I am moving to ireland and i need to know about cell phones?

Question

can i use my prepaid cell over there or do i have to get a new sim card for that area??? i want to be able to call the states

Answer 1

The best option is to make sure your phone is unlocked to accept sim cards other then your current network, then buy a pay-as-you-go sim card for your existing phone.  If you find that you're phone is unlockable, which is quite common today, go on EBay and buy a cheap second hand "triband" UNLOCKED handset and again, buy a pay-as-you-go SIM upon arrival.  In the long run you will save a fortune!

Answer 2

You will need to get a new sim card Eircom network is the most cost effective for calling within the country, it may be cheaper to use a landline for out of country calls

Answer 3

You really should check with your carrier first to see if your phone will work there.  You can rent a phone if you discover yours will not work.  Also, sometimes the cell phone you're trying to reach in the states will not accept the call because their plan will not accept international calls...so ask lots of questions!!  Good luck!

Answer 4

well if you are moving to ireland you are better buying a new phone that works in ireland (you will go broke using your american phone here with the cost of roaming charges).

There are 4 cell (mobile) phone companies in Ireland.  The two biggest 02 and Vodafone, compete big time against each other offering various deals.  The other two companies Meteor and 3 also offer various deals but have not yet had the impact of the other two.

You can easily buy a second phone with new sim for less than 100-150 euro here.

Answer 5

Hi,

First make sure your phone is a GSM Tri or Quad Band. Then check if it is not Sim Locked (if it accepts SIM from other providers).

If everything checks out, once you arrive buy a SIM card with one  of the 3 providers. Meteor, O2 and Vodafone (formerly Eircom).

If your phone is locked and / or not a GSM, you can still come to ireland, buy a pack with phone and prepaid card for a really cheap price and use it with international call cards.

For phone and SIM prices check the websites of the 3 mobile companies (Meteor.ie  -  o2.ie and vodafone.ie )