Phone Plans and eSIMs: Common Options for Expats

A local SIM card from a carrier in the destination country provides a local phone number and local rates. Calls, texts, and data work at domestic prices rather than international roaming rates. This is typically the cheapest option for heavy use.

Getting a local SIM usually requires visiting a store with identification. Requirements vary by country. Some require proof of address or local registration. Others sell prepaid SIMs with just a passport. Tourist SIMs may have different rules than resident plans.

The local number integrates with local services. Banks, delivery apps, and government services often require a local number for verification. Having one simplifies interactions that would otherwise be difficult with a foreign number. This is particularly relevant when opening accounts as a non-resident.

Physical SIM cards require swapping out the home country SIM. On phones with single SIM slots, this means the home number is unreachable unless using a dual-SIM phone or keeping a second device.

Topping up and managing prepaid plans requires understanding local systems. Payment methods, renewal processes, and plan changes all happen in the local language through local channels. This is manageable but adds friction.

Leaving the country means the local SIM may not work or may have expensive roaming. Plans designed for domestic use often have high costs when used abroad, including in neighboring countries.

eSIMs are digital SIM cards installed via software rather than physical card. Phones that support eSIM can add cellular plans without opening the SIM tray. Multiple eSIMs can be stored, though typically only one or two are active simultaneously.

eSIM providers like Airalo, Holafly, and carrier-direct options offer plans for travelers and expats. Coverage, data amounts, and pricing vary. Some offer regional plans covering multiple countries. Others are country-specific.

Setup happens online before or during travel. Purchase the plan, scan a QR code or use an app, and the eSIM activates. No store visit needed. This convenience is particularly useful for arrivals when getting a physical SIM might be difficult.

Not all phones support eSIM. Older phones and some models lack the capability. Checking compatibility before relying on eSIM prevents problems on arrival.

Most travel eSIMs are data-only. They provide internet access but not a phone number for calls or texts. Voice calls work through apps like WhatsApp but not traditional calling. This matters for services requiring SMS verification.

Data limits and validity periods vary. A plan with generous data but short validity may not suit long stays. Understanding the actual terms prevents running out of data or losing unused balances.

Some home country carriers offer international add-ons or plans. These provide roaming at reduced rates compared to standard roaming charges. The home number stays active and works abroad.

Cost varies widely. Some carriers have reasonable international options. Others charge rates that become expensive for extended use. Checking specific rates for the destination country before relying on these plans prevents bill shock.

These plans suit short trips better than long stays. The convenience of keeping everything on one plan comes at a premium. For extended residence, local options usually cost less for the same usage.

Home phone numbers often have value beyond making calls. Bank accounts, subscriptions, and services use them for verification. Losing the number means losing access to accounts that rely on it. Both digital and traditional banks may use phone verification.

Options for keeping numbers include low-cost plans that maintain the number without expensive service, number parking services, and porting to VoIP providers. The right approach depends on how the number is used.

Two-factor authentication increasingly uses phone numbers. Services that send verification codes need a working number. Planning for this before leaving prevents being locked out of important accounts.

SIM registration requirements differ. Some countries sell SIMs freely. Others require registration with ID, proof of address, or even biometrics. Understanding local rules before arrival helps plan the process.

Carrier landscapes vary. Some countries have many competitive carriers with low prices. Others have limited options or higher costs. Researching the local market identifies reasonable options.

EU countries have regulated roaming, allowing use of home EU SIMs across member states at domestic rates. This changes calculations for people moving within Europe compared to those arriving from outside.

Local SIM plus maintained home number is common. The local SIM handles daily use at local rates. The home number stays active on a minimal plan or VoIP service for verification and occasional use.

eSIM plus local SIM works on compatible phones. The eSIM provides data backup or travel coverage. The local SIM provides a phone number and primary service. Switching between them handles different situations.

The specific combination depends on circumstances. Someone who travels frequently across regions needs different solutions than someone settling in one place. Connectivity needs evolve as situations change. For other tools expats commonly combine, see payment and budgeting tools.

Available WiFi reduces mobile data needs. Someone working from home or cafes with reliable WiFi needs less mobile data than someone frequently on the move without connectivity.

WiFi calling allows using home numbers over internet connections. If a phone and carrier support it, calls and texts work anywhere with WiFi without cellular service. This can substitute for expensive roaming.

Relying solely on WiFi has limitations. Being reachable requires connectivity. Navigation, rideshare apps, and spontaneous communication need mobile data when WiFi is unavailable. Backup mobile service provides reliability.