ACTIVITIES :: Roaming :: Eurotariff
Cheaper mobile phone calls while abroad: introducing the Eurotariff
The new rules which entered into force in July 2007 made roaming voice calls considerably less expensive. From summer 2008, making and receiving mobile phone calls while abroad is set to get even cheaper.
Eurotariff: bringing prices down
The 2007 EU roaming rules introduced the "Eurotariff", which sets limits on the prices mobile operators can charge for mobile calls made or received while travelling in another EU country. Eurotariff rates will gradually decrease from 2007 to 2009.
|
Eurotariff maximum roaming charge per minute in Euros (without VAT)
| ||||||||||||
|
These are maximum prices. Operators are free to offer cheaper rates: be on the lookout for better deals! |
Cheaper mobile calls abroad: your rights at a glance
Do I already benefit from a Eurotariff?
The regulation forced operators to offer you a Eurotariff by the end of July 2007. Upon acceptance the Eurotariff was activated within one month. However if you didn't react you could benefit from a Eurotariff at the latest by the end of September 2007, unless you were on a special roaming package already.
So what will happen next? If you are on a Eurotariff, new lower tariffs will automatically enter into force by the end of August 2008. The price for making calls while abroad will be limited to 46 cents per minute and the price for receiving calls will be limited to 22 cents per minute (both excl. VAT).
If you have already a special roaming package, you will keep it unless you inform your operator otherwise.
If you are unsure whether your tariff is part of a special package or not, your operator or your National Regulatory Authority will be able to guide you.
Do SMS and data services also fall under a Eurotariff?
The law only applies to voice calls within the EU regardless of whether you are pre-paid or post-paid customer. It does not apply to other mobile phone services, such as SMS, MMS or data transfer.
However, prices for SMS and data services are high. The European Commission gave operators until July 1 to bring prices down for SMS and data voluntarily. Letters were then sent to all operators in the EU to inquire about their SMS and data prices. On this site we have published overviews of these prices.
These overviews have shown that operators have not sufficiently brought prices down. SMS in the EU can vary from as little as 5.5 cents to 75 cents. The Commission has therefore decided to slash two thirds of the prices for sending text messages abroad in the EU, €0.28 on average. The Commission will also propose measures to increase transparency in roaming charges and put an end to 'bill shocks' experienced by roaming customers using the internet. Legislative proposals will be published in September.
Do I know how much I have to pay when using my mobile phone abroad?
The 2007 rules enable you to get information when you need it most, i.e. when you are roaming.
When you visit another EU country, you should receive an SMS informing you of the price that you are expected to pay for making and receiving calls. This message is free. You should also be able to seek more information by SMS or over the phone.
If you are a frequent traveller and do not want to receive repetitive messages, inform your operator to switch off this service. You can always switch it back on again when you want it.
Where do I benefit from a Eurotariff?
Eurotariffs are available in all 27 Member States of the European Union including the EU's overseas territories, such as French Guyana, Martinique, Guadeloupe, Reunion (France); Canary Islands (Spain); Azores and Madeira (Portugal) and EGEA countries.
How can I switch to the Eurotariff?
There is no obligation to switch to the Eurotariff. If you are satisfied with your current rates, you don't need to change.
However, if you would like to switch, just contact your operator. He must apply the Eurotariff within one month maximum. Switching to the Eurotariff is free of charge.
Your operator's contact details can be found on your telephone bill or in the address book of your mobile phone. Alternatively you can also check our 'Find your operator' page.
What if I disagree with my mobile operator?
In case of disputes, you can contact your operator via dedicated complaints offices and/or online services. In case of doubt, you can contact your national regulator.
Transparent, simple and inexpensive out-of-court procedures should be made available in your country to enable disputes to be settled fairly and promptly.
