The International Prepaid Sim Card
The prepaid SIM card has been around for awhile and is used by subscribers across the globe. A SIM card, or subscriber identification module, this the memory device that will store the subscribers phone settings and personal information. This card is inside a cell phone and operates like a memory system in a computer. The card also has encryption security to prevent eavesdropping. The SIM card is not specific to one phone and may be moved from device to device. This means you can insert your card in any phone and access all your information and make and receive calls. Changing or upgrading phones is as simple as switching a SIM card.
The concept is quite simple; you purchase a set number of minutes (also known as charging your SIM card) and when you have used them up the service is either terminated or you can purchase additional minutes. The beauty of “pay as you go” cell phone service is that there are absolutely no monthly or yearly contractual agreements allowing you greater flexibility and minimal worry.
A huge problem with a standard cell phone contact is “going over” the maximum minutes allowed with your cell plan. Once you hit your minute limit you are still able to make and receive calls, the problem is that you may be charged for every minute you exceed your cell phone plans specifications. If you are a big talker, this could run into big dollars.
International travelers have found that using a prepaid SIM card is the most cost effective and practical way to use your cell phone when overseas. For virtually all SIM cards, all incoming calls are free. Your calls will be charged by the minute, or the fraction of the minute depending on the specific country of origin. In some cases your SIM card will allow roaming while outside the country of card origin. If this is the case and you do receive calls, charges will apply. Your outgoing calls will also cost more than normal so it is important to remember to add more time to your SIM card BEFORE leaving the country of card origin. Once you leave the country specific to your card, it can be very difficult, if not impossible to add more time. Most international SIM cards also have voice mail capabilities and you will be able to retrieve messages if someone calls you when your phone is off.
It is possible to keep your SIM card for use at a later time, but most countries will terminate your unused time and your number if the card has not been charged in a certain time period.
