Most of Nomad's eSIMs are data-only and do not include a phone number, which means you cannot make traditional voice calls or send SMS with these eSIMs.
Devices may display labels like 'No Number' or 'Unknown Number' because Nomad eSIMs do not include a phone number for calls or SMS. This is expected behaviour and does not affect the eSIM's ability to provide mobile data.
Please check the individual plan details for more details of what is included in each plan.
Setting Up WhatsApp with a Nomad eSIM
Register Your Account: Since Nomad eSIMs are data-only and do not provide phone numbers(except UK/Maldives calling plans) or support SMS verification, you must use your primary SIM or another valid number to receive the verification code.
Activate Data: Once your Nomad eSIM is installed, set it as the default for mobile data on your device. WhatsApp will automatically use this data connection for its services.
Use WhatsApp: After registration, you can use WhatsApp for all data-based features, including messaging, voice calls, and video calls.
Additionally, some eSIM plans may include a "dummy number" provided by the carrier. This number is for identification purposes only and cannot be used to make calls or send SMS. These dummy numbers are not functional for receiving messages required for app verifications, such as WhatsApp registration.
In some cases, a 'dummy' number may appear, which is assigned by the provider for identification purposes only. This number cannot be used for calls, SMS, or app verifications and does not impact the eSIM's data functionality.
Only Nomad's Thailand eSIM from TRUE will include a phone number with unlimited calls to local DTAC numbers (60 minutes per call) and 30 minutes IDD calls via 00400 to China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Korea, India, and Vietnam. UK&Maldives calling plan will include phone numbers as well.
For data-only eSIM plans, you can still make calls and send messages using VoIP or messaging apps like WhatsApp or FaceTime, which use data instead of traditional voice/text services.
Alternatively, users may use their primary number on a separate SIM card from their home carrier for calls and texts. WhatsApp also supports voice and video calls over the data connection provided by the Nomad eSIM, ensuring seamless communication.
On certain devices, such as iPhones, the eSIM line may display without a number or with a generic label like 'Cellular Plan', 'Travel, 'Secondary' or 'Business'. This is normal and by Apple's design and does not affect the eSIM's functionality. Users can rename the eSIM line in their device settings if desired.
Note that standard international roaming fees may apply. After initiating the Nomad eSIM, ensure the apps like WhatsApp, dependent on data connectivity, have correct permissions and internet access enabled. This allows for uninterrupted usage of features such as messaging, VoIP voice and video calls.
To register WhatsApp, you need an active phone number to receive SMS or calls for verification, which the Nomad eSIM cannot provide. Instead, use your primary SIM card or another valid number. Additionally, WhatsApp can be used for international communication without additional fees since it relies on data, making it a cost-effective solution when traveling.
Additionally, once your WhatsApp is registered using a valid phone number, you can switch to a Nomad eSIM for data connectivity without affecting WhatsApp's functionality. Your existing phone number remains linked to your WhatsApp account. Furthermore, WhatsApp can be used on multiple devices as long as they have internet access via the Nomad eSIM, providing flexibility for users.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I upgrade my data-only eSIM to include text services? Unfortunately, it is not possible to upgrade a Nomad data-only eSIM to include SMS or traditional phone call capabilities.
Are there plans by Nomad that include voice and data options? Nomad primarily focuses on data-only eSIMs. While some plans like the Thailand eSIM and UK & Maldives calling plan include a local number for incoming calls, overall, Nomad does not offer conventional plans with voice and SMS features.
Can I use Nomad's eSIM for calling local numbers? Local calls are not supported (except for Thailand plans and UK & Maldives calling plan). Using apps over data provides the best alternative for such needs.
Can I register WhatsApp using my Nomad eSIM? No, the Nomad eSIM does not support receiving SMS or calls needed for WhatsApp registration, as it doesn't come with a phone number. Use your primary SIM or another number for verification.
Does Nomad eSIM support international messaging on WhatsApp? Yes, it supports WhatsApp for global communication without additional charges, as the platform uses data instead of traditional phone services.
Can I keep using WhatsApp if I disable my primary phone number after switching to a Nomad eSIM? Yes, as long as the Nomad eSIM provides an internet connection, WhatsApp will remain functional with your existing phone number.
What if WhatsApp calling or video features are restricted in the region I travel to? Regional restrictions applied to apps like WhatsApp by local ISPs will still apply, even on a Nomad eSIM.
Why does my Nomad eSIM show 'No Number' or 'Unknown Number'? Nomad eSIMs are data-only. This is normal for Nomad eSIMs as they do not include a phone number for calls or SMS. It does not affect the eSIM's ability to provide mobile data.
What is a 'dummy' number, and why does it appear? A 'dummy' number may be assigned by the provider for identification purposes only. It cannot be used for calls, SMS, or app verifications and does not impact data functionality.
- Can I use WhatsApp without Wi-Fi using a Nomad eSIM? Yes, as long as your Nomad eSIM has an active data connection, you can use WhatsApp without Wi-Fi.
Can I use WhatsApp on a new phone with a Nomad eSIM? Yes, if your WhatsApp account is already registered, you can use it on a new phone with a Nomad eSIM. Ensure the device has internet access via the eSIM. Note that a verification code might be sent to the WhatsApp-registered number.
Can I make WhatsApp calls with a Nomad eSIM? Yes, WhatsApp calls (voice and video) work over the data connection provided by the Nomad eSIM.
What if WhatsApp calling or video features are restricted in the region I travel to? Regional restrictions applied to apps like WhatsApp by local ISPs will still apply, even on a Nomad eSIM. For example, in Oman, WhatsApp video calls may not work due to ISP restrictions.
For any additional information, please contact our live chat support team.