Can I use wifi calling overseas without roaming?

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WiFi calling bypasses roaming charges for domestic calls, but international calls, even within the US, will be treated as international calls.
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Wi-Fi Calling: A Guide to Staying Connected Overseas

Wi-Fi calling is a convenient feature that allows you to make and receive calls over a Wi-Fi network instead of using your cellular network. This can be a cost-effective way to stay connected while traveling abroad, as it eliminates the need to pay exorbitant roaming charges.

Can I Use Wi-Fi Calling Overseas Without Roaming?

The answer to this question is a bit nuanced. While Wi-Fi calling can bypass roaming charges for domestic calls, international calls, even within the US, will be treated as international calls and may incur additional charges.

Understanding Domestic and International Calls

When using Wi-Fi calling, it’s crucial to understand the distinction between domestic and international calls. Domestic calls are those made within the same country where your carrier is based. For example, if you have a US carrier, a call from New York City to Los Angeles would be considered a domestic call.

International calls, on the other hand, are those made to a number in a different country. In the example above, if you were in New York City and called a number in London, this would be considered an international call.

Wi-Fi Calling and International Calls

When you make an international call using Wi-Fi calling, your carrier may treat it as if you were roaming on a cellular network. This means that you may be charged roaming fees, which can be quite expensive.

Avoiding Roaming Charges

To avoid roaming charges when using Wi-Fi calling overseas, it’s important to:

  • Check with your carrier: Contact your carrier before traveling to confirm if they offer international Wi-Fi calling and the associated costs.
  • Use a VPN: A VPN (Virtual Private Network) can make it appear as if you are calling from your home country, potentially bypassing international roaming charges.
  • Use local SIM cards: Purchasing a local SIM card in the country you are visiting can provide a more cost-effective way to make international calls.

Additional Tips for Using Wi-Fi Calling Abroad

  • Make sure your device supports Wi-Fi calling.
  • Enable Wi-Fi calling in your device’s settings.
  • Choose a reliable Wi-Fi network with a strong signal.
  • Keep your device updated with the latest software.
  • Monitor your call usage to avoid unexpected charges.

By following these tips, you can take advantage of the convenience of Wi-Fi calling while staying connected overseas without breaking the bank.