The Country Overview
The Republic of Timor-Leste is a small country in Southeast Asia and it is one of the youngest nations on earth. The country’s history starts with colonization by Portugal and Indonesia, which led to decolonization in 1975. After being invaded by Indonesia twice, they declared their independence from their colonial power in 2002. In 2007, East Timor became an independent nation after a four-year UN administered transition period.
Timor-Leste has been at peace since 1999 when the civil war ended with Fretilin forces capturing most of the territory from anti-independence militias backed by Indonesian troops. A military coup d’état was attempted in 2006 but failed due to a lack of support from the public or army units stationed outside Dili.
The country has been developing rapidly since independence in 2002, although human rights violations have marred this progress. Twenty percent of the population still lives below the poverty line while only 1% of children are enrolled in secondary education. However, the government has attempted to address these issues by prioritizing their improvement through rapid development projects and increased budgets for social services like education and healthcare.
How To Buy A SIM Card In Timor-Leste
Purchasing a SIM card in Timor-Leste is a straightforward process, but it does require following certain steps to ensure you get connected efficiently. Timor-Leste offers a unique experience for travelers, and staying connected can enhance your stay. Below is a listicle on how to acquire a SIM card in this beautiful Southeast Asian country:
- Understand the Local Providers
- Before arriving in Timor-Leste, familiarize yourself with the local mobile network providers. The main providers in the country are Timor Telecom, Telemor, and Telkomcel. Each provider has different packages and coverage areas, so consider your needs when choosing a provider.
- Check Device Compatibility
- Ensure that your mobile phone is unlocked and compatible with the GSM bands used in Timor-Leste. The common bands are 900/1800 for GSM, and 3G services are typically available. If your phone is not compatible, you may need to buy a cheap handset locally to use with your SIM card.
- Prepare Necessary Documentation
- To purchase a SIM card in Timor-Leste, you will usually need to present a form of identification. This is typically a passport for foreigners. Make sure to have your passport and a photocopy of your passport photo page on hand when visiting a store or kiosk.
- Choose a Convenient Point of Purchase
- SIM cards can be purchased at the Dili International Airport, mobile network providers’ shops, or at various kiosks and small shops throughout the cities. Buying your SIM card at the airport can be convenient, as you can immediately have access to communication and maps upon arrival.
- Select an Appropriate Plan
- Determine your data, call, and text needs before selecting a SIM card. Providers offer a variety of plans, including pay-as-you-go options and packages with a set amount of data and minutes. Ask about the different plans available and choose one that suits your intended usage.
- Activation and Top-Up
- Once you have purchased your SIM card, you may need to activate it. Follow the instructions provided by the seller, which may include dialing a specific number or sending a text message. If you need to add credit, top-up vouchers can be bought from a range of outlets, including supermarkets and street vendors.
- Check for Network Coverage and Connectivity
- After activation, ensure that your mobile device connects to the local network and that you can access the services you’ve paid for. It’s wise to confirm this while still at the point of purchase in case you need assistance.
- Customer Service and Support
- Take note of the customer service number for your chosen provider. Should you encounter any issues with your SIM card or service, customer support can help resolve these problems.
- Mind the Expiry Dates
- Pay attention to the expiry date of your SIM card and any credit you purchase. Some SIM cards may become inactive if not used within a certain period, and credit often has a validity period after which it will expire.
- Safety and Security
- Keep your SIM card package, as it often contains important information such as your phone number and PUK code. Also, always ensure that you do not share personal information when using your phone in public spaces.
Best SIM Cards In Timor-Leste
- Telemor: Telemor is one of the major telecom operators in Timor-Leste. They offer a range of prepaid and postpaid plans. Telemor’s network coverage may vary in different regions, so it’s advisable to check coverage maps to ensure service availability in your specific area.
- Telkomcel: Telkomcel is another significant telecom operator in Timor-Leste. They provide prepaid and postpaid plans with various data and calling options. Like Telemor, Telkomcel’s network coverage may differ by region.
- Timor Telecom: Timor Telecom is a well-established telecom operator in the country. They offer a variety of services, including mobile and fixed-line telephony, internet, and data services. Timor Telecom’s coverage is relatively widespread, but it’s always a good idea to check their coverage maps for specific details.
Here are some general steps you can follow when choosing a SIM card in Timor-Leste:
- Coverage: Check the coverage maps of different operators to ensure that the network covers the areas you plan to visit or reside in.
- Plans and Pricing: Compare the prepaid and postpaid plans offered by each operator. Consider your usage patterns, such as data, calls, and texts, to find a plan that suits your needs.
- SIM Card Cost: Inquire about the cost of the SIM card and whether it comes with any initial credit or promotional offers.
- Top-Up Options: Check the availability of top-up options to ensure that you can easily add credit to your account when needed.
- Data Packages: If you rely on mobile data, look into the data packages offered by each operator. Consider the data speed and any fair usage policies that may apply.
- Customer Service and Support: Consider the reputation of each operator for customer service and support.
Internet Packages:
Fast internet packages (3G or 4G) | Membership Format by SMS to 8302 (“R” for automatic renewal) | Packages prices (USD) | Total Limited Plafond | Offer (*) included in the Plafond | Offer Time (*) for Unlimited Plafond | Validity |
Daily package | 1. TT01 2. TT025R 3. TT05R | 1. $0.10 2. $0.25 3. $0.50 | 1. 150 Mib 2. 150 Mib 3. 400 Mib | 1. 75 Mib 2. None 3. 100 Mib | 1. None 2. None 3. 03:00 – 07:00 | 1.12hours 2. 1 day 3. 1 day |
Weekly package | 1. S02R 2. TT1R 3. TT3R | 1. $0.20 2. $1 3. $3 | 1. 85 Mib 2. 450 Mib 3. 1,5 Gib | 1. 35 Mib 2.150 Mib 3. 0,5 Gib | 1. none 2. none 3. 03:00 – 07:00 | 1. 7days 2. 7days 3. 7days |
15 days package | 1. S05R 2.S1R 3. TT5R | 1. $0.50 2. $1 3. $5 | 1. 200 Mib 2. 415 Mib 3. 2,5 Gib | 1. None 2. None 3. 0,3 Gib | 1. None 2. None 3. 03:00 – 07:00 | 1. 15days 2. 15days 3. 15days |
Monthly package | 1. S2R 2. TT15R 3. TT30R 4. TT40R 5. TT60R | 1. $2 2. $15 3. $30 4. $40 5. $60 | 1. 900 Mib 2. 8 Gib 3. 18 Gib 4. 27 Gib 5. 45 Gib | 1. 400 Mib 2. 0,5 Gib 3. 2 Gib 4. 5,5 Gib 5. 12,5 Gib | 1. None 2. 03:00 – 07:00 3. 00:00 – 08:00 4. 00:00 – 08:00 5. 00:00 – 08:00 | 1. 30days 2. 30days 3. 30days 4. 30days 5. 30days |
60 days package | 1. TT10R 2. TT20R 3. TT50R 4. TT100R | 1. $10 2. $20 3. $50 4. $100 | 1. 5 Gib 2. 11 Gib 3. 30 Gib 4. 70 Gib | 1. 1 Gib 2. 2,5 Gib 3. 7,5 Gib 4. 22,5 Gib | 1. None 2. 03:00 – 07:00 3. 03:00 – 07:00 4. 00:00 – 08:00 | 1. 60days 2. 60days 3. 60days 4. 60days |
Timor Telecom (TT) Data Packages
Packs | Price | Plafond + Bonus 100% | Validity |
---|---|---|---|
TT01 | $0.10 | 30 MB + 30 MB | 12 Hours |
TT025 | $0.25 | 70 MB + 70 MB | 1 day |
TT05 | $0.50 | 150 MB + 150 MB | 1 day |
TT1 | $1 | 200 MB + 200 MB | 7 days |
TT3 | $3 | 800 MB + 800 MB | 7 days |
TT5 | $5 | 1,1 GB + 1,1 GB | 15days |
TT10 | $10 | 2,75 GB + 2,75 GB | 15days |
TT15 | $15 | 4 GB + 4 GB | 30 days |
TT30 | $30 | 8,5 GB + 8,5 GB | 30 days |
TT40 | $40 | 12,5 GB + 12,5 GB | 30 days |
TT60 | $60 | 20 GB + 20 GB | 30 days |
TT100 | $100 | 35 GB + 35 GB | 30 days |
List of Internet Companies in Timor-Leste
- Timor Telecom
- Telkomcel Dili
- Telsur Timor Leste
- PT Kominfo NTT
- PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk
- PT Indosat Ooredoo (Indonesia)
References:
https://abrokenbackpack.com/timor-leste-sim-cards/
https://planspapa.com/offer/telemor-free-internet/
Hello, I’m Herman C. Miller, the founder of InternetPKG.com, your ultimate destination for all things Mobile Internet and Telecommunication Services. With a BSc in Telecommunication Services and over 6 years at AT&T, my passion for the industry led to this platform. At InternetPKG.com, we prioritize keeping you informed with the latest package offers, ensuring our content stays current. Our team, including a dedicated Internet Package and Mobile Data Plans Researcher, tirelessly researches emerging trends, identifies market opportunities, and provides expert product recommendations.