Dual-SIM setup for Indian travellers: keep your number, use the eSIM for data
The exact settings so your Jio, Airtel or Vi number keeps receiving OTPs and WhatsApp while all data goes through the travel eSIM, without a roaming bill.
Quick facts
The dual-SIM setup for travel from India has four settings: keep the Indian SIM on with data roaming off, set the Universal eSIM as the mobile data line with data roaming on, set calls and SMS default to the Indian SIM, and turn off data switching between lines.
Guide reviewed on 25 October 2026 · Hotspot allowed on every plan · Full refund if your phone cannot install the eSIM
Step by step
Before you fly: check international roaming is enabled on the Indian SIM
Jio, Airtel and Vi enable it by default for postpaid; prepaid may need a one-time activation in the app. Without it, the SIM will not register abroad and you receive no OTPs.
Set the data line
iPhone: Settings, Cellular, Cellular Data, travel line; Allow Cellular Data Switching off. Android: SIM manager, Mobile data, travel line.
Set calls and SMS to the Indian SIM
iPhone: Default Voice Line, home SIM. Android: SIM manager, Calls and Text messages, home SIM.
Roaming per line
Travel eSIM: data roaming on. Indian SIM: data roaming off. This is the setting that prevents a roaming bill.
On landing
Both lines register. The Indian SIM shows a foreign partner network for calls and SMS; the eSIM carries data. WhatsApp keeps working on your Indian number over the eSIM data.
What costs money and what does not
Jio, Airtel and Vi specifics
- Jio: international roaming is on by default for most plans. Incoming SMS free. Daily packs available by app if you need a voice call.
- Airtel: enable international roaming in the Airtel Thanks app before departure. Airtel may send a welcome SMS with per-minute rates on landing; ignore it unless you need calls.
- Vi: enable international roaming in the Vi app; prepaid users may need a minimum balance for the SIM to register abroad.
Single-SIM phones
iPhones with no SIM tray (US models) run two eSIMs, so the same setup applies with your Indian number as an eSIM. Older single-SIM Android phones need a physical travel SIM and a decision about which SIM stays in.
Frequently asked questions
Will I receive bank OTPs abroad?
Yes, if the Indian SIM is on, has international roaming enabled, and registers on a foreign network. Incoming SMS is free on most Indian operators.
Does WhatsApp move to the eSIM?
No. WhatsApp stays on the number it was verified with and uses whatever data line is active. Your Indian number keeps working on the eSIM data.
What is "Allow Cellular Data Switching" on iPhone?
It lets the phone use the other line for data when the data line is weak. Abroad that means your Indian SIM could roam; turn it off.
Can I use two eSIMs instead of SIM plus eSIM?
Yes on iPhone 13 and later and on Pixel 7 and later. The settings are identical.
Should I turn the Indian SIM off completely?
Only if you do not need OTPs. Most travellers keep it on with data roaming off.
What if my Indian SIM does not register abroad?
International roaming is not enabled, or prepaid balance is low. Enable it in the operator app over the eSIM data; it usually works within an hour.
Related help
• eSIM on a dual-SIM iPhone
· • WhatsApp on eSIM
· • eSIM vs roaming
· • Full dual-SIM guide
· • USA eSIM from India
· • Help centre
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