Can a Data eSIM Receive SMS Verification Codes?

Short answer: usually not. Most travel eSIMs are data-only. They connect you to the internet, but they don't come with a phone number, and without a number there's nowhere for an SMS to be delivered. That includes the one-time codes apps send when you sign up or log in.

What "data-only" means

A data-only eSIM gives you mobile internet on a local network. It can't make or receive normal calls or texts, because it has no phone number attached. Apps that work over the internet, such as WhatsApp messages and calls, maps and email, work fine on it. What doesn't work is anything that needs a text sent to a number, which includes most account verification codes.

Some eSIM providers also sell data-plus-number plans (data, calls and texts) for some countries. Those can receive SMS, but they cost more and aren't available everywhere.

Ways to receive verification codes while travelling

Keep your home SIM active alongside the eSIM. Dual-SIM phones can use the eSIM for data and your normal SIM for calls and texts at the same time. Codes for accounts tied to your home number keep arriving, as long as your carrier lets you receive SMS while roaming. Many do at no charge, but check first.

Choose a data-plus-number plan where one exists for your destination.

Rent a local number online for the codes you need, and use the data eSIM for everything else. This is the option when an app insists on a number from the country you're in, or you don't want to hand your personal number to a new service.

Before you rely on a rented number

Rented numbers are best for codes you need during your trip. Once the rental ends, you can't receive further codes on that number. Don't make it the only recovery number for an account you'll want to keep long-term.