Complete Guide To Prepaid SIM Plans In Singapore

Singapore, often dubbed the “Smart Nation”, boasts one of the most advanced telecommunications infrastructures in the world. Whether you’re a short-term visitor, a new expat, or a local seeking an affordable and commitment-free mobile solution, prepaid SIM cards in Singapore offer an excellent balance of flexibility, affordability, and connectivity. This guide delves into the comprehensive landscape of prepaid SIM plans in Singapore as of 2025, examining key providers, popular packages, comparative pricing, and factors to consider before making a purchase.

Why Choose a Prepaid SIM Card?

Prepaid SIM plans in Singapore have grown increasingly popular due to their versatility. Here are several reasons why one might opt for a prepaid option over a postpaid contract:

• No Contracts or Credit Checks: Prepaid plans require no long-term commitment, making them ideal for students, tourists, and short-term workers.
• Cost Control: Users pay upfront and only for what they need, reducing the risk of bill shock.
• Easy Setup: Activation is quick and straightforward—usually done within minutes via an app or in-store.
• Great for International Visitors: Many plans include generous roaming data or free international calls to specific countries.
• Freedom to Switch: With no lock-in period, users can easily switch providers or plans as their needs change.

Major Telecom Providers Offering Prepaid SIMs

Singapore’s telecom market is led by several major players, each offering a diverse range of prepaid SIM cards tailored to various usage needs.

1. Singtel Prepaid

As one of the largest telecom operators in Singapore, Singtel offers wide coverage and excellent network reliability.

Popular Plans:

• hi! SIM Card 5G Ready:

• Price: SGD 8 / 15 / 30 options
• Data: Up to 100GB (including weekend and app-specific bonuses)
• Validity: 28–30 days

Includes: Free incoming calls, local minutes, and international call credit

Pros:

• Extensive coverage islandwide
• Generous international calling minutes (e.g., to India, China, Indonesia)
• 5G-ready prepaid SIM options

Cons:

• Slightly pricier than competitors for equivalent data

2. StarHub Prepaid

Another leading telco, StarHub appeals to budget-conscious users and international students.

Popular Plans:

• Happy Prepaid SIM:
  • Price: SGD 10 / 20 / 30
  • Data: Up to 120GB (includes app-based bonuses and weekend boosts)
  • Validity: 28 days
  • Includes: Unlimited incoming calls, roaming data options

Pros:

• Very competitive data packages
• Data rollover available for some plans
• Extensive support for roaming, including regional ASEAN plans

Cons:

• Customer service may not be as extensive as Singtel

3. M1 Prepaid

Known for strong performance in central business and residential areas, M1 offers straightforward prepaid SIM solutions.

Popular Plans:

• M Card:
  • Price: SGD 12 / 20 / 30
  • Data: Up to 110GB
  • Validity: 28 days
  • Includes: Unlimited incoming calls, international call credits, IDD bundles

Pros:

• Strong IDD and overseas call bundles
• Good 5G coverage in city areas
• Simple app interface for top-ups and add-ons

Cons:

• May lack network strength in fringe areas compared to Singtel

4. TPG Telecom

A newer entrant in the Singapore telecom market, TPG is known for its aggressive pricing and straightforward offers.

Popular Plans:

• TPG Prepaid Starter Pack:
  • Price: SGD 10
  • Data: 100GB (local only), 300 call minutes, 30 SMS
  • Validity: 30 days
  • Roaming: Not supported in most basic plans

Pros:

• Extremely affordable, suitable for heavy data users
• Clear pricing structure
• Simple online ordering process

Cons:

• Limited roaming or international calling features
• Relatively less customer support infrastructure

5. Virtual Operators (MVNOs)

MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) in Singapore lease infrastructure from the main telcos and often offer competitive pricing.

Examples include:

• GOMO by Singtel
• GIGA! by StarHub
• RedONE
• Zero1

Popular MVNO Offers:

• GOMO SGD 20: 100GB + 1,000 mins + 1,000 SMS
• GIGA! SGD 25: 120GB + unlimited calls/SMS (with rollover)
• Zero1 SGD 9.90: 60GB for 30 days

Pros:

• Often cheaper than main telcos
• Many include rollover data features
• Online signup and account management

Cons:

• Network priorities may be lower than core telcos during peak times
• Minimal physical customer service points

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Prepaid SIM

1. Coverage Area

• While all major telcos provide strong coverage across Singapore, outlying areas and underground MRT routes may differ slightly.

2. Data Needs

• Are you a light user who checks WhatsApp and emails, or a heavy streamer who watches YouTube in HD?

3. Call and SMS Inclusions

• If you make frequent local or overseas calls, prioritise plans with inclusive minutes or IDD bundles.

4. Roaming Support

• Not all prepaid plans include roaming data. Some like StarHub’s Happy Roam allow usage across ASEAN and selected countries.

5. Validity Period

• Tourist plans often offer 7 to 12 days of validity, while standard prepaid cards offer 28–30 days.

6. Top-Up Ease

• Most providers offer app-based top-ups, but check whether physical cards or payment gateways are supported, especially for foreign visitors.

7. 5G Availability

• Most providers now offer 5G-ready prepaid SIMs, but speeds and coverage vary. Always check compatibility with your handset.

Where to Buy Prepaid SIM Cards

Prepaid SIM cards are widely available at:

• Changi Airport (arrival halls offer tourist-friendly SIM counters)
• Convenience Stores (7-Eleven, Cheers)
• Telecom Retail Outlets (Singtel, StarHub, M1)
• Online Platforms (official telco websites, Lazada, Shopee)

Tip: For tourists, buying a SIM at the airport may be more convenient but slightly costlier. Online purchases can offer promotions or discounts.

SIM Registration Requirements

The Singapore government mandates prepaid SIM registration to prevent misuse. Upon purchase, you must present:

• Passport (for foreigners)
• NRIC/FIN (for residents and expats)

The process is instant and can often be done digitally.

Best Plans for Different User Profiles

User Type	Recommended Provider	Ideal Plan	Why
Tourist (7–14 days)	StarHub or Singtel	SGD 12/15 Tourist SIM	Inclusive IDD, roaming & data
Student	GOMO or GIGA!	SGD 20–25	High data, affordable, low commitment
Expat (Short-Term)	M1 or Singtel	SGD 30 monthly	IDD, strong 5G, balance of features
Budget User	TPG or Zero1	SGD 10 or less	Huge data for low price
Frequent Traveller	StarHub (Happy Roam)	SGD 20–30	ASEAN roaming, call bundles

Final Thoughts

In 2025, the prepaid SIM market in Singapore has evolved to offer highly attractive, value-packed options for a wide range of users. Whether you’re a tourist in town for a weekend, a student managing your budget, or a digital nomad in need of reliable mobile data, there is a prepaid plan tailored to your lifestyle.

By understanding your usage patterns and comparing offerings across telcos and MVNOs, you can make an informed decision that ensures seamless communication at a fair price—without the burden of contracts.

Singapore’s prepaid SIM card ecosystem continues to reflect the country’s ethos of efficiency, connectivity, and innovation, making it easier than ever to stay connected on your terms.

FAQs

1. Can tourists buy SIM cards at Changi Airport?
Yes, all major telcos have kiosks at the airport offering tourist-specific SIM packages.

2. Can I use my prepaid SIM for tethering?
Most plans allow tethering, though check terms for possible data throttling.

3. Is there a cap on how many prepaid SIMs I can own?
Yes, Singapore permits each individual to register up to 3 prepaid SIM cards at any one time.

4. Are prepaid plans 5G compatible?
Yes, major providers now offer 5G-ready SIMs; however, actual speeds depend on your device and location.