BlogHow to Call Without a SIM Card?

Not having a SIM card when you need to make a call can be frustrating. Maybe you’re traveling and don’t want to buy a local SIM, or your device doesn’t support one. In such situations, staying connected might feel impossible.

Fortunately, there are effective ways, such as using Wi-Fi calling, internet-based calling, and virtual telephony services, to make calls without a SIM card.

This guide will explore the most reliable ways to make calls without a SIM card and help you stay connected anytime, anywhere.

Highllights:

  • To make a call without a SIM card, using a virtual number is a reliable option that lets you make and receive calls, send texts, access voicemail, and even conduct video conferences, all operating over the internet.
  • The top cloud telephony platforms that offer virtual numbers include Calilio, RingCentral, Grasshopper, Nextiva, and Vonage.
  • Other ways to make calls without a SIM card include Wi-Fi Calling, internet-based calling apps, and advanced eSIM technology.

How to Call without a SIM Card: Effective Ways That Work in 2025

The best way to call without a SIM card is by using cloud VoIP and virtual telephony services, which provide virtual numbers and advanced call management features for seamless communication. Alternatively, you can use Wi-Fi calling, internet-based apps, or eSIM to make calls without a physical SIM.

1. Using Cloud VoIP and Virtual Telephony Services

Cloud VoIP and virtual telephony services allow you to make and receive calls through the internet without a physical SIM card. With a virtual number, you can use the same line across multiple devices, whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, or laptop, as long as you have an internet connection. This flexibility is useful for remote workers, frequent travelers, and individuals who want a second number without the hassle or cost of maintaining an extra SIM card.


Top 5 Providers for Phone Numbers Without a SIM Card

  1. Calilio

    Calilio is a cloud telephony platform that offers virtual numbers in many countries, allowing users to manage calls, texts, and voicemails, all without a physical SIM card. It focuses on delivering HD voice quality and advanced call management features like call routing, voicemail, and analytics.

    Features:
    1. VoIP Calls: You can make local and international calls at an affordable price over the Internet.
    2. AI-powered Call report: You can get detailed call transcriptions, summaries, and insights instantly for smarter follow-ups and decision-making.
    3. Call Management Features: It includes call forwarding, call recording, power dialer, and real-time monitoring to help businesses keep track of all communication.
    4. Unified Callbox: It centralizes and manages all communication channels, such as voice calls, voicemails, texts, and even emails, in one integrated interface.
  2. RingCentral

    RingCentral is a cloud-based communication platform that provides voice, video, messaging, and collaboration tools. It is suitable for businesses of all sizes and is widely used to manage their telephone needs.

    Features:
    1. Unified Communication: It combines phone calls, video conferencing, team messaging, and file sharing into one platform.
    2. Mobile and Desktop Apps: You can access your business phone system anywhere on any device.
    3. Call Analytics: It provides detailed reports on call traffic and durations, helping businesses optimize communication.
    4. All-in-One Communication: It supports voice calls, video meetings, and team messaging.
  3. Grasshopper

    Grasshopper is a virtual phone system designed for entrepreneurs and small businesses. It is perfect for small business owners or freelancers who need a professional phone system without the complexity and cost of traditional PBX systems.

    Features:
    1. Virtual Numbers: It provides local, toll-free, or vanity numbers to create a professional image for your business.
    2. Call Forwarding: You can also easily forward your business calls to your personal phone, ensuring you never miss a customer’s call.
    3. Voicemail Transcription: It transcribes your voicemail into text and emails, allowing for easy review.
    4. Extensions: You can set up multiple extensions for team members to route calls efficiently.
  4. Nextiva

    Nextiva is a VoIP-based cloud phone service offering advanced business communication tools. It is suitable for companies that need more than basic phone services and offers a range of advanced features, such as analytics, CRM integration, and collaboration tools.

    Features:
    1. VoIP Phone System: Allows you to make and receive calls over the internet using Nextiva’s advanced business phone system.
    2. Call Analytics: Provides detailed insights into call metrics such as call patterns, duration, and performance, enabling businesses to optimize their communication strategies.
    3. CRM Integration: Nextiva’s platform integrates with CRM tools, helping businesses manage customer relationships more effectively.
    4. Team Collaboration: Includes chat, video conferencing, and file-sharing tools to improve team communication.
  5. Vonage

    Vonage is a cloud communications provider that offers VoIP-based phone services for both individuals and businesses. It is flexible because it can integrate with existing tools and systems. Vonage is perfect for businesses that want a scalable communication solution, want to integrate with other tools like CRMs, and automate processes using APIs.

    Features:
    1. Unified Communications: It combines voice, video, messaging, and conferencing into a single platform to streamline communication.
    2. Virtual Numbers: You can get local or toll-free numbers in various regions to expand your business presence.
    3. API Integration: It offers various APIs that allow businesses to customize and automate their communication processes.
    4. Call Center Features: It also provides advanced features like call routing, virtual receptionists, and detailed reporting, making it ideal for customer service-focused businesses.

2. Using Wi-Fi Calling

Wi-Fi Calling is one of the easiest ways to make calls without a SIM card. Most modern smartphones come with built-in Wi-Fi Calling features that let you place and receive calls using a Wi-Fi network instead of relying on cellular networks.

Here is how to enable Wi-Fi Calling on Android to make a call without simcard:

  • Open the Settings app on your phone.
  • Go to SIM Card and Mobile Data (this may vary slightly depending on your phone model).
  • If you use dual SIMs, select the SIM you want to configure.
  • Look for the Wi-Fi Calling option.
  • Toggle it ON to activate Wi-Fi Calling.

Here is how to enable Wi-Fi Calling on iPhone to make a call without a SIM card:

  • Tap on Settings from the home screen.
  • Scroll down and select Cellular.
  • Tap on Wi-Fi Calling.
  • Toggle on Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone.
  • To dial, use your phone app, and the call will be routed over Wi-Fi
📖 You may also read: Pros and Cons of Wi-Fi Calling

3. Using eSIM Instead of Traditional SIM Cards

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital alternative to the traditional physical SIM card. Instead of inserting a small chip into your phone, an eSIM is built into your device and can be activated by scanning a QR code or downloading carrier settings. This allows you to make calls, send texts, and use mobile data without needing a physical SIM card.

With eSIM, you can switch between carriers, manage multiple phone numbers, and activate service instantly without visiting a store. It’s especially useful for frequent travelers who can add local carrier plans while keeping their primary number active. Many modern smartphones, tablets, and even smartwatches now support eSIM.

Here's how you can activate and use an eSIM on your device:

  • Ensure that your phone supports eSIM.
  • Pick a carrier that supports eSIM in your country.
  • Buy an eSIM plan from the carrier.They will typically provide you with a QR code or instructions for setting up the eSIM.
  • Scan the QR Code.
  • Once the QR code is scanned, the eSIM plan will be activated on your device, and you can start using it immediately.

4. Utilizing Internet-Based Calling Apps

With Internet-based calling apps, you can make calls over Wi-Fi or mobile data without a SIM card. These apps use VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology that allows you to call other users for free or at low rates. All you need is a stable internet connection.


Top 5 Internet-Based Calling Apps to Make Calls Without a SIM Card

  1. WhatsApp

    WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps globally, owned by Facebook (Meta). It is available for both iOS and Android users. It lets you make free calls, text, and share media with other WhatsApp users. You can use it for free as long as you have an internet connection, and it is widely used around the world.

    Features:
    1. Free Voice and Video Calls: Make free calls to any other WhatsApp user, no matter where they are in the world.
    2. Text Messaging and Media Sharing: You can send messages, pictures, videos, and even voice notes to other WhatsApp users.
    3. Group Calls: You can make group calls with up to 8 people at a time.
    4. End-to-end Encryption: All communication on WhatsApp is secure and private, thanks to end-to-end encryption.
  2. Viber

    Viber allows free calling and messaging to other Viber users. Like WhatsApp, it is available on Android and iOS devices. Besides free voice and video calls, Viber also offers excellent security features like hidden chats. It also offers a feature called “Viber Out,” which allows users to make low-cost international calls to non-Viber users.

    Features:
    1. Free Calls and Messages: Users can connect and send messages free of charge.
    2. Viber Out: It allows you to make low-cost calls to non-Viber users, including landlines and mobile phones.
    3. Group Chats and Calls: You can create group chats with up to 250 participants and conduct group video calls.
    4. Hidden Chats: Users can hide certain chats in Viber to protect their privacy.
  3. Skype

    Skype is one of the pioneers of Internet calling. It is widely used for personal and professional purposes and is a popular platform for international phone calls. It is available across multiple platforms, including mobile, desktop, and web browsers. With Skype, you can make free online voice and video calls to other Skype users.

    Features:
    1. Free Skype-to-Skype Calls: You can make voice and video calls to any Skype user for free.
    2. Low-Cost Calls to Landlines and Mobiles: With Skype credit, you can make affordable international calls to landlines and mobile phones.
    3. Group Video Calls: You can host group video calls with up to 50 participants.
    4. Screen Sharing: Skype also allows you to share your screen during a call, which is useful for business meetings or collaboration.
  4. Google Voice

    Google Voice gives you a free U.S. phone number to make calls, send texts, and check voicemail. It also supports international calling at affordable rates and offers free calling within the U.S. and Canada.

    Features:
    1. Free U.S. Calls: Make unlimited free calls to any number within the U.S. and Canada.
    2. Low International Rates: Google Voice offers very low rates for international calls to landlines and mobiles.
    3. Voicemail Transcription: Voicemails are automatically transcribed into text and sent to your email.
    4. Call Forwarding: You can forward your Google Voice number to other devices, allowing you to take calls on any phone or computer.
  5. Facebook Messenger

    Facebook Messenger is part of the Facebook (Meta) system and is used by billions of people worldwide. You can call, chat, and have video conferences with anyone who has a Facebook account. So, if you’re already active on Facebook, Messenger is a great free call app without a number to stay in touch with friends and family.

    Features:
    1. Free Voice and Video Calls: You can make free voice and video calls to any Facebook Messenger user globally.
    2. Text Messaging: It allows you to send text messages, stickers, images, and videos to your friends and family.
    3. Group Calls: Messenger supports group video calls with up to 50 people and even more for group chats.
    4. Cross-Platform Availability: Messenger is available on smartphones, tablets, and desktops, allowing you to stay connected across devices.

Conclusion

Calling without a SIM card is easy due to modern alternatives like eSIM technology, cloud VoIP services, virtual phone numbers, and internet-based calling apps. These options give you the freedom to make and receive calls across multiple devices without being tied to a physical SIM.

However, not all methods offer the same level of flexibility or reliability. While Wi-Fi calling features and messaging apps may work for basic communication, they often come with limitations, such as requiring the same app on both ends or being tied to a specific carrier or device.
 

For a more complete and professional solution, a virtual number provided by a trusted cloud telephony provider like Calilio is the best option. You can make and receive calls without a SIM card while enjoying HD call quality on any device. Calilio gives you access to local, mobile, and toll-free numbers from over 100 countries, ensuring a global presence for your business. You can also port your existing number without disruption and take advantage of advanced call management tools. Sign up for Calilio today!


Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Call Without a SIM Card?

Yes, you can call without a SIM card using Wi-Fi calling, VoIP services, or internet-based apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Google Voice. All you need is an internet connection.

How to Call Without a SIM Card on Android vs. iPhone?

What are the best apps for making phone calls without a SIM card?

How Can I Talk Without a Phone Number?

How Can I Call From the Internet to Mobile Without a Number?

FAQ Illustration

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