How to Receive SMS While Abroad?

How to Receive SMS While Abroad?

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SMS is a key way people worldwide stay in touch, with over 23 billion messages sent daily. It's especially important when you need to get verification codes, keep up with work, or receive banking and security alerts. Traveling overseas, however, can make getting these verification codes tricky due to different network rules and high roaming charges. If you're unsure how to receive SMS while overseas, we'll show you some straightforward solutions in this guide.


Is it Possible to Receive SMS From Overseas?

Yes, receiving SMS from foreign countries through different methods, like virtual phone numbers, enabling data roaming, SMS forwarding services, and using other messaging apps, is possible.

Receiving text by enabling data roaming could depend upon the network agreements between your mobile and international network operators. Signing up with a reliable VoIP provider could be a convenient way to receive SMS online.

Different Methods to Receive SMS From Abroad

There are various methods to receive SMS from foreign nations as per your preference and criteria; below is the list of standard procedures used by many travelers and business personnel.

Using Virtual Phone Numbers

Virtual number providers are cloud-based phone systems that receive texts and calls online. Virtual phone numbers let you acquire the local number of the country you visit, allowing you to receive SMS messages just like a local resident. They are affordable, easy to set up, and have different features to improve your communication. The steps to acquire a VoIP phone number are as follows:
 

  • Choose an affordable VoIP number provider with advanced features, including Calilio, Nextiva, Callhippo, and Dialpad.
  • Set up an account with the required information and verification.
  • Select a new number or port your existing number.
  • Select a subscription plan that fits your needs.
  • Go through the payment method and acquire a virtual phone number to receive SMS online.

Enabling Mobile Phone Roaming

Enabling data roaming allows you to receive SMS on your regular number while traveling abroad. Mobile data roaming is the use of internet service on an international network while outside your local network range with higher charges. Follow the steps to enable mobile data roaming.
 

  • Open phone settings: Go to the Settings on your phone.
  • Access to Mobile Data settings: Tap “Mobile Data” or “Cellular Option” on your device.
  • Go to Data Roaming Option: Tap on “Data Roaming Option”.
  • Enable Data Roaming Option: Switch the “Data Roaming” option to ON

SMS Forwarding Services

SMS forwarding or automated SMS forwarding is a third-party service. It allows you to route your incoming messages from one device to another through text forwarding platforms like Mighty Text, SMS Auto Forwarder, and Push Bullet. The process to set up an SMS forwarding service is mentioned below.
 

  • Choose a trusted SMS forwarding service provider.
  • Install the app and open it.
  • Accept the necessary permission.
  • Set up the forwarding setting as per your requirements.
     

Note: Monitor the forwarding process to make sure it's working.

Using Different Messaging Apps

One of the easiest ways to receive text from foreign nations is by using different messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or WeChat. This app allows you to send or receive text over Wi-Fi or mobile data. Steps for creating an account in messaging apps are provided below.
 

  • Download the messaging app and open it.
  • Set up an account with the required information.
  • Verify your phone number.
  • Then, you are ready to send or receive text through the app.

Why Can’t I Receive Messages From Overseas?

Receiving SMS from overseas without a secondary method can be challenging due to several factors, including network incompatibility, absence of roaming agreements between carriers, sender limitations, improper number formatting, and governmental restrictions in some countries.

Wrapping Up

In the modern era, being connected through the world is way simpler than before. Several apps, software, and devices have been invented for smooth communication. A wide range of options, like virtual phone numbers, mobile roaming, SMS forwarding, and messaging apps, are available to make your interaction easy. Always set up everything before your trip to connect with family, friends, and colleagues, ensuring you don't miss anything important anywhere in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to receive OTP outside the country?

Receiving OTP outside the country is possible through international roaming, SMS forwarding, VoIP, and messaging apps.

Can I receive a text if data roaming is off?

Yes, you can receive a text if data roaming is off.

Can I get a message during international roaming?

Yes, you can get a message when roaming internationally.

Is it possible to receive SMS abroad without roaming?

Yes, receiving SMS abroad without roaming is possible through SMS forwarding services, messaging apps, and VoIP service providers such as Calilio, Nextiva, Dialpad, and Callhippo.


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