Why Is My eSIM Not Sending SMS Messages While Traveling

Sending SMS messages is essential for travelers who need to communicate with friends, family, or businesses while on the move. However, some eSIM users may experience issues sending SMS messages, which can arise from plan limitations, roaming restrictions, or incorrect settings. Resolving this issue requires understanding the underlying causes and applying targeted solutions.

Here’s how to troubleshoot and fix eSIM issues with sending SMS messages while traveling.

1. eSIM Plan Does Not Include SMS Services

Many eSIM plans, particularly those designed for travelers, are data-only and do not support SMS messaging.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Confirm whether your eSIM plan includes SMS services.
• Contact your eSIM provider to upgrade to a plan that supports SMS messaging.
• Use alternative messaging apps, such as WhatsApp or Telegram, if SMS is not included in your plan.

Example: A traveler in Europe resolved their SMS issue by upgrading to an eSIM plan that included SMS capabilities.

2. Roaming Restrictions on SMS

Some eSIM providers impose restrictions on sending SMS messages while roaming in certain regions.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Verify with your eSIM provider whether SMS services are supported in your travel destination.
• Enable SMS roaming in your device settings:
  • iOS: Navigate to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Voice & Data and ensure roaming is enabled.
  • Android: Go to Settings > Mobile Networks > Roaming and enable roaming.

Example: A traveler in Asia resolved their SMS issue by enabling roaming for both voice and SMS.

3. Incorrect Message Center Number

The Message Center Number (MCN) is critical for routing SMS messages. An incorrect MCN can prevent SMS from being sent.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Obtain the correct MCN from your eSIM provider.
• Update the MCN in your device settings:
  • iOS: Contact your carrier for specific instructions, as the MCN is typically set automatically.
  • Android: Navigate to Settings > Messages > Message Center Number and update it manually.

Example: A traveler restored SMS functionality by updating their Message Center Number to match their eSIM provider’s details.

4. Insufficient Balance or Plan Expiry

If your eSIM operates on a prepaid model, an insufficient balance or expired plan may block SMS messaging.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Check your plan balance or validity via the provider’s app or website.
• Top up your plan or renew your subscription if necessary.

Example: A traveler in South America restored their SMS capabilities by recharging their eSIM balance.

5. Device Not Configured for SMS via eSIM

If your device is not set to use the eSIM for SMS, messages may not be sent successfully.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Set the eSIM as the default for SMS in your device settings:
  • iOS: Go to Settings > Messages > Send & Receive and select your eSIM number.
  • Android: Navigate to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager and assign the eSIM for SMS.

Example: A traveler resolved their SMS issue by prioritizing the eSIM for messaging in their device settings.

6. Outdated Device Software

Outdated software can disrupt SMS functionality on your eSIM.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Update your device’s operating system to the latest version:
  • iOS: Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
  • Android: Navigate to Settings > Software Update.
• Restart your device after updating to ensure changes take effect.

Example: A traveler in Europe restored SMS functionality by updating their device software.

7. Network Compatibility Issues

Your eSIM may not support the network technologies (e.g., LTE, 3G) required for sending SMS messages in certain regions.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Contact your eSIM provider to confirm compatibility with local networks.
• Manually switch to a compatible network:
  • iOS: Go to Settings > Cellular > Network Selection and select a network manually.
  • Android: Navigate to Settings > Mobile Networks > Network Operators.

Example: A traveler in Japan resolved their SMS issue by manually switching to a compatible LTE network.

8. Temporary Network or Provider Downtime

Local network outages or eSIM provider issues can temporarily block SMS services.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Check your provider’s app or website for updates on service interruptions.
• Wait a few hours and retry sending SMS messages.
• Contact customer support if the issue persists.

Example: A traveler in Canada resolved their SMS issue after a brief outage was fixed by their eSIM provider.

9. SIM Conflicts in Dual-SIM Mode

Using a physical SIM and an eSIM simultaneously in dual-SIM mode can create conflicts, especially when sending SMS messages.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Temporarily remove the physical SIM and restart your device to prioritize the eSIM.
• Set the eSIM as the default for SMS in your device settings:
  • iOS: Go to Settings > Messages > Send & Receive.
  • Android: Navigate to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager and prioritize the eSIM for SMS.

Example: A traveler resolved SMS conflicts by disabling their physical SIM during their trip.

Conclusion

When your eSIM doesn’t send SMS messages while traveling, the issue often involves plan limitations, incorrect settings, or network compatibility. By addressing these factors—such as enabling roaming, updating the Message Center Number, and prioritizing the eSIM—you can resolve most issues efficiently.

Planning ahead by selecting an eSIM plan with SMS capabilities, testing your setup before travel, and keeping your device updated can ensure uninterrupted communication during your travels.