Dutch SIM Cards Compared: KPN, Vodafone, and More for Expats

Getting a Dutch phone number was one of those tasks we kept putting off after arriving in the Netherlands. We were still using our US number, paying international rates, and pretending that was fine.

It was not fine. A Dutch number is practically required to function here, from two-factor authentication on Dutch apps to receiving calls from the gemeente.

Here is our breakdown of Dutch mobile providers after testing several and talking to other Americans on the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) visa about what they chose.

Why You Need a Dutch SIM Card

If you are still on the fence, here is why a Dutch number matters:

• DigiD SMS verification requires a phone number (Dutch numbers work most reliably). See our DigiD setup guide.
• Dutch banks send verification codes via SMS to Dutch numbers
• Delivery services call your Dutch number when they cannot find your address
• Government agencies and businesses expect a local number
• EU roaming is included, so your Dutch plan works across Europe

You can also keep your US number running alongside your Dutch one. Most Americans here have both.

The Big Three Providers

KPN

KPN is the largest and oldest telecom provider in the Netherlands. Think of them as the AT&T or Verizon of Dutch mobile.

Pros:

• Best network coverage, especially in rural areas
• Reliable customer service with English support
• Strong 5G rollout
• Physical stores across the country for in-person help

Cons:

• Most expensive of the big three
• Contract plans push 24-month commitments
• SIM-only plans still cost more than competitors

Typical pricing (SIM-only):

• 5 GB data: around 15 euros/month
• 15 GB data: around 22 euros/month
• Unlimited data: around 35 euros/month

Vodafone

Vodafone offers solid coverage and tends to be slightly cheaper than KPN for comparable plans.

Pros:

• Good network coverage
• Competitive pricing
• English-speaking customer support
• International calling add-ons (useful for calling the US)

Cons:

• Coverage slightly less consistent than KPN in remote areas
• Customer service can be hit or miss
• Store locations fewer than KPN

Typical pricing (SIM-only):

• 5 GB data: around 13 euros/month
• 15 GB data: around 20 euros/month
• Unlimited data: around 30 euros/month

T-Mobile Netherlands

T-Mobile has been growing aggressively in the Netherlands and often offers the most competitive pricing of the big three.

Pros:

• Lowest prices among major carriers
• Good 5G expansion
• Decent app and account management
• Sometimes offers welcome deals for new customers

Cons:

• Network coverage slightly behind KPN
• Customer service sometimes only in Dutch
• Less robust in very rural areas

Typical pricing (SIM-only):

• 5 GB data: around 12 euros/month
• 15 GB data: around 18 euros/month
• Unlimited data: around 28 euros/month

Budget Providers (MVNOs)

Budget providers use the networks of the big three but charge less. They cut costs by offering online-only support and simpler plans.

Simyo

Runs on the KPN network. Very affordable and straightforward. Their website is available in English.

• Plans starting from around 5 euros/month
• Flexible: change your plan monthly
• No contract required
• Good for people who mostly use Wi-Fi and do not need much data

Ben

Also on the T-Mobile network. Similar to Simyo in pricing and flexibility.

• Plans from around 6 euros/month
• Easy online management
• Prepaid and subscription options
• App is Dutch-only

Lebara

Popular with expats. Runs on the KPN network and offers good international calling rates.

• Plans from around 5 euros/month
• Great international calling bundles (including US numbers)
• Available at many supermarkets and phone shops
• Website and support in multiple languages

Pro Tip: If you mainly need a Dutch number for verification codes and local calls, a budget provider at 5-10 euros per month is all you need. Save the premium plans for when you actually need lots of data on the go.

Prepaid vs. Contract vs. SIM-Only

Prepaid: Buy a SIM, add credit, use it. No commitment. Good for getting started quickly, but per-minute and per-MB rates are higher.

Contract (with phone): 12 or 24-month commitment that includes a phone. You typically need a Dutch bank account and sometimes a BSN number. Providers may run a credit check, which can be tricky when you are new to the country.

SIM-only subscription: Monthly subscription without a phone. Usually month-to-month or 12-month commitment. Best value for most people. Easier approval than full contracts.

What We Wish We Knew: Start with prepaid from Lebara or Simyo. You can buy a SIM at Schiphol Airport, Albert Heijn, or any phone shop. Then switch to a SIM-only subscription once you have your BSN and bank account sorted. This gets you a working Dutch number from day one.

What to Consider as an American

eSIM compatibility: If your phone supports eSIM, some providers offer it. This means you can keep your physical US SIM in the phone while adding a Dutch eSIM. Check with the provider before signing up.

EU roaming: All Dutch plans include free roaming across the EU. Your Dutch data and calling plan works in France, Germany, Spain, and everywhere else in the EU at no extra cost. This is fantastic for the weekend trips you will definitely take.

International calling to the US: Standard plans charge premium rates for calls to US numbers. If you call the US frequently, look for plans with international bundles or use WhatsApp/FaceTime calls over data instead.

Coverage in your area: Check coverage maps on each provider's website before committing. If you live in central Amsterdam or Rotterdam, any provider works fine. If you are in a smaller town, KPN's network advantage matters more.

How to Get Started

1. Day one: Buy a prepaid SIM at Schiphol or a phone shop
2. First week: Start using your Dutch number for registrations
3. After BSN and bank account: Switch to a SIM-only subscription for better value
4. After settling in: Evaluate whether you need to upgrade data or add international calling

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I port my existing Dutch prepaid number to a subscription plan? A: Yes. Number portability works well in the Netherlands. When you sign up for a new plan with any provider, tell them you want to keep your existing number. The transfer takes one to two business days.

Q: Do I need a Dutch bank account to get a phone plan? A: For prepaid, no. You can buy top-up credit with cash or any card. For a subscription plan, most providers require a Dutch bank account for direct debit (automatische incasso). Get your bank account set up first.

Q: What about home internet and TV bundles? A: KPN, Vodafone, and T-Mobile all offer bundles with home internet, TV, and mobile. Bundling can save money, but check our guide on setting up utilities before committing to a bundle.

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We're not immigration lawyers -- just Americans who did this. Requirements change, so verify with official sources.