International Travel

International Travel

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Cellcom offers support for traveling outside of the United States.

  1. Traveling to Canada, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands is included in many rate plans. Contact Customer Care at 611 to confirm you are on our latest plan with the latest SIM to receive these benefits.

  2. Purchase an affordable international package from Cellcom's partner, Sim Local. With this option, you won’t see any charges on your bill regarding international travel. An eSIM capable device is required and you will be assigned a new international phone number to use while traveling if you select a voice or text package.

Select your region of travel.

Activation Assistance

Once you’ve purchased your international package, follow the activation guide for easy setup.

After you’ve read the activation guide, use the instructions below for additional support.

International Travel FAQs

How do I determine which Sim Local plan is best for me?

Selecting a plan depends on how you would like to use your phone while traveling. With voice and text plans, Sim Local will assign a new international phone number. However, many travelers find they do not have a need for a number, with the use of apps like WhatsApp, Facetime Audio, and Apple iMessage for their communication needs. These apps are all use data services only and no voice or text plan would be required.

What charges can I expect when using Sim Local?

Your domestic rate plan does not apply. You will toggle to your pre-purchased, prepaid Sim Local international eSIM. As long as you are using your Sim Local eSIM while traveling internationally, you will not see any charges on your Cellcom bill for international travel.

You’ll purchase your package in advance of travel directly from Sim Local, so there are no additional charges on your Cellcom bill.

How do I download the eSIM to use Sim Local?

  1. Go to Settings
  2. Select Cellular
  3. Select Add eSIM              
  4. Click Use QR Code and select Enter Details Manually located at the bottom of the page.
    • Swipe up and open the email you received that contains your activation code.
    • Copy the SM-DP+ Address code, swipe up to switch back to settings.
    • Paste the code in the appropriate field.
    • Repeat for Activation Code and Unlock Code (if needed).
  5. Click Continue to activate and install your eSIM.  Please note, the installation make take a few minutes.  Do not exit out of this screen.
    • You may be prompted to “unlock” your eSIM for a second time. Enter “0000” as the PIN.
  6. In the next few screens, you’ll be asked to assign an eSIM to different functions such as calling, texting, or sending messages.
    • While traveling, select “Sim Local” for default.
    • If you have a data-only plan, you may want your iMessages to flow through your email address instead of your US phone number.  See RESOURCES, below for instructions on how to modify.
  7. Your activation is now completed, but before proceeding, name your new eSIM something easy to remember.  The new eSIM automatically defaults to the name “Business”.  We recommend you rename it to “Sim Local”.
  8. You will be returned to your Cellular screen, select Sim Local as your eSIM also validate that Cellular Data and Data Roaming are toggled on.

How can I check if my device works for international travel?

For general device information, please visit the device page on cellcom.com. Within the specifications tab, check the SIM card's capability. Devices that are capable have the option of using a Cellcom international SIM or a prepaid international package from Sim Local.

If your device is not eSIM capable, a prepaid international package may still be an option with Sim Local. Cellcom will provide you with a complimentary loaner phone to use while traveling.

Will Wi-Fi work while traveling?

Most smartphone models are capable of Wi-Fi and should work on Wi-Fi networks even when traveling internationally. If your device is capable of using Wi-Fi, it should work on a Wi-Fi signal even if data is disabled.

What is the difference between international travel and international long distance?

If you are staying in the United States and seek to call someone in another country, you will want to use International Long Distance, instead of an international travel option.

What is International Long Distance?

International Long Distance allows you to dial an international exchange from the United States. In order to have international long distance capability on your phone, you need to contact Cellcom Customer Care at 611 to have a feature added to your account.

When you place an international long distance call, you will be charged an international long distance rate. Additionally, you will use minutes from your voice package if you are not on an unlimited plan. If you have used all included minutes from your plan, you will be charged the additional airtime rate.

To make an international call, simply:

  • Dial the international access code +, 001 or 011
  • Dial the appropriate country code for the country you are calling
  • Dial the number you are calling
  • Press Send

Who can I call if I need assistance with my eSIM?

If you need assistance with your eSIM, please call Cellcom’s Customer Care using one of the following options:

  • Dial 611 from your Cellcom phone
  • Toll-free: 800-236-0055
  • Local: 920-339-4000
  • Email: IntHelp@cellcom.com

Is there anything I need to do when I return?

You will need to return to your Cellcom SIM.

iPhone Instructions

  1. Go to Settings
  2. Select Cellular
  3. Select your Cellcom Sim

Android Instructions

  1. Go to Settings
  2. Select Connections
  3. Select your Cellcom Sim

It is recommended you delete your Sim Local eSIM.  If or when you travel again, you will purchase a new Sim Local eSIM plan.

Can I still use Wi-Fi Calling if I purchase a data only plan?

Yes, you can enable Wi-Fi calling and connect to Wi-Fi to place phone calls. If you are connected to a local Wi-Fi network, you won’t be charged international calling minutes.