Your complete guide to choosing, buying and activating a Georgian SIM card in 2026 in Tbilisi, Batumi or Kutaisi. This post includes a comparison of the best mobile providers, instructions for topping up, useful hacks, and my recommended apps for Georgia.
It’s easy to stay connected when visiting Georgia thanks to affordable data packages and an excellent network that provides fair coverage across the country, even in remote mountain areas.
Whether you’re travelling around for a short period and need to access maps and taxi-booking apps or you’re working remotely from Georgia and need a reliable connection, I always recommend picking up a local Georgian SIM card when you arrive.
When you’re starting in Tbilisi, Batumi or Kutaisi, the process is the same.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to buy, activate and use a Georgian SIM card.
I’ll also detail my favourite mobile provider, explain how to top up, provide some info about using an eSIM, and share a few useful hacks I’ve picked up whilst living in Georgia.
Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.
Trusted travel resources for Georgia
Planning a trip to Georgia? Here are 5 essential resources that I recommend you check out.
- For private transfers in Georgia: GoTrip.ge. Find a professional, English-speaking driver. Prices are locked in when you book & you can stop wherever you want.
- For hiring a car in Georgia: Local Rent. Save money when you rent directly from a local agent. Pick-up & drop-off are available from any address.
- For finding accommodations: Booking.com. This website has the biggest selection of properties in Georgia, including guesthouses in rural areas.
- For Tbilisi tours & day trips: Friendly.ge has knowledgeable guides, safe drivers & creative itineraries. Use wanderlush for 10% off.
- For Kutaisi tours & transfers: Budget Georgia offers shared transfers to popular destinations including Mestia. Mention me for 10% off.
Do I need a SIM card for Georgia?
The short answer is yes, you do.
Getting online is absolutely essential when travelling in Georgia, if for no other reason than you must use an app to book taxis in the bigger cities.
It’s handy to have access to Google/Yandex Translate on the go, and if you’re driving in Georgia, you will need data for navigating.
It also helps to have a local number in some situations, for example when reserving a room at the Tbilisi sulfur baths.
Having purchased somewhere in the neighbourhood of 35 different SIM cards over the years, I can confidently say that Georgia is one of the easiest places in the world to buy and register a local SIM.
The process is quick and painless.
And given that it’s so affordable, there is really no reason not to pick up a Georgian SIM card when you arrive in country.
Looking for more expert Tbilisi travel tips?
My new ebook The Tbilisi City Guide is a detailed handbook for Tbilisi, with 7 guides & 20 maps for different neighbourhoods. Get your copy here via Payhip.
Can’t I just use WIFI / roaming?
WIFI is ubiquitous in Georgia. You will find free connections available at all hotels, guesthouses, shopping malls, cafes and restaurants – even in mountain regions and small villages.
Fun fact: Starlink launched in Georgia in November 2023, which should hopefully improve coverage in some remote areas over time.
In the capital, there is a free public network, Tbilisi Loves You, available in the centre of the city. It can come in handy for emergencies, but it’s notoriously sketchy (and insecure).
Power outages are not uncommon in Tbilisi (especially in older buildings) so if you’re working remotely or you need a stable connection, it’s a good idea to have a SIM data package to tether off as a back-up in case your home WIFI network goes down.
Can you use an EU SIM card in Georgia? You can – but you may face exorbitantly high charges. Some EU carriers charge up to £6 per MB, making Georgia one of the priciest countries for data roaming.
For these reasons, I highly recommend buying a local SIM card in Georgia.
Important things to know before you buy a Georgian SIM card
- If you want to use a Georgian SIM card with your regular phone from home, you’ll need to make sure it’s unlocked.
- Magti, my preferred provider, sells ‘Tourist Packages’ at Kutaisi and Tbilisi airports – but it’s better value to buy a SIM and data package in the city. I suggest you wait until you can visit a Magti store (more details below).
- Magti offers both physical SIMs and eSIMs. The price is the same: 10 GEL.
- Be wary of global eSIM brands that promise coverage in Georgia. Most use an inferior network that can cause issues when you are in the mountains.
- When buying a Georgian SIM card, you will need to present your physical passport/ID for registration. Make sure you’re carrying it with you on the day.
- Most visitors will only need data. Messenger and WhatsApp are widely used in Georgia, so it’s unlikely that you will ever need to make a call or send a text.
- Unfortunately, there is no single physical SIM carrier that services the whole South Caucasus region. If you’re travelling through all three Caucasus countries, you will need to activate data roaming (expensive) or use an eSIM such as Airalo’s Discover Global eSIM. The easiest option, though, is still to buy separate physical SIM cards in each country.
Different SIM cards in Georgia
There are three main telco providers in Georgia: Magticom (Magti), Silknet (formerly Geocell) and Cellfie (formerly Beeline). All three have stores in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, Batumi, and smaller cities such as Telavi and Zugdidi.
Instead of providing a detailed comparison, I will cut to the chase: Magti is the best operator on the market.
I have been using Magti for five years now with very few issues. In fact, every expat I know (and 99% of my Georgian friends) use Magti.
While Cellfie (Beeline) is cheaper and may suffice for a quick Tbilisi trip, network coverage is poor outside the cities. Silknet has done a lot to improve their network over the past 24 months (I actually use Silknet for my home internet), but coverage is still not as consistent as Magti in my experience.
As an example – Cellfie (Beeline) and Silknet both have spotty coverage in locations such as Upper Svaneti and Vardzia.
Magti, on the other hand, worked well enough for me to make a video call from the Georgia-Russia border in Diklo in Tusheti, one of the highest and most remote villages in the country!
So far, the only place where my Magti SIM has failed me is Vashlovani Nature Reserve.
One area where Silknet is ahead of the curve is eSIMs. As of summer 2023, they have a newly launched eSIM that is easy to buy online and very cost-effective. More on that later.
Why Magti is my preferred provider
Magti is still my preferred mobile carrier for several reasons:
Superior coverage: Magti is known to have the best network coverage in Georgia (99% of the country’s populated areas, according to the website), including in remote and rural areas. Magti works well underground, so you can use your phone in metro stations in Tbilisi (though not on the metro itself) and in most cellar restaurants.
Fast speeds: Magti is now on the 5G network in most locations in Georgia. Speeds of up to 75 Mbps up/down are possible. My connection averages 25 up/down most days. Downtime is rare.
Fun fact: Speedtest.net currently ranks Georgia #42 in the world for mobile internet, with a median download speed of 74.47 Mbps.
Competitive prices: Magti offers some incredibly good deals on both data and calls/texts. I also love their promotion packages – I often buy unlimited data for 7 days for 10 GEL (3.70 USD). Magti ‘Cocktail’ packages allow you to mix and match data, calls and SMS for a great price. My only complaint is that the cost of the SIM card itself is quite high – currently 10 GEL for a physical or eSIM.
Monthly packages: Most Magti packages have 30 days validity, which is great if you’re spending longer in Georgia than the 15 days a tourist SIM card allows.
Easy activation & friendly service: Magti is extremely simple to activate – no codes or validation means you can be in and out of the store in a matter of minutes. I always find Magti staff are polite and helpful, which is another huge plus.
Easy top up using the MyMagti App: Magti has a user-friendly mobile app for checking your balance and purchasing new packages with cash or an international debit card.
Tether-friendly: Magti (like all Georgian SIMs) allows hot spotting/tethering, meaning you can easily share your connection with other devices. Magti also offers its own MiFi device.
eSIM compatible: If you’re using the iPhone 14 or you just prefer to go card-free, you can buy and activate a Magti eSIM in-store or before you leave home. More details below.
Magti prices for 2026
Magti SIM card prices
- Universal SIM Card – 10 GEL *
- Dual SIM-Card – 10 GEL *
- Magti eSIM – 10 GEL *
* This price is for the SIM only. It includes 1 GEL of credit to put towards data, calls or SMS messages.
Magti data prices
Pure data packages can be purchased through the MyMagti app.
Note that if you top-up within 7 days, any remaining data you have left from the previous 30 days automatically rolls over.
Data prices (all 30 days validity) are as follows:
- 1 GB – 5 GEL
- 3 GB – 9 GEL
- 5 GB – 12 GEL
- 20 GB – 30 GEL
- Unlimited – 35 GEL/30 days; 10 GEL/7 days; 2 GEL/24 hours
Standard tarifs
I always buy a pure data package and keep a few extra GEL on my balance for the rare occasion when I need to make a call or send an SMS.
- Call initiation – 12 tetri
- Call within Georgia – 24 tetri per minute
- SMS within Georgia – 6 tetri
- Internet – 10 tetri per MB
- International call – from 35 tetri per minute
Recommended Magti packages for travellers
- If you’re in Georgia for 7 days or less: I recommend buying the 19 GEL package (only if you are arriving at Kutaisi Airport) or otherwise the 7-day Unlimited Data Package, purchased through the app for 10 GEL. With the added cost of a SIM, the total is 20 GEL.
- If you’re in Georgia for 7-15 days: I recommend buying two 7-day Unlimited Data Packages back-to-back.
- If you’re in Georgia for more than 15 days and you only need data: I recommend one of the pure data bundles (e.g. 5GB for 12 GEL, 30 days validity or 32 GEL for unlimited data, 30 days validity).
- If you’re in Georgia for more than 15 days and you need to make calls: I recommend purchasing a data package as above then adding a separate minutes package (e.g. 60 minutes for 5 GEL, 30 days validity).
Note that for most these prepaid bundles, any unused data or call credit will rollover as long as you top up within 7 days.
Check the Magti website for other Cocktail options and price updates.
Should you take the tourist SIM?
All telco providers sell preset data/call bundles at the airport. At Magti, they are called ‘Welcome Packages’.
It can be tempting to purchase one of these packages when you first arrive, but it might not be the best choice for you.
Magti’s airport offerings are constantly changing, and might differ between Tbilisi and Kutaisi. In Kutaisi, there are currently three unlimited data packages available, all of which include a SIM:
- 19 GEL for 7 days
- 42 GEL for 14 days
- 60 GEL for 30 days
While the 7-day package is the same price as data purchased through the app, the second two packages are significantly more expensive.
In Tbilisi, Magti currently offers four packages, all of which include a SIM card and are valid for 30 days:
- 3 GB of data + unlimited calls for 40 GEL
- Unlimited data + free calls in Georgia for 60 GEL
- Unlimited data + free calls in Georgia + 30 mins international calls for 90 GEL
- Unlimited data + free calls in Georgia + 60 mins international calls for 120 GEL
Consider that the first Tbilisi package gives you 3 GB of data for 40 GEL, while a pure data package purchased through the app gets you 500%-plus more data – 23GB – for the same price.
The other packages are slightly better value. But consider that unlimited data for 30 days costs just 32 GEL when purchased through the app.
Also consider that most visitors will only need data, not call or SMS credit. Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp and other messaging apps are popular in Georgia, and it’s likely your Airbnb/guesthouse host/tour guide/driver uses at least one of them. If I ever need to make a call in Georgia, I do it through WhatsApp or just draw from my cash balance on Magti.
For better value, I recommend waiting until you get into the city to buy a SIM card rather than buying one at the airport.
Tip: If you want to take a taxi to the city from the airport, you can use Bolt app on the airport WIFI. Make sure you download and validate the app before you leave home. The WIFI connection tends to work better in the departures hall.
Where to buy a Georgian SIM card
Buying a SIM card at the airport
Magti has shops inside the arrivals hall at both Tbilisi Airport and Kutaisi Airport. They are open 24/7 (as long as flights are landing, there will be staff there.)
However, as mentioned above, these kiosks only sell tourist SIMs which are not necessarily the best value for money. Occasionally they might allow you to buy a regular SIM and top up with a minimum of 30-40 GEL – but not always.
If possible, I recommend you wait until you get into the city to visit a regular Magti store.
The only time you might need to buy a SIM at the airport is if you’re going straight to a location where there is no Magti store – for example Kazbegi or Mestia.
Tip: If you book an airport transfer with GoTrip, you can ask the driver to stop at a Magti store on the way to your destination for no extra charge.
Buying a SIM card in-store
Magti has dozens of offices all over Georgia, including in all major cities and most towns. There are two notable exceptions: There are no Magti stores in Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) or in Mestia.
Note that most Magti stores are closed on Sundays. In Tbilisi, only a select few branches are open 7 days (including the one on Rustaveli Avenue). All branches are closed on national holidays.
There are more than 15 Magti locations in Tbilisi. The most convenient locations to downtown are:
- 22 Rustaveli Avenue – closest store to Freedom Square (open 9am-9pm Mon-Fri & 9am-6pm Sat-Sun)
- 109 Aghmashenebeli Avenue – close to Fabrika (open 9am-6pm Mon-Sat)
- 2 Chavchavadze Avenue – close to Stamba Hotel and Vera district (open 9am-6pm Mon-Sat)
In Kutaisi, you’ll find a Magti office on Saint Nino Street at the north-west corner of the park (open 9am-6pm Mon-Fri & 10am-5pm Sat-Sun).
And in Batumi, there is an office on Abashidze Street near the Old Town (open 9am-6pm Mon-Fri & 10am-5pm Sat-Sun).
If you are entering Georgia by land, there are Magti offices in Sadakhlo (after the Armenian border) and in Kabali and Gardabani (after the Azerbaijani border). The closest stores to the Turkish border crossing at Sarpi are in Batumi.
Buying an eSIM online
In 2021, Magti launched Georgia’s first eSIM. It costs the same as a regular SIM, 10 GEL, and can be purchased either in store or online from outside of Georgia.
For detailed instructions, see below in the eSIM section.
How to buy a Georgian SIM card at Magti: Step by step guide
Once you’ve decided which package or bundle you want to buy (and I do recommend deciding before you arrive at the store), it’s time to visit a Magti shop and get set up.
The process is quick and painless. Every Magti branch has at least one staff member who can speak fluent English.
Tip: Remember to bring your passport with you.
- Take a number from the electronic ticket dispenser and wait to be called. (You can switch the language to English or just hit the big red button on the screen.)
- Ask the staff member for a new SIM card and your desired package. At this point, you can either choose your phone number (extra charges apply) or let the system select one randomly.
- Hand over your passport to register the SIM. If you’re buying multiple SIM cards, you only need one passport.
- The staff member will then install your SIM. Make sure you check that it’s working. There’s usually no set up required with Magti, but it might take a minute to kick into gear. If it doesn’t appear to be working, ask for assistance right away (don’t leave the store without checking).
- The clerk will write your phone number in marker pen on the plastic card your SIM popped out of. Hold onto this because you need your number to activate the MyMagti app. It also has your PUC code, which you’ll need if you swap the SIM to another phone.
- Sign the contract. There will be two copies, one for you and one for Magti. It’s in English so you can read it if you want – but it’s pretty standard. It’s a good idea to hold onto your copy.
- Make payment using cash or card.
How to top up using the MyMagti App
One of the best things about Magti is the MyMagti App. I find it very user-friendly and easy to navigate (it’s all in English). I recommend downloading it as soon as you have your SIM card installed.
Use these links to download the app for iPhone or for Android.
Once you’ve installed the app, toggle to English in the upper right hand corner of the screen. Hit the registration button at the very bottom, then enter your phone number (it will be written on the plastic card you took home from the store).
You’ll then receive a 4-digit text message code to validate.
Set up a password (I used a six-letter word, no numbers or special characters are required) then you will be redirected to your account.
After that, it will keep you logged in, so you don’t have to sign on every time.
There are a couple of things you can do with the app. Firstly, you can monitor your data and call balance. You can also use the app to purchase extra data and new packages.
If you have a Georgian bank account, you can set an auto top up to reload credit when your balance reaches a certain threshold – although I personally never turn these on because I’d rather have control over when I’m charged.
If you’re using an international card, you will need to put your details into the app each time you make a purchase.
You can also access promotions through the app, including very affordable unlimited data bundles.
These unlimited packages are a lifesaver if/when your home network drops out (depending on which Tbilisi neighbourhood you stay in, power outages can be quite common).
How to top up using cash or card
There are three ways to add credit to your Magti account:
- Go into a Magti store and top up with cash or card
- Top up with cash via a pay box
- Pay for any package separately via the app with a Visa/Mastercard/AMEX card
The first two options will add credit to your balance, which you then deduct from over time. If you prefer to top up with cash, using a 24/7 pay box is more convenient than going into a store, but it does incur a 4% fee.
If you want to top up with an international debit or credit card, you will need to choose your package first, then select card as your payment method and enter your details into the app. Payment is secure and protected by TBC Bank.
If you have a TBC or Bank of Georgia account, you easily can top up using internet banking.
How to buy an eSIM for Georgia
Depending on your needs, you might choose an eSIM (embedded SIM) over a traditional SIM card. I highly recommend going with a local provider – ideally Magti – so that A) you can get a local phone number, and B) you can connect to the country’s best data network.
Most ‘global’ eSIMs that you can buy online use an inferior network in Georgia. They are also unnecessarily expensive in my opinion.
Option 1: Magti eSIM (Georgia only)
As mentioned, Magti also offers an eSIM for 10 GEL that can be purchased in store or online.
To buy the eSIM online, you will first need to create an account on Magticom.ge using your email address in the place of a customer ID. Complete the verification process by providing a photo of your passport and face.
To buy an eSIM:
- Navigate to the online order page (here is a direct link)
- Select ‘purchase a number’ and set the price minimum and maximum to 0 GEL
- Pick a number, then copy it down somewhere handy
- Select ‘no promotional offer’ and proceed to the next step, where you should select ‘eSIM’
- Make payment with a card or using Google Pay
Important note: Sometimes foreign-issued cards will not work on the Magti website. I recently tried to buy an eSIM with my Wise card, and even though the payment was processed it showed as declined. If this happens, contact Magti’s customer support through the chat (quoting the phone number you just tried to purchase) and they will assist you to complete the transaction.
Until this issue is resolved, it is better to buy an eSIM in-store when you arrive in Georgia.
Option 2: Silknet eSIM (Georgia only)
As an alternative, Silknet has a newly launched eSIM that offers competitive pricing. It’s also much easier to purchase online.
As with Magti, you get a local phone number that you can use for taxi apps etc.
A Silknet eSIM costs 5 GEL plus there is a 4 GEL new number fee. Packages start from 8 GEL. The ‘Tourist Unlimited’ package for 30 GEL (15 days validity) is a great option if you need unlimited data and uncapped local calls.
Buy a Silknet eSIM online here.
Option 3: Airalo Discover Global eSIM (multi-country)
If you plan on visiting other countries in the region before or after Georgia, a multi-country eSIM such as Discover Global might be worth investigating. It operates in 84 countries, including Georgia, Azerbaijan and Turkey (but not Armenia).
There are a couple of options available, including a 5GB plan for 30 days (priced at $20) and a 50GB plan for 90 days (priced at $100).
If you’re satisfied with a Georgian-only SIM, Airalo has a local eSIM for Georgia priced at 5.50 USD/1GB (7 days), 10 USD/2 GB (15 days), or up to 49 USD/20 GB. Note that this eSIM uses the Cellfie 4G network, which is far from the most reliable. If you are spending time in the mountains you may experience difficulties getting online with this eSIM.
As I mentioned above, prices are quite high, and one downside with this type of eSIM is that it does not come with a local number.
Compare plans and order an eSIM via the Airalo website.
Recommended apps for Georgia
- MyMagti: To manage your balance and top up (download for iPhone / Android).
- Bolt: The best taxi app for Georgia (download for iPhone / Android).
- 112 Georgia: The official emergency app works in English, Georgian and Russian with call, text and SOS geolocation services (download for iPhone / Android).
- Whatsapp: The most popular messaging app in Georgia; comes in handy if you’re trying to get in touch with a host or guide.
- Yr.no: The most reliable app for weather forecasts (download for iPhone / Android).
- Tbilisi Transport: The official app for public transport in Tbilisi (download for iPhone / Android).
- Tbilisi Bus Live: Schedules & real-time updates for city buses (available on Android only).
- Yandex Translate: Translates Georgian text (not yet recognised by Google Translate) (download for iPhone / Android).
- TKT.GE: For buying train and concert tickets (download for iPhone / Android).
- Get Your Guide – Great for buying tours and tickets in Georgia on the go (download for iPhone / Android).
- Maps.Me: Handy for offline maps and remote areas, such as the Kazbegi to Gergeti Trinity trek (download for iPhone / Android).
- Wikiloc: Offline trail maps for popular hikes in Georgia (download for iPhone / Android).
- Wolt: My preferred food delivery app for Georgia (download for iPhone / Android).
- Wenu: Allows you to place an order at restaurants/cafes from your phone (a number of venues in Tbilisi now use Wenu) (download for iPhone / Android).
How to block spam SMS messages
On March 1, 2024, Georgia enacted new privacy laws that make it illegal for businesses to send unsolicited advertising messages. If you are still receiving unwanted spam messages, try following the steps below.
To disable SMS spam on Magti, dial *182# and enter 1 into the dialogue box when prompted. You should also dial *297# to turn off ads from a specific company called MS Group.
This might not get rid of all the ads, but it will help.
Tip: If you receive an SMS message in phonetic Georgian, use this website to convert the Latin script into Georgian characters before running it through Google Translate. You can also use this website to write in Georgian using a Latin keyboard.
It’s also worth mentioning that expired phone numbers regularly get recycled in Georgia. So don’t be surprised if you get a phone call from someone expecting a friend or family member to answer. Some people are very persistent, too!
If this happens, you can say: ‘Inglisuri itsi?’ (do you know English?), or ‘Ar vitsi’ (I don’t know).
Georgian SIM card FAQ
How can I check my balance?
If you need to check your data or credit balance on the go, you can either log into the MyMagti App and check the ticker, or dial *111*1# to receive a text message with your stats.
Why is my balance in the red?
If you’re wondering why your balance suddenly goes down, it’s because all mobile users are automatically deducted 0.5 GEL per month to subsidise the country’s 112 emergency hotline.
My balance often sits in the negative – it has never had any repercussions on my service.
Why isn’t my data working?
One common problem with SIM cards in Georgia is related to APN settings. If your data isn’t working, see this page for guidance.
Another issue I sometimes have is the network failing to connect after my data balance expires. To fix it, I top up my balance then toggle my network preferences from 4G to 2G and back again.
For any other issues, I recommend heading into a Magti store for assistance.
How long before my SIM card expires?
If you’re making multiple visits to Georgia and you want to keep using the same SIM, you can keep your Magti number active with a zero balance for up to 60 days.
There’s an option to pay 1 GEL to keep your number active for 180 days. Info here.
Will my SIM card work in Abkhazia?
No, Abkhazia and South Ossetia (Tskhinvali/Samachablo) have separate mobile networks. A regular Georgian SIM card will not work in these areas.
Will my Georgian SIM card work in Armenia?
As long as you activate roaming before you leave Georgia, your Magti SIM will work in Armenia (and in many other countries). Magti roaming starts from 5 GEL/25 MB.
I recommend buying a separate SIM card for Armenia when you arrive to save money and hassle. In Armenia, I recommend using Team Telecom.
Will my SIM card work in Azerbaijan?
Yes. But as with Armenia, you need to activate data roaming before you leave Georgia. Buying a SIM in Baku used to be harrowing process (on my first trip, it took us an entire morning to find a store that would sell us a SIM card) but the process has since been streamlined for foreigners.
Data prices in Azerbaijan are just as (if not more) affordable as Georgia. I use and recommend Azercell.
More Tbilisi posts you’ll love
- Georgia Travel Guide – all my 200+ posts for Georgia
- 25 Tbilisi travel tips – essential reading for first-timers
- The ultimate Georgia itinerary – the best of Tbilisi & beyond in 1-4 weeks
- What to pack for a trip to Georgia – and what to wear in Tbilisi
- How to get from Tbilisi airport to the city – 5 best transport options
- The best things to do in Tbilisi – the ultimate insider’s city guide
- Where to stay in Tbilisi – best neighbourhoods & accommodations
- The best restaurants in Tbilisi – where to find the best Georgian food
- The best cafes in Tbilisi – for coworking, coffee & more
- The best breakfasts in Tbilisi – cafes that open early
- The best gift shops in Tbilisi – where to buy authentic souvenirs
- The best walking tours in Tbilisi – discover the city by foot
- Tbilisi’s best walking streets – architecture, people-watching & street photography
- The best boutique hotels in Tbilisi – art hotels, wine hotels & more
- The best hostels in Tbilisi – accommodation on a budget
- Visiting Gulo’s Spa – the best sulfur bath in Tbilisi
- Visiting the Dezerter Bazaar – Tbilisi’s incredible green market
- Visiting the Dry Bridge Market – Tbilisi’s famous flea market
A lot of good info in this post. Thank you!
One question: when you say top up within 7 days in order to rollover existing data, do you mean within 7 days of purchase, or withn 7 days before expiry?
Hi Toks – within 7 days of expiry.
Hi Emily,
First of all, your blog has been so incredibly useful in helping me plan my holiday to Georgia! Question regarding the Magti SIM, I purchased a 7 day one which runs out in 2 days. I need to purchase another 7 day one for the second week of my trip, but the app won’t let me purchase in advance as it says there is already a plan active. Do I need to wait for my current 7 days to completely run out before I can top up again? I’m traveling that day and don’t want to be without internet for any period of time.
Hi Sophia – the best option would be to top up your balance to give yourself a little leeway. You will get a message when the current plan expires, then you can purchase a new one.
Hi Emily,
First, I need to say that I love your blog!
Just to give you and other readers an update on the foreign credit card purchase of the eSIM. I tried this weekend and also got an error about not being able to store a card. I chatted someone from support (in English). They researched it and eventually were able to process a refund. I asked if I could use a foreign card and she said yes, the first transaction failed for some reason – I don’t think she knew. I just tried again today with the same card and it was a success. I would advise if you try to purchase online, make a note of the phone number you are purchasing. It made it much more difficult that I had no idea – I just picked the first one. If you have a problem, it will make it easier for them to look up in their system.
Thanks again!
Thank you Sara, this is terrific info for others. I will add a note at the top of the post as well. Glad you were able to get your sim and thank you again for the update!
Hi,
I had the same problem as the above – I could not process the CC payment for eSIM (Magti) with a foreign credit card, fortunately with a debit card was all O.K. Martin
Thanks for the update, Martin!
Hi, And what is the best option for someone who stay in Georgia only for one day as a point to another destination? There is possibility to recieve Magti free SIM card on a airport without buying package, and just top-up it alone by cheap 2 lari “Cocktail” package? Or can i ask them for some 24 hours offer?
The free SIM is only available when you buy a tourist pack. If you need to buy a SIM at the airport, I would just get the cheapest tourist pack. (Or just use WIFI for the day).
Hey Emily! Thanks for the great guide.
Do you know why my balance in mymagti is -0.4 Tetri even though I haven’t used the eSIM card yet?
And why I can’t only top up the -0.4 tetri but have to type in more in order to balance it out? (which I don’t want because I’m only gonna use an internet package)
Thanks!
I explain this in the ‘Why is my balance in the red?’ section. You can use the remaining balance from your top-up to purchase your internet package.
Sure, here’s a thank you comment for Emily:
—
Hi Emily,
I just wanted to thank you for writing such an informative and updated blog about traveling to Georgia. Your insights are incredibly helpful and have made planning my trip so much easier. (Will be traveling to Tbilisi, Zugdidi, Martvili and Mestia this July 2024). God bless you and your family!
Best,
Clair
Thank you, Clair!
Hello.I have already bought and activated an eSIM. I am arriving in Tbilisi on June 14th. Can I buy a plan today and activate it after landing, or do I need to do it immediately upon arrival? Does the program activate immediately after purchase, or do I need to do it in the application? If it says that the program is for 7 days, when does the program end, at midnight or exactly seven days after activation?
Hi Ilya – it depends on the company. It will specify in the documentation. Usually you install the eSIM and it automatically activates/starts its countdown when you first connect to the local network (i.e. when you arrive).
A warning to my fellow travellers about buying the esim from Magti…. I went through all the steps online and it gave a message that ‘The operation cannot be completed because you don’t have a visa or mastercard issued in Georgia’
But it still charged my credit card. I tried a couple of times. Now I will need to deal with getting the charges reversed because the transaction has apparently still gone through, without giving me a new mobile number in my account.
Sorry to hear that Chris, I hope you can get it sorted. Did you contact Magti? I always find their service to be very good. I would try reaching out to them on Facebook messenger.
Thanks very much for the update – I have also added a note in the post to alert others to this issue.
Hey Emily,
thank you very much for this great explanation.
I am trying to order an esim via mymagti. unfortunately it fails because of the verification with the passport. Could it be that it doesn’t work with foreign passports? I’m from Germany. I always get the feedback that the passport is not readable.
Hi Catrin – sorry to hear that. It could well be. It might be best to wait and buy one in store.
I landed at KUT airport yesterday. 14 days of unlimited data with Magti was 42 GEL (i paid a lil more to make calls too)
We had some spare time before a bus, and as we’re here for a short time we just paid it rather than spending time in town (for a cheaper price).
Other mobile providers are a bit cheaper (30 GEL for 14 days) but given the reviews on here, i avoided them.
Thanks Emily for all the incredible guides! We’re basing most of our trip around them
Hi Sam, thanks for the report! Did you use the new Kutaisi Airport shuttle to get to the city? It just launched yesterday.
Just to let others know, 14 days of unlimited Magti data costs 18 GEL when you buy it through the app rather than getting a package at the airport. (Plus 10 GEL for the SIM or eSIM.)
Have a wonderful trip and thanks so much for your comment!
Ohhh that’s a good deal! Maybe I’ll keep hold of the sim for future trips.
Happy I paid a few Lari for calls so I can book restaurants/find out if they’re open
No, we took the bus direct to Batumi. But we’re flying super early from KUT on Wednesday so maybe we’ll check it out (if we can figure out the timetable)
Just remember that if you have an iPhone, to activate iMessage and FaceTime, you need to pay .2 GEL per phone restart. So better to charge the credit for 3 more GEL at first in case your phone gots out of battery the iMessage gets activated automatically again.
Note: ensure the Magti agent enables this feature on your iPhone
Thanks Nima for the tip – I use Android so I wasn’t aware of this. Very helpful!
Hello,if I want to activate an e-sim card in a Magti store, is the authentication done only with a passport or with an ID card too?
Hi Kostas, I don’t know your nationality but I would suggest taking your passport to be safe.
Thank you for your reply. I’m Greek.
My passport expires in a few months, but from Greece I am allowed to travel to Georgia even with my ID. That’s why I’m asking.
Hi!
Thanks for this post, I’m going to Sakartvelo for the first time in my life, and reading this blog makes me waaay more calm about my journey.
I’m just wondering – what does it mean my phone must be “unlocked”? How to check it?
Thanks Zula, awesome to hear that! By unlocked I mean that the phone isn’t locked into a certain provider whom you bought it from on a plan. It’s a common issue in Australia.
Thanks for sharing this information – super helpful. I will fly into Tbilisi to Kutaisi to teach for 6 mos. Your whole blog/site has been indispensable and reassuring.
Hi Emily, we used the magti SIM for our group of four – two SIM cards and then making a hotspot for the other two. It worked nearly everywhere, just the trip from Goi to Kutaisi was without signal. Now we’re returning, we’re wondering wether we need to cancel anything. We topped up once with a foreign credit card but just wanted to be sure. Thanks for all the information on this blog, it helped tremendously.
Hi Lotta, great to hear that worked out for you. You don’t need to cancel anything, no. If it was just a one-off payment then I think that’s fine, but if you added your card details to the app then I would go in and erase them just to be safe. Hope you had an amazing trip and thanks so much for your feedback!
Emily, thank you so much for this article! It’s very helpful!
Hi Emily,
Just wanted to say a huge thanks for saving our time by providing all the necessary information that we need to travel to Georgia
Cheers!
Thanks Khaled! I appreciate the feedback!
Hi Emily,
After some glitches I successfully purchased a telephone number and a one month plan with Magti. (Credit card failed several times for no obvious reason, but today it magically worked). I got an email with a QR code to scan. Scanned that on my iPhone 14 but I was then told “Unable to Activate eSim”. Deleted the eSim, tried again, but it failed.
So I started a chat on the Magti website where I was met with decent English thank heavens lol. I explained I couldn’t activate, and the operator could see I had deleted my eSim. I explained that was because it wasn’t working so I tried again.
He/she asked whether I was abroad, which I was. Told to try it again, to no avail.
In the end it was suggested I should visit their shop once I arrived in Tbilisi to see if people in the store could help me. Will do that, but that of course beats the purpose of purchasing an eSim in advance.
Sorry to hear that, Peter. Silknet’s eSIM system does seem superior (even though coverage is not as good) so I would consider giving that a shot.
Thank you so much for your time and effort in sharing these information. My family is travelling to Georgia tonight and I am glad that I get accross this blog of yours. I find it really really helpful.
Thanks so much Silahis! Have a wonderful trip.
Thank you so much for your wonderful blog! I’m planning my backpacking trip to these 3 Caucasus countries and I have been literally going through all of the related posts. They are super helpful and informative!
Thanks so much Vinh! Glad I can be of help!
This is an amazing blog and exactly what I needed to know. I am a solo female traveller going to be in Tbilisi for two months in June, this year. Is there a sim package for longer than 30 days, or would I have to get that one and top up before the 7 days end? I would only be using data, and can you suggest which package to buy in this case?
I am also quite nervous travelling there myself and wonder if you know of any meet up groups online and offline etc? Particularly a skateboarding scene by chance?
Thank you so much again for writing the article.
Hi! Packages are 30 days but you can easily renew before or after the 30 days lapse using the Magti app. There are lots of groups on Facebook… Have a look at Weekend Travelers Georgia – they are a great group of people. Enjoy!
Hi,
Do you know if it’s possible to buy a sim card in the city Mestia?
Thanks
Robbe
Hi Robbe – as far as I know there are no offices for Magti or other companies in Mestia. I think the best option would be to stop off in Zugdidi and pick up a SIM card there, if possible.
Thanks Emily, great stuff and very informative! I’m bookmarking your page for when we head down that way later this year
Many thanks, Chris!
Hi, your blogs have been very helpful for my trip, and this one for choosing a SIM card, but there are quite a few things missing/not working… Lagodekhi doesn’t have a Magti store, have been walking all over and didn’t find it. At the one store I found that sells SIM cards they don’t speak English (no one in this area does), were rude and eventually refused to sell me a card because they found it too complicated (I guess, not sure). I tried buying the eSIM, but that is also not working as it misses a step here: “Once complete, you can order an eSIM through this page.” Like how? There are 4 options and none of them have the option of an eSIM. So I’m stuck and can’t get a SIM card at all. Any advice would be appreciated!
Apologies Anneke – it looks like that Magti office has closed, probably due to the border situation. If you can get to Kabali (20 mins by car) there is an office inside the Public Service Hall that is open weekdays.
Otherwise to buy the ESIM, you need to create an account, verify your ID then go to online order > purchase SIM > type ESIM.
Hi Emily, thank you for all the information on your blog ! We’re struggling to buy an esim on Magti, after verifying ID, once we are on the online order page the only options 1-puchase a mobile number 2- mobile number porting 3- SIM card change 4- devices
We’ve tried all and none seem to be leading to any esim pucharse page
We are on the app ..
if you have any additional information to help us get through this step it would be very kind ! Thanks
Hi Karen – you need to go with option 1, purchase a mobile number then adjust the price sliding scale down. The option to buy an esim will present itself after that. I will add more detailed instructions to the post.
Hi Charles – Magti only offers a data eSIM.
Thanks for this informative review. I will be coming to Georgia later this year.
A quick question! Does the prices for Magti sim card and unlimited data subscription still the same throughout till today?
w
Hi Wendell – yes, these are the current prices. Enjoy!
Did you read all the negative reviews for the MyMagti on Android in the last two years? Seems the app is getting unusable
I’ve been using it for 3 years and never once had an issue. Just set it up for my dad, too, and it works fine. It might not be the best but it’s definitely still usable!
You covered everything when it comes to Magti phone service, but there’s one important thing you left out. Magti doesn’t except foreign credit cards. So if a person can’t do those things online, they have to run to the Magti store every time they need to top up and add minutes.
Hi James, that is not quite right – if you are storing your CC details in the app, then yes it has to be a Georgian card. But if you are making a one-off top up, you can use any Visa, Mastercard or AMEX card including international cards. I did that for over a year before I opened a local bank account in Georgia. Just checked for you, and it’s still accepting my Australian card for a top-up.
Ok… Thank you.. Ahh, so I cannot get my 7-days package for 9 lari when I’m at the airport? Meaning I’m bound to the “tourist package” whatever that means (how much is it, if I may, and what’s it good for?) Thanks again.
Yes that’s correct. All the inclusions are listed above with a link to the Magti page too. Enjoy!
Thanks so much for the very helpful tips. I tried to purchase the Magti eSIM through the link you provided above, but even after having registered my account and received a verification code from Magti, I couldn’t proceed with the purchase although my account was successfully set up. Can you please advise, on the “Online Order” page directed by your link, which option should I click if I want to buy an eSIM? I tried all options, but failed on the verification stage.
Hi Argy – you should be able to choose an eSIM under the ‘Purchase a mobile number’ option.
Thanks for the brilliant and detailed advice and recommendations. I’ll soon be going to Georgia for a few months with various returns after that during my Silk Road expedition (that also goes through Georgia). Your guides are a massive help with my planning!
Thanks Marcell, happy to hear that! Hope you have a terrific trip.
Thank you for such a detailed information. I bought a Magti SIM card yesterday in the Magti store on Rusaveli street. Now the price is 10GEL for a SIM card. Unlimited internet access for 7 days is still for 9GEL.
Thanks Ella, I did see the price increase but forgot to update this. Done now! Have a fabulous time in Georgia!
Thank you very much for the information. I was looking for information about communication in Georgia. Since the internet is fine there, it probably doesn’t make sense for me to buy a sim card.
Planning a 3 months trip to Georgia soon, I am still shocked that I was able to remotely buy a Beeline eSIM before even setting foot in Georgia.
I was asked to select my phone model, then choose my Beeline phone number, then had to show my passport and my face on the webcam during fully automated identity verification step.
After that I was given a QR code to scan with my Phone, and that immediately added the eSIM to my phone.
I now have an active Georgian mobile line that I can top up with data plans.
Can’t wait to try it once I land in Tbilisi!
Hi Matt, that’s great! Magti offers an esim too. Magti coverage is a lot better than Beeline, hopefully you’re not travelling to the mountains and won’t have any issues. Have a wonderful trip!
Hi Emily,
This great information. My phone is not unlock, is it possible to get a data plan?
Hi Michelle – I don’t think so, no. As far as I know you need an unlocked phone. The esim might be an option, you could try asking in the Magti store.
Thank you so much for this post! If I get the tourist package at the airport can I then log into the Magti app and add more money, data etc? Or I need a normal sim to have access to the Magti app?
Hi Alina, you can use the app with any sim card/number – it’s just that initial package you buy that will be more expensive.
I will need internet on my first day in Tbilisi. Do hotels have wifi? And for minimal communication, I bought a virtual number. I hope it will be enough. Thanks for the article.
Hi Nick – yes, all hotels have WIFI.
This information helped me a lot. May I ask you is it possible to buy the cheapest plan at the airport then later buy an extra data using Magti app? I’ll arrive Batumi midnight and have to call Airbnb host so I need internet first day.
Hi Koh – as far as I know they will only sell you a tourist pack or minimum 30 GEL credit at the airport. There is no Magti kiosk at Batumi Airport as far as I’m aware, but the airport should have free WIFI.
At Airport, there is minimum purchase of 30 GEL per sim. Recommnded to purchase Magti at city.
Yes I agree!
Hi – I’ve never used a simcard before. Will I be able to sync my Gmail, Outlook, Whatsapp accounts, etc.? Typically if I log in from a different device, a text message is sent to my home number with a verification code. But if I am using the local simcard, I won’t have access to my normal text messages.
Hi Nikki, Gmail and Whatsapp should work just fine – you shouldn’t have to log out or back in. Just note that Whatsapp is attached to the phone number you signed up with (but still works if you switch sims).
I’m not sure about Outlook as I don’t use it. Just make sure your phone is unlocked!
hi sorry what do you mean by unlocked? thank you
Hi Orrling – I mean not locked to any one phone provider. You want a phone that will accept any SIM card.
Thanks it is really useful! Do you know if the shops at the airport will be open in the night? I heard there is a curfew and as I arrive in the night I am worried I will not be able to withdraw cash, get a simcard etc.
Hi Teetee – there is still a curfew from 9pm so I’m not sure if the shops will be staffed. I would guess probably not. ATMs will definitely be functioning though.
The only way to travel from the airport during curfew hours is with an airport taxi. These have a set price. So there’s no real need to buy a sim at the airport – I recommend picking one up on your first morning.
Hope this helps. Safe travels.
hey, you have a new follower (if that’s even a thing on this blog). this remarkably detailed and helpful georgia guide is like finding a diamond in the desert, or something like that. excuse my english. i am stressed and bewildered by needing to spend a week in tbilisi soon alone and the stress begins realizing all flights from my country with no exception arrive in tbilisi at around midnight – so reading thru your replies on here, after i have injected to myself every word dedicated to the public transit topic across this site, i can still not figure where or not, coming out at the arrival hall at night with just my smartphone minus georgian sim, i should be able to get a cheap taxi (the 30 lari one) to downtown and spend that night in my hotel and get to the telecom store in the morning. that is, i will apparently have no way to access a taxi boking app that night as telecom kiosks at the terminal aren’t staffed! it’s a loop… lol. and i just want to clear that night with no harm. thanks a ton in advanve
orrling
Hello Orrling, no need to stress!
90% of flights arrive in Tbilisi at night. So those desks are always open. Staff are used to it.
Otherwise, for ease, you can just pre-book a GoTrip transfer. It’s a tad more expensive (~ 15 USD) but completely reliable. The driver can take you to an ATM or make any other stops if you need.
hey there, thanx so much for the service haha
you make me sorry my trip is only for a week
didn’t you mention the desks at TBS selling local sim cards are closed at night?!? or maybe i got it mixed/wrong… somewhere above
so -are you saying a manned magti kiosk can welcome me after my nocturnal arrival? which, to connect with the other info on this page, means i can count on getting sim-carded right when i’m there followed by getting the taxi app and riding to town with the regular cab skipping the gotrip expense – please tell me i got it correct haha
Hi Orrling, the Magti at the airport is open 24/7. So yes, you will be able to buy your SIM there and use an app to book a taxi.
The extra cost of a Magti tourist package might be more than the difference between a Bolt and a GoTrip – just something extra to keep in mind!
Safe travels!
Beeline is a garbage company with poor coverage…even if signal indicator shows full you can’t receive calls at all))
Sorry to hear you’ve had trouble with Beeline! I recommend using Magti.
Hi…I’m suyash from INDIA. I’m coming to georgia next month for higher studies. I was confused about is there 5g connection available or if not till when it’ll be available… Because the thing is if 5g is there, then I’ll have to buy a 5g phone
Hi Suyash,
Georgia is developing its 5G network now – in fact the government just signed a new memorandum yesterday – but it’s not widespread yet. For now your regular mobile should suffice as most providers are sticking to 4G. I’m not sure when this will change.
This information could not be any more clear. Thank you so much for the detailed instructions I was looking for. This is going to make my trip so much easier.
Glad to hear that Ashley! Happy to help 🙂