Will My Phone Work Abroad? Compatibility Check
Most phones made after 2020 work internationally. Check three things: carrier unlock status, network band compatibility, and eSIM support.
Is Your Phone Unlocked?
Carrier-locked phones may not connect to foreign networks. Check: Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock (iPhone). Contact your carrier to unlock if needed. Most phones are unlocked after the contract period.
Network Band Compatibility
Different countries use different LTE bands. Most modern phones (iPhone 12+, Samsung Galaxy S21+) support enough bands for worldwide use. Older or budget phones may lack key bands.
Does Your Phone Support eSIM?
iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, Google Pixel 3 and later all support eSIM. Dial *#06# to check if your phone shows an EID number.
Phone Compatibility Abroad Questions
Will my iPhone work in another country?
Yes. iPhones from iPhone 8 onward support global LTE bands. iPhone XS and later support eSIM. Ensure your phone is carrier-unlocked.
Will my Samsung phone work abroad?
Most Samsung Galaxy phones from S20 onward work internationally and support eSIM. Check band compatibility for older models.
Do I need to unlock my phone for international travel?
Yes, if your phone is carrier-locked. Contact your carrier to request an unlock. Most carriers unlock phones after the contract period.
How do I check if my phone supports eSIM?
Dial *#06# on your phone. If an EID number appears, your phone supports eSIM. Or check Settings > General > About (iPhone) for 'Available SIM' or 'EID'.
What if my phone doesn't support eSIM?
You can still use a physical SIM card bought at your destination. Or use WiFi-only for data and your home SIM for calls via WiFi Calling.
Your phone works abroad. Set it up right.
Check eSIM compatibility and find a plan for your destination.
Find your destination →Former consumer pricing analyst at J.D. Power covering wireless carrier satisfaction surveys
How we verify rates →We earn a commission when you purchase through links on this page. It does not change our rankings or the price you pay.