How to Get an International Phone Number: Virtual Numbers, eSIM and VoIP Compared
From temporary virtual numbers to foreign SIM cards, eSIM and VoIP, we compare the main ways to get an international phone number by use case, pros and cons.
Table of contents
- Start by defining what you need
- Ways to get an international phone number
- 1. A temporary virtual number for SMS verification
- 2. A physical foreign SIM card
- 3. eSIM
- 4. VoIP numbers
- Comparison table
- Which option fits which situation?
- Legal and terms-of-service considerations
- How OnaySIM fits your verification needs
- Conclusion
You might need an international phone number to sign up for a service based abroad, to separate work and personal communication, or to stay in touch with customers in another country. There's no single right way to get an international phone number; the best method depends on what you'll use the number for and for how long. In this article, we compare the main options, from temporary virtual numbers used for SMS verification to long-term foreign SIM cards, eSIM and VoIP numbers.
Start by defining what you need
Before you start looking for a foreign number, ask yourself these questions:
- Will you use the number just to receive a single verification code, or for months of calls and messaging?
- Does the number need to stay yours, so you can use it again later for account recovery?
- Do you need voice calls, or is receiving SMS enough?
- What's your budget, and how much time can you spend on setup?
Your answers will quickly narrow down the options below. A one-time code and a number you plan to keep for years are very different needs, and they call for very different tools.
Ways to get an international phone number
1. A temporary virtual number for SMS verification
If you need to receive a one-time verification code, a temporary virtual number is usually the most practical choice. You don't need a physical line: you pick a country and a service in a web dashboard and can start using the number within minutes. We explain how virtual numbers work in detail in our article What is a virtual phone number?
2. A physical foreign SIM card
If you're in the country, getting a line from a local carrier is the most permanent option. However, many countries require ID registration to buy a SIM, and the line may need regular use or top-ups to stay active.
3. eSIM
On compatible phones, an eSIM lets you use a foreign line without inserting a physical card. Many travel-focused eSIM plans include mobile data only and don't come with a phone number, so if you need a number, always check whether the plan supports SMS and calls. Before installing an eSIM profile, also make sure your phone isn't carrier-locked.
4. VoIP numbers
VoIP numbers work over the internet and can be used for long-term calling and messaging. However, some platforms may not accept VoIP numbers for verification, and keeping the service running usually requires a subscription.
Comparison table
| Method | Best for | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temporary virtual number | One-time SMS verification, testing | Fast, no physical line needed, keeps your personal number private | Temporary; you may not be able to receive codes on the same number later |
| Foreign SIM card | Long-term local use | Permanent, supports calls and SMS | May require ID registration, physical access and regular use |
| eSIM | Travel, compatible devices | Setup without inserting a card | Many plans are data-only; requires a compatible device |
| VoIP number | Calls and messages over the internet | Flexible, location-independent | Some platforms may not accept it; requires a subscription |
Which option fits which situation?
- A one-time sign-up for an app based abroad: A temporary virtual number is usually enough.
- Your software team testing verification flows: Virtual numbers combined with API automation are a practical solution. See our SMS verification testing guide for a full test plan.
- Living or working abroad long term: A local SIM card or an eSIM that includes a number is a better fit.
- Regular contact with customers abroad: A VoIP or business-focused line can be a permanent, manageable solution.
Whatever you choose, it's a good habit not to share your personal number unnecessarily. Our phone number privacy guide covers this in more detail.
Legal and terms-of-service considerations
No matter which method you choose, you must follow the Terms of Service of every platform where you use the number. Some countries require identity verification to buy a line, and some services don't accept certain number types. Using a foreign number to impersonate someone else, get around platform restrictions, or open accounts in bulk breaks the rules and can lead to serious problems. When in doubt, check the current regulations of the relevant platform and country.
Also keep in mind that a number you stop using may eventually be reassigned to someone else. Updating the accounts linked to that number ahead of time is an important step for your security.
How OnaySIM fits your verification needs
OnaySIM is a verification-focused solution rather than a long-term foreign line. When you need to receive an SMS code without sharing your personal number, the process works like this:
- Create a free account and send USDT on the TRC-20 network to the address shown on the top-up page (see how to send USDT TRC-20 if you're new to it). After you submit a payment notification with your TxID, your balance is credited once an administrator approves it.
- Choose a service and a country on the get a number page.
- Enter the number in the app; the incoming code appears in the "Active Codes" area of your dashboard.
The number is reserved for about 20 minutes. If no code arrives within that time, the order is canceled and the charge is refunded to your balance; you can also cancel a pending order yourself and get a refund. Popular services such as WhatsApp, Telegram and Google are supported. Developers can automate these steps with a personal API key from their profile, following the API documentation. Remember that these numbers are temporary: for important accounts you'll need long-term access to, use a permanent number and additional recovery methods.
Conclusion
When deciding how to get an international phone number, start by clarifying your goal. For a one-time verification, a temporary virtual number is a fast and practical solution; for long-term communication and account recovery, permanent options such as a foreign SIM, an eSIM that includes a number, or VoIP are a better fit. Whichever route you take, follow each platform's Terms of Service and keep your number's privacy in mind.
