Monaco – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Monaco, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Monaco’s country dialling code is +377, sometimes referred to as phone code 377 or international dialling code 377. To place a call to Monaco from outside the principality, prefix your international access code (often 00, or the + symbol on a mobile handset) with 377, then enter the eight-digit local number.

All Monegasque telephone numbers are eight digits in length. Numbers assigned to fixed lines start with the digit 9, while mobile numbers begin with 6. Unlike many countries, Monaco has no separate city or regional area codes — the principality is a single city-state spanning just two square kilometres, so every number falls under the same national format beneath +377.

Prior to 21 June 1996, Monaco shared part of the French numbering plan, with fixed-line numbers opening with 93. When the principality adopted country code 377 on that date, it separated its numbering from France entirely. As a result, any call between France and Monaco — including those to addresses just over the border — must be dialled as a full international call. This catches many new residents off guard: regardless of how geographically close the destination may be, there is no abbreviated cross-border shortcut.

When storing Monaco numbers in a phone’s contacts, always use the format +377 XX YYYYYYY to ensure universal compatibility. Unlike Germany or Italy, Monaco does not use a leading zero before local numbers, so no adjustment of that kind is necessary when dialling internationally.

For emergencies, the number 112 — the pan-European emergency number used across EU member states — also operates in Monaco, making it straightforward to remember regardless of your country of origin.

Who are the major landline providers in Monaco, and how can you contact them?

Monaco Telecom is the cornerstone telecommunications company in the Principality of Monaco. Founded in 1997 following the Monegasque government’s decision to privatise the previously state-run Office Monégasque des Téléphones, the company now encompasses internet access, mobile telephony, and various other communications services.

As the only Monegasque operator providing fixed-line, mobile, internet, and television services, Monaco Telecom is by default the sole choice for anyone wishing to establish a landline within the principality. Current plans and pricing can be found on the official website at monaco-telecom.mc; all specific tariff details should be verified directly there, as they are subject to periodic revision.

Monaco Telecom’s ownership structure sees 51.2% held by Xavier Niel, the founder and principal shareholder of Paris-based Iliad SA, with the remaining 49.8% retained by the Principality of Monaco through the wholly owned Société Nationale de Financement. This arrangement is broadly similar to several European nations that maintain a minority interest in their formerly nationalised telecoms providers.

Monaco Telecom operates a retail presence serving as the main customer-facing hub, with the principal office located on Rue du Gabian in Fontvieille and additional outlets in other neighbourhoods. Enquiries can also be made by telephone or through the customer portal on their website. For the most up-to-date customer service contact details, visit monaco-telecom.mc directly.

No competing fixed-line operators run separate landline infrastructure within Monaco. In contrast to markets such as Germany or Spain, where several operators contend for fixed-line customers via independent or shared networks, Monaco’s landline infrastructure is managed exclusively by Monaco Telecom. Consumers are advised to verify current pricing and bundled offers directly with the provider, as tariffs are updated on a regular basis.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Monaco, and how can you contact them?

Monaco Télécom is both the main telecommunications company and the only mobile network operator with its own antenna infrastructure within the Principality of Monaco. The mobile picture is, however, more layered than this single fact implies, as a number of French operators also maintain a functional footprint in the principality.

In 2016, the governments of France and Monaco signed a spectrum coordination agreement permitting French mobile operators to install their own base stations in Monaco. From 5 March 2024, the Monegasque government — working alongside French operators and Monaco Telecom — introduced a unified mobile network arrangement for all users. Subscribers to French mobile services including SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free are now able to benefit from access via the Monaco Telecom network.

The principal operators available to residents and visitors within Monaco are:

• Monaco Telecom — the only operator with its own antenna infrastructure in Monaco; offers postpaid mobile contracts and certain no-commitment options. Website: monaco-telecom.mc
• Orange France — Monaco Télécom has a roaming agreement with Orange in France, and customers of either network can use each other’s coverage without additional surcharges. Website: orange.fr
• Free Mobile — enjoys near-equivalent coverage to Orange thanks to a co-location agreement with Monaco Télécom. Website: free.fr
• SFR and Bouygues Télécom — viable alternatives, as their antennas extend across most of the principality. Websites: sfr.fr and bouyguestelecom.fr

Monaco Telecom is the only significant operator in Monaco delivering fast and dependable mobile services. Coverage is excellent throughout the principality, with 4G LTE connectivity as standard. Monaco Telecom’s 5G network is also operational, placing the principality among Europe’s most technologically advanced mobile markets despite its diminutive size. For up-to-date plan pricing, check monaco-telecom.mc directly, as tariffs change regularly.

As of early 2024, Monaco Telecom’s no-commitment mobile plans began at approximately €39.99 per month for 20 GB of data, with higher-tier options at €49.99 (50 GB) and €109.99 (100 GB), all usable in Monaco, metropolitan France, Europe, Switzerland, Andorra, and French Overseas Departments. Always confirm current tariffs at monaco-telecom.mc before committing to a plan.

How do I get a landline connected in Monaco?

Arranging a landline in Monaco is a reasonably simple process, handled exclusively through Monaco Telecom. Because Monaco Telecom is the only provider of fixed-line infrastructure, there is no need to weigh up competing operators. The typical steps involved are as follows:

1. Contact Monaco Telecom — Visit their store in person (the main branch is at Rue du Gabian in Fontvieille, with further outlets in other neighbourhoods), reach out via their customer service line, or submit an enquiry through the website at monaco-telecom.mc. It is helpful to have your home address and an idea of the type of plan you need before making contact.
2. Choose a plan — Monaco Telecom offers bundled packages that combine fixed-line telephony with broadband internet and television. Browse the current offerings on their official website and select a bundle appropriate to your household’s requirements. As of 2024, all pricing should be confirmed directly with Monaco Telecom, as it is subject to change.
3. Provide personal documentation — You will be required to supply personal details including your name, address, and valid identification. This typically means presenting a current passport or national identity document alongside evidence of your Monaco address, such as a tenancy agreement or property deed.
4. Confirm your tenancy or ownership status — Whether you rent or own your home can influence the installation process. Tenants should speak with their landlord to determine whether existing wiring or line infrastructure is already in place, as this may significantly accelerate the connection. Monaco Telecom can provide guidance specific to your property.
5. Schedule installation — Connecting a fixed-line service can take up to two weeks. A technician will attend your property to fit the telephone line and any necessary equipment. Ensure that you or another authorised adult will be present to allow access at the agreed time.
6. Confirm billing and direct debit — Once your line is live, arrange your preferred payment method (see the billing section below). The majority of residents choose monthly direct debit, which can generally be set up at the time of signing the contract.

It is worth noting that since 31 January 2024, no Monaco residents access the internet via the copper network, as the principality completed its full transition to fibre-optic infrastructure. This means all new landline and broadband connections are delivered over fibre, typically resulting in faster and more consistent service. Always confirm current requirements and timelines with Monaco Telecom directly, as procedures may evolve.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Monaco?

Acquiring mobile service in Monaco has one notable characteristic that sets it apart from many other countries: Monaco Telecom, the principality’s sole national operator, has moved away from traditional prepaid SIM cards. Having ceased selling prepaid packages entirely, and given that their postpaid plans sit at a relatively high price point, purchasing a SIM from Orange or Free — or another provider offering discounted roaming via Monaco Telecom’s infrastructure — is likely the most practical route for a large number of people.

Monaco Telecom is the only operator in Monaco. They offer mobile plans that are not prepaid in nature, though options exist that do not tie you to a lengthy contract. Whether short-term visitors can access these plans is not entirely clear-cut. Customers under 26 years of age may be eligible for a discount when signing up for a mobile plan.

For residents taking out a postpaid contract with Monaco Telecom, the process generally runs as follows:

1. Visit a Monaco Telecom store — As the primary mobile operator in Monaco, Monaco Telecom distributes SIM cards through its retail stores and authorised resellers across the city-state.
2. Present identification — A valid government-issued photo ID — either a passport or national identity card — is required. For a postpaid contract, you will also typically need to provide proof of your Monaco address, such as a tenancy agreement or a recent utility bill.
3. Select a plan — Monaco Telecom offers no-commitment monthly plans alongside longer-term contracts. As of early 2024, no-commitment options started from around €39.99 per month; current pricing is available at monaco-telecom.mc.
4. Provide banking details for direct debit — Postpaid contracts require a payment method, ordinarily a European IBAN for automatic monthly billing. New arrivals who have not yet opened a local bank account should enquire with Monaco Telecom about any alternative payment arrangements.
5. Activate your SIM — Activation is usually completed in-store or shortly thereafter. Some users have previously reported activation wait times of up to 48 hours for certain SIM types, so factor this in if immediate connectivity is important.

For those who favour the simplicity of a French operator — especially if already in possession of a French SIM — using an Orange SIM card with a suitable data plan to roam in Monaco rather than taking out a Monaco Telecom SIM can represent a meaningful cost saving. French operators have been permitted by both the French and Monegasque governments to deploy base stations in Monaco, resulting in good coverage across most of the principality.

As in most Western European countries, there is no requirement to formally register your identity when purchasing a SIM card in Monaco. This is considerably simpler than some markets — Thailand and South Korea, for example, mandate SIM registration including biometric data. That said, a postpaid contract will require identity verification as a standard part of the credit approval process.

eSIMs represent a growing alternative worth considering. Airalo, for instance, is an eSIM provider for Monaco that partners with Monaco Telecom to deliver high-speed coverage across the principality. These data-only eSIMs do not come with a local phone number but are highly convenient for data connectivity, allowing you to keep your existing number active on a physical SIM at the same time.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Monaco?

Telephone bills in Monaco can be settled through several channels, including online, in person, or by direct debit. Billing for both landline and mobile services is monthly, in line with standard practice across most of continental Europe.

The payment options typically available through Monaco Telecom include:

• Direct debit (prélèvement automatique) — The most convenient choice for residents, under which the monthly invoice is automatically drawn from a linked bank account. This arrangement can usually be established when signing a contract.
• Online via the customer portal — Monaco Telecom provides a secure online account area where customers can view and pay bills, monitor usage, and manage their services. This is accessible through monaco-telecom.mc.
• In-store payment — Bills may be paid face-to-face at any Monaco Telecom retail location, which suits those who prefer personal service or need to discuss a specific charge.
• Bank transfer — Where direct debit has not been arranged, invoices can be settled by bank transfer using the account details printed on the bill.

For customers on no-commitment plans, Monaco Telecom’s app and website support balance top-ups by credit or debit card. Always verify the most current payment options directly with Monaco Telecom, as digital payment methods are updated from time to time. For full details on billing terms, late payment policies, and disconnection procedures, consult the official terms and conditions available at monaco-telecom.mc or contact Monaco Telecom’s customer service team directly.

Should you have a dispute regarding a telephone bill, the body responsible for overseeing telecoms in Monaco is the Autorité de Régulation des Communications Électroniques (ARCE), which holds a mandate to regulate electronic communications within the principality. It is advisable to attempt resolution directly with your provider first; if that process is exhausted without satisfaction, you may escalate the matter to ARCE.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Monaco as a newcomer?

EU roaming rules do not automatically apply: Monaco belongs to neither the EU nor the EEA, though it shares a common VAT area with France and operates an open border with the rest of the EU. Roaming charges applied by most European SIM cards in Monaco are not subject to the same caps and regulations that govern usage within EU member states, meaning surcharges can be substantially higher. Some EU providers voluntarily extend their EU roaming policies to Monaco, but the majority do not. This is a crucial difference from travelling between, say, France and Germany, where Roam Like at Home rules apply automatically. Always check with your current provider before you arrive.

Manual network selection can help control costs: If you are roaming with an EU-issued SIM, consult your provider first, or consider manually selecting a French network on your handset rather than allowing your phone to attach automatically to Monaco Télécom. Orange France is widely reported to offer the strongest coverage and speeds in Monaco, but SFR, Bouygues Télécom, and Free Mobile are also selectable alternatives.

5G is up and running: As of August 2024, Monaco Telecom’s network includes 5G NR N78 (3500 MHz). For a principality of its scale, this represents remarkably advanced mobile infrastructure. Signal quality and data speeds are generally excellent across the built-up areas of Monte Carlo, La Condamine, and Fontvieille.

Public Wi-Fi is broadly available: In 2017, the Monegasque government launched the Monaco WiFi service through Monaco Telecom, designed to improve connectivity for both residents and visitors. A fibre-optic network underpins the hotspots, which are deployed across more than 30 public locations including markets, parks, squares, harbours, post offices, and the railway station. Monaco Telecom subscribers access it free of charge. New users who are not subscribers can take advantage of a complimentary two-hour Discovery Pass.

Number porting: If you wish to transfer an existing Monaco Telecom number to a new plan, or move a number between operators, contact Monaco Telecom’s customer service team to begin the porting process. The principality follows standard European porting procedures; however, because Monaco Telecom effectively owns and operates the only network infrastructure, the dynamics of number porting differ from countries such as the UK or Germany, where fully separate competing networks exist side by side.

eSIMs are a practical bridge for new arrivals: For shorter stays or while waiting for a full contract to be arranged, an eSIM may be the most sensible solution. Numerous international eSIM providers route their data plans through Monaco Telecom’s network. These can be configured remotely before departure, require no physical SIM card swap, and permit your existing number to remain active on a physical SIM simultaneously — a convenient stopgap while you find your footing and decide on a longer-term arrangement.

Calling France from Monaco: Even calls to French numbers located just a few kilometres away must be treated as international calls, dialled using +33 (France’s country code), because Monaco left the French numbering plan in 1996. This surprises a great many newcomers who arrive expecting a simpler cross-border dialling arrangement to be in place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Monaco?

Your existing foreign number can be retained by keeping your current SIM active or porting it to an international plan, but it is not possible to port a non-Monaco number directly onto a Monaco Telecom contract. Many expats choose to run a local Monaco Telecom number alongside their existing number from abroad — using either a dual-SIM device or an eSIM for one of the two connections. Before cancelling any existing contract, speak with both your current provider and Monaco Telecom to understand what is achievable.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Monaco?

As is the case in much of Western Europe, formal identity registration is not required when purchasing a SIM card in Monaco. For a basic no-commitment postpaid plan or any remaining prepaid option, a Monaco address may not be necessary. A full monthly contract, however, will ordinarily require proof of residency in Monaco, making a local address a practical necessity for long-term arrangements.

Will my EU roaming plan work normally in Monaco?

Monaco is a member of neither the EU nor the EEA. Roaming charges levied by most European SIM cards in Monaco are not capped or regulated in the same way as within EU borders, and can therefore be considerably higher. A small number of European operators do include Monaco within their Roam Like at Home provisions, which is why it is essential to check with your operator before relying on your existing SIM in Monaco. Never take EU roaming protections for granted — always verify with your provider in advance.

How long does it take to get a landline connected in Monaco?

Connecting a fixed-line service typically takes up to two weeks. A Monaco Telecom technician will visit your property to carry out the installation. Where existing wiring or line infrastructure is already in place from a previous occupant, the process may be completed more quickly. For the most current scheduling timelines, contact Monaco Telecom at monaco-telecom.mc.

Is there a telecoms regulator in Monaco I can contact if I have a complaint?

Yes. The body responsible for overseeing electronic communications in Monaco is the Autorité de Régulation des Communications Électroniques (ARCE). If a dispute with a telephone provider cannot be resolved through the provider’s own complaints process, you may escalate the matter to ARCE. Further information is available through the Monaco government’s official portal at gouv.mc.

Can I use an eSIM in Monaco?

Yes. Providers such as Airalo work in partnership with Monaco Telecom to deliver high-speed data coverage across the principality. eSIMs are particularly well suited to new arrivals needing immediate connectivity ahead of arranging a full contract. They are compatible with a wide range of iOS and Android devices and can be set up remotely before you even set foot in Monaco.

What is the emergency number in Monaco?

The emergency number in Monaco is 112 — the same pan-European emergency number in use across EU member states. It functions from any mobile phone present in Monaco, including those without a SIM card or remaining credit, and should be dialled without hesitation in any life-threatening situation.

Are mobile data costs expensive in Monaco compared to neighbouring countries?

By European standards, mobile data in Monaco is on the expensive side. As of early 2024, Monaco Telecom’s postpaid plans began at around €39.99 per month for 20 GB of data. French operators such as Free Mobile can offer comparable or greater data allowances at significantly lower prices. Many residents — particularly those who travel regularly into France — find that maintaining a French SIM alongside a Monaco Telecom number represents the most cost-effective approach. Always confirm the latest pricing at monaco-telecom.mc.