Find the best place to buy a SIM card at Boryspil Airport to get connected in Kyiv. Follow this guide for more details.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Boryspil Airport
Operators Store: You can find some operators store like Kyivstar, Vodafone and Lifecell after you exit customs and enter the main arrivals hall
- Location: Store near the baggage carousels in Arrivals
- Opening hours: Daily 7:00-22:00
- Price: ~$3-5 for 1GB data
- Waiting time: Usually 5-10 mins during busy periods
Novus Store (Convenience Store)
- Location: Outside airport, near Terminal D arrivals
- Opening Hours: Daily 6:00-24:00
- SIM Options: Kyivstar, Vodafone, Lifecell pay-as-you-go SIM cards
- Price Range: ~$3-5 depending on data bundle
- Waiting time: No wait time required
Tips: Check the Boryspil Airport map from kbp.aero upon landing to easily find the locations.
II. Boryspil Airport SIM Card Options and Costs
The main mobile networks in Ukraine are Kyivstar, Vodafone, Lifecell and ITrime. Here’s an overview of what’s available from each provider at Boryspil Airport:
| Network | Store/Kiosk Location | SIM Cost (USD) | Data Allowance | Validity |
| Kyivstar | Kyivstar store near Arrivals | $5 | 3GB | 30 days |
| Vodafone Ukraine | Store after Passport Control | $4 | 1GB | N/A |
| Lifecell | Lifecell kiosk | $3.50 | 1.5GB | 10 days |
| Tourist SIM | Airport kiosks | $5-7 | Small bundle (0.5-1GB) | 1-2 weeks |
When choosing a provider, consider the amount of data you’ll need and where you plan to travel. Kyivstar and Vodafone have the best nationwide coverage.
III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Boryspil Airport
To purchase and activate a SIM card at Boryspil airport, you’ll need:
- Passport or Travel ID: You’ll need to show your passport or other travel ID as proof of identity.
- Passport Photo: Some providers may ask for a passport-sized photo to register your SIM. Have one ready just in case.
- Unlocked Phone: Your phone needs to be unlocked to use a foreign SIM. Contact your home provider to unlock before your trip.
- Local Currency: Some Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH) to pay for your SIM package. There are ATMs and currency exchanges at the airport.
- SIM Card Adapter (if needed): Some SIM card sizes like micro or nano may require a plastic adapter to fit your phone. Ask for one at the kiosk if required.
With these items, buying a SIM card at Boryspil Airport is quick and straightforward once you land in Kyiv.
IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Boryspil Airport
If your phone supports eSIM technology, you may want to consider an eSIM as a convenient alternative to a physical SIM card in Ukraine. An eSIM is a digital SIM profile downloaded to your phone that doesn’t require swapping out SIMs.
Benefits of using eSIM over a physical SIM include:
- Easy online signup and activation – no need to source and swap SIMs
- Ability to access connectivity right upon landing
- Multiple eSIM profiles supported on one device
- Better security and less chance of SIM loss/theft
One of eSIM provider is Ukraine eSIM offers prepaid eSIM data packages that can be purchased before your trip and provide coverage in Ukraine. Just make sure to check eSIM compatibility with your specific phone model before traveling.
So, here are their best data plans:
V. FAQs
Do I need to register my SIM card?
Yes, you’ll need to register any new SIM card at Boryspil Airport by providing your passport and verifying your identity. This is required by law for security purposes.
Can I use a SIM card from another country?
Foreign SIMs may work in Ukraine for a short time, but you’ll pay very high roaming rates. A local SIM is much cheaper for making calls, texts and using data.
How do I top up/recharge my SIM?
You can top up your prepaid SIM at ATMs, payment terminals, or retail outlets by purchasing a top up voucher. Online/app top ups may also be available.
Is free wifi available at Boryspil Airport?
Yes, Boryspil provides a free wifi network called Boryspil_Free that you can connect to during your airport stay. Speeds are decent but data limits apply.
Are there taxes or activation fees for SIM card at Boryspil Airport?
No, the advertised SIM package prices include all taxes and activation is free. You just pay the flat rate for the data/minutes/texts.
VI. Final Words
Getting a local Ukraine SIM card at Boryspil Airport is quick and easy, whether you visit a kiosk in arrivals or purchase online ahead of time.
And consider Ukraine eSIM if your phone is compatible, you’ll be able to stay connected with unlimited mobile data during your Ukraine trip without paying expensive roaming fees.
