When traveling abroad, high roaming fees and the need to swap SIM cards can be an inconvenience. Many people rely on third-party VoIP apps to make international calls, but these can be limited in terms of coverage and reliability. A travel eSIM, like Roamless, offers a more affordable way to access mobile connectivity, allowing you to make international calls at lower rates without needing a physical SIM card.

What is the Best eSIM for International Calling?

Roamless is the best eSIM for international calls, with rates starting at $0.01 per minute to over 200 destinations, without the need for a physical SIM card. International calls are made directly through the app with the pay-as-you-go option, where users only pay for the calls they make. The table below compares the best eSIM providers for international calling:

Table 1: Comparison of Best eSIM Providers for International Calling

Note: Roamless eSIM integrates with your contacts, so make sure to include the country code when dialing.

* Note: Only Nomad’s Thailand eSIM includes a phone number with local DTAC numbers (60 minutes per call) and 30 minutes of IDD calls for China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Korea, India, and Vietnam.

Disclaimer: The international calling information and other details in the table were verified on 5 November 2025 based on information from each eSIM provider’s official website. Please note that available information and specifications may vary over time. Always check the most current details with each eSIM provider directly.

Choosing the Best eSIM for International Calling

When choosing the best eSIM for international calling, there are several key factors to consider. It’s important to find an eSIM that not only offers competitive rates but also reliable coverage and user-friendly features. Here are some of the most important aspects to evaluate:

• Global Coverage: Ensure the eSIM provider offers coverage in the countries you plan to visit. An eSIM provider with wide coverage in over 200 destinations will ensure that you can make calls from multiple locations without issue.

• Call Quality: Consider the reliability of the call quality when making international calls. Clear and stable calls should be a priority, as poor call quality can impact communication during travel.

• Ease of Use and Activation: Choose an eSIM that allows you to make international calls directly via the app, without the need for a physical SIM swap. A simple activation process through the app or by scanning a QR code will make it easier to start calling as soon as you arrive at your destination.

• International Calling Rates: Look for an eSIM that offers low international calling rates, especially to the countries you plan to call most often.

• No Hidden Fees: Check for any hidden fees that may be added for international calls. A transparent pricing model is crucial to avoid unexpected charges.

Why Roamless eSIM Stands Out for International Calls

Roamless is an ideal choice for international calls due to its affordable rates, wide coverage, and user-friendly features. Here are some of the reasons why Roamless eSIM stands out for making international calls:

• Low International Call Rates: Roamless offers international calls starting from as low as $0.01 per minute, making it one of the most cost-effective options available for international travelers.

• Wide Coverage in Over 200 Destinations: Roamless provides coverage in over 200 destinations worldwide, ensuring you can make calls from virtually anywhere, whether you're traveling for business or leisure.

• Easy Activation and Use: Roamless simplifies the process of making international calls. Activation is quick and easy, requiring only the Roamless app, with no need for a physical SIM card. You can start making calls as soon as the eSIM is activated.

• No Roaming Charges: Unlike traditional roaming services, Roamless allows you to make international calls without the extra roaming charges that often come with using your regular carrier.

• Integrated with Your Contacts: Roamless works directly with your phone's contacts, allowing you to dial international numbers just like local ones. Simply ensure that you include the country code when dialing.

For more information, you can visit our page on Cheap international calling.

What are the Differences Between eSIM and Home Carrier for International Calls?

There are some key differences between using eSIM and home carriers for international calls. eSIM is generally more affordable with predictable pricing and no roaming charges, while home carriers apply roaming charges that can lead to unexpected fees. eSIM provides reliable coverage in many countries, whereas home carrier coverage depends on agreements with local networks. Additionally, eSIM requires no physical SIM card, and calls are made directly via the eSIM app, while home carriers require activation of roaming plans or purchase of local SIM cards.

Why International Calling Costs More with Traditional Roaming than with Travel eSIM

Traditional roaming services often impose high charges on international calls, which can vary depending on the country and the agreements between the home carrier and local networks. These charges can quickly add up, especially when traveling across multiple countries. Additionally, traditional carriers may not offer clear pricing, making it difficult for users to predict costs in advance, often leading to unexpected bills. In contrast, an eSIM like Roamless provides a more predictable and cost-effective solution with transparent pricing, removing the uncertainty of high roaming charges.

For more information, you can check out our guide on How to avoid roaming charges.

How to Make International Calls with Roamless eSIM

Making international calls with Roamless eSIM is simple and quick. Follow these steps to get started:

1. Download and Install the Roamless App: Begin by downloading the Roamless app from your device's app store. After installation, open the app to set up your account.

2. Activate Your Roamless eSIM: Activate your Roamless eSIM by following the instructions in the app. You may need to scan a QR code or enter the activation details provided by Roamless.

3. Add Credit to Your Wallet: Add credit to your Roamless wallet to start making international calls. Roamless’ in-app call feature operates on a pay-as-you-go model, where you use your wallet balance to make calls at rates starting from $0.01 per minute.

4. Dial an International Number: Open the "Calls" tab in the Roamless app, then dial the international number you wish to reach, ensuring you include the country code.

5. Start Your Call: After dialing, your call will be placed through the app. No physical SIM card is required, and you can make calls directly from the Roamless app.

6. Track Your Balance: You can check your remaining balance in the app to ensure you have enough credit for future calls.

Note: Currently, it is not possible to receive calls through the Roamless app. However, in the near future, a "local numbers" feature will be introduced, allowing users to obtain phone numbers from over 80 country codes, use them as Caller ID, and receive calls within the Roamless app.

For more information, you can visit our page on Cheap international calling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make international calls using Roamless eSIM without a local SIM card?

Yes, Roamless eSIM allows you to make international calls directly through the app, without the need for a local SIM card.

Do I need to have Roamless eSIM activated to make international calls?

Yes, Roamless eSIM must be activated to use the international calling feature. You can activate the eSIM through the Roamless app and start making calls immediately once activated.

What are the rates for international calls using Roamless eSIM?

International calling rates start from $0.01 per minute with the pay-as-you-go option.

How do I dial international numbers with Roamless eSIM?

To dial international numbers, simply open the Roamless app, go to the “Calls” tab, and dial the number. Be sure to include the country code for the destination you are calling.

Can I receive international calls on Roamless eSIM?

Currently, it is not possible to receive calls through the Roamless app. However, a “local numbers” feature will be introduced soon, allowing users to receive calls within the app using phone numbers from over 80 country codes.