Best SIM Cards for Indian Students in France: Affordable International Call Packages to India 2025

Studying in France is an adventure for Indian students, but let's be real - keeping in touch with family back home is a non-negotiable. The best SIM cards for Indian students in France usually come with affordable data, solid network coverage, and, most importantly, international calling options to India.

You’ll find providers like Lyca, Lebara and Matrix offering SIM cards with plans that bundle local calls, SMS, data, and minutes for calls to India. Some of these start pretty cheap and even have unlimited options that actually make sense for longer stays.

Affordable and reliable mobile service is a must for Indian students living in France. A good SIM card means you get local calls, plenty of data, and an easy way to call India without breaking the bank.

Best SIM Card in France for International Calls to India

A lot of Indian students in France just go with local providers they're usually cheaper for data and calls than sticking with international roaming. Orange, Red by SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile are the big names but these often cost more and do not always focus on international calling. Two of the most popular choices for Indian students are Lycamobile and Lebara. For example, some Lebara France packs provide unlimited India and local calls along with up to 120GB of data, all for a fixed monthly cost. Students should check what each package includes, such as the number of minutes allowed for calls to India or whether local calls and texts are also unlimited. Finding the right SIM package can make daily life in France much easier for Indian students by offering both good local coverage and reliable international calling. These guys usually have prepaid packages, so you don’t get stuck in a contract or with a scary monthly bill. Lycamobile SIMs are easy to find in many shops and can be activated in minutes. Lebara offers similar services, often with competitive packages specifically for international students.

Local providers like Matrix and TSIM also offer travel SIM cards and eSIMs covering France and Europe, which can be convenient for students traveling within the EU.

International Call Packages to India

Lycamobile and Lebara both offer international call packages that allow users to call India at low rates. Most popular packages offer 100 to 500 minutes per month for calling Indian numbers.

Some plans even include unlimited calls to India, but always check the terms and conditions to avoid unexpected charges. These packages often renew every 28 or 30 days.

For example, Lebara’s “International 10€” plan usually gives 300 minutes to India, while Lycamobile’s “India Unlimited” may include more time, with free minutes included in the bundle. Some travel eSIM options also offer local calls, calls to India, and 4G/5G data across Europe, plus SMS.

Comparing Package Costs and Value

Here is a simple comparison table for typical monthly package costs and what students get:

Provider	Package Price (€)	Calls to India	Data	SMS
Lycamobile	15	Unlimited/500 mins	10 GB	100+
Lebara	10	300 mins	5 GB	100+
Matrix	₹99+	100+ mins, varies	Varies	Varies

Lebara tends to be cheaper but with limited minutes. Lycamobile often has larger data allowances and occasional unlimited calling options. Special offers may exist for online purchase. Matrix and similar services offer travel eSIMs and physical SIMs with different packages for coverage across Europe. How to Choose Between Prepaid SIM, eSIM, and Local SIM Cards

A prepaid SIM card is usually best for most Indian students in France. It gives control over spending and is easy to top up. Students with newer phones may consider an eSIM, which can be activated instantly and covers over 100 countries.

Local SIM cards from French providers often come with excellent coverage in urban and rural areas. However, they may lack affordable international call packs for India.

Before buying, check if the plan offers free or discounted international minutes, data speed, network coverage, and terms. Travelers or students planning trips across Europe should consider travel eSIMs or international SIMs for ease-of-use across countries. Purchasing Requirements for Indian Students

To get a SIM card in France, you’ll need your passport, visa, and some proof of address think university admission letter or your rental contract. French shops are pretty strict about this.

Most phone stores, especially in cities, can get you set up in under an hour. Airports often have SIM kiosks right when you land, which is handy if you’re tired and just want to get it over with.

If you run into trouble with paperwork, the Indian embassy sometimes helps out. It’s smart to have all your documents ready and maybe ask about student offers before heading in. Still have questions? Contact us today and we can connect you with our alumni network who can guide you through the process.