eSIMs 101: Does eSIM support roaming?

In today's hyper-connected world, staying connected while traveling is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Whether you're a business traveler constantly on the move or simply jet-setting for leisure, reliable connectivity is crucial. If you are using an eSIM for your primary line - or considering switching to one - perhaps a question on your mind is: does eSIM support roaming?

Understanding eSIM Technology

Before diving into eSIM's roaming capabilities, let's first grasp the fundamentals of eSIM technology. Unlike traditional physical SIM cards that you insert into your mobile device, eSIM is a virtual SIM card that is embedded directly into the device during manufacturing. This embedded SIM is programmable, allowing users to store multiple mobile network profiles on a single device.

eSIM technology provides numerous benefits, including:

1. Remote Activation: eSIMs can be remotely activated, allowing users to switch carriers and plans without needing a physical SIM card.
2. Space-Saving: Without the need for physical SIM cards, eSIMs save space inside devices, making them ideal for smaller and slimmer devices.
3. Multiple Profiles: Although not all eSIMs can be active at the same time, devices are often able to hold multiple eSIM profiles, allowing you to easily switch between eSIMs as you travel.
4. Enhanced Security: eSIMs offer robust security features, making them resistant to physical tampering or theft.

eSIM and Roaming

Now, let's address the burning question: Does eSIM support roaming? The short answer is yes, eSIM technology is designed with roaming in mind.

Fundamentally, an eSIM is able to do what a physical SIM does, and that includes providing roaming support. In fact, many providers of travel eSIMs rely on roaming to provide you with connectivity as you travel.

While the technology itself is able to allow support, you will also need to ensure that the mobile plan that you have with your network operator includes roaming. If your plan doesn't allow for roaming, it doesn't matter whether you have a physical SIM or eSIM — either way, you still wouldn't be able to roam.

eSIMs for travelers

Roaming capabilities aside, the use of eSIMs brings about several other advantages for travelers.

Convenience

Travelers no longer need to visit local carrier stores or wait for SIM card deliveries. Instead, they can activate a new carrier profile through an app or a QR code, instantly accessing local networks upon arrival.

Seamlessly switch between profiles

eSIMs can store multiple carrier profiles, allowing users to seamlessly switch between carriers in different countries without the need for a physical SIM card swap. This feature ensures that you can easily stay connected regardless of where your travels take you.

Even if your home network plan does not include roaming, you can simply buy a travel eSIM online and install it on your device. When you arrive at your destination, in just a few taps on your device, you will be able to use the newly installed travel eSIM to get data connection.

Multiple lines

Another benefit of using eSIMs is that you will be able to keep your home line active even as you travel. If you had to replace your physical SIM when you travel (especially if your phone does not support dual SIMs), that will essentially leave you unreachable on your home line.

With eSIMs, you will be able to configure your device settings such that you can use data from your travel eSIM without having to remove or deactivate your home line. This will ensure that you can still receive calls and SMSes on your home line, which could be useful in situations where you might need to receive an OTP to complete a transaction.