Are you planning a trip to Singapore? Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, staying connected is crucial. But nobody wants to come home to a shockingly high phone bill due to roaming charges. Let's dive into the world of roaming charges in Singapore and explore how you can stay connected.

Are There Roaming Charges in Singapore?

Yes, roaming charges do exist in Singapore for international visitors using their home network. When you use your regular SIM card from your home country in Singapore, you're essentially "roaming" on a foreign network. This means your home carrier will typically charge you extra for using data, making calls, or sending texts while you're abroad. These charges can add up quickly, so it's essential to understand how they work and how to avoid them.

When Do Roaming Charges Apply in Singapore?

Roaming charges kick in as soon as your phone connects to a Singaporean network. This happens automatically when you arrive in the country unless you've turned off data roaming on your device. Even if you're not actively using your phone, it may still connect to the local network for functions like checking for emails or app updates. Be aware that even receiving calls or texts can incur charges while roaming. It's crucial to check with your home network provider about their specific roaming policies for Singapore before you travel.

Roaming Fees and Charges in Singapore

Disclaimer: Prices and plans are subject to change. Always check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

Here's a breakdown of roaming charges and plans for some major international carriers when used in the Singapore:

EE (UK): [1]

• Making a call: £1.80 per minute

• Receiving a call: £1.80 per minute

• Sending a text: 60p per text

• You'll need to purchase a data add-on upon arrival

Vodafone (UK): [2]

• Making a call: 60p per minute

• Receiving a call: 36p per minute

• Sending a text: 8p per text

• Internet: 12p per MB

O2 (UK): [3]

• Making a call: £2 per minute

• Receiving a call: £2 per minute

• Sending a text: 50p per text

• Internet: £7.20 per MB

Orange: [4]

Orange Holiday Singapore package limited to 14 days for €24.99:

• 10 GB in 4G/LTE

• Calls NOT included

• Messages NOT included

Movistar (Spain): [5]

• Internet: €12.10 per MB

• To Spain or local numbers: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• To other destinations: €4.83 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Receiving calls: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Sending SMS to any destination: €1.21 per SMS

• Sending MMS to any destination: €4.84 per MMS

KPN (Netherlands): [6]

• Internet: €2.50 per MB

• Making a call: €1 per minute

• Receiving a call: €0.50 per minute

• Sending a text: €0.30 per text

Rogers (Canada): [7]

• $15.00 per 10 MB

• $0.75 per text

• $3.00 per min

• or $15.00 per day - Pay the daily fee and use your own plan (Maximum 20 days per billing cycle)

Telstra (Australia): [8]

$10 AUD per day for "International Day Pass"

• 2 GB data

• Unlimited calls/SMS

Verizon (USA): [9]

• $2.05 per MB

• $1.79 per min

• Travel Pass: $10 per day to use your own plan

T-Mobile (USA): [10]

• $5 per day: 512MB data, unlimited calling

• $35 for 10 days: 5GB data, unlimited calling

• $50 for 30 days: 15GB data, unlimited calling

Keep in mind that these charges can add up quickly, especially for longer stays, making alternatives like Roamless eSIM an attractive option for many travelers.

How to Avoid Roaming Charges in Singapore

Read our guide on how to avoid roaming charges for more details. Here are some tips:

• Turn off data roaming on your device before you arrive in Singapore.

• Connect to Wi-Fi whenever possible to use internet-based services.

• Consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival in Singapore.

• Check if your home provider offers special international roaming packages for Singapore.

• Use messaging apps that work over Wi-Fi for communication.

If you need constant connectivity, look into eSIM options like Roamless for flexible, affordable data.

Roamless eSIM in Singapore

Roamless eSIM offers a range of features that make it an excellent choice for travelers to Singapore:

• No speed throttling: Enjoy full-speed data throughout your stay

• Pay-as-you-go flexibility: Only pay for the data you actually use

• Funds never expire: Your balance remains valid for future trips

• No country-specific plans: Perfect for multi-country travelers in the region

• Local network speeds: Experience the same fast connections as local users

• Easy activation: Set up your eSIM before you even leave home

You can visit our eSIM Singapore page or read our guide on the best eSIM for Singapore before planning your travel. With Roamless eSIM, you can say goodbye to roaming charges and hello to seamless, affordable connectivity in Singapore and beyond. It's the smart choice for modern travelers who want to stay connected without the stress of managing multiple SIM cards or worrying about excessive charges.

Sources:

[1] https://ee.co.uk/help/mobile/roaming/roaming-costs/countries/singapore

[2] https://www.vodafone.co.uk/help-and-information/costs-and-charges/travelling-abroad

[3] https://www.o2.co.uk/international/using-your-phone-abroad

[4] https://travel.orange.com/en/buy-a-sim/offers/singapore

[5] https://www.movistar.es/tarifas-moviles/roaming/#Singapur

[6] https://www.kpn.com/mobiel-abonnement/bundels/buitenland.htm#bundels_tarieven

[7] https://www.rogers.com/mobility/roaming#searchbar

[8] https://www.telstra.com.au/international-roaming#eligible-destinations

[9] https://www.verizon.com/support/international-services-pricing/

[10] https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/international-roaming-plans/unlimited-calling-data-pass