What Are the Best SIM Cards for International Calls from Portugal? (2026)
Updated August 2026. Most expats should use WhatsApp or other VoIP apps for international calls because they are free over Wi-Fi or mobile data. If you need a Portuguese number with bundled international minutes, Lycamobile and Vodafone World add-ons are the main options.
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Which SIM Is Best for International Calls?
Best for cheap international minutes
Lycamobile prepaid bundles for calling Africa, Asia, and Brazil.
Best for EU/USA calls
Vodafone World or main-brand add-ons.
Best free option
WhatsApp, FaceTime, Telegram, or Zoom over data.
Best data plan for apps
WOO or UZO 100GB at EUR 5 per month (August campaign prices; UZO lists at EUR 8 from September).
What Are the International Calling Options?
You have four practical options: use internet calling apps, buy a Lycamobile bundle, add an international minute pack to a main-brand plan, or use a travel eSIM with a calling app. Most people do not need a dedicated international-calling SIM.
Top SIM Cards for International Calls
NOS Like Internacional
Pay per use on NOS for n/a. No address needed.
Pay per use on NOS. eSIM available.
Pros
- n/a/month
- eSIM
- No address needed
Cons
- Price and minute allowance not published online
- Destination country list needs in-store confirmation
DIGI pré-pago 200GB
200 GB on DIGI for EUR 7. No address needed.
200 GB on DIGI. eSIM available.
Pros
- EUR 7/month
- eSIM
- No address needed
Cons
- €10 prepaid SIM kit fee
- International minute destination list applies
UZO pay-as-you-go
Pay per use on MEO for EUR 0. No address needed.
Pay per use on MEO. eSIM available.
Pros
- EUR 0/month
- eSIM
- No address needed
Cons
- Data at €0.015/MB is costly for smartphones
- Number deactivates after 120 idle days
Lyca Boss 100GB
100 GB on Vodafone Portugal for EUR 8. No address needed.
100 GB on Vodafone Portugal. eSIM available.
Pros
- EUR 8/month
- eSIM
- No address needed
Cons
- List price €8 after three promo months
- Amigo 100GB on same network costs €5
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Portuguese SIM is best for international calls?
Lycamobile is the most popular MVNO for international calls because it specialises in low-cost calling to Africa, Asia, and Brazil. Vodafone World add-ons are also a good option for frequent calls to specific countries.
Are international calls included in low-cost plans?
Usually not. Low-cost data plans from WOO, UZO, and DIGI focus on data and EU calls. International calls are either charged per minute or require a separate add-on.
Is WhatsApp the cheapest way to call abroad?
Yes, for most people. WhatsApp, FaceTime, and similar apps use data and work over Wi-Fi or mobile data, avoiding international call charges entirely.
Do I need a Portuguese number to call abroad?
No. You can use VoIP apps with any internet connection. If you want a local number with international calling bundles, choose Lycamobile or a Vodafone World plan.