What is an eSIM and how does it work in Finland?
An eSIM is a digital version of a physical SIM card that’s already built into your phone. In Finland, it lets you connect to local networks such as Telia, DNA, and Elisa without needing to visit a store or insert a SIM card.
You simply buy a data plan online, scan the QR code, and your eSIM activates within minutes. This makes it ideal for travellers and digital nomads arriving for work or a Finland winter holiday. You can get online the moment you land.
Once installed, your eSIM works like a normal SIM card: you can browse, navigate, and message anywhere from Helsinki to Lapland, while keeping your regular SIM active for calls or texts.
What’s better for Finland: an eSIM or a local SIM card?
For most travellers, an eSIM is more convenient than a local SIM card in Finland. You can buy it online, install it before your flight, and connect as soon as you arrive, no ID registration, no shop visits, and no waiting in line at the airport.
A local SIM card from Telia, DNA, or Elisa can still work well for longer stays, but buying one often requires visiting a store and showing your ID. eSIMs remove that step entirely, which is especially handy during busy travel seasons or Finland winter holidays.
Why travellers prefer eSIMs in Finland
✅ Instant setup before or after arrival
✅ Reliable 5G/4G coverage nationwide
✅ No paperwork or local registration
✅ Works in multiple regions, from Helsinki to Lapland
✅ Lets you keep your home SIM active for calls and texts
Best eSIMs for Finland in 2025: Ubigi vs eSIM4Travel
The best eSIM for Finland depends on how long you’re staying and how much data you need. Below is a comparison of two trusted providers, Ubigi and eSIM4Travel, both offering reliable 5G coverage, flexible data plans, and simple activation across the country.
Ubigi: Best for larger or unlimited data plans
Ubigi is ideal if you need plenty of data for remote work, streaming, or a long Finland winter holiday. It connects to Telia and DNA for fast 5G speeds in cities and reliable 4G coverage in more remote areas. Plans start from 3 GB (US$5) and go up to 50 GB or unlimited data for 7- or 30-day durations.
Why Ubigi works well in Finland
- Reliable 5G/4G coverage on Telia and DNA
- Large and unlimited data options for long stays or remote work
- Real-time data tracking and easy top-ups in the app
- Great for digital nomads and extended Finland winter holidays
- Exclusive Nomadwise discount for your first purchase
eSIM4Travel: Best for affordable short-term data plans
eSIM4Travel is a great fit for shorter trips or lighter data needs. It uses a multi-carrier network (DNA, Elisa, Telia, and Ålcom) to provide strong nationwide coverage and stable speeds. Plans range from as little as 1 GB for US$0.94. Topping up is possible anytime.
Why travellers choose eSIM4Travel
- Multi-network coverage across Finland
- Simple QR-code activation before departure
- Budget-friendly prepaid plans for short stays
- Easy top-ups and clear setup instructions
Both providers are safe, easy to use, and travel-friendly. The best eSIM for your Finland trip mainly depends on whether you prefer larger data flexibility (Ubigi) or affordable short-term options (eSIM4Travel).
👉 For more options, see our full list of eSIM providers for Finland.
How to choose the right eSIM for your Finland trip
Choosing the best eSIM for Finland depends on how long you’re staying, how much data you’ll use, and where you plan to travel, from Helsinki’s cafés to snowy Lapland during your Finland winter holiday.
Key things to consider when picking your eSIM
- Device compatibility: Check that your phone supports eSIM (most recent iPhone, Samsung, and Google models do).
- Data usage: Light users can choose 1–3 GB plans, while heavy users or remote workers benefit from larger or unlimited packs.
- Coverage: Make sure your eSIM connects to major Finnish networks like Telia, DNA, and Elisa for the best speeds.
- Support options: Choose providers with clear setup guides or live chat if you need help during travel.
- Trip length: Short-term visitors can choose smaller plans, while longer stays may need monthly or larger data packages.
A good eSIM should offer reliable 5G or 4G coverage, transparent pricing, and easy activation, so you can stay connected wherever you go in Finland.
How do you set up an eSIM in Finland?
Setting up an eSIM in Finland is quick and can be done in just a few minutes. You can install it before your trip or after arriving in the country.
Steps to activate your eSIM in Finland
- Check compatibility: Make sure your device supports eSIM and that it’s unlocked.
- Buy a plan: Choose your preferred eSIM provider and purchase a data plan online.
- Scan the QR code: After checkout, you’ll receive a QR code by email or in the app. Scan it using your phone’s mobile network settings.
- Label your eSIM: Name it (e.g., “Finland eSIM”) to keep it separate from your main SIM.
- Turn on mobile data: Enable data roaming for your eSIM and test the connection.
💡 Tips for a problem-free eSIM setup
- Install your eSIM before travelling if you want to connect immediately on arrival.
- Remove expired or unused eSIMs to avoid confusion.
- Restart your phone after installation if data doesn’t activate right away.
- Keep your home SIM active if you still need calls or verification texts.
You’ll usually be online within minutes and ready to navigate Helsinki, stream music, or share photos from your Finland holiday.
Final recommendation: Which eSIM is best for Finland?
Both Ubigi and eSIM4Travel offer strong nationwide coverage, easy setup, and affordable plans for travellers in Finland. Your best choice depends mainly on your data needs and trip length.
👉 Choose Ubigi if you want larger or unlimited data packs, flexible top-ups, and reliable 5G coverage for remote work or a long Finland summer or winter holiday. Use the code NOMADWISE to get 10% off your first purchase.
👉 Choose eSIM4Travel if you’re on a short trip, prefer smaller prepaid plans, or want a quick, affordable setup.
