Tokyo Speed Test: NRT/HND, Shinjuku/Shibuya, and Subway Coverage

30 Oct 2025

This tokyo mobile speed test digs into what you’ll actually get on the ground at Narita (NRT), Haneda (HND), around Shinjuku and Shibuya, and riding the JR Yamanote and Tokyo Metro/Toei subway corridors. We ran repeat measurements across multiple days, hours, and networks, highlighting download/upload speeds, latency for calls, and how connections behave in stations, tunnels, and on the move. If you’re landing and need to work, place VoIP calls, or navigate without hiccups, this is the practical picture—plus an open CSV you can reuse. We also flag eKYC caveats unique to Japan, and quick set-up steps to avoid common roaming pitfalls. For multi-city itineraries, there are notes on how Tokyo compares with other regions we cover across Destinations. Teams and travel managers can also access more granular logs via the Partner Hub and scale with our For Business options.

How we tested

Devices: iPhone 15 Pro (iOS 18), Google Pixel 8 (Android 15).
Profiles: international travel eSIMs connecting to KDDI (au) and SoftBank, plus a domestic NTT Docomo data SIM for baseline.
Tools: Speedtest by Ookla, nPerf, and ICMP/UDP pings to Tokyo-region cloud endpoints; passive cell metrics.
Sample size: 210 spot tests, 3 days, peak and off-peak windows.
Location set: NRT T1/T2/T3 arrivals/departures; HND T3 and T1; Shinjuku Station concourses and platforms; Shibuya Scramble and station areas; JR Yamanote between Shinjuku–Shibuya–Harajuku; Metro Ginza, Hanzomon, Marunouchi; Toei Oedo segments.
Networks: 5G NSA/sub‑6 where available; 4G LTE fallback. No public Wi‑Fi tests included.

Notes: - Results reflect traveller conditions: crowding, handovers, and indoor attenuation. Absolute speeds will vary by device, plan, and cell load. Latency is the most stable indicator of “snappiness” for calls and apps.

Airport results: NRT and HND

Narita (NRT)

Arrivals halls (T1/T2): 5G NSA on KDDI and Docomo consistently strong. Typical downloads 180–320 Mbps, uploads 20–40 Mbps. Median latency to Tokyo endpoints 19–24 ms.
Immigration/baggage zones: throughput dips under load; we saw 70–150 Mbps down, 10–25 Mbps up. Latency remained steady (20–28 ms), which matters more for calls and messaging.
Landside SIM areas and rail concourses: solid mid-band 5G with 150–280 Mbps down; short-lived cell handovers near escalators may briefly stall background uploads.
Outdoor kerbs/taxi stands: 200–350 Mbps down when line-of-sight to gNodeB is clear; gusty wind and crowds don’t affect RF, but vehicles can create transient multipath.

Pro tip: - If your phone keeps flapping between 5G and LTE, lock to LTE for the eSIM during a call. Latency stays in the low 20s ms, and you avoid 5G handover blips.

Haneda (HND)

T3 Arrivals (international): fastest median in the study—220–360 Mbps down, 25–50 Mbps up across KDDI/Docomo/SoftBank, 17–22 ms latency.
Domestic T1 check-in halls: 140–260 Mbps down, 15–35 Mbps up. Peak morning departures add jitter but not a major latency spike.
Monorail/Keikyu connectors: 80–180 Mbps down while in motion; expect a few seconds of RSRP dips in tunnels with quick recovery on platforms.

Set-up checklist on landing: 1. Install your eSIM before take-off; download profile on airport Wi‑Fi only if needed. 2. Ensure data roaming is on, and APN is auto-provisioned by your eSIM provider. 3. Toggle Airplane Mode once to trigger registration; wait for 4G/5G icon. 4. Run a quick test near a window or open area to establish a baseline. 5. For VoIP, run a latency test; you want sub‑40 ms to Tokyo.

Shinjuku and Shibuya: streets, stations, and concourses

Shinjuku

East/West exits, street level: 120–260 Mbps down, 15–35 Mbps up. Latency 20–26 ms. Crowded evenings can throttle uploads more than downloads.
JR concourses and shopping arcades (basement): 40–120 Mbps down typical; uploads 8–20 Mbps. Occasional cell selection to LTE only; calls remained stable.
Platform edges (Chuo Rapid, Yamanote): 60–140 Mbps down; in-train ramp to 50–100 Mbps once doors close.

Shibuya

Scramble crossing and Hachiko exit: 150–400 Mbps down on mid-band 5G; 20–40 Mbps up. Latency 18–24 ms.
Shibuya Station basement corridors: 30–90 Mbps down; 8–18 Mbps up, likely due to heavy contention and deeper placement.
Miyashita Park and Cat Street: 120–240 Mbps down outdoors; uploads 15–30 Mbps.

Call quality and latency: - To Tokyo-region media servers: 15–30 ms (excellent for WhatsApp, FaceTime, Zoom audio). - To Singapore: 60–90 ms (good). - To US West: 120–170 ms (acceptable for voice, mild delay on video). - To US East/Europe: 180–260 ms (voice fine with slight overlap; video requires turn-taking). - We observed jitter 3–8 ms on 5G and 6–15 ms on LTE in busy concourses. Packet loss remained under 0.5% on all tests except brief handovers.

Pro tips: - If your video call stutters as you descend into a station, disable 5G temporarily to keep a stable LTE anchor. - Noise matters more than bandwidth; use headphones with a mic to ensure the other party hears you in Shinjuku rush hour.

Subway and JR corridors: coverage in motion

Tokyo’s rail network is extensively covered with in-station and in-tunnel repeaters. Expect the following patterns:

JR Yamanote (Shinjuku–Harajuku–Shibuya): 80–180 Mbps down in-train; 20–110 Mbps during curves or when shadowed by buildings. Latency holds 25–35 ms; handovers are quick.
Chuo Rapid (Shinjuku area): 70–150 Mbps down; uploads ~12–25 Mbps.
Metro Ginza/Marunouchi/Hanzomon platforms: 60–200 Mbps down, 10–30 Mbps up. In tunnels between stations: 25–80 Mbps down, occasional 2–5 second dips.
Toei Oedo (deeper level): platforms 50–140 Mbps down; tunnels occasionally drop to 10–40 Mbps with 5–10 second shelves under peak load.
Station mezzanines and ticket gates: biggest contention spikes; you may see high throughput but spiky jitter. Start large uploads on the platform, not at the gate.

Checklist: keep data stable in transit - Turn off Low Data Mode/Low Power Mode during maps or calls. - Don’t chase bars—band selection switching costs you stability; allow automatic selection unless a call is critical. - If a roaming profile prefers a weaker network, manually select the stronger local partner (KDDI/Docomo/SoftBank) and re-enable automatic later.

eKYC in Japan: what travellers need to know

Domestic mobile numbers (voice/SMS) from Japanese operators usually require eKYC (ID verification) and, for some plans, a local address. This is strict, even for eSIM.
Data-only international eSIMs used by visitors generally do not require Japanese eKYC. They connect to Japanese networks via roaming agreements.
SMS-based logins: if an app demands a local SMS number, a data-only eSIM won’t help. Use app-based OTP, email login, or a secondary number from your home SIM.
VoIP/SIP: inbound SIP over mobile data may be affected by CGNAT. Most consumer apps (WhatsApp, FaceTime, Teams, Zoom) work fine; enterprise SIP trunks may need TURN/ICE relays.

If you’re coordinating teams, our For Business options include pre-trip provisioning guidance and app whitelists that avoid SMS-only traps.

At-a-glance numbers

Airports (NRT/HND) median: 230 Mbps down / 30 Mbps up / 20–23 ms latency.
Shinjuku/Shibuya streets median: 180 Mbps down / 25 Mbps up / 21–27 ms latency.
Stations/platforms median: 90 Mbps down / 15 Mbps up / 24–32 ms latency.
In-train (JR/Metro/Toei) median: 70 Mbps down / 12 Mbps up / 27–38 ms latency.

These medians are traveller-grade: plenty for HD maps, rideshare, cloud docs, and stable VoIP. Latency, not peak Mbps, dictates call quality—and Tokyo’s is consistently low.

Run your own tokyo mobile speed test (5-minute setup)

Before leaving your hotel, update carrier settings and OS.
Pick one test app (e.g., Speedtest) to keep results comparable.
Test in three spots: outdoors, station platform, and in-carriage.
Log results with time and place. Note 5G/LTE and network name.
For calls, run a 3–5 minute WhatsApp audio test. Observe delay and overlap, not just Mbps.
Repeat at peak (08:00–09:30 or 18:00–20:00) and off-peak to compare.

Dataset and open CSV

We’re making a de-identified dataset available as an open CSV for researchers, planners, and power users. Columns include: timestamp, coarse location (grid), network (Docomo/KDDI/SoftBank), RAT (5G/LTE), download, upload, latency, jitter, packet loss, and motion state (stationary/in-train).

Request or access the CSV via the Partner Hub with a short note on your use case. Teams on For Business get ongoing updates per quarter.
We’ll also reference this study under Japan in Destinations, and cross-compare with other regions.

Who this helps

Business travellers who need predictable call quality and uploads from stations and rides.
Remote teams planning on-the-go video meets between terminals and city centre.
Photographers and creators uploading from platforms or cafés near Shinjuku/Shibuya.
Travellers on multi-leg trips comparing connectivity across regions.

Planning onward travel? See our eSIM round-ups for neighbouring trips: Esim North America, Esim Western Europe, and country picks like Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Italy, and Esim Spain.

Practical tips to stay connected

Prefer mid-band 5G when stationary; switch to LTE if you’re seeing frequent 5G-LTE flaps during movement.
Download offline maps for central Tokyo as a backup.
If your upload is throttled in a station concourse, step to a platform or outside for a 2–3x improvement.
Keep a power bank; 5G scanning drains batteries on dense cells.
Disable VPNs during initial registration; re-enable if needed after your first speed test.

FAQ

Which network was “best” overall? All three majors (NTT Docomo, KDDI au, SoftBank) performed well. KDDI/Docomo had the most consistent low latency in our tests. SoftBank delivered strong peaks outdoors. For travellers on roaming eSIMs, you can’t always choose—but manual selection can help in edge cases.
Is 5G necessary for good performance in Tokyo? Not strictly. LTE delivered 50–150 Mbps with sub‑40 ms latency in most locations—enough for work and VoIP. 5G helps with quick uploads and large downloads, and is more sensitive to handovers in motion.
Will my VoIP calls work in the subway? Yes, with caveats. On platforms and most tunnels you’ll get stable audio. Expect brief 2–10 second dips between some stations (especially deeper Toei segments). Use LTE for long calls while moving and start video only when stationary.
Do I need a Japanese SIM with eKYC? No, not for data-only international eSIMs. Local Japanese numbers typically require eKYC; use app-based verification instead. If your workflow relies on SMS to a local number, plan ahead with your home SIM or an approved service.
Can I tether/hotspot? Yes. We maintained 20–60 Mbps to a laptop on LTE and 80–200 Mbps on 5G in central areas. Some plans rate-limit hotspot traffic; check your eSIM’s terms.
How does Tokyo compare with other regions? Tokyo’s latency is best-in-class, which benefits calls and cloud apps. Peak throughput is on par with major EU cities. See regional guides via Destinations and compare with Esim Western Europe and Esim North America.

Next step: browse Japan and neighbouring regions on Destinations and request the open CSV via the Partner Hub.

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Andes Highlights (3 Weeks): Peru–Bolivia–Chile–Argentina Connectivity

Planning a south america itinerary 3 weeks through the high Andes? This route stitches together Peru’s Sacred Valley, Bolivia’s La Paz and Salar de Uyuni, Chile’s Atacama Desert, and northern Argentina’s quebradas or Mendoza wine country—often by long-distance bus and a couple of short flights. Connectivity is different at altitude: coverage is strong in cities but drops in high passes and salt flats; bus Wi‑Fi is patchy; border towns can be blackspots. The smart move is an eSIM with multi‑country coverage, backed by offline maps, offline translations, and a simple routine for crossing borders by bus without losing service. Below you’ll find a practical, connectivity-first itinerary; checklists to prep your phone, apps and documents; and on-the-ground tips for staying online where it matters: booking transport, hailing taxis, backing up photos, and navigating when the signal disappears.If you’re transiting via Europe or North America, you can also add a layover eSIM to stay connected door-to-door. Start with our country list on Destinations, then follow the steps, and you won’t waste time chasing SIM shops at 3,500 metres.The 3‑week Andes route at a glanceWeek 1: Peru (Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu) - Fly into Cusco (or Lima then connect). - Base in Cusco; day trips to Pisac/Chinchero/Maras–Moray. - Train to Aguas Calientes; Machu Picchu visit; return to Cusco or continue to Puno/Lake Titicaca.Week 2: Bolivia and Chile (La Paz, Uyuni, San Pedro de Atacama) - Bus/collectivo via Copacabana to La Paz. - Fly or overnight bus to Uyuni. - 3‑day Uyuni–altiplano tour ending in San Pedro de Atacama (Chile).Week 3: Chile and Argentina (Atacama to Salta or Mendoza/Buenos Aires) - Choose: - North: San Pedro to Salta/Jujuy by bus; fly to Buenos Aires. - Or South: San Pedro–Calama flight to Santiago; bus or flight to Mendoza; onward to Buenos Aires.Connectivity notes (quick): - Cities: generally strong 4G/4G+; 5G in major hubs (Santiago, Buenos Aires). - Altitude/rural: expect long no‑signal stretches (Uyuni, altiplano passes, Paso Jama). - Bus Wi‑Fi: often advertised, rarely reliable. Plan to be offline onboard. - Border regions: networks switch; a multi‑country eSIM avoids sudden loss.eSIM vs local SIMs for a 4‑country tripFor a route with multiple borders and remote legs, eSIM wins on time and reliability.What a multi‑country eSIM gets you: - One plan across Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina (check coverage per country on Destinations). - No passport/SIM registration queues at kiosks. - Keep your home number active on the physical SIM for calls/SMS codes. - Instant top‑ups if you burn data on photos or navigation.When a local SIM still helps: - Long stay in one country with heavy data use (e.g., a month in Buenos Aires). - Dead zones where a different local network performs better (rarely worth the hassle on a 3‑week pace).Practical approach: - Use an eSIM as your primary data line across all four countries. - If you find a specific local network far better in one region, add a cheap local SIM and keep the eSIM as backup.Device readiness checklist (before you fly)1) Check eSIM compatibility and SIM‑lock status on your phone.2) Buy and install your eSIM while on home Wi‑Fi. Keep a PDF/printed copy of the QR code.3) Label lines clearly (e.g., “eSIM Andes Data”, “Home SIM”).4) Turn on data roaming for the eSIM; leave roaming off for your home SIM to avoid charges.5) Set up dual‑SIM rules: data on eSIM; calls/SMS default to home SIM if needed.6) Download offline: Google Maps/Organic Maps for all target regions; language packs (Spanish at minimum); bus/air tickets; hotel confirmations.7) Cloud backups: set to upload on Wi‑Fi only; pre‑create shared albums for travel companions.8) Test tethering/hotspot with your laptop/tablet.If you’re transiting popular hubs, consider a short layover eSIM: - USA connections: add an Esim United States or a broader Esim North America.- Europe connections: Madrid/Barcelona? Use an Esim Spain. Paris or Rome? See Esim France and Esim Italy. Multi‑country layovers? Try Esim Western Europe.City‑by‑city connectivity notesCusco & the Sacred Valley (Peru)Coverage: Good in Cusco city; variable in high villages (Maras/Moray) and along Inca Trail approaches.Tips: Download Sacred Valley maps offline; pin viewpoints and ruins. most taxis use WhatsApp—save your accommodation’s number.Machu Picchu/Aguas Calientes: Patchy to none at the citadel. Upload your photos later; don’t rely on live ticket retrieval.Lake Titicaca: Puno and CopacabanaPuno: Reasonable 4G; bus terminals crowded—screenshot QR tickets.Crossing to Copacabana: Expect a signal drop around the border; have directions saved offline.La Paz (Bolivia)Good urban 4G; the cable car network has decent signal but tunnels do not.Yungas/“Death Road” tours: Mountain valleys cause dead zones—share your emergency contacts with the operator, carry a charged power bank, and don’t plan remote calls.Uyuni and the Altiplano (Bolivia to Chile)Uyuni town: OK 4G; ATMs finicky—use Wi‑Fi for banking apps.Salt flats/lagunas: Assume offline for most of the 3‑day tour. Guides often carry satellite phones; agree a pickup time/place in San Pedro and preload your map route.San Pedro de Atacama (Chile)Town: Solid 4G; accommodations often have Wi‑Fi but speeds vary.Geysers, Valle de la Luna: Offline navigation essential; sunrise trips start before mobile networks wake up in some areas.Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza/Buenos Aires (Argentina)Salta/Jujuy: Good city coverage; quebradas have long no‑signal sections.Mendoza: City 4G/5G; vineyards outside town can be patchy.Buenos Aires: Strong 4G/5G; ideal for cloud backups and large downloads before you fly home.Border crossings by bus: step‑by‑stepThe big ones on this route: Peru–Bolivia (Puno/Copacabana), Bolivia–Chile (Uyuni–San Pedro via Hito Cajón), Chile–Argentina (Paso Jama to Salta or Los Libertadores to Mendoza).How to keep service and sanity:1) The day before:- Top up your eSIM data.- Confirm your plan includes both countries you’re entering/leaving.- Download offline maps for both sides of the border and your town of arrival.- Save bus company WhatsApp and terminal address offline.2) On departure morning:- Keep a paper copy or offline PDF of tickets, insurance, and accommodation proof.- Charge phone and power bank; pack a short cable in your daypack.3) On the bus:- Don’t count on bus Wi‑Fi. Keep your eSIM as primary, but expect drops near mountain passes.- If your phone supports it, enable “Wi‑Fi calling” for later when you reach accommodation Wi‑Fi.4) At the border posts:- Data may be unavailable. Keep QR codes and booking numbers offline.- After exiting one country and entering the next, toggle Airplane Mode off/on to re‑register on the new network.- If the eSIM doesn’t attach, manually select a network in Mobile Settings.5) Arrival:- Send your accommodation a quick WhatsApp when you’re back online.- Recheck your eSIM’s data roaming is on; confirm you’re on an in‑country network, not a weak roaming partner.Pro tips: - Dual profiles: If your eSIM allows, keep a secondary profile for a different network in the same country—helpful in border towns.- Cash buffer: Some border terminals don’t accept cards; download a currency converter for offline use.Offline survival kit (5‑minute setup)Maps: Download regions for Cusco, Sacred Valley, Puno, La Paz, Uyuni, San Pedro, Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza, and Buenos Aires.Translations: Download Spanish for offline use; add phrasebook favourites (bus tickets, directions, dietary needs).Documents: Save PDFs of passports, tickets, hotel addresses; star them for quick access.Rides: Screenshots of pickup points; pin bus terminals and hotel doors.Entertainment: Podcasts and playlists for long bus legs, set to download on Wi‑Fi only.Altitude and your tech: what changesCoverage gaps lengthen: Fewer towers at high altitude; valleys can block signal. Assume offline on remote excursions.Batteries drain faster in cold: Keep your phone warm and carry a power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh).Hotel Wi‑Fi may be congested: Schedule big uploads (photo backups, app updates) for big-city stays like Santiago or Buenos Aires.GPS still works offline: Your blue dot shows on offline maps without data—preload everything.Data budgeting for 3 weeksTypical traveller usage across this route: - Messaging/Maps/Bookings: 0.2–0.5 GB/day- Social and photo sharing: 0.3–0.7 GB/day- Occasional video calls/streaming: 0.5–1.0 GB/dayFor a mixed-use trip, plan 15–25 GB for 3 weeks. Heavy creators should double it and upload over hotel Wi‑Fi when possible. If you work remotely, consider a higher‑capacity plan and a backup eSIM; see our guidance on For Business.Practical route with transport and connectivity cuesDays 1–4 Cusco base: Strong city signal; day trips may be spotty—go offline-ready.Days 5–6 Machu Picchu: Expect no service at the ruins; sync tickets ahead.Days 7–8 Puno to La Paz via Copacabana: Border signal drop; re‑register networks after crossing.Days 9–11 Uyuni tour to San Pedro: Treat as offline; charge nightly; carry spare cables.Days 12–14 San Pedro: Stable in town; tours offline; top up data before Paso Jama.Days 15–17 Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza: Good urban 4G; rural patches are offline.Days 18–21 Buenos Aires: Strongest connectivity of the trip; clear your uploads and map downloads for the flight home.Partnering and stopover extrasHospitality and tour operators in the Andes: help your guests stay connected—explore co‑branded solutions via our Partner Hub.Transatlantic flyers: test your eSIM setup on a layover with an Esim United States or Esim Western Europe before hitting high-altitude blackspots.FAQs1) Do I need a local SIM in each country?No. A multi‑country eSIM covering Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina is simpler and works well for a 3‑week pace. Consider a local SIM only if you’ll spend longer in one country and want the absolute best regional coverage.2) Will my WhatsApp number change with an eSIM?No. WhatsApp is tied to your registered number, not your data line. Keep your home SIM active for voice/SMS (roaming off if you wish), and use the eSIM for data—WhatsApp continues as normal.3) Can I hotspot to my laptop or camera?Yes. Enable tethering on your eSIM. Mind your data: cloud backups and OS updates can burn gigabytes—set them to Wi‑Fi only or schedule in big cities.4) What if there’s no signal on the Uyuni/Atacama legs?That’s expected. GPS still works offline. Pre-download maps and translations, carry a power bank, and sync plans with your tour operator before departure.5) Will I get roaming charges at borders?If you’re using a multi‑country eSIM with coverage in both countries, you won’t incur extra roaming fees from your home carrier. Keep roaming off on your home SIM to avoid accidental use.6) I’m connecting via Europe or the US—worth getting a layover eSIM?Yes. It’s an easy way to test your setup and stay reachable. Try Esim North America or country options like Esim Spain, Esim France, or Esim Italy for common hubs.Next step: Browse South America coverage options and build your plan on Destinations.

31 Oct 2025

EU Long Stays: Fair‑Use for Nomads & Students (90/180‑Day Rule)

Planning a long stretch around Europe? Here’s the traveller‑first guide to EU fair use on long stays. Confusion often comes from mixing two different systems: immigration rules (the Schengen 90/180‑day stay limit) and telecom rules (EU roaming fair use). They are not the same. Immigration limits how long you can stay. Telecom fair use limits how long you can roam on an EU plan before surcharges kick in. If you’re a student with local residency, you’re treated differently to a roaming nomad bouncing between countries. And regional eSIMs add a third option that avoids most “home vs abroad” checks altogether. This guide cuts through the jargon with plain‑English explanations, examples you can copy, and practical checklists to keep your connectivity clean and cost‑predictable. If you just want a solution: country eSIMs are best when you settle in one place; regional EU eSIMs shine for multi‑country hops. Keep reading for the details and how to choose.The quick version: Fair‑use vs 90/18090/180 rule: Immigration. Most visa‑exempt visitors can stay in the Schengen Area up to 90 days in any 180‑day period. Nothing to do with mobile plans.EU roaming fair use: Telecom. EU/EEA operators let their customers “roam like at home” across the EU. To stop permanent roaming, they can apply fair‑use checks over a four‑month window and, if triggered, add regulated surcharges after warning you.Regional travel eSIMs: These are made for roaming. They don’t rely on EU “roam like at home” privileges, so the home‑vs‑abroad test usually doesn’t apply. Instead, your limit is the plan’s validity and data allowance.For country coverage quirks (e.g., Switzerland, UK post‑Brexit), see Destinations.What the EU fair‑use policy actually says (for travellers)EU “Roam Like at Home” (RLAH) protects EU/EEA subscribers using their home mobile plan around the bloc. It applies primarily if you hold an EU plan with an EU operator.The home‑presence and usage test (4‑month window)Your EU operator can watch usage over at least four months. If both are true, they may flag permanent roaming:1) You’ve been more time “abroad” than “at home,” and2) You used more data while roaming than you did at home.If they detect this, they must warn you and give at least 14 days to change your pattern (e.g., use the line domestically or reduce roaming). If nothing changes, they can add small, regulated surcharges on roaming usage. Your service isn’t cut off, but costs rise.Data caps on “unlimited” plans while roamingIf your domestic plan is unlimited or very cheap per GB, your operator can set a specific fair‑use roaming data allowance, calculated from your plan price and EU wholesale caps. The allowance and any out‑of‑bundle surcharge must be clearly communicated. Always read the roaming section of your tariff.Residency or “stable links”Operators can ask for proof of residency or stable links (study, work) when you buy or keep a domestic plan. This isn’t immigration control; it’s to ensure domestic plans aren’t used as permanent roaming products.Warnings and surchargesYou’ll receive a warning before any fair‑use surcharge applies.Surcharges are capped by EU rules and reviewed periodically.Paying a surcharge doesn’t fix the root cause. If your lifestyle is long‑term roaming, reconsider your setup (see below).Note: RLAH covers EU/EEA. It does not automatically include Switzerland or the UK. Check Destinations before you go.Residency vs roaming: which bucket are you in?Students with a local contract (resident or stable link)If you study in, say, France and sign up for a French mobile plan using local documentation, France becomes your “home” for that line. Your everyday use in France typically outweighs your time abroad, so your weekend trips to Spain or a fortnight in Italy sit comfortably within fair use. For deeper country fit, see Esim France, Esim Spain and Esim Italy.Digital nomads and long‑stay visitors (non‑resident)If you don’t have EU residency and you rely on a single EU domestic SIM while rarely returning to its home country, you’re likely to trip the fair‑use test after a few months. Two cleaner options:Use country eSIMs in each country you stay in for a month or two; orUse a regional travel eSIM designed for roaming around Europe.How regional eSIMs fit into long staysRegional travel eSIMs are built for cross‑border use. Instead of offering a domestic plan with RLAH, they provide roaming access in multiple countries from day one. This sidesteps the “domestic vs roaming” test entirely.Multi‑country coverage: A single profile that works across much of the EU. See Esim Western Europe for a practical one‑SIM solve when you’re rotating through EU hubs.Validity and data: Plans come with defined validity (e.g., 15–90 days) and data buckets. If you run out, top up or add another plan—no residency checks.Outside the EU: Heading to or from North America? Pair your Europe plan with Esim North America or set up before you fly with Esim United States.When you’re staying a whole term in one country, a local eSIM can be cheaper for heavy data. For multi‑country months, regional usually wins on simplicity.When to choose a country eSIM vs a regional EU eSIMChoose a country eSIM when:You’ll spend 30+ days in one country and use lots of data.You need local rates for domestic calls or long‑term top‑ups.Example pages: Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim Spain.Choose a regional EU eSIM when:You’ll cross borders frequently (e.g., 3–6 countries over 2–4 months).You prefer one number/data plan to manage across the trip.See: Esim Western Europe.Use dual‑SIM: keep your primary line for authentication calls/SMS, and set the travel eSIM as your data line.Step‑by‑step: Students (semester or year abroad)1) Get a local plan in your host country- Sign up with local ID/student proof. Your host country becomes “home” for that plan.2) Read the roaming section of your tariff- Note any roaming data caps and the four‑month fair‑use window.3) Use your host‑country SIM domestically most of the time- Weekend trips are fine. Long multi‑month trips outside your host country might trigger warnings.4) Add a regional eSIM for holiday stretches- If you’ll travel for several weeks, switch your data line to Esim Western Europe to avoid breaching your domestic plan’s fair‑use pattern.5) Keep alerts on- Don’t ignore SMS warnings. You usually get at least 14 days to adjust your usage before surcharges apply.6) Check non‑EU neighbours- UK/Switzerland often sit outside inclusive roaming. Verify on Destinations before you go.Step‑by‑step: Digital nomads (90–180 days across EU)1) Decide your pattern- Many short stays in multiple countries? Start with a regional plan. One or two long stops? Mix in country eSIMs for each stop.2) Set up before you move- Install the eSIM profile while you have reliable Wi‑Fi. Test with a small top‑up.3) Use dual‑SIM smartly- Keep your home SIM active for 2FA/texts. Set the travel eSIM as the default for data.4) Rotate plans, not penalties- Regional eSIMs like Esim Western Europe are priced for roaming and won’t run into EU “permanent roaming” tests. When staying put, switch to the local country plan (e.g., Esim Spain).5) Avoid long‑term reliance on a single EU domestic plan- If you don’t live there, the four‑month fair‑use pattern will likely catch up and add surcharges.6) Leaving or arriving via the US/Canada?- Bridge the gap with Esim North America or sort stateside coverage with Esim United States.Worked examplesStudent in France, 9 months, frequent tripsYou take a French plan as your main line. You spend most days in France, with occasional weekends in Spain/Italy. You remain well within fair use. For a four‑week summer rail trip, you add Esim Western Europe for data and keep the French SIM for calls/SMS.Nomad, 5 months, 5 countriesMonth in Portugal, then Spain, France, Belgium, Netherlands. You use a regional plan for months 1–3. For months 4–5, because you’re stationary and need more data, you add Esim Spain and Esim France during those longer stays. No EU domestic fair‑use checks apply to your regional eSIM; the country eSIMs are priced for local use when you’re settled.US visitor, 2 months in Italy with side tripsYou keep your US number active for banking but avoid pricey long‑term roaming on your domestic US plan. You install Esim Italy for the base month and add a short regional top‑up for a two‑week loop through neighbouring countries.Pro tips to stay compliant and connectedTrack days and data: set a calendar reminder every time you cross a border and use your phone’s data counter per SIM.Respect SMS warnings: they are your early‑warning system before surcharges.Prefer Wi‑Fi calling and messaging apps for cross‑border calls.Use hotspot sparingly if your plan restricts tethering.Check country exceptions on Destinations before visiting microstates or non‑EU neighbours.Business travellers: corporate pools can smooth roaming costs—see For Business or partner with us via the Partner Hub.FAQQ1: Does the Schengen 90/180‑day rule limit my mobile usage?A: No. 90/180 is immigration. EU telecom fair use is separate. You could be within your visa limit yet still trigger a roaming fair‑use surcharge—or vice versa.Q2: How long can I roam on an EU domestic plan before fair‑use kicks in?A: Operators check at least a four‑month window. If, in that period, you spend more time and use more data abroad than at home, they can warn you and later add regulated surcharges.Q3: I have an “unlimited” EU plan. Is roaming unlimited too?A: Not necessarily. Operators can set a specific fair‑use roaming data cap for unlimited/low‑cost plans and must tell you the allowance and any surcharge once you hit it.Q4: Do regional travel eSIMs have fair‑use limits?A: They’re built for roaming, so the EU “home vs abroad” test doesn’t apply. You’re bound by the plan’s validity and data bucket, plus any reasonable‑use terms (e.g., hotspot limits). For multi‑country trips, see Esim Western Europe.Q5: If I buy a French SIM, can I spend the summer in Italy on it?A: Yes, but extended, heavier use outside France could trigger the four‑month fair‑use test. For a long Italy stay, switch to Esim Italy or add a regional eSIM for the travel leg.Q6: I’m a US traveller. Should I rely on my US plan’s roaming?A: For short trips, maybe. For long stays, many US plans throttle or cap roaming after a few weeks. It’s usually better value to keep your US number for SMS and run EU data on a regional or country eSIM. Start here: Esim United States and Esim Western Europe.Next stepPlan your route, pick your coverage: explore country and regional options on Esim Western Europe, then check country specifics via Destinations.

31 Oct 2025

Banking & OTP While Traveling: 5 Reliable Ways That Work

Stuck outside your home country and can’t get your bank’s one-time passcodes? You’re not alone. Many banks still send OTPs via SMS to your domestic number. If you swap your SIM for a local one or switch off roaming, those texts often stop. The good news: there are reliable, low-cost ways to keep banking secure and stress-free. This playbook explains five proven approaches—keeping your home SIM alive for SMS, using Wi‑Fi Calling (VoWiFi), moving to app-based tokens, using roaming the smart way, and when (and when not) to use virtual numbers. You’ll also get quick-set-up steps, pre-trip checklists, do’s and don’ts, and troubleshooting tips. Whether you’re in Paris, New York or Seville, you can receive OTP abroad without bill shock or lockouts. And with a travel eSIM for data, you don’t need to touch your home line at all.Browse country and regional plans in Destinations. Popular picks: Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim Spain and bundles like Esim Western Europe or Esim North America.Why OTPs break when you travelBanks often send OTP via domestic SMS. If your home SIM isn’t registered on a network (or roaming is off), SMS won’t arrive.Replacing your home SIM with a local SIM disables your number entirely.Even with data on a travel eSIM, SMS to your home number still need the home line to be active (via a roaming connection or Wi‑Fi Calling).Some banks support in‑app approvals or authenticator codes that work over data—no SMS needed.Understanding these basics guides the setup that suits your devices, carrier and bank.The 5 reliable ways to receive OTP abroad1) Keep your home SIM active for SMS, use a travel eSIM for dataThis is the simplest, most reliable approach for most travellers. Put your home SIM in your phone (physical SIM or eSIM), then add a local or regional travel eSIM for data. You keep your number live for incoming SMS, but you buy cheap local data on the travel eSIM.How to set it up (iPhone with Dual SIM): 1. Install your Simology travel eSIM (see Destinations for plans like Esim Western Europe or Esim North America).2. In Settings > Mobile Data:- Set “Mobile Data” to the travel eSIM.- Turn off “Data Roaming” on the home line.- Leave the home line “On” for calls/SMS.3. Optional: enable “Allow Mobile Data Switching” only if you want automatic failover (most people can leave this off).4. Keep iMessage/WhatsApp/MFA apps working on data via the travel eSIM.How to set it up (Android Dual SIM: 1. Install the travel eSIM.2. In Network & Internet > SIMs:- Set “Preferred SIM for mobile data” to the travel eSIM.- Turn off “Roaming” for mobile data on the home line.- Keep the home line enabled for calls/SMS.3. Disable background data on the home line if your OS offers it.Pro tips: - Incoming SMS are tiny and usually free, but confirm with your carrier. Some bill per SMS when roaming.- If you only need OTP occasionally, you can even set the home line to “No service” and rely on Wi‑Fi Calling (see next section).- Keep the home SIM pinned as your “default for SMS” so bank replies go to the right number.2) Use Wi‑Fi Calling (VoWiFi) to receive SMS anywhere with Wi‑FiWith Wi‑Fi Calling enabled on your home line, your phone registers to your home network over any Wi‑Fi connection worldwide. Many carriers route SMS over Wi‑Fi too—so you can receive OTP abroad even with cellular off.Enable Wi‑Fi Calling (iPhone): 1. Settings > Mobile Data > your Home Line > Wi‑Fi Calling > On.2. Keep the home line enabled.3. Connect to any Wi‑Fi network.4. Test by asking your bank to send an OTP while on Wi‑Fi and with Airplane Mode ON plus Wi‑Fi ON (so you know it’s truly over Wi‑Fi).Enable Wi‑Fi Calling (Android): 1. Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > your Home Line > Wi‑Fi Calling > On.2. Connect to Wi‑Fi and test with an OTP.Caveats: - Not all carriers support SMS over Wi‑Fi; some only support voice. Test before you travel.- Some banks’ OTP messages are classed as “short codes”; a few carriers don’t deliver short codes over Wi‑Fi. Again, test.3) Switch to app-based authentication (bank app approvals and authenticators)The best long-term fix is to eliminate SMS reliance entirely. Most modern banks now support: - In‑app approvals: open your bank app and tap Approve.- App-generated codes: a 6‑digit code that refreshes every 30 seconds, working offline once set up.- Hardware tokens or card readers (if your bank issues one).Steps to set up before you go: 1. Update your bank app and enable biometric login.2. In Security/2FA settings, change the OTP method from SMS to in‑app approval or app codes.3. Add a second factor as backup (e.g., an authenticator app).4. Test on mobile data only (toggle Airplane Mode and enable Wi‑Fi to simulate different conditions).Benefits: - Works over any internet connection, including your travel eSIM.- No dependency on your phone number or roaming.- More secure than SMS.If you need data while travelling, pair this with a regional eSIM like Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Italy or Esim Spain.4) Use roaming smartly for short bursts (SMS-only, no bill shock)If your carrier doesn’t support SMS over Wi‑Fi and you can’t switch away from SMS OTP, a small roaming add‑on can be the cleanest path.How to do it safely: 1. Buy the cheapest daily or weekly roaming pack that includes SMS.2. On your phone, keep “Mobile Data” set to the travel eSIM.3. Turn OFF data roaming on the home line; leave calls/SMS ON.4. When you need an OTP, let the home line connect for a minute, receive the SMS, then toggle it off if you wish.This keeps roaming charges predictable while your data stays on the low-cost travel eSIM.5) Virtual numbers: only when your bank allows them (proceed with caution)Some services let you rent a “virtual” SMS number. This can work for apps and websites, but many banks block VoIP or non-geographic numbers for security. If you intend to use a virtual number for banking OTP:Confirm with your bank that they accept the provider’s numbers for 2FA.Avoid temporary/disposable numbers—banks often reject them.Test thoroughly at home: change your OTP number to the virtual line, trigger logins, payees and high-risk actions to ensure you receive every type of message.Keep your original number as a backup factor until you are 100% confident.For most travellers, options 1–4 are safer and more reliable.Pre-trip checklist (15 minutes)Confirm your bank’s OTP methods and enable app approvals or app codes.Ensure your bank app works on data and over Wi‑Fi only.Order and install a travel eSIM from Destinations (choose regional bundles like Esim Western Europe if you’ll cross borders).Enable Wi‑Fi Calling on your home line and test receiving SMS over Wi‑Fi.Update contact details with your bank (email, backup number) and verify.Pack any hardware token or card reader if your bank uses one.Do’s and don’tsDo: - Keep your home SIM active for SMS while using a travel eSIM for data.- Test all methods before departure.- Use in‑app approvals or app codes where available—more secure and travel-friendly.- Label your SIMs clearly in settings (e.g., “Home” and “Travel Data”).Don’t: - Swap out your home SIM without a plan for OTP.- Rely on public Wi‑Fi without Wi‑Fi Calling enabled if your bank requires SMS.- Assume virtual numbers will work with banks.- Leave data roaming ON for the home line—this is how bill shock happens.Troubleshooting: if OTPs still won’t arriveCheck network registration: does your home line show a carrier name? If not, toggle Airplane Mode or reboot.Verify Wi‑Fi Calling: look for “Wi‑Fi”/carrier name in the status bar; if absent, re-enable and reconnect to Wi‑Fi.Try a different roaming partner: in Network Selection, choose a different carrier.Clear SMS centre issues: send yourself a regular SMS to confirm the channel is working.Use the bank app: switch to in‑app approval or app code if SMS is delayed.Last resort: contact your bank support via in‑app chat; ask them to push an in‑app verification or temporarily switch your factor.HowTo: Keep your home SIM alive for OTP while using a travel eSIM for dataWhat you need: - A device with Dual SIM (physical + eSIM or dual eSIM)- Your home SIM active- A Simology travel eSIM (see Destinations)Steps: 1. Install the travel eSIM and activate it upon arrival.2. Set the travel eSIM as the device’s “Mobile Data” line.3. Turn off “Data Roaming” on your home line; leave calls/SMS enabled.4. Enable Wi‑Fi Calling on your home line for extra reliability.5. Test by requesting a bank OTP; confirm it arrives while your data is on the travel eSIM.Outcome: - You receive OTP abroad on your home number without paying for home data roaming.- You enjoy local-priced data for maps, calls (VoIP) and apps.Special note for teams and frequent flyersSetting this up for staff on the road? Standardise devices, pre-install travel eSIMs, and enforce Wi‑Fi Calling and app-based MFA via your MDM. For volume provisioning and support, visit For Business. Travel managers and partners can also explore the Partner Hub for programme options.FAQCan I receive OTP abroad without roaming?Yes—if your carrier supports SMS over Wi‑Fi Calling, or if your bank uses in‑app approvals/app-generated codes. Otherwise, keep your home line on for SMS while using a travel eSIM for data.Will an eSIM replace my number and break banking codes?No. A travel eSIM adds a data line. Your home SIM (physical or eSIM) still holds your number. Keep the home line active for SMS and set the travel eSIM as your data line.Do OTPs work over iMessage or WhatsApp?Not for banks. Banking OTPs are normally standard SMS or in‑app approvals. Don’t rely on iMessage/WhatsApp for bank verification unless your bank explicitly supports it.What if my bank only supports SMS OTP?Use one of: Wi‑Fi Calling (if your carrier delivers SMS over it), or a small roaming pack for SMS only, or keep your home SIM connected briefly to receive the code. Ask your bank to enable in‑app approvals before you travel if possible.Are virtual numbers safe for banking?Often not. Many banks block VoIP or disposable numbers. Only use a virtual number if your bank supports it and you’ve tested every scenario in advance.Will incoming SMS cost me money when roaming?It depends on your carrier. Some include inbound SMS free, others charge per message or per day pass. Check your plan and, if needed, buy an SMS-friendly roaming add‑on.Next step: Pick a travel eSIM for your trip so you can keep your home SIM for OTP. Start with Destinations.

31 Oct 2025