You land, your roaming signal is weak, and you’re tired of airport Wi-Fi that logs you out every ten minutes. Here’s how to get connected fast, what it costs, and what actually works for visitors.
Quick answer: Yes, you can get fast mobile data in ten minutes
You have two good options:
- Physical SIM: Buy from a kiosk in the arrivals hall or any city newsstand
- eSIM: Buy online, scan a QR code, and activate instantly
Both options work well across Bosnia and Herzegovina. If your phone supports eSIM, that’s often fastest.
Physical SIM card: what to buy and where
You’ll see kiosks from BH Telecom, HT Eronet, and m:tel in most airport terminals. All three major brands work well in cities and most towns.
- BH Telecom: Most coverage, good for mountains and small towns
- HT Eronet: Strongest in the south (Mostar, Herzegovina), decent elsewhere
- m:tel: Good in Banja Luka and the north
Typical starter packs cost 10 BAM (about 5 EUR) and include 3 to 5 GB valid for thirty days. Bring your passport for registration. Staff will set up the SIM for you if you ask.
Where to buy:
- Airport arrivals kiosk
- City center newsstands
- Any shopping mall
Tip: If your flight is late or the airport kiosk is closed, city kiosks open early and stay open late.
eSIM: fast, simple, and ideal for newer phones
If your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM, this is the fastest way to get online.
- Buy from providers like airalo.com or nomad
- Choose a Bosnia and Herzegovina data pack (example: 3 GB for 5 EUR, 30 days)
- Pay online, scan your QR code, and follow the on-screen steps
No documents, no queues, works instantly even before you land if you set it up at home.
What to know:
- Not every phone supports eSIM. Check before you fly.
- eSIMs are data-only, so you won’t get a local phone number, but you can use WhatsApp, Viber, or Messenger for calls.
Topping up and coverage
- You can top up credit at any kiosk or supermarket
- Coverage is excellent in Sarajevo, Mostar, Banja Luka, Tuzla, and all major towns
- In some mountain or rural areas, signal can drop. BH Telecom usually has the strongest coverage off the main roads
Price summary (July 2025)
- Physical SIM starter pack: 10 BAM (5 EUR), includes 3 to 5 GB, thirty days
- eSIM: 3 GB for 5 EUR, 10 GB for 12 EUR, valid thirty days
FAQ
Can I use my EU SIM with no extra fees?
No. Bosnia and Herzegovina is not in EU roaming, so charges are high for most EU plans.
Is free Wi-Fi common in the city?
You will find free Wi-Fi in cafes and hotels, but it’s slow and rarely secure. Airports have free Wi-Fi but time limits apply.
Do I need a passport to buy a SIM?
Yes. You need to show a passport for all SIM purchases, even for tourists.
Can I buy an eSIM on arrival?
Yes, but it is even faster if you buy online before your flight and activate when you land.
Can I keep my home WhatsApp number with a local SIM or eSIM?
Yes. WhatsApp works with your original number regardless of your SIM.
For more
Sources
BH Telecom, airalo.com, local traveller reports. Prices and details checked July 2025.
