Brunei is a small country located on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. It’s known for its beaches, rainforests, and mix of Malay, Chinese, and Islamic influences. The local mobile operator, Progresif, offers prepaid SIM cards and eSIM plans that provide affordable data, calls, and SMS to visitors.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about getting connected with Progresif SIM Cards and eSIM when visiting Brunei.

Progresif SIM Cards and eSIM feature picture

I. Quick facts about Progresif

Progresif Cellular Sdn Bhd is the newest mobile operator in Brunei. Some key facts:

  • Founded in 2015
  • Types of services provided: Cellular services, Mobile Banking, Mass Media, Broadband services.
  • Uses a 4G LTE network that covers over 95% of populated areas
  • Over 200,000 customers
  • Known for having the widest and fastest mobile network in Brunei
  • Offers prepaid SIM cards, top-up vouchers, and eSIM plans for tourists
  • Have an online shop, app, and extensive dealer 

Overall, Progresif mobile operator is a good choice for mobile users in Brunei which offers a wide range of mobile plans at competitive prices and has good network coverage. 

Progresif Store
Progresif Store

II. Brunei Progresif Coverage and Speed

With over 300 base stations covering 95% of populated areas in Brunei, Progresif offers extensive 4G/LTE mobile data and voice coverage to meet the needs of most travelers.

Some highlights about Progresif’s mobile network:

  • Coverage: Progresif provides coverage in Brunei, catering to the local market.
  • Network Technology: Progresif utilizes various network technologies, including HSDPA, UMTS, W-CDMA, EDGE, GPRS, GSM, and LTE.
  • 4G LTE: Progresif launched its 4G LTE technology in February 2016.
  • Network Upgrades: The company has undergone network upgrades, including the replacement of the mobile core network and Radio Access Network, as well as upgrading the backhaul network and base stations from 3G to HSPA+.
  • Speed: Specific information regarding the speed of Progresif’s network is not available in the provided content. Network speeds can vary depending on various factors such as network congestion, device capabilities, and location.

III. Progresif connectivity options for travelers to Brunei

There are both Progresif SIM cards and eSIM data plans available to meet the needs of visitors to Brunei. Here’s an overview of the connectivity options.

Connectivity Options Pros Cons
Cellular Services Wide coverage within Brunei. 1Roaming charges may apply for international travelers.
Reliable voice and data services. Limited coverage outside of Brunei.
Mobile Banking Convenient and secure mobile payment option. Availability and acceptance may vary depending on merchants.
Enables easy bill payments, money transfers, and online shopping. Requires compatible devices and registration process.
Mass Media Access to localized content, news, and entertainment. Content availability may vary over time.
Dedicated mobile radio station with diverse content. Internet connection required for streaming services.
Broadband Services Fast internet speeds for browsing and streaming. Network speeds may vary depending on location and network congestion.
Wide range of network technologies for compatibility. Coverage may be limited in rural or remote areas.
eSIM Convenient and easy activation of mobile plans. Limited availability of eSIM support in certain devices and regions.
Flexibility to switch between different network providers. Relies on compatible eSIM-enabled devices.
No physical SIM card required, freeing up device slots. Possible additional cost or restrictions for eSIM activation and usage.

An eSIM is convenient if your phone supports eSIM functionality. The eSIM connects to data but cannot be used directly for calls and texts.

IV. Best Progresif SIM cards for tourists & cost

To decide the best Progresif SIM card or plan for your travel needs, consider data usage, call and SMS needs, convenience, and cost.

Popular options for visitors include:

Prepaid Plans Price (USD) Data Allowance Calling Minutes Roaming Validity
Progresif SIM Card $22 10 GB 50 minutes Not specified 30 days
eSIM Plan $36 12 GB Not specified Data network 30 days

If you are planning to use a lot of data, you may want to purchase an eSIM from other providers such as esimbrunei.com. They typically offer more affordable data plans than SFR.

V. Does Progresif Brunei support eSIM?

Yes, Progresif introduced eSIM capability and data plans in 2022 tailored to international tourists visiting Brunei.

With an eSIM (embedded SIM), you activate a cellular plan digitally – no physical SIM card required.

How Progresif eSIMs work:

  • Purchase a tourism eSIM pack from Progresif
  • Scan the QR code provided to digitally activate the plan
  • Connects your phone to Progresif’s 4G/LTE network for data
  • Manage your eSIM using the Imagine app or online account
  • Auto-renews when you top up account balance

Progresif eSIMs provide only data connectivity. For calls and texts, you can use online messaging apps or connect through WiFi.

If you want to try another eSIM provider, try Brunei eSIM plans from esimbrunei.com. They offer a range of eSIM plans for the short and long term. Here’s what makes esimbrunei.com stand out:

  • Variety & Flexibility: Choose among a wide array of data packages best suited to your goals.
  • Multiple Network Coverage: They take care of the technical aspect by collaborating with 2 main major mobile operators in Brunei: Progresif, and DST.
  • Top-notch Customer Service: They offer 24/7 customer support so you can get assistance if needed
  • Affordable Prices: Their eSIM are competitively priced, offering excellent value for money.

Plan that may interest you

Brunei eSIM 7 Days Plan
Brunei eSIM 7 Days Plan
From $9.90
Brunei eSIM 30 Days Plan
Brunei eSIM 30 Days Plan
From $19.90

VI. Where can you buy Progresif SIM cards and eSIM?

Progresif SIM cards and eSIM plans are easy to purchase in Brunei. Here’s a look at the options:

1. Where to buy Brunei SIM Cards:

Prepaid SIM cards are sold at Progresif stores and its extensive dealer networks including hotels, malls and airport stores like:

  • Progresif Flagship Store, Gadong
  • Brunei International Airport arrival hall
  • Major hotels & shopping malls
  • Convenience stores like Pustaka Remaja

The standard tourist SIM cards cost B$30. Bring your passport to register SIM card.

2. Where to buy eSIM Plans:

You can purchase Progresif tourist eSIM packs fully online by:

  1. Ordering through the Progresif eSIM website
  2. Scanning QR code to activate plan
  3. Using Imagine app to manage your eSIM
  4. esimbrunei.com-convenient and affordable provider.

Order in advance or upon arrival. Convenient for eSIM-enabled devices.

VII. How to activate Progresif SIM cards and eSIM

Activating a Progresif SIM cards and eSIM when you arrive in Brunei is quick and easy:

1. How to use Progresif Prepaid SIM Card 

  1. Insert SIM and turn on phone
  2. Select “YES” when prompted to activate
  3. Choose prepaid plan when asked
  4. Enter passport number when registering SIM

You’ll get a welcome SMS confirming activation. SIM comes preloaded with default base plan that can be changed or added to as desired.

2. How to use Progresif eSIM 

To activate Progresif’s tourism eSIM data plans:

  1. Purchase the eSIM pack online or in Brunei
  2. Scan the QR code provided using the phone’s camera
  3. Follow on-screen prompts to install and activate eSIM
  4. Manage plan using Progresif’s Imagine app

Once activated, you’ll be all set to connect to Progresif’s LTE network for mobile data throughout Brunei.

VIII. Brunei Progresif Call & SMS rates

Progresif offers prepaid SIM visitors’ affordable rates for calls and texts when traveling in Brunei:

Call & SMS Rates Price per minute (USD) Price per SMS (USD)
Progresif to Progresif ~$0.05 ~$0.03
Progresif to other networks ~$0.10 ~$0.05
Local SMS N/A ~$0.03
International SMS N/A ~$0.10

Please note that the rates provided are subject to change and may vary over time. It’s recommended to visit the official Progresif website or contact their customer support for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding call and SMS rates for local usage.

Overall, Progresif prepaid SIMs provide low-cost connectivity ideal for any visitor.

IX. Useful USSD codes for Progresif SIM cards and eSIM

Progresif offers some useful USSD access codes to manage your prepaid SIM or check data balances on an eSIM. USSD codes allow you to quickly access mobile account services without using data or needing the app.

Here are handy USSD short codes to try with a Progresif SIM:

  • *222# - Check main prepaid account balance
  • *123# - Activate default base plan for SIM
  • *100# - Check bonus & addon balance
  • *101# - Buy data top-up or addon
  • *888# - Support

Additional codes available include:

  • *113# – Set data plan
  • *133# – Activate unlimited YouTube addon
  • *144# – Check validity and expiry

Easy-to-remember codes to manage your account on the go using Progresif SIM cards and eSIM in Brunei.

X. How to top-up Progresif Brunei SIM cards and eSIM

Adding more funds to your Progresif prepaid account or eSIM is easy while visiting Brunei. Here are the convenient ways to top-up your mobile balance:

  • Vouchers: Look for Progresif prepaid top-up cards at convenience stores, supermarkets and outlets across Brunei. 
  • Progresif Stores & Dealers: You can top up directly at Progresif flagship stores and authorized dealers by paying cash or card. 
  • Imagine App: Using Progresif’s Imagine app, you can buy data and airtime bundles or perform quick top-ups right from your phone using international credit/debit cards or other payment options.
  • Online: On Progresif website, log into your account dashboard to conveniently perform top-ups and plan renewals by card without visiting store.

Keeping your prepaid account active is essential for staying connected across Brunei.

XI. Alternatives to Brunei Progresif

Although Progresif has the widest 4G coverage in Brunei, you can also consider:

1.DST

DST (Datasat Servicestel Bhd) is Brunei’s older operator but also provides prepaid SIMs with local data around B$2 per GB. Roaming access elsewhere can be limited.

2. UNN Roaming SIM

UNN from Myanmar offers international roaming SIM card with data and mins for the ASEAN region for visitors needing regional connectivity. But domestic Brunei rates are pricier.

3. Imagine

Imagine is a dynamic mobile and fixed-line communications services provider (CSP) in Brunei.

4. Buy an eSIM from an eSIM provider like esimbrunei.com

Provides eSIM data plans that allow you to stay connected in Brunei without changing your physical SIM card.

So, in summary, DST and Imagine are reliable alternatives to the Progresif mobile network. Esimbrunei.com lets you use their eSIM data plans as a pay-as-you-go roaming solution without switching physical SIMs when traveling to Brunei. 

Leave your physical SIM behind, travel light with esimbrunei.com

XII. FAQs about Progresif in Brunei

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about using Progresif SIM cards and eSIM while visiting Brunei as a tourist:

Do I need to show a passport/visa when buying Progresif SIM in Brunei?

Yes, you need to provide passport details when registering your prepaid Progresif SIM card in Brunei. This helps verify identity.

Can I use a Progresif SIM card for international roaming?

Progresif prepaid SIMs provide service in Brunei only. But Progresif has introduced limited prepaid roaming in Malaysia’s Celcom network. Buy passes on the Imagine app. For roaming elsewhere, consider alternative roaming SIM.

Is mobile data speed fast with Progresif Brunei?

Yes, Progresif’s 4G network provides excellent data speeds averaging 15-30 Mbps down for browsing, Google Maps, social media, and streaming media when sightseeing.

How long is the Progresif SIM card valid for?

Progresif’s tourist prepaid SIM card is valid for 180 days (6 months) from the last top-up. To keep SIM active in Brunei, you need to add more funds to your account balance within that period by topping up.

How to check Progresif data balance?

To check the remaining data balance on a Progresif prepaid SIM or eSIM, dial *222# to view account info and balances for data, airtime, SMS, etc. You can also check in the Imagine app or by logging into your online account dashboard.

XIII. Final words

We hope this comprehensive guide explains how easy it is to stay connected in Brunei with Progresif SIM Cards and eSIM. With wide coverage, fast speeds, and affordable rates for data and calls, Progresif meets the connectivity needs of most visitors to Brunei.

Bon voyage and happy travels in Brunei!