eSIM with phone number, calls or SMS: data plans that include them

Only with some plans. Most travel eSIMs are data-only: in our catalogue, 2,635 of 2,730 plans are, and the 87 plans on this page, in 14 destinations, include calls, SMS or both. Each plan card on this page says what it includes, such as the minutes, and any limit the plan states. On every other plan you can still call over the internet with WhatsApp, FaceTime or another calling app, which use the plan's data.

A data-only eSIM does not. 53 of the 87 plans on this page state that a phone number is included, and their cards say “Phone number included”; the others state calls or SMS without stating a number. On a dual-SIM phone your own SIM stays active next to the eSIM, so your own number keeps receiving calls and texts at your carrier's roaming rates.

Yes. Every plan on this page is a data plan that also includes calls, SMS or both. Data is from 1 GB to unlimited and validity is from 1 to 365 days, depending on the plan, and each card shows its own data, validity, price and what it includes for calls.

Yes. WhatsApp, FaceTime and other calling apps work over any plan's data, including data-only plans. Those calls and messages use your data allowance, not call minutes, and the person you call needs the same app.

Only on a plan that includes calls, and how incoming calls are handled is stated plan by plan. 20 of the 87 plans on this page say something about incoming calls, for example on the United States plans: “Incoming calls are deducted from the minutes balance.” The other plans do not say, so check the plan's Details or ask support before you rely on incoming calls. On a data-only eSIM, people reach you through a calling app.

Only where the plan says so. 24 plans mention international or worldwide calling in their own text: international minutes, a call credit, a list of countries, or incoming international calls. 14 plans say that outgoing international calls are not allowed. 14 plans say that only local calls are allowed. The card quotes each plan's own wording. For a call a plan does not cover, use a calling app over data or Bitcall calling credit.

Use a calling app over the eSIM's data, or top up Bitcall calling credit and call numbers in 195+ countries from your browser (the Bitcall webphone) or a SIP phone at the per-minute rate shown for each country. You sign up with an email, and the call runs over your eSIM's data.