What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (short for embedded SIM) is a digital version of a traditional SIM card that’s built directly into your phone. Instead of inserting a plastic SIM, you simply download a mobile plan from your provider using a QR code or app.
eSIMs work the same way in Switzerland as they do anywhere else. Once installed, your phone connects automatically to a local partner network (usually Salt, Sunrise, or Swisscom), giving you instant access to fast 4G and 5G data across cities, lakes, and mountain regions.
Because there’s no physical card involved, switching between data plans or countries is seamless. You can keep your regular number active on your physical SIM while using data through your eSIM, making it especially practical for travel or cross-border trips within Europe.
In short, an eSIM lets you get online quickly without visiting a store, showing ID, or dealing with registration forms.
What’s better for Switzerland: eSIM or local SIM card?
For most travelers, an eSIM is the easiest and most flexible way to stay connected in Switzerland. Local SIM cards from Swisscom, Sunrise, or Salt often require ID verification, in-store registration, and higher upfront costs, not ideal if you just want quick, reliable data.
An eSIM can be installed before your flight and activated the moment you land in Zurich or Geneva. You’ll be online instantly for maps, bookings, and messages without any paperwork or waiting.
Why eSIMs are better for Switzerland:
✅ Install before departure and activate instantly
✅ No ID checks or in-store registration
✅ Works on the same Swiss networks (Salt, Sunrise, Swisscom)
✅ Easy top-ups and plan management in the app
✅ Reusable in 200+ destinations, perfect for trips across Europe
In short, eSIMs make travel smoother, especially for short stays, ski trips, or digital nomads who cross borders frequently.
Best eSIM providers for Switzerland (2025)
Two eSIM providers stand out for Switzerland: Ubigi and eSIM4Travel. Both offer strong coverage on the major networks Salt and Sunrise, easy setup, and affordable plans, but they suit different types of travelers.
Ubigi: Best value for larger data plans and long stays
Ubigi is ideal if you need reliable coverage and generous data while traveling or working remotely in Switzerland. It offers flexible data packs up to 50 GB or unlimited options, all on fast 4G / 5G networks. You can also reuse your eSIM across more than 200 destinations in Europe and beyond.
Why Ubigi works well in Switzerland:
✅ Reliable 5G coverage on Salt and Sunrise
✅ Plans from 3 GB (US$6.50) up to unlimited and 12-month plans
✅ Reusable eSIM for 200+ destinations
✅ Easy top-ups directly in the app
✅ Great for digital nomads and longer trips
eSIM4Travel: Best for smaller or short-term data plans
eSIM4Travel is a great choice if you just need data for navigation, messages, or quick online access during a ski holiday or weekend trip. Plans start from under US$1 for 1 GB and go up to 50 GB, all with simple setup and instant activation.
Why eSIM4Travel works well in Switzerland:
✅ Affordable plans from US$0.94 / 1 GB
✅ 4G / 5G coverage on Salt and Sunrise
✅ Fast QR-code activation
✅ Data-only plans with easy top-ups
✅ Perfect for short visits or light data users
Both providers deliver strong coverage and straightforward setup, but Ubigi offers better value for long-term use or heavier data needs, while eSIM4Travel suits short trips or travelers who just need reliable basics. For other provider options, check our Switzerland eSIM directory.
How to choose the right eSIM for your Switzerland trip
The best eSIM for Switzerland depends on your travel plans and data needs. If you’re visiting for a ski holiday, a short city break, or a longer remote-work stay, comparing a few key factors can help you choose the right plan.
Here’s what to consider before buying:
- Trip length: Short-term plans often cover 7 to 30 days, while long-term or annual options suit frequent travelers.
- Data allowance: Light users can start with 3–5 GB for maps and messages, while 10 GB or more is ideal for streaming and video calls.
- Network coverage: Look for eSIMs that use Salt, Sunrise, or Swisscom, which provide the widest coverage across Switzerland.
- Compatibility: Make sure your phone supports eSIM technology and is unlocked before you buy.
- Top-ups and management: Many eSIM apps let you monitor usage, recharge easily, or switch between destinations without changing SIMs.
Choosing an eSIM that fits your trip length, data habits, and device will ensure smooth connectivity across cities, mountain regions, and ski resorts.
How to set up an eSIM in Switzerland
Setting up an eSIM in Switzerland is simple and only takes a few minutes. You can install it before your trip and activate it as soon as you land, so you’re online right away for maps, messages, and bookings.
eSIM setup step-by-step guide:
- Check compatibility: Make sure your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM technology. Most newer iPhone, Samsung, and Google Pixel models do.
- Choose a plan: Select an eSIM that covers Switzerland and matches your data needs.
- Purchase your plan: Buy it online or through the provider’s app. You’ll receive a QR code or installation link by email.
- Install the eSIM: Scan the QR code or follow the app’s setup guide to add the eSIM profile to your device.
- Turn on data roaming: Go to your phone’s mobile data settings and enable data roaming for the new eSIM.
- Select the eSIM as your primary network: In your mobile network settings, choose the eSIM for mobile data to ensure it connects automatically to a local Swiss network.
Pro tips:
- Remove old or expired eSIM profiles before installing a new one to avoid connection errors.
- Rename your active eSIM (for example, “Switzerland eSIM”) so you don’t confuse it with others.
Once activated, your eSIM will connect to a local carrier and you can manage data or top up easily in the provider’s app.
Final recommendation: Which eSIM is best for Switzerland?
Both Ubigi and eSIM4Travel offer reliable, fast connectivity across Switzerland, covering the same major networks (Salt and Sunrise) and making setup easy from anywhere in the world.
👉 Choose Ubigi if you want better value for larger data plans or plan to travel across multiple European countries. It’s reliable, reusable in 200+ destinations, and includes a 10% discount with code NOMADWISE for first-time users.
👉 Choose eSIM4Travel if you need a smaller, budget-friendly plan for short ski trips, weekends, or light browsing.
Whichever option you choose, both providers ensure stable 4G and 5G coverage across cities, mountain towns, and ski resorts.
If you’re traveling beyond Switzerland, check out our Best eSIMs for Europe guide for multi-country plans.
