El Banco Santander has launched its new eSIM in SpainA virtual SIM card integrated into the bank's mobile app. This service allows customers to have data connectivity in more than 160 countries without needing to change their physical SIM card or use external applications. The initiative is part of the group's digitalization strategy and was developed in collaboration with the connectivity company Gigs.
Spain thus becomes the group's first market to launch this solution, which It will be rolled out gradually in other countriesStarting with Portugal and Mexico, the goal is to offer a more convenient and affordable alternative to traditional roaming, especially for customers who frequently travel outside the European Union. From the Santander app, users can activate a single eSIM and easily manage their data plans.
Data plans and global coverage
The entity has designed a commercial proposal with data packages ranging from 3 GB to 50 GBThese plans are tailored to different travel profiles and lengths of stay. Customers can purchase plans of 3, 5, 10, 20, and 50 gigabytes, with coverage in destinations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Morocco, Turkey, Japan, Brazil, and Thailand. Once the eSIM is activated, users can top up data for any destination without needing to download a new virtual SIM card for each trip.
In addition, the application allows Check real-time usage and manage all plans from a single, integrated space. The solution doesn't require the use of third-party applications, as the entire experience takes place within the bank's digital environment. According to the bank, the service is designed especially for frequent travelers seeking a more flexible option than conventional roaming.
Competition with neobanks
With this launch, Santander enters a segment that until now It had been dominated by neobanks like Revolut and N26which already offer eSIM services for international travelers. Traditional banks are thus beginning to incorporate these types of functionalities to compete in the digital arena. The alliance with Gigs, a firm specializing in international connectivity, has allowed Santander to develop a scalable solution that can be extended to other markets within the group.
The project is part of Santander's Global Business strategy, which seeks Leveraging the group's international scale to offer new services to individual customers in all the countries where it operates. The eSIM joins other digital initiatives from the bank, reinforcing its value proposition for digital customers, frequent travelers, and young people.
Santander's new eSIM is now available in Spain and is expected to In the coming months it will arrive in Portugal and MexicoWith plans to expand to more markets, the solution offers plans ranging from 3 GB to 50 GB, coverage in over 160 countries, and fully integrated management through the bank's app. This presents itself as a real alternative to traditional roaming and neobank offerings. Customers will enjoy uninterrupted global connectivity, topping up data as needed without changing their physical card.