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How to get bank SMS abroad while using a travel eSIM for data

2026-11-03 · goAFK
Short answer
  • Keep your home SIM on for calls and SMS; switch mobile data to the travel eSIM.
  • Turn off data roaming on the home SIM so your carrier does not charge for data.
  • Incoming SMS abroad are often free, but terms vary by carrier — check yours before you fly.

iPhone, step by step

  1. Settings → Cellular: keep both lines on.
  2. Cellular Data → choose the eSIM; turn off "Allow Cellular Data Switching".
  3. Home line → Data Roaming off. eSIM line → Data Roaming on.

Android, step by step

  1. Settings → Connections → SIM manager: keep both SIMs on.
  2. Mobile data → choose the eSIM; data roaming off for the home SIM, on for the eSIM.

Why not remove your home SIM

Bank, government-service and marketplace codes arrive on your home number. Phones with eSIM run two lines at once: keep the home SIM for calls and SMS and use the eSIM for data.

What to check with your home carrier

  • International roaming is enabled; without it the home SIM may not register abroad and SMS will not arrive.
  • The price of incoming SMS and calls in your destination; many carriers do not charge for incoming SMS, but it depends on the plan.
  • Send yourself a test SMS before you fly.

FAQ

Will bank SMS arrive while data runs on the eSIM?
Yes, as long as the home SIM is on and registered on a network abroad (international roaming enabled with your carrier).
Will I pay roaming on my home SIM?
Not for data if you turn off its data roaming; incoming calls and SMS are billed by your carrier's rules.
Do I have to remove my home SIM for the eSIM to work?
No. Both lines work together; choose the eSIM for mobile data.
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