26 min
Overview of Georgia’s Mobile Market
The mobile market in Georgia is represented by three main operators: Magticom, Silknet (formerly known as Geocell), and Cellfie Mobile (the new name for Beeline). They operate on GSM/3G/4G standards, and since 2023–2024, they have also deployed 5G (NSA) networks on dedicated frequencies. Magticom is considered the market leader in terms of subscribers and network quality. Its network covers about 90% of the country’s territory, providing the most stable coverage even in mountainous and remote areas. According to Ookla research, MagtiCom’s mobile internet was among the six fastest in the world in 2025. Silknet holds the second position in market share and is actively expanding its infrastructure; coverage is around 80% of Georgia, with particularly good service in cities and popular tourist areas. Cellfie (formerly Beeline) is the third operator, attractive due to its affordable tariffs. Its coverage is currently about 50% of the country (mainly in major cities and resorts), but the network is expanding, and the operator is already implementing 5G in certain regions. Overall, all three companies offer modern services, high-speed mobile internet, and compete for subscribers, which benefits consumers in terms of pricing.
Network Quality and Coverage. All operators provide reliable 4G/LTE coverage in most populated areas. MagtiCom historically has the widest network of base stations: according to its own data, its LTE covers over 90% of Georgia’s population, including good connectivity even in Tbilisi metro tunnels. Silknet also offers 4G across most of the country (up to ~90% of the population according to some estimates). Being a smaller operator, Cellfie nevertheless covers major cities and resorts, though signal may drop in remote areas. With the introduction of 5G, internet quality has further improved: Magticom has launched nationwide 5G (700 MHz, 2600 MHz, 3500 MHz), Silknet currently provides 5G locally (in central Tbilisi at 2100 MHz), and Cellfie has deployed 5G in major cities and tourist zones. For users, this means that with a modern smartphone, you can expect fast mobile internet (especially in Tbilisi, Batumi, and other major centers). Nevertheless, travelers across the country often note that Magticom provides the most stable reception and speed on highways and in the mountains. Silknet is only slightly behind in quality, particularly along popular routes, while Cellfie’s network may be weaker outside cities. In terms of reliability, the typical operator ranking is: Magticom first, Silknet second, Cellfie third. However, your choice also depends on your needs and budget, which we will discuss further.
Main Operators’ Tariffs and Services: Comparison
Georgia’s operators offer a wide range of tariffs, especially prepaid packages, aimed at both residents and visitors. Overall, service costs are relatively low compared to European countries: for example, 1 GB of data may cost about 5–7 GEL, and unlimited offers are often available. Almost all package plans include unlimited local calls and SMS within Georgia (at least within the same network, often to all networks) – a noticeable advantage for travelers. Below is a comparison table of tourist prepaid packages from Magticom, Silknet, and Cellfie, popular at the end of 2025:
| Operator | Data Package | Local Calls/SMS | International Calls | Validity | Cost |
| Magticom | 3 GB mobile internet | Unlimited (all Georgian networks)** | 30 min (to other countries)* | 15 days | 30 GEL |
| Silknet | Unlimited internet | Unlimited (all Georgian networks) | 30 min (international)* | 15 days | 30 GEL |
| Cellfie | 2 GB mobile internet | Unlimited (all Georgian networks) | 50 min (to other countries)* | 15 days | 20 GEL |
Note: international minutes can be used with the prefix “00” or “+” before the country code. Unlimited local calls apply to Magti, Silknet, Cellfie, and landline numbers within Georgia.
As seen, Cellfie offers the most budget-friendly tourist package – 2 GB and calls for 20₾, which can be suitable for a short trip. Silknet is attractive because for 30₾ it provides unlimited mobile internet for 15 days, plus unlimited local calls and SMS. Magticom at the same price of 30₾ offers 3 GB and a bonus of 30 international minutes, convenient for contacting people abroad. All three packages are valid for 15 days, making them ideal for tourists or short business visits.
Regular prepaid tariffs. In addition to tourist offers, operators provide standard prepaid packages of various sizes for a month. For example, Magticom offers 5 GB of internet for 30 days for ~12 GEL, and unlimited internet for a month costs around 32 GEL. Silknet has a similar range – packages from a few gigabytes to large volumes; 20 GB per month costs about 60–65 GEL (prices in official stores; airport tariffs may be higher, see the table above – 20 GB was offered for 65 GEL). Silknet’s advantage is all packages include unlimited calls and SMS within Georgia. Cellfie is known for the lowest data prices: 5 GB for 30 days costs ~7 GEL, 16 GB – ~15 GEL, and 40 GB – ~20 GEL. This makes Cellfie a great choice for those who need large amounts of internet for minimal cost, if coverage in your location is sufficient. All operators also allow purchasing additional minutes or SMS, though with widespread use of messaging apps, SMS is less frequently used.
Special services. Each operator offers additional services: for instance, MagtiCom has the “All Without Limit” line (packages with unlimited calls, SMS, and a certain amount of internet), Silknet has tourist packages as described above, and also the ability to add discount options for international calls. International calls beyond included minutes are charged at standard rates, but there are tips: MagtiCom provides code 1010 to reduce international call costs (via VoIP gateway), and Silknet offers special discounts to popular destinations. Many travelers use internet calls (WhatsApp, Skype, etc.) to save money, leveraging large data packages. Roaming is also possible on Georgian SIMs: roaming rates are usually high, so operators offer special roaming packages. For example, Silknet offers 1 GB for 7 days in Europe and Turkey for 9 GEL – very competitive for roaming. Magti and Cellfie have similar packages for popular destinations. Overall, if you plan trips across the region, it’s often better to buy local SIMs in each country or use eSIM solutions (more on that later).
Overall, Georgian operator tariffs are flexible and affordable. Next, we will discuss practical aspects of purchasing and using SIM cards in Georgia, and choosing between prepaid and postpaid options.
SIM Card Purchase: Registration and Documents
In Georgia, SIM card registration is mandatory using a passport or another identity document. You will need to present your passport when buying a SIM card (residents can use an ID card). Registration usually takes only a few minutes: the seller scans or records your passport details in the system and registers the SIM in your name. This procedure is required by law and is the same for all operators. Note that without an ID, you cannot purchase a SIM – so plan to have your passport ready upon arrival if you want to buy a card at the airport.
Cost and activation. The SIM itself in official stores may have a small price (e.g., 5–10 GEL) or be free with the purchase of a starter package. At Tbilisi and Kutaisi airports, tourists usually receive the SIM for free if they immediately pay for a package (see MagtiCom offers above – the “Free 4.5G SIM-card” is included in the tourist package). In city offices, the standard SIM price may be about 10 GEL (Magticom), though this often includes initial balance or starter minutes/data. After registration, the SIM is usually active immediately, or the seller helps activate the starter package (sometimes requiring a USSD command listed on the package or making the first call). For example, to activate a new Silknet SIM, you dial *7010# or *100# according to instructions. Check upon purchase that the SIM is activated and the desired tariff is applied – airport counters do this automatically; in stores, you may need to activate it yourself (instructions usually included).
Language considerations. Not all store staff speak Russian or English fluently, especially outside tourist areas. In Tbilisi and major cities, communication is usually possible, but it is useful to have the operator name and tariff written down, or ask to activate a standard tourist package. After activation, many SIMs send SMS and voice menus in Georgian by default. However, you can change the language: for Silknet, you can select English/Russian via *180#, other operators have similar USSD codes (check when purchasing). Overall, buying a SIM in Georgia is tourist-friendly: simple registration, passport accepted without bureaucracy, no registration fees.
eSIM: Electronic SIM in Georgia
By the end of 2025, all major Georgian operators support eSIM (embedded SIM) technology. This means you can avoid a physical SIM, downloading the operator profile to your smartphone via QR code. eSIM simplifies connectivity: it can be purchased online from anywhere and activated upon arrival without visiting an office.
Magticom: offers eSIM alongside regular SIM cards – costing about 10 GEL, available in stores and online. MagtiCom’s website has an Online Order option to buy eSIM, but it’s easier for foreigners to visit an office to receive a QR code for download. Silknet: also supports eSIM, with connection costs from ~4 GEL for a standard number. Silknet sometimes provides bonuses for eSIM: 2000 MB and 50 minutes. eSIM can be obtained via Silknet’s website (requires registration and a Georgian number) or in official stores. Cellfie: eSIM can be purchased fully online – on cellfie.ge, you upload passport photo and selfie for ID verification. Cost ~5 GEL, QR code issued after verification. Note that this process may take some time (not instant like a physical SIM in a kiosk). It is recommended to buy eSIM online from your phone to scan the QR code immediately.
eSIM benefits for travelers are obvious: you save time at the airport and can connect immediately upon arrival – just install the eSIM profile beforehand (e.g., from home) and it activates automatically in Georgia. Your main number (physical SIM) can remain in the phone, so the device works with two lines simultaneously. Important: ensure your device supports eSIM and is unlocked for foreign operators. eSIM is excellent for short trips or frequent travelers who need to switch operator profiles quickly. All packages and tariffs available on physical SIMs are also available on eSIM. For example, Silknet allows selecting any plan when activating eSIM. Thus, having eSIM from Georgian operators adds flexibility: you can get local service without visiting a store or quickly switch operators for backup coverage.
Where to Buy a SIM: Airport, City, Online
Airports. The easiest way for tourists to get a SIM is upon arrival – Georgia’s international airports have counters/kiosks of mobile operators. In Tbilisi airport arrival area, all three operators are represented: Magticom and Cellfie have counters in the hall, Silknet (Geocell) slightly off to the exit. Kutaisi and Batumi airports usually have major operators or partner sales points. Buying at the airport is convenient – you get a ready tourist package, often SIM is free, paying only for the package (e.g., MagtiCom: 15 or 30 GEL for package, SIM $0). Downsides include limited tariff choice and slightly higher prices for small packages. For example, Silknet airport prices: 1 GB – 25 GEL, 5 GB – 35 GEL, etc., higher than city prices. Experienced travelers sometimes recommend not buying at the airport, but going to the city for more options and possible savings. However, if you need immediate connectivity (ordering taxi, contacting hotel), paying extra at the airport is worth the convenience.
Example of a promotional poster for Cellfie’s tourist package at Tbilisi airport arrivals. It shows 2 GB of internet, unlimited local calls/SMS, and 50 international minutes for 20 GEL, valid for 15 days. Counters operate round-the-clock to allow arriving visitors to get local SIMs immediately.
Official stores. In cities, you can buy a SIM at official Magticom, Silknet, or Cellfie stores, or from authorized dealers (e.g., in malls, electronics stores). In Tbilisi, there are many stores for all three operators – addresses available on websites (tourists usually visit central stores). In Batumi, Kutaisi, and small tourist towns (Borjomi, Telavi, etc.), at least a Magti or Silknet store is usually present. Buying in a store offers advantages: wide tariff choice, consultants help pick the best package, promotions often available (bonus GB for larger packages). Payment options: cash or card. Downsides: store hours (usually 10:00–19:00, weekends until noon), queues. Overall, registration is quick. In stores, you can top up your balance immediately and enable auto-renewal if staying longer.
Online purchase. As mentioned in the eSIM section, some operators allow ordering SIMs online. MagtiCom has an online store to reserve a SIM or select a preferred number, but collection still requires visiting an office or delivery to a local address. Cellfie offers a full online cycle for eSIM. International services also sell pre-registered Georgian SIMs by mail, though less common given visa-free entry for most. Another option is international tourist SIMs and eSIMs. If you want to save time or avoid language issues, you can buy a universal travel SIM (e.g., TourSIM by EuroRoaming or eSIM from Airalo). They work in Georgia via local operators (usually Silknet or Cellfie), but tariffs are usually higher. For example, 5 GB for 15 days via international eSIM costs ~$15–20, whereas local SIM gives 5 GB for ~$5–7. For longer stays, it’s more economical to buy a local Georgian SIM.
Conclusion: for tourists, the ideal scheme is to get a SIM upon arrival (if immediate connectivity is needed) or in a nearby city store (for savings and maximum tariff choice). The key is not to forget your passport and decide on the operator (see previous sections on coverage and prices).
Prepaid or Postpaid: What to Choose?
Georgian operators provide both prepaid (top-up cards) and postpaid (contract with monthly billing) options. For foreign visitors, prepaid is almost always optimal. Key differences and recommendations:
- Prepaid SIM: sold to anyone without long formalities – pay and use. You top up the balance and activate desired packages. No monthly obligations: if you don’t pay, SIM simply waits. Convenient for tourists and business travelers: you control spending and can buy SIM just for the trip. All packages described above (tourist, internet) are prepaid. Pros: easy to obtain (passport needed only for registration), full expense control, no penalties for non-use. Cons: slightly higher per-minute/MB cost outside packages than contracts; balance validity limited (usually SIM deactivates after ~6 months without top-up). Not relevant for a standard trip.
- Postpaid (Contract): monthly billing plan, usually requires signing a contract at an operator store. Contracts benefit permanent residents: often more packages for less cost (e.g., unlimited internet, large minute packages, device discounts). However, contracts may be unavailable to foreigners without residency. Operators typically require local ID or proof of long-term stay, sometimes a deposit. Pros: better conditions for long-term use, ability to link a bank card and not worry about balance, sometimes premium services (network priority, service subscriptions). Cons: longer setup, may require Georgian tax ID or deposit, minimum contract period (e.g., cannot disconnect after 1 month without penalty). Not convenient for short visits.
Recommendation: if you are a tourist or on a short business trip, choose a prepaid SIM. You get all necessary services without bureaucracy. Prepaid packages in Georgia are generous and inexpensive; postpaid benefits for short stays are minimal. Postpaid makes sense only for long-term residents or if you want multiple SIMs in a family plan or a top unlimited plan and are ready to sign a contract. Otherwise, “pay in advance” is simpler. Note: network quality and priority are usually the same for prepaid and postpaid – operators do not limit prepaid users’ speed (5G/4G users get full bandwidth).
Mobile Connectivity for Business Trips
If you are visiting Georgia for work or as a digital nomad, connectivity is crucial for productivity. Fortunately, Georgia’s mobile infrastructure is sufficiently developed to ensure comfortable business travel. Key points to note:
- Internet speed and 5G: As mentioned, 5G is already available in major cities. In Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi, mobile internet can exceed 300 Mbps on MagtiCom. Video conferences, large file transfers, cloud services – all work smoothly. Even on 4G, Magti and Silknet average 20–50 Mbps, sufficient for work tasks. If internet is critical, Magticom is recommended – consistently fastest and most reliable. Silknet provides good speed and low latency. Cellfie is slightly slower and more latent but sufficient for basic office tasks. Coverage matters: Magti provides internet even in areas where others may not reach.
- Reliability and coverage in business areas: In Tbilisi business centers (Vake, Saburtalo, Mtatsminda), all operators have dense cell networks. Modern office buildings often have signal repeaters. In hotels and business centers in Batumi and other cities, similar situation. For trips to wineries in Kakheti or mountain resorts like Gudauri, check coverage: Magticom is preferred, historically best “in the field” connectivity. Silknet is also good in tourist spots. Tip: If work requires constant connection, consider two SIMs from different operators – e.g., Magti and Silknet – to switch if needed. Low tariffs make this affordable and provides backup for rare local outages.
- International calls and conferences: Business travelers may need foreign contact. Standard Georgian prepaid tariffs include some international minutes (tourist packages: 30–50 min), but regular international calls may require an extra service. MagtiCom offers code 1010 for cheaper calls, Silknet offers special packages to CIS, Europe, etc. Most use Zoom/Skype/Teams; mobile internet supports this. 4G/5G networks in Georgia suffice for video conferences; major cities also have Wi-Fi in cafes/hotels – for security, prefer your own 4G router. Roaming is costly, but regional packages exist: Silknet 1 GB in Turkey for 9 GEL, MagtiCom and Cellfie offer similar. Often better to buy a local SIM in the destination country.
- Additional features: Operators offer business-useful services. Hotspot/tethering allowed at no extra cost. MagtiCom has Mono Credit – mini credit for urgent calls if your balance runs out. All operators have mobile apps (MyMagti, Silknet, Cellfie) with English interface: monitor expenses, activate options, pay by card. Note: foreign cards may not always work; have cash or local card, or use intermediaries. For longer stays, corporate solutions exist (private groups, company tariffs), beyond this overview.
Summary for business trips: choose a reliable operator (Magticom or Silknet), connect sufficient data (20–30 GB or unlimited for a month), consider eSIM to keep your main number, and use operator apps for control. Then connectivity in Georgia will be an asset, not a problem.
Mobile Connectivity for Tourists: Convenience While Traveling
Tourists in Georgia are generally very satisfied with local SIM cards: inexpensive, hassle-free, and always connected. Here are key features and tips for travelers:
- Special tourist packages. As shown in the table, all operators have 1–2 week packages – ideal for typical vacations. Turist Start from Silknet for 15 GEL gives 4 GB, local and some international minutes for 15 days. Magti Tourist for 30 GEL – 3 GB and 30 min abroad. Cellfie Tourist for 20 GEL – 2 GB and 50 min abroad. There are also short-term options: Silknet offers 7-day package – unlimited internet and SMS for 15 GEL. Packages usually come preloaded on the SIM; insert and ready. Package renewal: some tourist tariffs auto-renew if balance remains. To prevent this, disable auto-renew via USSD (e.g., Silknet). If staying longer, letting it auto-renew is convenient.
- SIM lifespan and inactivity. Prepaid SIMs bought by tourists usually remain active for a certain period after the last usage. For MagtiCom, the SIM is active for up to 12 months from the last top-up or use; for Silknet and Cellfie, it is typically 3–6 months. Exact numbers are not always publicly advertised, but the rule is simple: using the SIM at least once within this period prevents deactivation. For short trips, this is not an issue. If you plan to keep the number for a longer stay or return visits, you can top up online to extend validity. All operators allow topping up via websites, apps, or card payments, so your number can remain active even without physical presence.
- Convenience during travel. Once you have a local SIM, navigating Georgia becomes easier: mobile maps (Google Maps, Maps.me) work smoothly, ride-hailing apps (Bolt, Yandex.Taxi) are fully functional, and translation apps or online guides remain accessible. Even in mountains, MagtiCom and Silknet provide coverage along main routes and popular hiking areas. Cellfie works best in cities and well-known tourist spots. Tip: if traveling off the beaten path, consider having two SIMs (Magticom + Silknet) or using eSIM as backup for coverage gaps.
- Costs and efficiency. Prepaid SIMs are extremely affordable. For example, a typical tourist 15-day plan costs 20–30 GEL (~$8–12 USD) and includes several GB of internet plus unlimited local calls/SMS. Compared to using roaming from your home country, this is significantly cheaper. Packages can be renewed or expanded easily: add 1–5 GB extra, purchase extra minutes, or switch to unlimited internet if needed. Operators also provide online monitoring of usage, so you can control data and avoid overspending.
- Language and support. Operator apps and websites are mostly available in English and Georgian; some staff speak Russian. Prepaid SIMs come with simple activation instructions via USSD or app. Customer support is available via hotlines or chat for troubleshooting, making it easy to solve any connectivity issue during your stay.
Summary for tourists: Buying a prepaid SIM in Georgia is simple, inexpensive, and convenient. Use MagtiCom for the widest coverage, Silknet for competitive unlimited packages, and Cellfie for the most budget-friendly options in cities. Consider eSIM for immediate activation and backup, especially for short trips. Keep in mind your SIM’s validity period, top up when necessary, and you will enjoy uninterrupted connectivity throughout Georgia.
