Does Wi-Fi calling work without international roaming?

Wi-Fi Calling and International Roaming

Wi-Fi calling is a feature that allows users to make and receive phone calls over a Wi-Fi network instead of using the traditional cellular network. This can be beneficial for making calls in areas with poor cellular coverage or when trying to avoid roaming charges.

Does Wi-Fi Calling Work Without International Roaming?

The answer to this question is both yes and no. Within a country, Wi-Fi calling bypasses roaming charges and allows users to make and receive calls as if they were on their home network. However, when making international calls over Wi-Fi, they are treated as traditional international calls and incur the associated charges.

Understanding International Wi-Fi Calling Charges

When making international calls over Wi-Fi, the charges will vary depending on the specific carrier and the destination country. Some carriers may offer discounted rates for international Wi-Fi calls, while others may charge the same rates as traditional international calls.

How to Avoid Wi-Fi Calling Charges When Traveling

To avoid Wi-Fi calling charges when traveling, it is important to understand the policies of your carrier and to take the following steps:

• Check with your carrier to determine if they offer discounted rates for international Wi-Fi calls.
• Turn off Wi-Fi calling when not connected to a known and trusted network.
• Use messaging apps like WhatsApp or Viber that allow for free international calling over Wi-Fi.
• Consider purchasing a local SIM card in the destination country to avoid roaming charges.

Conclusion

While Wi-Fi calling offers a convenient way to bypass roaming charges within a country, it does not eliminate the charges associated with international calls. To avoid unexpected charges, it is essential to understand the policies of your carrier and to take precautions when making international calls over Wi-Fi. By using discounted rates, turning off Wi-Fi calling, and exploring alternative options, travelers can stay connected without breaking the bank.