This comprehensive guide to Melita SIM cards and eSIMs provides everything you need to stay connected. We provide clear, detailed information to assist every traveler, from practical knowledge about choosing, purchasing, activating, and using your Melita SIM card to more insights into Melita coverage and speed.
Table of Contents
I. Quick facts about Melita in Europe
Melita is a prominent telecommunications company based in Malta, offering a range of services across Europe. Here are some key facts:
- Services Offered: Melita provides nationwide 1 Gbps fiber-speed broadband, 5G mobile services, and premium television, and operates the largest data center in Malta.
- Network Infrastructure: It owns a 1,600 km Gigabit-enabled fixed network and a robust 5G mobile network with extensive coverage across Malta and reliable service in rural areas.
- International Connectivity: Melita ensures resilient internet access with two fully redundant submarine links connecting Malta to mainland Europe.
- 5G Roaming: As of July 2023, Melita completed the rollout of 5G roaming services across the EU, enabling seamless, high-speed connectivity for travelers.
In conclusion, with cutting-edge technology, Melita is a key player in Malta telecoms.
II. Melita coverage and speed in Europe
Here is some information about Melita’s coverage and speed in Europe
1. Melita coverage
Overall, Melita provides extensive 4G and 5G coverage across Malta and Gozo. According to FrequencyCheck. (2024). Melita Malta 5G NR Coverage and Frequency Bands. Here is an overview of Melita coverage:
- Melita’s 5G Network: Launched in May 2021, offering nationwide coverage across Malta and Gozo.
- 4G and 5G Accessibility: Strong signal availability across both urban and rural regions of the Maltese islands
- 5G Frequency Band: Utilizes the n78 (3500 MHz) band, optimized for broad and reliable coverage across the archipelago.
In conclusion, visitors will benefit from Melita’s seamless connectivity, whether in bustling cities or quieter rural regions, Melita ensures that users remain connected wherever they are.
2. Melita speed
Melita provides reliable 4G and 5G speeds, focusing on consistent connectivity across Malta and Gozo.
- Download Speeds: Users typically experience download speeds averaging around 13.5 Mbps.
- Upload Speeds: Upload speeds average approximately 1.7 Mbps.
While not the fastest compared to other operators in Malta such as GO and Epic, Melita still provides wide coverage and dependable performance, making it a solid choice for visitors in Malta.
III. Melita Connectivity options for travelers to the EU
Overall, Melita offers many connectivity options such as Prepaid SIM Card, Melita eSIM, Roaming, and Mobile Wi-fi/Hotspot.
Option | Description | Pros | Cons |
Prepaid SIM Card | A traditional SIM card loaded with data, calls, and SMS for use while traveling. | – Affordable local rates. – No long-term commitment. – Easy to set up. | – Requires SIM-compatible devices. – Lose access to primary number. |
eSIM | A digital alternative to physical SIMs, offering seamless connectivity for supported devices. | – No physical SIM needed. – Easy online activation. – Retain primary number on dual-SIM devices. | – Device must support eSIM. – Activation may require assistance. |
Roaming | Extend your current Melita plan for hassle-free use in the EU. | – Seamless; no setup needed. – Retain number and plan features. | – Subject to fair use limits. – Extra charges if allowances exceeded. |
Mobile Wi-Fi/Hotspot | Portable device for shared internet. | – Connect multiple devices. – Great for groups or heavy data usage. | – Requires carrying and charging. – Rental costs may be high. |
Recommendation: Your connectivity options depend on your trip length and personal needs. Here is a quick guide:
- Short Trips (Less than a Week): Consider eSIM for quick setup and convenience. or Roaming if your existing plan includes it.
- Longer Trips (Over a Week): Opt for a Prepaid SIM Card or eSIM for affordability and flexibility.
- Group Travel: Choose a Mobile Wi-Fi/Hotspot to share connectivity
IV. Best Melita SIM cards for tourists & costs
Melita offers different SIM card plans to stay connected. Here is a table comparing Melita SIM card plans for tourists, including data, calls, and SMS options:
Plan | Cost | Data | Minutes | SMS | Calls to Melita Numbers | Validity |
Pass S | €2.50 (~$2.65) | 500 MB | 100 minutes to non-Melita numbers | 100 SMS | Free | 28 days |
Pass M | €5.00(~$5.30) | 10 GB (20 GB with Auto Top-Up) | 200 minutes to non-Melita numbers | 200 SMS | Free | 28 days |
Pass L | €7.50(~$7.95) | 20 GB (40 GB with Auto Top-Up) | 200 minutes to non-Melita numbers | 200 SMS | Free | 28 days |
In conclusion, for light use or short trips, the Pass S is an affordable option. If you need more data for longer stays, the Pass M or Pass L with Auto Top-Up offers great value.
V. Does Melita support eSIM?
Yes, Melita supports eSIM technology across all its mobile plans, including both postpaid and prepaid options.
It means you can easily activate your mobile service immediately by scanning a QR code without visiting the store to buy a Melita SIM card or wait for delivery.
Plan Type | Data | Calls | SMS | Price |
Postpaid Plans | Unlimited 5G data | Unlimited local and roaming (EU, UK, USA) | Unlimited | €15.99/month |
Prepaid Plans | 20 GB (with Auto Top-Up) | Free to Melita numbers, 200 mins to non-Melita | SMS from €0.07 each | Based on top-up usage |
Youth Plans(for under 29 only) | Unlimited local data (20 Mbps on 5G) | Unlimited local | Unlimited | Varies |
In conclusion, Melita eSIM is a great choice to stay connected as it supports “Roam Like At Home,” allowing you to use your plan’s calls, SMS, and data in EU, EEA countries, the UK, and, until December 31, 2024, in the USA and Moldova without extra charges.
VI. Where can you buy a Melita SIM card?
If you need a Melita SIM card for traveling, here are a few places to buy from:
1. Where to buy Melita SIM card for travel
Melita SIM card can be easily found in these locations in Malta:
- Melita Stores: Visitors can find Melita retail stores at major cities like Valletta, Sliema, or St. Julian’s to purchase a SIM card. Specific store locations can be found on Melita’s website.
- Supermarkets: Supermarkets such as Smart Supermarket and Scotts Supermarkets also offer Melita SIM card for visitors.
- Electronic stores: SIM cards are also sold at electronic stores like Tech.mt and Sound Machine.
- Online: You can order a SIM card directly from Melita website and have it delivered to your address. This option is convenient for ensuring connectivity upon arrival.
2. Where to buy Melita eSIM
Melita eSIM is available through:
- Melita app: You can buy a Melita eSIM via the MyMelita app. Here is a quick guide: Log in to the app > Go to My Services > Request an eSIM.
- Melita official website: eSIM plans can be purchased directly from Melita website and added to your device.
- International eSIM provider: You can easily get a Melita SIM card from providers like Europe-esim.com, which can be particularly convenient for travelers as they offer various data plans and durations to suit different needs.
Stay connected across Europe with Melita!
Buying an eSIM from europe-esim.com is a great choice for travelers because it offers several plans to suit different needs, and eliminates the hassle of swapping SIM cards or paying extra for roaming. The eSIM is sent instantly via email, and you can activate it easily by scanning a QR code. Additionally, europe-esim.com offers 24/7 customer support to assist with any inquiries or technical issues, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.
VII. How to use Melita SIM card and eSIM
1. How to install and activate a Melita SIM card
Here are some steps to install and activate a Melita SIM card:
- Insert the SIM: Power off your device, insert the SIM into the tray, and power on.
- Activate the SIM: Enter the PIN if prompted. For prepaid, register at a Melita outlet with a valid ID.
- Set APN: In mobile settings, set the APN to melita.net for data.
- Test Connection: Make a call or use the internet to confirm activation.
Then, your Melita SIM card Malta is ready to be used.
2. How to install and activate Melita eSIM
Getting started with a Melita eSIM for Europe is quite easy as follows:
- Check Compatibility: Ensure your device supports eSIM before purchasing one.
- Request eSIM: For new plans, choose eSIM during purchase. Existing customers can request it via MyMelita (physical SIM will be deactivated).
- Receive QR Code: Melita sends a one-time QR code via email for activation.
- Install eSIM:
- For Iphone: Open Settings > Mobile Data > Tap Add eSIM and scan the QR code provided by Melita.
- For Android: Open Settings > Connections or SIM Manager > Add eSIM > Select Use QR Code and scan the QR code provided by Melita.
- Activate eSIM: Ensure it is set as the active line in your device.
For further assistance, contact Melita’s customer support or visit a Melita retail outlet.
IX. Melita Call & SMS rates in EU
With most Melita plans, you will get:
Service | From Malta | While Roaming in EU |
Local Calls | Free to Melita numbers; included in plan allowances for non-Melita numbers | N/A |
Calls to EU Numbers | €0.22/min (~$0.23/min) | Charged as local calls, deducted from your plan’s allowances |
Texts to EU Numbers | €0.07/SMS (~$0.07/SMS) | Treated as local texts, deducted from your plan’s allowances |
Incoming Calls & Texts | Free | Free |
Note: For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to Melita's official website or contact their customer support.
X. How to top-up your Melita SIM card
There are many easy options to top-up your SIM card:
- Melita Stores/Retailers: Visit any Melita outlet or authorized retailer. Provide your mobile number and the desired top-up amount; the cashier will process the top-up directly to your account.
- Website: Log in to your MyMelita account. Navigate to ‘My Top Ups‘, enter your mobile number, select the top-up amount, and complete the payment using a credit or debit card.
- MyMelita App: Open the MyMelita app, log in, go to ‘My Top Ups’, enter your mobile number, choose the top-up amount, and proceed with the payment.
- Top-Up via Call: If you have a top-up voucher, you can redeem it by calling 125 from your Melita mobile. Follow the voice prompts to enter the 14-digit voucher code and add the credit to your account.
The best option to top up your Melita SIM is the MyMelita app or website for instant, hassle-free recharges. But if you want in-person help, visiting a Melita store remains the most efficient choice.
XI. How to check your Melita account usage and balance
To monitor your Melita account usage and balance, you have several convenient options:
MyMelita Online Portal:
- Log in to your MyMelita account using your email and password.
- Navigate to ‘My Services’ to view your current balance and usage details.
- For billing information, select ‘My Bills’ to access your payment history and download invoices.
MyMelita Mobile App:
- Download the MyMelita app.
- Log in with your MyMelita credentials.
- The dashboard provides an overview of your balance, data usage, and remaining allowances.
USSD Code (For Prepaid Users):
- Dial *121# from your Melita mobile phone.
- A message will display your current balance and available allowances.
Customer Support:
- Call Melita’s customer service at 100 from your Melita mobile or 2727 0270 from any other phone for assistance with your account balance and usage.
In conclusion, the most efficient way to top up your Melita SIM is through the MyMelita app or website, offering instant, hassle-free recharges with a credit or debit card. It’s available 24/7 and provides the easiest method to manage your account.
XII. FAQs
Can I use my Melita SIM or eSIM in other countries?
Yes, EU roaming is included, so you can use your Melita SIM card in any EU country at no extra charge.
Does Melita block access to certain apps or services?
No, Melita does not throttle or block services. All major apps (WhatsApp, Skype, streaming platforms, etc.) work without issues. However, ensure your plan has enough data for high-bandwidth services.
Does Melita support tethering (hotspot sharing)?
Yes, all Melita SIM and eSIM plans support tethering. Ensure your plan has enough data to accommodate multiple connected devices.
Can I extend my Melita prepaid plan beyond the tourist validity?
Yes, you can switch to a regular prepaid or postpaid plan if staying longer. This is easily managed through their app or by visiting a store.
Can I use a Melita eSIM alongside my home country’s SIM in a dual-SIM phone?
Yes, most dual-SIM phones support eSIM as a secondary line. Ensure your primary SIM doesn’t block roaming data when using Melita.
XIII. Final words
This guide has provided you with the necessary information to decide on your mobile connectivity in Malta. From a more traditional Melita SIM card to the convenience of a Melita eSIM Malta, this carrier will be able to offer you mobile solutions that will certainly fit every traveler’s needs.