Best mobile providers for expats in the Netherlands 2026
Complete comparison of KPN, Odido, Vodafone, Lycamobile, Simpel, and budget providers with 2026 pricing
Transparency notice
This guide includes affiliate links. When you sign up for a mobile plan through our KPN, Lycamobile, Odido, Simpel, Saily, or Ben links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep NLCompass free. We review all providers objectively (both affiliate and non-affiliate options), and our recommendations are based on coverage, pricing, flexibility, and expat suitability verified with 2026 data.
2026 Dutch mobile landscape: Three networks, fierce competition
The Netherlands has one of the most developed mobile markets in Europe. Nearly the entire country is covered by 4G, and 5G is rapidly expanding (especially in cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Eindhoven). Three major network operators own the physical infrastructure: KPN, Odido (formerly T-Mobile/Tele2), and Vodafone. All other providers (called MVNOs or Mobile Virtual Network Operators) rent capacity from one of these three and resell it at competitive prices.
Critical insight for expats
Unlike in many countries, choosing the "right" provider in the Netherlands matters less for coverage and more for price, flexibility, and contract terms. All three major networks cover 99%+ of the population. Your main decision is: how long are you staying, and how much flexibility do you need? Before signing up, complete your BSN registration and open a Dutch bank account.
Dutch mobile plan types explained
Prepaid (prepaid / opwaarderen)
Buy credit in advance. No contract, no BSN required, no Dutch bank account needed. Ideal for newcomers or short stays. Available in supermarkets (Albert Heijn, Jumbo, HEMA) and at Schiphol Airport. Cost per GB is typically higher than subscriptions.
SIM-only subscription (sim-only abonnement)
Monthly rolling or 1-2 year contracts. Bring your own phone, pay only for calls, texts, and data. Generally much cheaper per GB than prepaid. Requires Dutch bank account (for direct debit) and typically a BSN.
Travel eSIM
Digital SIM card, activated instantly via QR code or app. No physical SIM swapping. Ideal for arriving expats before BSN/bank account setup, or for frequent travellers. Providers like Saily and Lycamobile offer eSIM options.
Phone + contract (toestel abonnement)
Phone included in monthly price, 24-month contract typical. Rarely the best deal for expats (buying a phone separately is usually cheaper).
Quick comparison (SIM-only, monthly plans)
| Provider | Network | Starting price | Unlimited from | English | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KPN | KPN (own) | ~€15/mo | ~€37/mo | ⭐⭐⭐ Good | Best coverage, reliability |
| Odido | Odido (own) | €14/mo | €27.50/mo | ⭐⭐ Limited | Flexible, largest base |
| Vodafone | Vodafone (own) | €15/mo | ~€37/mo | ⭐⭐ Limited | Good speeds, stores |
| Lycamobile | KPN | ~€10/mo | ~€20/mo | ⭐⭐⭐ Good | Budget, international, expats |
| Simpel | Odido | ~€4/mo | ~€14/mo | ⭐ Dutch only | Cheapest SIM-only |
| Lebara | KPN | ~€7.50/mo | ~€25/mo | ⭐⭐ Some | Budget, international calls |
| Simyo | KPN | ~€8/mo | ~€22/mo | ⭐ Limited | Budget, KPN network |
| Ben | Odido | ~€6/mo | ~€21/mo | ⭐ Dutch only | Budget monthly |
| Saily (eSIM) | KPN/Vodafone | ~€4/mo | N/A | ⭐⭐⭐ English app | Tourists, arriving expats |
Note: Prices shown are indicative starting rates. Unlimited data plans often have fair-use policies (FUP) that cap daily high-speed data or EU roaming. Always check the current offer directly with the provider.
Bottom line for 2026
For most expats (long-term, need a Dutch number): Lycamobile SIM-only at ~€10-€20/month hits the sweet spot (runs on KPN's best network, no contract, English support, international calling included, and eSIM available).
For maximum coverage and reliability: KPN direct at ~€15-€37/month gives you the gold standard (own infrastructure, largest 5G network, widest rural coverage).
For major operator with flexible plans: Odido direct at €14-€49.50/month (largest mobile base in the Netherlands, English app, 118 physical stores, and eSIM support).
Just arrived and need data today: Saily eSIM from ~€4 gets you online in minutes without needing a BSN or Dutch bank account. Buy before you fly and activate on landing.
For budget priority: Simpel from ~€4/month (Odido network), or Ben/Simyo from €6-€8/month, all with monthly-cancellable contracts. Also check our internet providers comparison for home broadband.
Ready to get connected?
Compare our top-rated providers and get your Dutch mobile number in minutes. Choose the plan that fits your needs.
Best budget: Lycamobile
€10-20/mo. KPN network. English support. No BSN needed.
View Lycamobile plans →💡 These are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. All providers reviewed objectively based on 2026 data.
KPN: Best network, premium provider
Official website: kpn.com/mobiel (affiliate link)
KPN is the Netherlands' incumbent telecoms operator and owns the largest and highest-rated mobile network in the country. In March 2025, independent testing firm umlaut ranked KPN's network as the best not only in the Netherlands, but in the entire world (the highest score ever achieved in their international mobile benchmarks). KPN leads on overall coverage with 99%+ population coverage and strong download speeds.
2026 key information
Network
Own infrastructure (4G/5G). Also leased by 50+ MVNOs. KPN's 5G network is expanding rapidly (they acquired 100 MHz of 3.5 GHz spectrum in 2024 for enhanced 5G).
SIM-only pricing (indicative)
- • ~€15/month: ~3-6 GB data, 120 min calls, unlimited SMS
- • ~€22/month: 15-20 GB data, unlimited calls
- • ~€37/month: Unlimited data (up to 75 GB hotspot sharing via app)
Prepaid
- • Starter packs: ~€10 for SIM + credit
- • Bundles: €16-22.50 for 6 GB to unlimited data (30-day validity)
Contract types
Monthly rolling, 1-year, or 2-year (discounts for longer)
eSIM
Supported on compatible devices and new 5G phones
English support
⭐⭐⭐ Above average for Dutch telecom (English phone support available, English-speaking store staff in major cities)
5G coverage
Strong in cities; expanding nationally
EU roaming
Free "Roam like at home" (subject to fair-use cap)
Advantages
- • Best overall network coverage (99.4%, best in Netherlands)
- • Fastest average download speeds nationally
- • Own infrastructure (not dependent on another operator)
- • Sustainable: climate-neutral since 2015
- • Wide physical store presence in most Dutch cities
- • eSIM available
- • Can bundle with KPN home internet for discounts
- • Good English support compared to competitors
Disadvantages
- • Most expensive of the major operators
- • Annual price increases (CPI-linked)
- • Dutch website primarily (English available but limited)
- • 2-year contracts lock you in (if you choose them)
Who should choose KPN?
Long-term expats prioritising reliability and coverage, remote workers needing consistent connectivity, anyone combining mobile with KPN home internet (bundled discount), expats in rural or suburban areas where smaller networks may struggle.
Ready to get KPN mobile service?
Check KPN Mobile PlansOdido: Largest mobile operator, flexible plans
Official website: odido.nl/english (affiliate link)
Odido was formed in September 2023 from the merger of T-Mobile Netherlands and Tele2 Netherlands, creating the largest mobile operator in the Netherlands with over 7 million customers. They offer an English-language section on their website and an app with English support.
2026 key information
Network
Own infrastructure (4G/5G). Also leased by MVNOs including Ben and Simpel.
SIM-only pricing (indicative)
- • €14/month: 2 GB + 120 min calls
- • €19/month: 10 GB + 120 min calls
- • €27.50/month: Unlimited data + calls (speeds up to 300 Mbps)
- • €49.50/month: Unlimited premium (speeds up to 1 Gbps, up to 3 extras like Amazon Prime or HBO Max)
Prepaid
- • Starter SIM: ~€10 (includes credit)
- • Bundles: various data options from a few euros per day
- • SimWallet eSIM: from €2.50/day for data-only (tourists and short stays)
Contract types
Monthly rolling or 1-2 year
eSIM
Available on SIM-only subscriptions (12 or 24-month contracts); SimWallet for prepaid/tourist data
English support
⭐⭐ The Odido app is available in English. Customer chat is partially available in English. Physical stores in 118 locations across the Netherlands.
5G coverage
Good in central and southern regions, expanding
EU roaming
Free "Roam like at home"; add-on available for unlimited EU + US/Canada calling (~few euros/month)
Advantages
- • Largest mobile operator in the Netherlands (7M+ customers)
- • Competitive pricing on unlimited plans
- • English app and partial English support
- • 118 physical stores across the Netherlands
- • SimWallet eSIM for tourists and short-term needs
- • Foreign bank accounts accepted under certain conditions
- • 14-day return policy
- • No connection costs
Disadvantages
- • 5G speeds slightly behind KPN in benchmarks
- • Download speeds lag KPN (85.2 vs 87.6 Mbps average)
- • Website primarily Dutch
- • Unlimited plans have speed caps (300 Mbps or 1 Gbps depending on tier)
Who should choose Odido?
Expats wanting a balance between price and a major operator, those who prefer the security of a large provider with physical stores, anyone bundling mobile with Odido home internet for a discount.
Ready to get Odido mobile service?
Check Odido Mobile PlansVodafone: International brand, good speeds
Official website: vodafone.nl
Vodafone is the third of the three major Dutch network operators. It is part of the global Vodafone group and offers good performance in urban areas. In the Netherlands, Vodafone and Ziggo operate under the VodafoneZiggo umbrella following their 2016 merger.
2026 key information
Network
Own infrastructure (4G/5G). Also leased by Hollandsnieuwe and 50+Mobiel.
SIM-only pricing (indicative)
- • €15/month: 3 GB, 5G, 150 min, unlimited SMS
- • €32.50/month: Unlimited data, calls, SMS (50 GB EU roaming)
Prepaid
Available; packages from a few euros for starter bundles
Contract types
Monthly rolling, 1-2 year
eSIM
Supported on 5G phones and latest iPhones
English support
⭐⭐ Limited English on website; English-speaking staff at stores in major cities
5G coverage
Good in cities; slightly less extensive than KPN and Odido in rural areas
Unique feature
OneNumber (lets you share one phone number across multiple devices, e.g., smartwatch)
Advantages
- • Global brand with familiar name
- • Good download speeds (competitive in urban areas)
- • OneNumber feature for multi-device users
- • eSIM support
- • Bundled options with Ziggo internet/TV
Disadvantages
- • Slightly weaker rural coverage compared to KPN and Odido
- • Generally higher prices without clear advantage over KPN
- • Dutch website; limited English support
Who should choose Vodafone?
Expats already using Ziggo internet who want to bundle services, multi-device users wanting OneNumber, those who prefer an internationally recognised brand.
Lycamobile: Best expat-friendly budget option
Official website: lycamobile.nl/en (affiliate link)
Lycamobile is a global MVNO operating in 24 countries with 16 million prepaid customers worldwide. In the Netherlands, it runs on KPN's network (meaning you get premium coverage at a significantly lower price). Lycamobile is widely recommended for expats because of its English interface, international calling rates, and flexible no-contract prepaid plans.
2026 key information
Network
KPN (leased)
SIM-only monthly plans (indicative)
- • From ~€10/month: Unlimited national calls + texts, data bundle included
- • From ~€20/month: Unlimited data option
- • 1-year upfront payment: ~20% cheaper than monthly
Prepaid bundles
Monthly terminable, no contract commitment. Optional: 3-month or 12-month bundle for savings
eSIM
Available (QR code activation, no physical SIM needed)
English support
⭐⭐⭐ English website, English app, multilingual customer support (one of the most expat-friendly interfaces in the Dutch market)
International calls
Included minutes to 45+ countries in most plans (especially useful for calling home)
EU roaming
Included; generous fair-use caps compared to competitors
5G
Plans are 5G-ready (on KPN's 5G network where available)
Advantages
- • Full English website and app (rare in Dutch telecom)
- • Runs on KPN's #1-rated network
- • International calling minutes included
- • No contract, no credit check (prepaid)
- • eSIM available for instant setup
- • Monthly terminable (ideal for uncertain stays)
- • Accessible at Schiphol Airport and supermarkets
- • Competitive pricing vs. KPN direct
Disadvantages
- • Prepaid pricing higher per GB than long-term subscriptions
- • Not the absolute cheapest option
- • Customer service response times can vary
Who should choose Lycamobile?
Newly arrived expats needing a SIM quickly (prepaid, no BSN required), expats who regularly call family abroad (international minutes included), anyone wanting an English-language mobile experience, short-to-medium term residents who don't want contract lock-in.
Ready to get Lycamobile service?
Get Lycamobile SIM or eSIMSaily: Best eSIM for arriving expats and travellers
Official website: saily.com (affiliate link)
Saily is a global eSIM provider launched in 2024 by NordSecurity (the company behind NordVPN). It operates in 200+ destinations and is particularly useful for expats before they have a BSN or Dutch bank account, or for anyone who travels frequently between countries. Saily is data-only (calls and texts must be made via apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, or Skype).
2026 key information
Network
Connects to local Dutch networks (KPN and/or Vodafone) depending on plan
Netherlands data plans (indicative)
- • 1 GB / 7 days: ~€3.99
- • 5 GB / 30 days: ~€9.99
- • 10 GB / 30 days: ~€17.99
- • 20 GB / 30 days: ~€26.99
- • Unlimited / 15 days: 5 GB high-speed per day, then throttled to 1 Mbps
Europe-wide plans
Also available for those visiting multiple EU countries (buy once, use across Europe)
Saily Ultra
Monthly subscription at ~€59.99/month (unlimited data across 113+ destinations, plus built-in VPN, ad blocker, and airport lounge access)
Setup
Download the Saily app, purchase plan, scan QR code. No physical SIM, no store visit required. Takes ~5 minutes.
English support
⭐⭐⭐ Full English app, 24/7 live chat support
Data only
No local Dutch phone number. WhatsApp/VoIP calls only.
Advantages
- • Instant setup before arriving in the Netherlands
- • No BSN or Dutch bank account required
- • Works in 200+ countries (great for multi-country expats)
- • English-first interface
- • 24/7 customer support
- • Built-in privacy and security features (VPN, ad blocker)
- • Keeps your home SIM active for calls/texts (dual SIM usage)
- • 5G speeds where available
Disadvantages
- • Data-only (no local Dutch phone number for some services)
- • Not designed as a permanent solution for long-term residents
- • Unlimited plans have daily speed caps (5 GB high-speed then throttled)
- • Typically more expensive per GB than Dutch SIM-only for long stays
Who should choose Saily?
Expats arriving in the Netherlands who need immediate data connectivity before their Dutch SIM and bank account are set up, frequent travellers who move between multiple countries, digital nomads wanting one eSIM for Europe, anyone whose phone only has one physical SIM slot but wants to keep their home number active.
Practical tip for new arrivals: Buy a Saily eSIM before your flight, activate it when you land at Schiphol, and use it for the first few weeks while you register at the gemeente, get your BSN, and open a Dutch bank account. Then switch to a local SIM-only plan.
Ready to get Saily eSIM?
Get Saily eSIM for the NetherlandsSimpel: Best value on the Odido network
Official website: simpel.nl (affiliate link)
Founded in 2007, Simpel is one of the Netherlands' most established budget mobile brands, with over 86,000 Trustpilot reviews. In 2020, Simpel became part of T-Mobile Netherlands (now rebranded Odido), meaning customers get access to Odido's network (rated among the best in the country) at significantly lower prices than going direct to Odido. Simpel's proposition is exactly what the name implies: straightforward SIM-only plans, no unnecessary extras, and prices starting from around €4/month. Plans are monthly cancellable and adjustable.
2026 key information
Network
Odido (leased) (5G, 4G, and 2G coverage). Note: Simpel is phasing out 3G support from August 2026.
SIM-only pricing (indicative)
- • From ~€4/month: entry-level data bundles with calls and SMS
- • ~€14/month: 60 GB data, unlimited calls and texts
- • Plans are fully adjustable monthly (up or down, no fee)
Unique feature (Simpel Ceiling / Plafond)
Optional €0.50/month add-on that lets you set a hard limit on out-of-bundle spending, so you never incur unexpected overage costs.
eSIM
Available (customers can switch from physical SIM to eSIM)
Contract types
Monthly cancellable (flexible) or 2-year (with discount in first 6 months)
English support
⭐ Dutch-only website and app. Customer support primarily in Dutch, though phone support is available.
5G
Included (via Odido's 5G network)
EU roaming
Included; free "Roam like at home" across EU/EEA
Advantages
- • Among the cheapest SIM-only plans in the Netherlands (from ~€4/month)
- • Runs on Odido's network (one of the Netherlands' top-rated mobile networks)
- • Monthly cancellable (no long-term commitment required)
- • Adjust your data bundle up or down every month at no cost
- • Simpel Ceiling feature prevents unexpected overage charges
- • eSIM available
- • Established brand since 2007 (86,000+ Trustpilot reviews)
- • Number porting handled by Simpel when switching
Disadvantages
- • Dutch-only interface (website and app)
- • No physical stores (online ordering and support only)
- • No prepaid option (SIM-only subscriptions only)
- • Customer service response times occasionally flagged in reviews
- • 3G being discontinued from August 2026 (only relevant for very old devices)
Who should choose Simpel?
Budget-conscious expats comfortable navigating a Dutch interface (or using Google Translate), long-term residents who want the reliability of the Odido network without paying full Odido prices, anyone who values the ability to adjust their data bundle month-by-month, expats who don't need English-language customer support.
Ready to get Simpel service?
Check Simpel PlansOther budget MVNOs: Simyo, Ben, Lebara
Several other budget MVNOs offer solid value for expats comfortable with Dutch-only interfaces.
Simyo: KPN network, award-winning prepaid
Official website: simyo.nl/en (partial English)
Simyo runs on KPN's network and has been voted best prepaid provider 33 times by Dutch consumer surveys. It offers flexible monthly contracts with adjustable data bundles (you can change your bundle each month without extra cost).
- • Network: KPN
- • Starting from: ~€8/month (SIM-only)
- • Unlimited data: ~€22/month
- • Adjust data bundle monthly (up or down, no fee)
- • Extra data for KPN fixed internet customers
- • Monthly terminable or 2-year (discount in first 6 months)
- • Download speed: up to 300 Mbps (5G via KPN)
- • English: ⭐ Limited (primarily Dutch, partial English site)
Ben ★: Budget option on Odido network
Official website: ben.nl (affiliate link)
Ben is an MVNO running on the Odido network, offering monthly-cancellable contracts at competitive prices.
- • Network: Odido
- • Starting from: ~€6/month
- • Unlimited: ~€21/month
- • Monthly terminable
- • No physical store locations (online only)
- • English: ⭐ Dutch only
Lebara: International calling focus
Official website: lebara.nl
Lebara is a KPN-network MVNO popular among expats for low international calling rates. Available in supermarkets (Albert Heijn, HEMA) and often the first SIM many expats pick up on arriving.
- • Network: KPN
- • Starting from: ~€7.50/month
- • Unlimited: ~€25/month
- • Available at Schiphol Airport and major supermarkets
- • English: ⭐⭐ Some English available
- • International calling: Competitive rates to many countries
Youfone: Combined mobile + internet
Official website: youfone.nl
Youfone offers SIM-only mobile on the Odido network (useful if you also want to bundle with their budget internet plans).
- • Network: Odido
- • Monthly from: ~€6-€8
- • English: ⭐ Dutch only
- • Can bundle mobile + home internet
How mobile plans work in the Netherlands: Key concepts
EU roaming ("Roam like at home")
All Dutch SIM cards from EU-based operators include free roaming in all EU/EEA countries (you can use your Dutch data, calls, and texts in Germany, France, Spain, etc. at no extra charge). However, there is a fair-use policy (FUP): unlimited data plans may cap roaming data at a fixed GB amount per month (commonly 10-50 GB in EU). Outside the EU, international rates apply.
BSN requirement
Most postpaid/SIM-only subscriptions require a BSN (Burger Service Nummer) (your Dutch citizen service number) plus a Dutch bank account for direct debit. Some providers (Odido, Lycamobile prepaid) are more flexible. Prepaid SIMs and eSIMs do not require a BSN or Dutch bank account.
Number portability (nummerbehoud)
You can keep your Dutch mobile number when switching providers. This is free by law. Request a PAC (porting code) from your current provider and give it to your new one. It typically takes 1-5 working days.
Cancelling when you leave
- • Prepaid: Stop topping up. No cancellation needed.
- • Monthly rolling subscriptions: Give 1 month's notice.
- • Fixed 1-2 year contracts: Early termination fees apply. Exception: Many providers waive fees with proof of municipal deregistration (uitschrijving from the gemeente) (this is your right when leaving the Netherlands).
Decision framework by expat profile
Just arrived (no BSN yet)
Best choice: Saily eSIM + Lycamobile prepaid SIM
Get a Saily eSIM before flying for immediate data on landing. Simultaneously pick up a Lycamobile SIM at Schiphol or a supermarket for a local Dutch number (required for many services, such as food delivery, IKEA orders, and bank verification). Use both until your BSN and Dutch bank account are set up (typically within 2-4 weeks), then switch to a SIM-only plan.
Short-term stay (up to 6 months)
Best choice: Lycamobile prepaid or SIM-only (monthly)
No contract commitment. English support. International calls included. Runs on KPN. Cancel anytime.
Approximate cost: €10-€20/month
Long-term stay (1+ year, want best value)
Best choice: Simpel (Odido network) or Simyo (KPN network)
Cheapest monthly rates. Monthly-cancellable. Same Odido or KPN network quality as the big brands at a fraction of the price. Requires Dutch bank account and BSN.
Approximate cost: €4-€22/month (depending on data needs)
Long-term stay (want major operator peace of mind)
Best choice: KPN or Odido direct
Physical stores for support, best network performance, possibility to bundle with home internet for discounts.
Approximate cost: €14-€37/month
Frequent EU traveller
Best choice: KPN or Odido (generous EU FUP) + Saily as backup
All Dutch operators include EU roaming. KPN and Odido have among the more generous fair-use caps. Saily as a secondary eSIM for countries outside the EU or for extra data.
International caller (staying in touch with home)
Best choice: Lycamobile
International minutes to 45+ countries included in most plans. Significant saving vs. standard Dutch call rates to non-EU countries.
Practical requirements: What you need to sign up
| Requirement | Prepaid | SIM-only subscription |
|---|---|---|
| Dutch address | Not required | Usually required |
| BSN | Not required | Usually required |
| Dutch bank account | Not required | Required (direct debit) |
| Valid ID (passport / EU ID) | Required | Required |
| Proof of residency | Not required | Often required |
Good news for new arrivals: Prepaid plans (Lycamobile, Lebara, KPN prepaid) can be purchased with just your passport. You get a Dutch number immediately without any admin.
Where to buy a Dutch SIM
At Schiphol Airport
KPN, Lebara, Lycamobile, and Odido SIMs are available in the arrivals hall at kiosks and convenience stores (AKO, Relay). Prices are slightly higher at the airport.
City centre stores
KPN, Odido, and Vodafone all have their own branded stores in most Dutch cities. Staff are usually able to help in English.
Supermarkets
Albert Heijn, Jumbo, HEMA, and Primera sell prepaid SIM cards from Lycamobile, Lebara, and others. Widely available, cheap, and convenient.
Online
All providers allow you to order a SIM online with delivery to your address. eSIM providers like Saily and Lycamobile can activate instantly via app.
Next steps after getting your mobile plan
Complete your Netherlands setup:
- • Get your BSN number (Required for most subscriptions. Register with gemeente within 5 days of arrival.)
- • Compare Dutch banks (You'll need a Dutch bank account for most SIM-only plans.)
- • Compare home internet (KPN, Ziggo, or Odido for home broadband.)
- • Check our expat checklist (Full Netherlands setup with our comprehensive guide.)
Prices and plans change frequently. Always verify current offers directly with the provider before signing up. This guide was last verified in February 2026.