How to have a USA phone number while living abroad

The article provides a great starting point for keeping your US phone number while living abroad, but let's dive a bit deeper into each method and explore some other common questions I've encountered. It's like a "Part 2" to ensure you're fully equipped! 1. VOIP/Virtual Numbers: Your Digital Lifeline This is often my go-to recommendation. Services like Google Voice, OpenPhone, or TextNow allow you to get a US phone number that operates entirely over the internet. How I use it: I primarily use my Google Voice number for things like two-factor authentication (critical for banking and online accounts!), receiving verification codes, and keeping in touch with friends who don't use international messaging apps. It's fantastic because it doesn't rely on a physical SIM card. Pros: Very cost-effective (often free for basic services), accessible from any device with internet, great for SMS verification, and you can pick a US area code. Cons: Requires a stable internet connection, call quality can vary, and some services might not work for all types of calls (e.g., emergency services). My Tip: Make sure to set up your virtual number before you leave the US, as some services require a US IP address for initial setup. 2. WiFi Calling: Seamless Integration with Your Existing Carrier Many US carriers now offer WiFi Calling, which is a game-changer. If your US phone plan supports it, you can essentially use your existing US number to make and receive calls and texts over any WiFi network, just as if you were in the US. How it works for me: When I connect to WiFi, my phone automatically switches to WiFi Calling. It's incredibly convenient because I don't need a separate app or number; it uses my primary US number. Pros: Uses your existing US number, often included with your plan, excellent call quality with good WiFi. Cons: Depends on your US carrier's support, requires WiFi, and can sometimes be a battery drain. My Tip: Check with your specific US carrier before you move to confirm if they offer WiFi Calling and if there are any restrictions or extra charges when used internationally. 3. International Calling Plans: When You Need a Traditional Approach While VOIP and WiFi Calling cover most bases, sometimes an international calling plan from your US carrier or a local SIM in your new country with international add-ons can be useful. When I consider it: For very short trips or if I absolutely need reliable cellular service for a specific period without relying on WiFi, I might look into a temporary international roaming package. But for long-term living abroad, these can get extremely expensive. Pros: Reliable cellular service, can be good for short-term travel. Cons: High cost for long-term use, often limited data/talk/text. Beyond Keeping Your Number: Calling to and from the US You might also be wondering: "How do I call the USA from Dubai or the UK?" If you're using a local SIM in another country, you'll always dial +1 followed by the 10-digit US number. If you're using your kept US number (via VOIP or WiFi calling), you'd just dial the 10-digit number directly, just like you would in the US. "Can I call a US number that is abroad?" Yes, absolutely! If you have a US number (even a virtual one), you simply dial the US number as usual. The person you're calling, if they are abroad, will receive it on their US number (assuming they've also kept it via one of the methods above, or are roaming). "How to enter an American phone number?" Always start with the country code +1, followed by the three-digit area code, and then the seven-digit local number (e.g., +1 (XXX) XXX-XXXX). Keeping your US phone number while living abroad is totally achievable with these strategies. It truly helps maintain connections and manage important accounts back home. Good luck on your international adventure!