Step · Digital ID

Get a Spanish mobile number (prepaid SIM or contract)

You can get a Spanish mobile number with a prepaid SIM or a monthly contract; by law operators must record the buyer’s identity from a DNI, passport or residence card, so a foreign passport is a valid document for prepaid SIM registration.

Why it matters

A Spanish mobile number is needed for many everyday steps (receiving verification SMS, appointments, deliveries, banking). Knowing prepaid SIMs can be registered with a passport means you can get one on arrival.

When

You arrive in Spain or your home-country SIM/roaming plan is no longer practical, or a bank, administration or app asks for a Spanish number.

How long it takes

Mobile portability: one business day after agreement (OAUT; CNMC). SIM activation time not sourced.

Official page

Ley 25/2007, de 18 de octubre, de conservación de datos (Disposición adicional única: identificación de titulares de tarjetas de prepago)

Last checked

6 Oct 2026