Student in Sweden 2024: Why You Need A Swedish Phone Number

If you’re heading to Sweden for studies this autumn, it’s wise to start looking for the best mobile operator and plan to suit your needs. While using your local phone number and data plan from back home might work initially, getting a Swedish mobile phone number as soon as possible will help you fully access the country’s mobile-first services and avoid juicy bills for international calls and roaming (if you're a non-EU/EEA citizen).

In this article we go through a few common questions about the Swedish mobile market, and highlight some popular Swedish mobile plans for students in Sweden.

💡Tip: Also check out our article How To Sign Up For Mobile in Sweden: A Step-By-Step Guide covering all the steps involved in the process of signing up for a Swedish mobile plan.

Why do you need a Swedish mobile number?

Having a Swedish mobile plan with a Swedish number is essential because it provides access to a lot of local services requiring a Swedish number. While using a foreign SIM card and number might work well initially, having a local Swedish phone number ensures better coverage, lower costs for local calls and data usage, as well as easier access to Sweden's mobile-first services like Swish, banking, and public transport.

What’s the number format and prefix for Swedish mobile numbers?

Swedish mobile numbers follow the format +46 7XX XXX XXX, where +46 is the country code, 7 is the leading digit for mobile numbers, and X represents the other digits. Without the prefix +46, you simply use a (0) to call or text other Swedish phone numbers. This format is standard across all mobile operators in Sweden.

Can I get an E-sim for my Swedish phone number?

Yes, a lot of mobile operators in Sweden offer E-sims for their mobile plans. However, for prepaid plans physical SIM cards are still more common.

Can I buy a phone tied to my mobile plan in Sweden?

Yes, many Swedish mobile operators offer bundled deals where you can buy a phone tied to a mobile plan. These deals often come with a 24-36 month contract, allowing you to pay for your new phone in installments. This can be a convenient option to avoid upfront costs. It’s important to note that signing up for a mobile plan with a phone usually requires a credit check.

Can I get a Swedish phone number without a Swedish Personal Number?

Most mobile operators in Sweden require a Swedish Personal Number to sign up, but some providers do offer alternatives that don't require a Swedish personal number, making them accessible to international students and newcomers. Comviq is one great example, where you can visit one of their stores, most of the larger telco stores, or drop by your nearest Pressybyrån, and get a Comviq prepaid mobile plan. It’s however still a requirement (according to Swedish law) to identify yourself and register your prepaid phone number in your name, so bring a valid National ID or passport.

If you want to read more about how you can get a Swedish Personal Number, check out our previous Guide: How To Get A Swedish Personal Identity Number.

Popular Mobile Operators in Sweden 2024

Vimla

Vimla is an award-winning Swedish mobile operator (Most Satisfied Customers in the Swedish Mobile Market 2022 & 2023) with a position as a low-cost mobile brand, without compromising on quality and connectivity. Vimla dares to stand out, not only with their branding but also when it comes to their offers and plans. No binding times, freedom to choose, generous discounts, referral bonuses and popular discounts for students, seniors, and kids.

Read more about current student plans on Vimla's website.

Chili Mobil

Chili Mobil is another popular provider in Sweden offering both mobile and mobile broadband plans. They have a variety of plans without binding times, and they usually have appreciated offers, discounts and bundles with various other services. For students, they have special plans and tailored offers, with the popular streaming services included for a few months, as well as referral bonuses to invite friends. 

Check out the different plans and latest student offers at Chili Mobil's website.

Hallon

Hallon is a Swedish mobile and broadband provider known for affordable and flexible plans. Utilizing Tre's network, Hallon reaches 98.5% of Sweden's population, ensuring great connectivity for most people living in Sweden. The company is recognized for its no-binding-period policies, allowing customers to switch plans or cancel with ease, as well as the ability to save unused data. With special offers for students and referral bonuses for inviting friends, Hallon is a popular choice for Swedes.

Find offers and read more about mobile plans at Hallon's website.

Fello

Fello is a very popular mobile operator in Sweden, offering a range of mobile subscription plans with no binding periods, making it easy to find a mobile plan that best fits your needs. Fello is a subsidiary of Telia, which means they utilize Telia’s network and have great coverage all across Sweden. They offer generous student discounts as well as referral bonuses if you invite friends to sign up for Fello using your personal invite link.

Read more and find the best student mobile plan for you at Fello's website.

Note* A Swedish Personal Number as well as BankID is generally required to sign up for Vimla, Chili Mobil, Hallon and Fello online. You can visit their websites and contact them directly to discuss options and alternatives.