How to Use an eSIM Abroad With Your Indian Number Without Losing Bank OTPs

Quick answer: Yes, you can use an eSIM abroad with your Indian number still working. On a dual-SIM phone, a travel eSIM handles your mobile data, while your Indian SIM stays on for bank OTPs (one-time passwords) and SMS. Please note that your Indian SIM must remain active, and your operator may need international roaming switched on before texts can reach you abroad.

Your Indian mobile number is something that every bank, UPI (Unified Payments Interface) app and government portal back home depends on. However, the moment you land abroad, that number either becomes expensive to use or stops working altogether. That is when the OTP for your hostel deposit fails to arrive. It is also when most students realise how much of their life is tied to one SIM.

Can You Use a Travel eSIM and Keep Your Indian Number Active?

Yes, you often can, as long as your phone supports dual SIM. The two lines simply do different jobs:

Please note that your travel eSIM has no say over roaming on your Indian SIM. Hence, whether your OTPs arrive depends on your Indian operator, the network in the country you land in and your bank.

Why Use a Travel eSIM Instead of Relying Only on Your Indian SIM?

One might assume that switching on roaming for the Indian SIM solves everything. But this is not the case. Roaming data is usually the most expensive way to stay online, whereas a travel eSIM keeps your banking line apart from the line you browse on every day.

Use Your Indian Number for Banking Messages

Most Indian banks send OTPs, card alerts and account verification codes only to the mobile number registered with them. Changing that number from abroad is difficult, and new Indian connections usually need in-person verification. Therefore, keeping your Indian number reachable protects your access to net banking, cards and UPI while you are away. Please note that SMS delivery still depends on your Indian operator, the destination network, your bank and any roaming requirements that apply.

Use a Travel eSIM for Mobile Data Abroad

With a travel eSIM, you get the data you need for Google Maps, WhatsApp and email, while your bank still has your Indian number on record. If you are flying to Canada, the USA or the UK, Unlimit Mobile has a travel eSIM for all three, and every plan comes with a local phone number too. You can compare plans for Canada , the USA and the UK and confirm that your phone supports eSIM on our device compatibility page .

Please note that Unlimit Mobile provides data and service on its own line only. It does not activate roaming on your Indian SIM, and it does not deliver your Indian bank OTPs.

How to Set Up an Indian SIM and Travel eSIM Together

It is advised to set up both lines at home before you fly, while your Indian SIM still has a strong signal.

Dual-SIM Setup on iPhone

Please note that these menus can look slightly different, depending on which iPhone you have, the iOS version it runs and your carrier. If they do, Apple's Dual SIM guide walks through each one.

Dual-SIM Setup on Android

Android menu names and dual-SIM features vary by manufacturer and device. If a setting looks different on your phone, Google's Android Help or your phone maker's support page will have the exact path.

How to Receive Indian Bank OTPs While Using a Travel eSIM

SMS generally does not need mobile data. However, your Indian SIM still needs active service and roaming connectivity to receive texts abroad. Hence, it is advised to check the following a week before you fly:

Please note that choosing a travel eSIM for data does not guarantee that your OTPs will arrive. Some banks also offer other ways to verify, such as in-app approval, depending on their own policies.

How to Avoid Unnecessary Mobile Data Roaming Charges

In simple terms, your Indian SIM receives the texts, and your travel eSIM carries the data.

These steps reduce unwanted data use. However, they do not remove every possible roaming charge, so it is advised to read TRAI's roaming FAQs , which suggest checking partner-operator tariffs with your own operator.

What Changes If You Are Moving Abroad to Study?

Most guides on this topic are written for a two-week holiday. A two-year degree needs a longer plan, and an eSIM for international students has to work for the whole course, not just the first week.

What If Your Indian Bank OTP Does Not Arrive Abroad?

Take a scenario where you are paying your first month's rent and the OTP never comes. In this case, work through these steps in order: