Getting a local SIM card at Boryspil International Airport (KBP) in Ukraine is crucial for staying connected during your visit. This guide covers the available options, costs, and step-by-step instructions to quickly get you set up with a reliable SIM card. Having mobile connectivity allows you to stay in touch, access maps and apps, and share your experiences – all important for a successful trip to Ukraine.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Boryspil Airport
It is possible and quite easy to purchase a SIM card at Boryspil International Airport (KBP) if you do not want to pay for roaming or are looking for free Wi-Fi. Here’s where you can find SIM cards in the arrival areas of Terminals D and F:
Location 1: Vodafone Ukraine
Vodafone Ukraine is one of the leading mobile operators in Ukraine and has its store in Terminal D which is very near to our entry point. They have a wide range of prepaid SIM cards with diversified data usage plans, validity times as well as calling plans.
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily (hours might vary)
- Location: Arrivals Hall, Terminal D, near the information desk
- Language Support: Ukrainian, English, Russian
- Recommendation: A reliable option with a wide selection of SIM cards and helpful staff.
Location 2: Kyivstar
Kyivstar another of the Ukrainian mobile providers also has its store in Terminal D. Kyivstar offers very affordable SIM card packages with varying data allocations and they usually have tourist promotions.
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily (hours might vary)
- Location: Arrivals Hall, Terminal D, near Gate 11
- Language Support: Ukrainian, English, Russian
- Recommendation: A good choice for competitive pricing and good coverage throughout Ukraine.
Location 3: lifecell
Lifecell is one of the biggest in Ukraine and has the best deals for its clients with the best network coverage in the country. Their store is located in the Terminal F.
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily (hours might vary)
- Location: Terminal F, Arrivals Hall, near the Duty-Free shop
- Language Support: Ukrainian, English, Russian
- Recommendation: A good option if you’re looking for budget-friendly plans and arrive at Terminal F.
Important Notes:
- Terminal Differences: Please bear in mind that whether or not Terminal D or Terminal F has a SIM card or which specific vendor provides access to voice and data services is uncertain.
- Activation: In some of these establishments, the staff on the ground will be able to assist in the activation of the SIM card.
- Payment: Large portions of the stores accept credit cards and the local currency – the Ukrainian Hryvnia, commonly abbreviated as UAH. They may accept US Dollars or Euros, although ask well beforehand as to whether this is the case.
- Current Situation: It should be noted that owing to the situation in Ukraine, it might be curtailed that the store’s operating hours and/or SIM card availability. Still, it is worth checking for updates or contacting the providers in advance.
For those willing to grab a SIM card at one of these convenient moments such as an airport, you’ll set foot in the Ukraine and the world of being connected with ease.
II. Boryspil Airport SIM Card Options and Costs
SIM card is available at the airport through the 3 major mobile providers operating in Ukraine with options that will suit every need and pocket. There are simple tariffs for those who only occasionally use the Internet for e-mail and maps or tariffs for those who stream a large amount of content on social networks and watch videos.
Here’s a table summarizing the typical SIM card options you can expect to find at Boryspil Airport:
| Provider | Data | Validity | Price (approx. USD) | Features |
| Kyivstar | 20GB | 30 days | $15 | High-speed data calls/SMS |
| Kyivstar | 50GB | 30 days | $25 | High-speed data, more calls/SMS, some international roaming |
| Vodafone Ukraine | 10GB | 30 days | $10 | High-speed data, some calls |
| Vodafone Ukraine | 25GB | 30 days | $20 | High-speed data, more calls/SMS, some international roaming |
| lifecell | 15GB | 30 days | $12 | High-speed data, might include calls, some international roaming |
| lifecell | 40GB | 30 days | $20 | High-speed data, more calls/SMS, more international roaming |
Notes: Please remember that being in Ukraine right now, the situation can influence the price and availability of some products. It is advisable to contact providers or airport authorities for more updates as to the latest on the issue.
III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Boryspil Airport
Purchasing SIM at Boryspil Airport is pretty easy but a bit of planning can make it even easier. Here’s a checklist to ensure you’re ready to purchase your SIM card upon arrival:
- Passport: You are going to have to bring your passport to enroll because the majority of mobile service providers in Ukraine do ask for your passport.
- Unlocked phone: If you are thinking of using a normal SIM card that goes straight into the phone, then you have to make sure your phone is open. They are unlocked handsets and this means that you can use different SIM cards from different carriers.
- Payment method: Accepting Visa/Master credit cards as well as Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH) most of the kiosks and stores at Boryspil Airport. It is advisable to have some cash (UAE) in case of any emergencies and before that, it is advisable to check if the provider accepts other currencies such as US dollars or Euros.
- Know your data needs: Drive your assessment on how much data you will require depending on the type of traveler you are and the activities to be undertaken. This will help you select the correct package of data transmission and avoid extra charges for the used traffic.
With all these concerns sorted, you will be on the right footing to make a quick grab for your SIM card, and don’t miss any part of your Ukrainian escapade!
IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Boryspil Airport
Fancy the direct connection as soon as you arrive in Ukraine instead of going through the tiresomeness of waiting at the kiosk? An eSIM can be regarded as a kind of advanced and rather useful tool instead of an ordinary physical SIM card is an eSIM. An eSIM is an embedded mobile plan that enables one to subscribe or change a plan or carrier without a physical card.
Important Notes about eSIMs:
- Compatibility: eSIMs work in the latest iPhones (iPhone XS and later), and a selection of Android devices. Make sure that you own a smartphone that has an eSIM-compatible model and one that supports such an operating system.
- Unlocked phone: If you want to put an eSIM of another carrier, your phone should be unlocked.
If you’re anxious about connectivity, or in a circumstance where your plans may be changeable, eSIMs are perfect for you as the traveler, this way, you don’t have to go through the fuss of having to locate a shop to do the swap. Farewell to the physical SIM cards and switch to framed eSIM experience in Ukraine for richer connections.
Ready to get your Ukraine eSIM?
V. FAQs about Buying a SIM Card at Boryspil Airport
Are SIM card kiosks open 24/7 at Boryspil Airport?
Generally, no. Most SIM card kiosks and stores at Boryspil Airport have operating hours roughly from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. But these hours may be different, to avoid confusion, it is recommended to contact the specific service provider or go to the information center of the airport.
Do the SIM card kiosks/stores at Boryspil Airport accept credit cards?
Of course, they do; most kiosks that sell SIM cards and stores at the Boryspil Airport allow the use of credit cards which include Visa and Mastercard. Nevertheless, it is wise to have some Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH) with you in case of any necessity.
Are US dollars or Euros accepted for SIM card purchases?
Although running testers may take US dollars or Euros, this is not assured as many outlets may not run such currencies. You can either ask at the particular kiosk or store in advance or have UAH prepared to be used in the purchase.
Where can I find SIM card kiosks/stores in the airport?
SIM card stalls are available in the arrival sections of Terminal D and Terminal F with Vodafone, Kyivstar, Lifecell signages. They are normally located around the baggage claim areas, doors, and information counters.
Final Words
Purchasing a local SIM card or eSIM at Boryspil Airport (KBP) is a convenient way for travelers to get affordable mobile connectivity in Ukraine. Major carriers like Kyivstar, Vodafone, and lifecell have sales points offering prepaid options tailored for visitors. Compare the plans and select the one that best fits your needs in terms of data, calls/texts, and validity. Getting a local SIM or eSIM can help you avoid roaming costs and stay connected during your time in the country.