Traveling to India and need connectivity? Get set up with a VI SIM card or eSIM for fast, reliable service on India’s leading network. This guide covers everything you need to know about using VI in India, from coverage and speed to the best SIM card options, how to activate service, call/text rates, and more.
Table of Contents
I. Quick facts about Vi
VI or Vodafone Idea is one of the leading telecom operators in India serving over 390 million subscribers across the country. Let’s get in some key facts about VI that provide an overview of their network and services:
- Brand Name: Vi
- Founded Year: 2018 (merger of Vodafone India and Idea Cellular)
- Coverage: Pan-India presence offering 2G, 3G, and 4G services across the country
- Subscribers: As of March 31, 2024, Vi had over 219.8 million subscribers, with a subscriber market share of 18.9%
- Services Provided: Vi offers voice and data services on 2G, 3G, and 4G technologies; broadband services; content services; digital and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions; and other value-added services, including entertainment, voice and SMS-based, and utility services
- Number of Stores: Specific numbers are not publicly disclosed, but Vi maintains an extensive on-ground presence across India to serve its customers
- Service Support: Vi provides customer support through various channels, including a comprehensive online help and support center, as well as physical stores nationwide
II. India Vi Coverage and Speed
1. Vi coverage in India
With over 200,000 towns and villages covered, Vi has the most far-reaching 4G network in India. Vi provides over 99% population coverage for 2G and over 92% population coverage for 4G.
Vi’s network spans all 22 telecom circles in India. The provider has excellent coverage even in remote areas and smaller towns thanks to widespread tower infrastructure. Both urban and rural areas enjoy strong, consistent Vi signal.
Some key facts about Vi’s India presence:
- 200,000+ towns and villages covered with 4G
- Over 92% population coverage for 4G
- Over 99% population coverage for 2G
- 4G services in 5,000+ towns/cities across India
- Presence in all 22 telecom circles
- Over 340,000 network sites/towers nationwide
Vi customers can enjoy high-speed data and voice connectivity while traveling to any part of the country, even in remote regions. The extensive coverage makes Vi SIM cards ideal for tourists coming to India.
2. Vi speed
Vodafone Idea (Vi) offers decent mobile speeds for tourists in India, with an average download speed of 16.9 Mbps. While not the fastest, Vi provides reliable 4G coverage in major cities and tourist hotspots. In recent 5G trials, Vi achieved impressive peak speeds, highlighting its commitment to future improvements. For travelers, Vi remains a solid choice for calls, data, and browsing while exploring India.
This allows Vi to deliver consistent, high-speed data—fast enough for HD video streaming, mobile gaming, and more. Vi has also outperformed other Indian telcos in recent OpenSignal tests for 4G speed and overall download throughput.
II. Vi Connectivity Options for Travelers to India
Vi offers multiple connectivity options for short-term travelers visiting India:
| Connectivity Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| VI SIM Card | ✅ Affordable prepaid plans for tourists ✅ Good 4G coverage in major cities & tourist areas ✅ Easy to buy at airports & local stores ✅ Various data & call packages available | ❌ Requires SIM card registration with passport & visa ❌ May have weaker coverage in rural areas ❌ Needs an unlocked phone |
| Pocket WiFi | ✅ Connects multiple devices at once ✅ No need to change your primary SIM ✅ Works in most urban areas with good network coverage | ❌ Expensive rental fees & deposits ❌ Requires charging frequently ❌ Limited availability outside major cities & airports |
| Roaming on VI’s Network | ✅ No need to change SIM card ✅ Convenient for short trips ✅ Works as soon as you land in India | ❌ Extremely high roaming charges ❌ May have limited data & slow speeds ❌ Not all international carriers have strong roaming agreements with VI |
Prepaid Vi SIM cards are the most popular option for foreign tourists visiting India. Let’s look at the best Vi SIM card options and prices for visitors next.
III. Best Vi SIM card for tourists & cost
Here are the best Vi prepaid SIM card packs travelers can purchase in India, along with the included allowances and validity:
| Plan Name | Benefits | Validity | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hero Unlimited | Unlimited calls, 100 SMS/day, 1.5GB data/day | 28 days | $3.08 |
| Disney+ Hotstar Mobile Plan | Unlimited calls, 100 SMS/day, 1.5GB data/day, Disney+ Hotstar subscription | 28 days | $4.21 |
| Work From Home Pack | Unlimited calls, 75GB data | 84 days | $8.76 |
| Long Validity Plan | Unlimited calls, 100 SMS/day, 1.5GB data/day | 84 days | $7.15 |
| 1.5GB/Day Plan | 1.5GB data/day, unlimited calls, 100SMS/day | 28 days | $3.73 |
From all information above, Vi SIMs provide great value with the lowest data rates among Indian providers. The free calling to Indian numbers is a useful benefit for travelers.
IV. Does Vi India support eSIM?
Yes, Vi already offers eSIM support on its network. As for phone users with integrated eSIM functionality, they can activate Vi plans without a physical SIM card.
Vi eSIM service was introduced in September 2020. Now eSIM on Vi’s network is available to iPhone users with XS/XR models and above. eSIM is also available for activation on Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy S20/Fold devices.
More smartphone models are likely to offer Vi eSIM services. Currently, most of Vi’s eSIM users are iPhone users.
V. Where can you buy a Vi SIM card and eSIM?
1. Where to buy Vi SIM card for India?
International tourists can easily purchase a Vi prepaid SIM at these locations across India:
- Vi stores/outlets
- Official Vi kiosks at airports
- Large format retail stores like Croma, Reliance Digital etc
- Smaller local phone shops/general stores
Vi SIM cards are widely available at most electronics shops, travel hubs and retail outlets across India. Prices are uniform across stores.
At major airports like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc, visitors can find dedicated Vi SIM counters in the Arrivals area. Staff help tourists quickly activate and set up the Vi SIM card.
For a hassle-free experience, buying Vi SIM cards from official airport kiosks or Vi stores is recommended. Avoid illegal streetside vendors selling unauthorized SIMs.
2. Where to buy India Vi eSIM?
If you’re looking to buy a Vi eSIM for India, here are your best options:
Vi’s Official Website (myvi.in)
Vi allows existing customers to convert their physical SIM to an eSIM via SMS verification. Users must have an eSIM-compatible device and an Indian ID. While reliable, this option is not ideal for tourists as it requires local registration.
eSIMIndia.net (Recommended for Tourists)
esimindia.net offers a hassle-free Vi eSIM for travelers with instant activation and no local ID required. Simply purchase online, receive the QR code via email, and connect instantly. Though slightly pricier, it’s the easiest option for tourists seeking quick connectivity.
Go Beyond Borders with esimindia.net
VI. How to activate Vi India SIM/eSIM?
1. How to use India Vi SIM card?
Follow these steps when you buy a new Vi prepaid SIM in India:
- Inform staff about your preferred plan/pack with validity and data allowance.
- Provide your passport copy and visa documents for KYC verification.
- Staff will insert SIM and activate plan of your choice.
- Make payment in cash or card. Receive SIM pack with info brochure.
- Insert Vi SIM in phone, turn it on and match the activation code when prompted.
- SIM activation gets completed quickly. Recharge as required via Vi app or USSD codes.
The entire process of checking documentation, choosing a prepaid plan, and activating the Vi tourist SIM takes less than 10-15 minutes. Staff are familiar with setting up SIMs for foreign tourists.
2. How to activate Vi India eSIM?
To activate a Vi eSIM on your smartphone:
- Ensure your phone model supports eSIM functionality. Download the Vi app.
- Register on the app with your passport, visa details and a local contact number.
- Browse Vi plans, choose one and make payment on the app.
- Vi will send an SMS confirming plan activation. Tap on prompts to install the eSIM.
- Vi eSIM gets linked to your phone within a few hours! No physical SIM required.
Vi eSIM activation is completely digital and convenient. Avoid websites offering unauthorized Vi eSIM installation. For reliable service, stick to Vi’s official app.
XI. FAQs about Vi in India
Is Vi and Vodafone the same in India?
Yes, Vi is a rebrand of Vodafone India following its merger with Idea Cellular. Vodafone and Idea combined their operations in 2018 to form Vi (Vodafone Idea Ltd).
How can tourists get a Vi SIM in India?
International tourists can buy prepaid Vi SIM cards at airports, official Vi stores, prominent retail outlets and local mobile shops by providing passport/visa.
How long is Vi SIM card valid?
Vi’s prepaid tourist SIM packs for visitors are typically valid for 28 days. Longer 84-day and 365-day validity SIMs are also available.
Does Vi have good coverage in India?
Yes, Vi has the widest 4G coverage in India spanning over 200,000 towns and villages. Its network offers excellent connectivity across urban and rural regions.
Can I use Vi SIM card for local and international calls?
Vi prepaid packs come with free unlimited local and national calls. International calls will be charged separately. Add-ons can help reduce ISD calling rates.
How do I check Vi number balance?
You can check prepaid balance for calls/data/validity by dialling *444*1# USSD code. The MyVi app also shows account balance and usage.
XII. Final Words
Vi offers unbeatable coverage, fast 4G speeds, and great value with its prepaid Vi SIM card packs tailored for travelers. Visitors can enjoy pocket-friendly call rates across India and high-speed data starting Rs 199 with Vi SIM cards valid up to 365 days. With this comprehensive guide, you are all set to stay online across India with Vi’s leading connectivity!
