How do I keep my US number while living abroad?
Living abroad can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One common concern for many expats is how to maintain their US phone number while living in a foreign country. This can be crucial for staying connected with friends, family, and business associates back home. In this article, we will explore various methods to help you keep your US number while living abroad.
1. Use a VoIP service
One of the most popular ways to keep your US number while living abroad is by using a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service. These services allow you to make and receive calls over the internet, using your existing US phone number. Some popular VoIP services include Skype, Google Voice, and MagicJack. These services often offer features like call forwarding, voicemail, and international calling rates that are much lower than traditional phone plans.
2. Get an international SIM card
Another option is to get an international SIM card that works with your existing US phone. This will allow you to keep your US number while using local networks in the foreign country. You can purchase an international SIM card from various carriers, such as T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon. Make sure to check the coverage and rates for the country you are moving to, as well as any data and roaming limitations.
3. Use a mobile hotspot
If you prefer to use your own device, a mobile hotspot can be a convenient solution. A mobile hotspot allows you to connect your smartphone, tablet, or laptop to a cellular network, enabling you to make calls, send texts, and use data as if you were on a local network. Many mobile carriers offer international roaming plans that allow you to use your device abroad without incurring excessive charges.
4. Use a local phone number with call forwarding
If you want to maintain your US number but also have a local presence in the foreign country, you can use a service that provides a local phone number with call forwarding to your US number. This way, when someone calls your local number, the call is automatically forwarded to your US number. Some popular services that offer this feature include Grasshopper, RingCentral, and Google Voice.
5. Consider a virtual phone number
A virtual phone number is a phone number that is not tied to a physical device or location. You can use a virtual phone number to receive calls, texts, and faxes from anywhere in the world. Some virtual phone number services also offer call forwarding, voicemail, and other features. This can be a great option if you want to maintain your US number while living abroad and also have a local presence in the foreign country.
Conclusion
Keeping your US number while living abroad is possible with various methods, including VoIP services, international SIM cards, mobile hotspots, local phone numbers with call forwarding, and virtual phone numbers. Choose the method that best suits your needs and budget, and you’ll be able to stay connected with your loved ones and business associates back home.
