Macau eSIM guide
Using an eSIM in Macau: install it on Wi-Fi before you leave, then when you land switch mobile data to the eSIM and turn on data roaming. Days only start counting the first time it connects in Macau. Plans run on the CTM, 3 networks. From NT$109.
Macau plans
| Data | Days | Network | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1GB | 7 days | 5G | NT$109 |
| 3GB | 30 days | 5G | NT$199 |
| 5GB | 30 days | 5G | NT$269 |
| 10GB | 30 days | 5G | NT$429 |
| 20GB | 30 days | 5G | NT$669 |
Prices in TWD; tap a price to check out. Total-data plans: use them until the data or the days run out.
How days are counted
Days start counting the first time the eSIM connects in Macau, so you can install it at home without losing any days.
Use it within 180 days of purchase, after which it expires.
Carriers and speed
Plans can use the CTM, 3 networks. See the Network column above: plans marked 5G use 5G where there's coverage and your phone supports it, and 4G elsewhere.
Note: traffic exits through Hong Kong, so websites see you as being in Hong Kong rather than Macau. Everyday use (maps, LINE, bookings, social media) is unaffected; a few services limited to Macau, such as some local streaming sites, may not work.
How much data do you need?
- Mostly maps and LINE text messages: 1GB for 7 days.
- Sending photos, looking things up and social media every day: 3GB for 30 days or 5GB for 30 days.
- Watching videos, video calls, or a longer stay: 10GB for 30 days or 20GB for 30 days.
These are general suggestions; actual usage varies. If unsure, go one size up.
eSIM vs SIM card vs roaming vs pocket Wi-Fi
| Getting started | Texts to your home number | Who can use it | What to carry | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| eSIM | Buy online, scan a QR code to install, no card swap | Your home SIM stays in, texts arrive as usual | One phone per eSIM | Nothing |
| SIM card | Delivered or picked up at the airport, swap cards on arrival | Lost while your home SIM is out (unless dual-SIM) | One phone per card | Keep your home SIM safe |
| Carrier roaming | Request it from your home carrier before leaving | Texts arrive as usual | One phone | Nothing |
| Pocket Wi-Fi | Pick up before leaving, return when back | Texts arrive as usual (no card swap) | Several people can connect | The device, charged every day |
Four steps from purchase to connected
- Make sure your phone supports eSIM: see phones that support eSIM, or dial *#06# and look for an EID.
- Pick a plan and check out; you get the install QR code right after payment (also by email).
- Install it on Wi-Fi before you leave: iPhone guide / Android guide.
- In Macau, switch mobile data to the eSIM and turn on data roaming. Turn off mobile data on your home line to avoid roaming charges.
Can I get a refund if I don't use it?
Macau plans can be fully refunded within 30 days of purchase if not yet installed. See the refund policy.
FAQ
Does a Macau eSIM come with a phone number? Can I make calls?
No. It's a data-only plan: no local phone number and no regular phone calls. Use LINE, WhatsApp, FaceTime or other internet calling (it uses your plan's data); calls and texts to your home number still go to your original SIM (roaming charges may apply abroad). If you really need a local number (for example, to book a restaurant or sign up for an app that texts a local number), you'll need a separate SIM card that comes with one.
What if I run out of data?
Data stops once you use it all; you can buy another plan.
Will I still get verification texts to my home number in Macau?
Yes. eSIM phones can hold your home SIM and the eSIM at the same time: data goes through the eSIM while your home number still receives texts.
When should I install it?
Before you leave, on Wi-Fi. Days only start counting when it first connects in Macau, so installing early doesn't cost you days; installing after you land means finding Wi-Fi first to download it.
Ready? Pick a Macau plan
See Macau plans