Spain – Landlines and Mobile Phones

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

Spain’s country code is 34, meaning that anyone calling from outside Spain must first dial their international exit code, then 34, followed by the complete local number. One notable difference from countries such as France or Germany is that Spain has no leading zero before its area codes — fixed-line numbers consist of the country code (+34) combined with the area code and subscriber number, and the area code forms part of the full nine-digit number that must always be dialled, even for calls within the same city.

The table below shows the area codes for cities and regions that are especially popular among people relocating to Spain. These prefix digits are embedded within the complete nine-digit number and are never dropped, regardless of whether a call is local or long-distance.

Spanish mobile numbers start with 6 or 7, and newer number blocks include 71, 72, 73, and 74. Numbers beginning with 800 or 900 are free to call from within Spain, whereas 901 and 902 numbers carry a shared cost and are not free. When placing a call to a Spanish number from overseas, simply prefix the nine digits with +34 — there is no zero to remove beforehand, which distinguishes Spain from countries like France where a leading zero must be dropped for international calls.

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

Movistar (the rebranded successor to Telefónica) has long held a commanding position in Spain’s fixed-line market, a legacy of its origins as the state telephone monopoly. Although the market was liberalised during the 1990s, Movistar continues to own and manage the country’s fixed-line infrastructure. As a consumer, however, you are free to choose an alternative operator that may offer better value for money.

While only Movistar can physically install a traditional landline, numerous other companies provide telephone accounts that run over the same infrastructure. Providers such as Vodafone and Orange allow customers to rent access to the Movistar network while benefiting from their own pricing structures and internet packages. This arrangement is comparable to wholesale line access models seen in other countries, where network infrastructure is separated from the retail service layer.

Orange is noted for bundling unlimited calls to both landlines and mobile phones into many of its plans, along with optional access to sports and entertainment content. Smaller operators such as MásMóvil, Lowi, and DIGI have also been growing their customer bases steadily. It is always worth visiting providers’ official websites for the latest tariff information, as rates and promotional deals shift regularly. The national telecoms regulator, the Comisión Nacional de los Mercados y la Competencia (CNMC), maintains a register of all licensed operators in Spain.

Because Movistar is no longer a state enterprise, it has no universal service obligation to connect every location, and installation depends on availability in a given area — in some remote parts of the country this has historically led to lengthy delays or no service at all. Where fibre optic broadband is available at your address, a traditional copper telephone line is not required; calls can be carried over the fibre connection and an existing number can be migrated across to the new setup.

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

Spain’s mobile market is led by four main operators — Movistar, Vodafone, Orange, and Yoigo (which belongs to the MásMóvil Group) — collectively accounting for more than 80% of subscribers. In addition, more than 50 Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) lease capacity from these major networks and specialise in affordable prepaid options. The Spanish mobile market is highly competitive, generally translating into low prices and a wide spectrum of plan choices for consumers.

Movistar consistently ranks among the highest for signal reliability, both in cities and in rural zones. Large urban centres such as Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Valencia enjoy excellent coverage across all networks, though in smaller towns or out in the countryside, Movistar tends to be the most dependable option. Isolated villages and mountainous terrain — particularly in the Pyrenees or across the Canary Islands — do not always enjoy a consistent mobile signal, and even 3G can drop out on roads connecting smaller communities, depending on the network.

The major cities have robust 4G coverage and are progressively rolling out 5G, with a reliable 5G signal already established in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, and even in underground stations, shopping centres, and beach areas. As of 2025, Spanish mobile pricing is highly competitive: contract plans from the major operators typically fall in the €25–€50 per month range, frequently packaged alongside fibre-optic home broadband, while MVNO prepaid or SIM-only options can be as low as €5–€20 per month. Check each provider’s official website for the most up-to-date pricing, as offers are subject to frequent change.

How do I get a landline connected in Spain?

Across much of Spain, what is still commonly referred to as a “fixed line” is now delivered via fibre optic rather than the old copper network. Your home telephone typically connects to a router or optical terminal, but functionally it behaves exactly like a conventional landline with a geographic number. As the copper infrastructure is progressively retired, new installations are increasingly fibre-based, or in more remote locations, delivered via radio or 4G technology.

The steps for getting a landline connected are as follows:

1. Choose your provider. Determine whether to sign up directly with Movistar or to use an alternative such as Vodafone or Orange, which access the underlying network infrastructure on your behalf. Movistar can be reached on 1004 (or +34 699 991 004 from outside Spain) or at any tienda Movistar in person. Other providers maintain their own retail outlets and online sign-up channels.
2. Gather your documents. You will generally be asked for evidence of your Spanish address — such as a recent utility bill, a copy of the property deed (escritura), or a rental agreement — along with a photo ID such as a passport or residence permit. Having your NIE number to hand is also recommended.
3. Provide your bank account details. The provider will require your ID, Spanish address, and bank account information in order to establish the contract and arrange direct debit payments. Direct debit is the standard billing method for landlines throughout Spain.
4. Schedule the installation or activation. Where a telephone line already exists at the property, it may simply need to be transferred into your name. In established towns and densely populated coastal areas, installation generally takes between 10 and 14 days. More remote or rural locations may involve longer waiting times — ask your provider for a specific estimate based on your address.
5. Bundle services if needed. Since most households also want fibre broadband, it is usually more economical to combine both services in a single application. Many providers offer reduced rates when phone, internet, and TV are contracted together.
6. Read your contract carefully before signing. Cancelling a line requires contacting the provider to request a baja, either in writing or by telephone. Review your contract’s minimum commitment period and any equipment return obligations to avoid unexpected cancellation charges.

Whether you own your home or are renting makes little practical difference to the application procedure — both situations are treated similarly by providers, although some landlords may have preferences regarding which operator is used. Should any issues arise with your provider that cannot be resolved directly, Spain’s telecoms regulator, the Comisión Nacional de los Mercados y la Competencia (CNMC), is reachable at www.cnmc.es.

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

Obtaining mobile service in Spain is generally quick and uncomplicated. The approach that suits you best will depend on how long you plan to stay and whether your residency paperwork is already in order.

Prepaid (Prepago) SIM cards

Prepaid SIM cards are the go-to choice for most new arrivals, particularly those relocating to Spain for up to twelve months. They can be set up rapidly with minimal documentation, and they offer far more flexibility than contract plans. Registering a prepaid SIM is simple — all that is required is your passport or national ID, and the whole process is typically completed within a few minutes.

The major operators all provide monthly prepaid plans with a range of data allowances to suit different usage levels, and SIM cards are readily available in shops and at airports. These plans operate on rolling 28-day cycles, with no ongoing commitment — at the end of each cycle you can renew the same package or switch to something different. Be mindful that leaving a prepaid SIM dormant for more than six months after the last top-up may result in the number being deactivated and lost.

Postpaid / Contract plans (Contrato)

Signing up for a mobile contract in Spain typically requires a Spanish bank account, a NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero), a registered address in Spain, and evidence of that address. These agreements usually run for a minimum of 18 months, making them most appropriate for those committed to a longer stay. The NIE requirement is broadly analogous to needing a tax identification number to access formal financial services in many other countries — it is the core administrative document that opens the door to contractual and financial arrangements in Spain.

With a contract, you receive a monthly invoice but frequently benefit from lower rates and the possibility of obtaining a handset at no cost or significantly reduced upfront price. Most providers set a minimum contract length of 12 months, meaning early cancellation will attract penalty charges. Some operators, including Vodafone, may accept a passport in place of a NIE for certain plan types — always verify the precise documentation requirements with the provider before proceeding.

eSIMs

If your device supports it, activating an eSIM is another option worth exploring. An eSIM digitally loads a mobile plan onto your device without the need for a physical card. Spain’s major mobile operators offer eSIM activation, as do a growing number of MVNOs. This can be a convenient way to get connected before you arrive in Spain, or to keep a second number running alongside a foreign SIM while you find your feet.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Spain?

Both landline and mobile bills in Spain can be settled via direct debit, in cash at a bank branch, at provider retail outlets, or online through the provider’s website or app. Direct debit (domiciliación bancaria) is overwhelmingly the most popular and convenient method, and providers will request your Spanish bank account details at the point of signing up for any contract. Opening a Spanish bank account early in your relocation process will make managing these payments considerably smoother.

For prepaid top-ups, the process is equally flexible. Credit can be added online, in shops, or at ATMs. Where once it was necessary to buy a recharge voucher at a locutorio (phone shop) or supermarket, it is now far simpler to link a credit or debit card directly to your mobile provider’s account portal or app.

Landline bills from Movistar are typically issued every two months rather than monthly, which can come as a surprise if you are used to monthly billing. Mobile bills, by contrast, arrive every month. If a payment is missed or fails, Movistar — and most other providers operating under comparable policies — may restrict outgoing calls and impose a reconnection fee on top of any unpaid balance before restoring full service. If you spend only part of the year in Spain, it is particularly important to ensure your bank account holds sufficient funds to cover direct debit payments during your absence, as missed payments can lead to service suspension.

Bills can be delivered by post, sent electronically to your email address, or viewed through the provider’s website or app. Paperless billing (factura electrónica) is the default option with most modern providers and makes it straightforward to manage your account from anywhere.

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

EU roaming

Roaming across EU member states is included in the vast majority of Spanish contracts and prepaid plans, so your minutes and data allowance can be used throughout Europe without additional charges. Fair use policies do apply, however, meaning that sustained heavy use while abroad may eventually attract surcharges. This “Roam Like at Home” framework covers all operators within the EU/EEA, so your Spanish plan will function seamlessly in France, Germany, Portugal, and other member countries.

Number porting

Transferring your number to a different provider in Spain is a straightforward process. You simply request a porting code (código de portabilidad) from your existing operator and supply it to the new provider when registering. Unlike some countries where the process can drag on for several days, Spanish operators are required by the CNMC to complete mobile number transfers within one working day. For the most current rules and timelines, consult the CNMC website.

Porting a foreign number

It is not possible to port a number from a foreign network onto a Spanish operator — porting only functions between Spanish providers. If you need to keep your overseas number active alongside a new Spanish one, the most practical approach is to use a dual-SIM handset or an eSIM arrangement, allowing two active numbers to coexist on a single device.

Coverage in popular expat areas

Before committing to a long-term contract, it is sensible to test coverage at your specific location using a prepaid SIM, or to ask neighbours which provider they find most reliable. Many newcomers trial a couple of different networks this way before settling on a plan. All major operators publish interactive coverage maps on their websites where you can check approximate 2G, 3G, and 4G availability by entering your address or postcode.

Unlocking your phone

Verify with your current carrier whether your handset is unlocked before you leave for Spain — this is usually something that needs to be arranged in advance. An unlocked phone makes it straightforward to insert a Spanish SIM on arrival. Most handsets sold in Europe come factory unlocked, but devices purchased under a carrier contract elsewhere may be locked to that network and will require unlocking first.

Phone connectors and adapters

Spain uses standard RJ-11 connectors for its telephone system. If your handset uses a different plug type — as is common with phones sold in certain other markets — you may need an adapter. That said, since most contemporary landline installations in Spain are fibre-based and telephones simply plug into the router, this is rarely an issue for new setups.

Regulatory protection

If a dispute with your telecoms provider cannot be resolved directly, Spain’s regulatory authority for communications, the Comisión Nacional de los Mercados y la Competencia (CNMC), accepts consumer complaints and provides information about your rights at www.cnmc.es. The Ministerio de Consumo also has a remit covering broader consumer protection matters across Spain.

Frequently asked questions

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

No — number porting in Spain operates exclusively between Spanish operators. It is not possible to bring a foreign number across onto a Spanish network. The most practical workaround is to use a dual-SIM handset or an eSIM, which allows you to run your original number and a new Spanish number simultaneously on the same device.

Do I need a NIE to get a SIM card in Spain?

When buying a prepaid SIM in a shop, you will need to present a valid passport or photo ID. A NIE is not a requirement for a prepaid SIM. For contract plans, however, a NIE is typically needed — if yours has not yet been issued, it makes sense to start on a prepaid plan and upgrade to a contract once the NIE is in hand.

Can I get a postpaid contract without permanent residency?

Most major providers ask for a NIE, a Spanish bank account, and proof of a Spanish address before approving a postpaid contract. Certain operators — Vodafone among them, for selected plans — may accept a passport as sufficient identification. Requirements differ between providers and are subject to change, so it is always advisable to confirm the specific criteria directly before applying.

How long does it take to get a landline installed in Spain?

In established towns and densely populated coastal areas, installation typically takes between 10 and 14 days. In more remote or rural locations the process can take considerably longer, and service availability cannot be guaranteed everywhere. Contact your preferred provider directly for an estimate tailored to your specific address.

Is 5G available where I am moving to in Spain?

A stable 5G signal is available in most major cities, including Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville. Isolated villages and mountainous regions — particularly in the Pyrenees or across the Canary Islands — do not always have reliable mobile coverage, and 3G can be intermittent on rural roads between small towns. Use the coverage checkers on operators’ websites to evaluate conditions at your precise address before committing to a plan.

What happens if I miss a phone bill payment in Spain?

If a payment is not received on time, providers such as Movistar — and most others with similar policies — may suspend outgoing call access and charge a reconnection fee on top of any outstanding balance before reinstating normal service. Setting up direct debit from a Spanish bank account is the most reliable way to prevent this, and maintaining sufficient funds in that account around billing dates is especially important for those who divide their time between Spain and another country.

Are eSIMs widely available in Spain?

eSIM data plans can be purchased from international providers without the need for a physical SIM card, and Spain’s major mobile operators also offer eSIM activation. Not every MVNO has yet extended support to services such as 5G or eSIM, so it is worth confirming compatibility with your chosen provider before assuming these features are available.

Who regulates telephone services in Spain and what can they do for me?

Telecoms services in Spain are regulated by the Comisión Nacional de los Mercados y la Competencia (CNMC). If your provider has failed to resolve a complaint to your satisfaction, you can escalate the matter to the CNMC via www.cnmc.es. The CNMC also publishes guidance on consumer rights, number portability procedures, and the obligations of licensed operators.