Goods Across Borders · Customs rule card
Mobile SIM cards (physical and eSIM) → United States
Purpose: Traveling · Verified: 2026-07-25
SIM cards may be freely brought into or purchased in the US by travellers with no import restrictions.
Details
CBP imposes no import restrictions on SIM cards for personal use. Travellers may bring foreign SIM cards or purchase US prepaid SIMs on arrival without restriction. FCC regulations govern SIM card technical standards but impose no entry controls on travellers. Prepaid SIM cards are available at airports and convenience stores; US carriers (T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon) offer tourist-specific plans. There is no registration requirement for travellers purchasing prepaid SIMs in the US.
Quantity limit
No limit for personal use
Legal reference
FCC Title 47 CFR (telecommunications equipment); CBP 19 CFR 148 (personal exemptions)
Leaving with this item
SIM cards may be exported from United States freely at personal-use quantities.
IATA dangerous goods
Mobile SIM cards (physical and eSIM) is classified under Class 9 — Miscellaneous dangerous goods. Cabin and checked-baggage limits apply on top of customs rules.
Practical advice
No action needed. Buy a local prepaid SIM at the airport or use your home country's international roaming plan. No customs declaration required for a personal SIM card.
Customs authority
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) · https://www.cbp.gov