involved, it's probably only really worth doing a rolling contract, if you know you'll need it for 3 months or more.

You'll need to have a credit or debit card associated with your SIM for auto-pay, but all cards — not just French-issued ones — should work fine. (Automatic direct debit on a French bank account is also possible, as well as a few other european SEPA countries).

Prepaid Plan

The prepaid option is only available from their automated vending machines located both in their "Free Centre" stores and "Mag Press" shops (map). You won't have to worry about cancellation after you leave. This SIM card can be topped up online every month for one or two more months. If you decide to extend the validity, you will be charged on the credit or debit card that you have initially provided at the vending machine.

You can continue to top-up the account each month, or decide to remove the expiration and switch to a rolling contract, which involves sending a written notice, if you wish to terminate the contract later (see below).

Rolling contract (read carefully!)

The Rolling contract is available either online or at a vending machine. For this option be aware that you sign a legal contract in France with Free Mobile that is concluded for an indefinite period and needs to be terminated later, unlike the other prepaid offers on this wiki.

Once you have obtained your SIM and login to your online account you can pay your bill. Be also aware that if you enter your bank details of an European SEPA account at "Mon Mode De Paiement" (= my method of payment), you wont be able to switch to a credit or debit card later.

Terminating a rolling contract through mail [ edit | edit source ]

To end the contract, you have to send a cancellation letter ("lettre de résiliation") - with 10 days’ notice - by registered ("signed-for") mail ("recommandé avec avis de réception" — in French shortened to "LRAR" or "avec AR") with your name, phone number and termination date to this address: Free Mobile, Résiliation, 75371 PARIS Cedex 08. A model of a termination letter can be found here. It costs 5.20 € to mail the letter at a post office counter (see these instructions), or 7.07 € (= 5.20 € + 1.87 € for printing one page) to send it online through the official Boutique La Poste website (see current prices). Allow at least one week for delivery within France using the online postal service (or rather two weeks if you send it by airmail from abroad) PLUS another 10 days for the contractual notice period.

Check "Entrée en Vigueur/Durée du Contrat" (article 6) of their T&Cs (Conditions Générales d'Abonnement ) for the exact details of your cancellation rights and be aware that this is not one of the usual prepaid options that are normally presented in this wiki. They are going to charge your credit card, even when you have left the country and they are legally entitled to do so as long as you don't cancel the contract. Because of the special situation in France, we have made an exception for this plan.

Terminating a Rolling contract via number porting [ edit | edit source ]

An alternative method to end the contract is to transfer your number to another operator, which will result in contract termination at the date of transfer. Porting numbers in France is easy and free, and takes just a few days to complete. Call 3179 from your line to get a code (RIO) that you will provide to the new operator which will take care of the transfer and cancel the line for you.

You'd have to either get a new SIM card for another operator (a prepaid one might be a good choice), or use a virtual SIM provider like the onoff app, that will take care of the transfer. Switching using onoff costs 4.99€ for one month of their pay-as-you-go service if you have a French SIM card in your device when creating an account, and can avoid the hassle of sending a registered letter to Free Mobile.

(1) Getting the SIM at their automated vending machine

This is the most convenient option for travelers. As of 2019, more than 1200 vending machines called 'bornes' are available around the country in the operator stores called Free center and in Maison de Press / Mag Press stores (locator). They sell both rolling contracts and one-month prepaid plans. Using the automated machine, you will pay a non-refundable 10 € upfront charge on top of the chosen plan for your SIM card. Be sure to get the correct SIM size for your phone because reissuing the SIM card costs 10 €. You can choose either a mini + micro SIM (the micro version pops out) or a nano SIM. Your SIM card will then be ready to use straightaway.

You must pay by either by debit or credit card, non-French cards (Visa, Mastercard) being accepted. You'll also need to fill in your name and e-mail address, as well as a French postal address (but you can use the address of the shop itself).

The machines are in French language only, but very graphic and easy to use, and they should be manageable with a translator even if you don't speak French.

(2) Getting a SIM card online

This option is available only if you want a rolling contract, not a prepaid SIM. The SIM can be sent to a French postal address only. Online default payment is by French bank account. To pay by debit/credit card, at "paiement de votre commande" on the right hand side under the box there is a link which says "payer par carte bancaire". Click it and it will then change the box to one that allows you to enter the details of any credit/debit card. Your bank or credit card company may charge a transaction fee for using this. There is also a 10 € charge for delivery, if you're not opening an account with Free Mobile for transferring an existing number.

More infomation [ edit | edit source ]

APN: free

Website in French: http://mobile.free.fr/

Free telephone assistance from a Free Mobile line on 32 44, or online at mobile.free.fr/assistance/

Change of SIM card costs 10 €

Change of telephone number costs 5 €

Conditions Générales d'Abonnement / Brochure Tarifaire (in French)

La Poste Mobile [ edit | edit source ]

La Poste Mobile is the MVNO of the French Postal System called La Poste. It uses the network of SFR in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE (for details see SFR). It's sold in more than 10,000 post offices (bureaux de poste) throughout the country, where you can find top-up vouchers too. La Poste also sells forfaits (contracts), but not to foreigners. Note, that there is no international roaming on prepaid cards.

Prepaid Card [ edit | edit source ]

Their prepaid cards are sold in two different tariff lines called classique (classic) and international. While the international card gives better rates for international calls, it doesn't contain data. Only the classique line can be loaded with data and both lines can't be mixed. Start-up price is 9.90 € with 10 € credit included. Top-ups can be found at post offices and many press kiosks.

Data feature packs [ edit | edit source ]

All data packs for the classic line are matched with a recharge. There are again two lines of vouchers: recharges triplées and recharges illimitées. Again, only the recharges illimitées contain data:

Recharge Calls & SMS Data Validity 5 € "unlimited" 100 MB 7 days 10 € 500 MB 15 days 20 € 2 GB 60 days 30 € 10 GB 90 days

'Unlimited' calls are rather limited to 129 per month with 3 hrs max. and up to 250 SMS per month. Data is on 4G/LTE too, but limited to 115 Mbit/s. All data use outside of the recharge packs is charged at high 0.50 € per MB.

EU roaming [ edit | edit source ]

There is no international roaming available, so 'roam like at home' does not apply.

More infomation [ edit | edit source ]

APN: sl2sfr

Website in French: http://www.lapostemobile.fr/

LeFrenchMobile managed by the Transatel group runs on the leading Orange network. It's a MVNO designed for foreigners travelling to France and the EU with customer service in English, Arabic, French and Dutch.

They distinguish themselves by offering a free worldwide shipping of their SIM cards, so customers travelling to France are already equipped when landing at the airports.

Compared to other prepaid plans, their credit balances have no expiration limit subject to a 0.90 € service fee per month, if the account is inactive for more than 4 consecutive weeks.

The SIM card is a triple-cut blank SIM Card (mini-micro-nano in one). Furthermore it's possible to buy a 3G mobile hotspot (Mifi) from Huawei with a SIM card already inside. They also offer dual-SIM mobile phones for texts and calls.

Purchase is usually made online via their website or in a few stores (locator). Delivery is free worldwide for SIM cards. Payments can be made with any international Visa or MasterCard, as well as PayPal and IDeal. Top-up online through their website, via SMS or at a local distributor.

They offer a selection of combo voice/text/data or data-only bundles aimed for France or all over the EU. They can be bought either using the available cash balance on your account or directly charged via their website.

You can only top-up (renew) a French data bundle when you have less than 50 MB remaining on your current bundle. Once the existing bundle is used up, any cash credit on your account will be consumed with higher per-MB rates. Make sure to top-up the bundle as soon as you hit 50 MB left.

French Data SIM [ edit | edit source ]

Their Data SIM has a purchase price of € 19.95 with 1 GB included and 10 minutes of calls valid for 90 days valid in France only. Out-of-bundle rate for data is € 0.18 per MB. These top-ups are available for France:

Price Volume Validity Activation 12 € 2 GB 30 days FR2GB 25 € 5 GB 30 days FR5GB 45 € 20 GB 30 days FR20GB 69 € 100 GB 60 days FR100GB

A bonus credit is given to any online top-up over 20 €. Activation of bundles is online on your account or by texting code to 22213. Top-up online or in Tabac shops and newsagents that sell PaySafeCards.

Euro Data SIM [ edit | edit source ]

Their Euro Data SIM has a purchase price of 29.95 € including 2 GB EU data and 10 minutes of calls for 90 days to be used in France or roaming in the EU. Out-of-bundle rate for data is 0.18 € per MB. These top-ups are available:

Price Volume Validity Activation 5 € 500 MB 14 days EU500 15 € 2 GB 30 days EU2GB 29 € 5 GB 30 days EU5GB 69 € 20 GB 30 days EU20GB

A bonus credit is given to any online top-up over 20 €. Activation of bundles is online on your account or by texting code to 22213. Top-up online or in Tabac shops and newsagents that sell PaySafeCards.

More infomation [ edit | edit source ]

Personal hotspot use a.k.a. as tethering is NOT supported

APN: netgprs.com

Username and password: tsl

Website in English and French: http://www.lefrenchmobile.com

Lebara, formerly Lebara mobile, is a British-based MVNO with operations in several countries. In France, they resell Bouygues Télécom's service in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE.

Their website and customer service are available for a change in both French and English, making it a good choice for those with limited French language skills.

Lebara mobile SIM cards can be ordered free of charge through Lebara's website, mailed to a French postal address. Some users report that after a delay of 1-2 weeks, they may be mailed to a foreign address too, if it's typed into the online form.

Alternatively, they can be purchased for 10 EUR (including 5 EUR of credit) from many French tabacs(tobacconists and kiosks), including the Relay outlets for instance at CDG airport. Print-your-own Eurostar tickets include a voucher for a free SIM with 1 EUR of credit and 100 MB in a couple of shops at the Gare du Nord station in Paris. Recharges are available through the same channels or by international credit card online. The SIM is triple-cut and credit lasts from 30 to 90 days depending top-up amount. SIM cards that have not been used or topped up for 90 days will expire.

Check credit balance and data allowances by *131#.

New SIM cards must be activated by providing an email address, phone number, and ID number (e.g passport). Foreign details are accepted. SIM cards ordered online and received on mail will be pre-activated as the phone company has these details from the online form. SIMs bought from a shop can be activated by calling 2333 from your phone. This activation should be instant. You can select English on the voice menu (option 2). When you activate your SIM you are requested for your name, passport number and address. You can ask on the same call to buy your data package or any additional asistance.

To activate 4G/LTE you may need to text '4G' to 22241 for free.

Data feature packages [ edit | edit source ]

They give out 100 KB per day for free. Default data rate outside packages is 0.19 € per MB.

These monthly packages are on offer:

FR Data EU Cap Voice & Text Price Activation 1 GB no cap 4.99 € WEBXS 3 GB 2 GB 9.99 € WEBSML 4 GB 2 GB unlimited 9.99 € ILLIM10 12 GB 3 GB unlimited 14.99 € ILLIM15 7 GB 4 GB 19.99 € WEBMED 20 GB 4 GB unlimited 19.99 € ILLIM20 24 GB 5 GB unlimited 24.99 € ILLIM25 15 GB 5 GB 29.99 € WEBLRG 30 GB 8.7 GB 49.99 € WEBXL

For activation text code to 22241. All packages renew automatically if there is credit. To stop, send <Package Code>*STOP to 22241.

EU roaming [ edit | edit source ]

Lebara in France has adopted roam like at home principles for roaming in other EU countries. That means that you can take your included allowances abroad without extra fees up to a certain limit called EU cap in the table above. All use beyond is for a 0.4c per MB surcharge.

Technical Settings [ edit | edit source ]

APN: fr.lebara.mobi

Username and password: wap

More info [ edit | edit source ]

Support line: 2300 (option 2 on voice menu for English), support chat on the website ("Chat en ligne", ask for English language)

Website: www.lebara.fr (switch to English on top left)

Lycamobile is the biggest competitor of Lebara (see above) on the ethno market from Britain. It has a very similar prepaid offer like Lebara and acts as a MVNO on Bouygues Télécom's network in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE too.

Lycamobile now seems to accept tethering / mobile hotspot use in France.

Lycamobile SIM cards can be ordered free of charge through Lycamobile's website, mailed to a French postal address. Alternatively, they can be purchased from many French tabacs(tobacconists and kiosks) and chain stores including Relay, Monoprix, Carrefour and others (store locator). They can also be had for free from Paris telephone shops.

Recharges are available through the same channels or by international credit card and PayPal online. PIN codes need to be entered in your phone like this: *131*<PIN>#. The SIM is a triple-cut mini, micro and nano SIM. Credit lasts from 30-90 days depending top-up amount. SIM cards that have not been used or topped up for 90 days will expire. Check credit balance and data allowance by *131#.

New SIM cards must be activated by calling 323 (in French) from your phone or online here (in English) providing a mail address, phone number, and ID number (e.g. passport).

If you have an on-going occasional use for the SIM, you can extend its validitiy for 12 months for a cost of €5. Dial *139*9999# from your Lycamobile number and follow the instructions on the screen.

Data feature packages [ edit | edit source ]

Default data rate outside of packages is 0.12 € per MB and are now open to 4G/LTE. They offer these data packages on up to 4G valid for 30 days. Bundles can now be used in EU/EEA roaming too.

Pass Price Data EU Cap Activation S 2.99 € 100 MB 100 MB *139*29100# M 4.99 € 500 MB 500 MB *139*49250# L 9.99 € 2 GB 2 GB *139*81000# XL 19.99 € 10 GB 5 GB *139*15300# XXL 29.99 € 20 GB 10 GB *139*15310#

For extra data you can add these add-ons valid for the rest of the base pass:

500 MB: 2 €, activation: *139*5001#

1 GB: 3 €, activation: *139*5002#

3 GB: 6 €, activation: *139*5003#

Lycamobile also offers combo packages with unlimited calls and SMS (all valid 30 days and auto-renew):

Package FR data EU cap Price Activation Budget 2 GB no cap 4.99 € online only National S 4 GB 3 GB 9.99 € *139*3010# National M 12 GB 7.5 GB 14.99 €* *139*3015# National L 20 GB 10 GB 19.99 €* *139*3020# National XL 24 GB 12 GB 24.99 €* *139*3025# National XXL 50 GB 14.5 GB 29.99 €* *139*3030#

(*) = prices are discounted by 50% for the first activation after purchase of a new SIM card. The discount is applied only when purchasing online.

EU roaming [ edit | edit source ]

Lycamobile's regular data packages can be used for EU roaming up to the limit shown as EU cap in the table. Without a package, you'll be charged their standard rate of 12c per MB instead.

Technical Settings [ edit | edit source ]

APN: data.lycamobile.fr

User: lmfr (that's lowercase L, not capital i)

Password: plus

More info [ edit | edit source ]

Customer support: call 322 (for 0.15 €/min), in English 9am - 9pm (- 6pm on weekends)

It doesn't seem possible to tether with Android. Not even with a rooted phone! NB: Their terms and conditions exclude tethering explicitly and Lycamobile is known to block it.

Website in English: https://www.lycamobile.fr/en/

Réglo Mobile (formerly Leclerc Mobile) [ edit | edit source ]

Réglo Mobile, previously known as Leclerc Mobile, is the MVNO of the French retail chain E.Leclerc. It operates on the network of SFR in 2G and 3G and partly on 4G/LTE too (for coverage see SFR). While it sells forfaits (plans) like many other operators, it stays strictly on a prepaid basis. Therefore it doesn't need to be linked to a French bank card, but can be loaded by cash too. It gives great rates, but has some restrictions summed up at the end.

The SIM card is exclusively sold at the stores of the E.Leclerc chain, especially in their hypermarkets (= mega stores) (for a store locator: click on trouver un magasin). It costs 10 € for the default rate MINI+ with 5 € credit. All the different forfaits shown below are offered too. For a start, they are each sold with a 5 € surcharge for the SIM and remain valid for the rest of the calendar month. The non-used portion of the month will be refunded to your account. Mini, micro and nano sizes are available.

You can buy the starter online too to be sent to a French postal address. But you should better buy it in a store as you can register your SIM at the point of purchase showing your ID. Bought online, you need to mail them an ID form and a copy of your ID within 15 days or your line will be suspended.

For top-ups you can link your account to a French bank card or bank account only or you need to go back to an E.Leclerc store where you can top up 3 - 200 € at the check out by cash. You can choose direct load or a voucher. Some foreign credit cards are also verified to work on their website. So you might give it a try. A topped up balance will stay valid forever, but a printed voucher needs to be redeemed within 3 months.

To check your balance, send an empty SMS to 950 or check your personal account (called Espace client).

Their default rate for voice, text and data is called MINI+. It's on 2G and 3G only, no 4G/LTE and valid, when no other plan is booked. Data is at a low 0.05 € per MB. But they charge a minimum consumption fee of 1.50 € per calendar month. This will be completely credited on your consumption.

But if there is no usage, 1.50 € will be charged at the 1st of each month. If you are running low on credit, your line will be suspended after 90 days.

Combined plans: Forfaits Réglo [ edit | edit source ]

The forfaits (plans) of Réglo offer much better rates and are not postpaid like with other operators. They stay strictly prepaid and are charged from your account. Réglo has a strict billing cycle according to calendar months. The plan is debited on the 1st of the month (or at purchase of the starter pack) and runs for the rest of the calendar month. Their combined plans can be customised according to your anticipated usage and can be changed for every month. But you must do this online on your account by the last day of the previous month. If you don't change them, they will auto-renew. These monthly plans are offered with 4G/LTE:

Value FR Data EU Data Voice SMS & MMS 3.50 € 250 MB 25 MB 1 hour domestic 100 SMS 4.95 € 100 MB 10 MB 3 hours domestic unlimited domestic 7.95 € 1 GB 102 MB 3 hours domestic unlimited domestic 9.95 € 50 GB 5 GB unlimited domestic unlimited domestic 14.95 € 75 GB 7.5 GB unlimited domestic unlimited domestic 19.95 € 100 GB 10 GB unlimited dom./internatl. unlimited domestic

International calls included are to only 62 countries listed, mainly EU ones. Overuse on the internet plans is charged at 0.19 € per MB, on the 9.95 € and 24.95 € plans speed will be throttled. "Unlimited" calls only refers to calls of less than 3 hours. Plans can be changed only online in the previous for the following month. If you are running low on credit having booked a plan, your line will be suspended on the 28th of the month.

You can upsize your data during the running month by adding data add-ons which are called Rallonges:

200 MB add-on: 2 €

2 GB add-on: 5 €

3 GB add-on: 3 €, available on the 9.95 €, 14.95 €, 19.95 € plans only!

These add-ons can be activated several times either online on your account or by calling 437. They accumulate, but won't roll over to the next month.

While their rates look great at first sight, you should be aware of certain disadvantages:

You need to go an E.Leclerc hypermarket for purchase and possibly top-up (if recharge by credit card is not working). They are inconveniently located in industrial areas out of town. This may be an option travelling through France by car. But it's no choice for a Paris weekend as there are no stores within the city limits of the capital.

hypermarket for purchase and possibly top-up (if recharge by credit card is not working). They are inconveniently located in industrial areas out of town. This may be an option travelling through France by car. But it's no choice for a Paris weekend as there are no stores within the city limits of the capital. The SIM card needs activating even though it looks like it is working, need to do this either online or by calling the number on one of the numerous pieces of paper you are given when you buy the sim. If the SIM is not activated withing a few hours it will stop working. It may be required to provide an account IBAN to activate the SIM but this may then be removed after activation in the online account management.

While their plans are strictly prepaid and can be customized, they stay linked to a calendar month. This makes them quite inconvenient for short-term users.

They have a very rigid suspension policy of the SIM. If you are running low on credit, your SIM will be switched off very soon. Remember, an international credit card (e.g. VISA) is required to top-up from abroad. Once used, the same card reference can be used for Reglo to collect the minimum rate of 1.50 € upon crossing the lower threshold e.g. of 5 €.

Modem use is no longer blocked according to the latest T&Cs.The new SIM cards include an additional APN definition called "SFR option modem". The same APN can be manually configured by following the instructions at https://www.reglomobile.fr/aide/comment-parametrer.aspx.

EU roaming [ edit | edit source ]

Also note that Reglo restricts the amount of data in packages given out for EU roaming at the domestic rate to 10% of the package volume. Beyond this 10% a surcharge of 0.7c per MB is applied on top of the volume debit as long as there is data balance and 20c per MB if there is not. Staying on the default rate Mini+ EU roaming data is generally at 5c per MB.

More info [ edit | edit source ]

APN (4G plans): sl2sfr

APN (mini+ plan): wap66

Website in French: http://www.reglomobile.fr

Syma mobile [ edit | edit source ]

Syma mobile by Symacom is a MVNO targeting the ethno market. They sell contracts and prepaid SIM cards to be added by combo or data passes. It operates on the good network of Orange in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE.

Syma mobile prepaid SIM cards can be ordered for 4.90 € through their website, mailed to a French postal address only. They come with 15 MB data, 15 dom. mins and 15 dom. SMS preloaded valid for a month. Alternatively, they can be purchased from many Frenchtabacs (tobacconists and kiosks) and chain stores e.g. at train stations for 5 € in Paris, with 1 € starter credit immediately available, plus 3 € bonus for the first top-up.

New SIM cards must be activated over the phone in French, by mail, online, go to 'enregister' and place a local call. For this you need your phone number given to you by entering your NSCE number written on the back side of the SIM here or by dialling *148#. PIN code is set by default to 0000. The SIM stays valid for 6 months initially to be extended for 12 months by any recharge.

Recharges are available through vouchers sold at the same shops and 50,000 sales points like Tabac stores, Relay and Press kiosks, Postefone and Dia supermarkets from 5 to 35 €. Online international credit cards are not accepted. Check credit by entering *148#.

Data feature packages [ edit | edit source ]

For their prepaid SIM still available, internet default data is at 0.15 € per MB. They only offer 3 passes to be activated by SMS or app valid for 30 days:

1 GB: 2.50 €

2 GB: 5 €

3 GB: 7.50 €

More infomation [ edit | edit source ]

APN: symamobile.com

Website in French: http://www.symamobile.com

Vectone mobile [ edit | edit source ]

Vectone mobile by the UK based Mundio group is another MVNO targeting the ethno market. They sell prepaid SIM cards to be added by combo or data passes. It operates on the network of SFR in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE too.

Vectone mobile prepaid SIM cards can be ordered for free through their website, mailed to a French postal address. Vectone sends its SIM cards abroad too, but only in the 9 countries, it's operating (order site). They can be also purchased in some French kiosks, where you can register too and need to make a top-up.

New SIM cards must be otherwise activated online giving a French address and a scan of your ID paper. Check number by *105#.

Recharges are available through vouchers sold at the same shops and 50,000 sales points like Tabac stores, Relay and Press kiosks, Postefone and Dia supermarkets from 5 to 35 €. To top-up by voucher type *101*<voucher code>#. You can also top-up by PaySafeCard. Check credit by entering *102#.

The validity of each top-up is for 90 days. When you don't use the services at least once every 120 days your SIM will be disconnected from the network.

Data feature packages [ edit | edit source ]

Default data rate outside of packages is 0.12 € per MB. A minimum balance of 0.50 € is required to use mobile internet. They sell these packages called passes each valid for 30 days:

Data Price Activation 100 MB 0.90 € *8102# 500 MB 2.90 € *8103# 1 GB 3.90 € *8104# 2 GB 5 € *8192# 4 GB 10 € *8106# 10 GB 29.99 € *8149#

All packages auto-renew after 30 days, if there is enough credit. To stop, type *8101#. Check data balances and expiry by *8100#.

EU roaming [ edit | edit source ]

Data is given out according roam at home rate in all data bundles and the default price.

More infomation [ edit | edit source ]

APN: webfr.mundio.com

Website in English: http://www.vectonemobile.fr/en

Bienvenue WiFi [ edit | edit source ]

They provide access through a Mifi router called "miniBox" establishing a Wi-Fi connection. Up to 10 devices can be connected on a 4G/LTE connection in France. The miniBox is delivered within three hours by express anywhere in Paris, in two days anywhere in France. After the rental, it need to be returned by mail.

Rental Period Price 1 day 10 € 1 week 50 € 1 month 150 €

Standard delivery is 9 €, by express 12 €. Internet plan comes with a FUP of 1 GB per day. Beyond this limit you can still use the service without any additional fees but it will be throttled. miniBox has a minimum autonomy of 6 hours in intensive use.

Bienvenue has a partnership with Bouygues Télécom and uses their network in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE. For coverage information, please refer to Bouygues above.

Mywebspot rents pocket WiFi routers which allow travellers to stay connected. Clients can order online on my-webspot.com. The hotspot router including SIM card can be delivered everywhere in Europe in 24 hours, or customers can stop by their office next to Madeleine area in Paris to pick it up for free. Standard delivery in France is 4.90 € and by 24 hours express for 14.90 €.

On the 4G hotspot 10 devices can share for 8 hours. They use the Bouygues Télécom network in up to 4G/LTE with "unlimited" data and a FUP of 1 GB per day.

A prepaid envelope is given for the return and can be used from everywhere in France or Europe. A deposit of 140 € for the device is debited on your credit card, if you don't return the device. You can add an insurance for extra pay. The rental rates are flat: 7.90 € per rental day.

Website in English: my-webspot.com

Travelwifi rents personal WiFi hotspots providing 3G/4G coverage on Bouygues Télécom and SFR networks.

To rent the mobile hotspot, book it on their website, or directly at any Tourism Information Desk in Paris Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports (more information) that you can find here (locations). Routers are also available at Travelwifi Office in Paris (location) and Tourist Information Desks in Nice, Cannes, Marseille and Avignon (locations).

Travellers can choose to pick up their hotspot from Paris airports, office and any pick-up store in Europe. Additionally, the device can be delivered to the client in their home country or at their travel destination for a 4 EUR fee. Once you have received your hotspot, the WiFi signal can be shared with up to 10 devices at the same time. The return is done by the prepaid envelope provided, that the user need to drop in a mailbox from the last country visited for another 4 € fee.

Travelwifi offers three packages in up to 4G/LTE:

Adventure: 1 GB per day for 5.95 € per day

Escape: 5 GB per day for 6.95 € per day

Voyage: unlimited data per day for 7.95 per day