How to Call Without a SIM Card in 2026

Your SIM card stops working, you're traveling without a local plan, or you're repurposing an old phone—and you still need to make a call. The solution is simpler than most people realize.

VoIP technology lets any device with an internet connection dial real phone numbers worldwide, with over 2.5 billion users already using mobile VoIP services. This guide covers the main methods for calling without a SIM card, compares your options, and walks through what actually works in 2026.

Can You Call Without a SIM Card?

Yes, you can make phone calls without a SIM card by using WiFi and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). VoIP sends your voice over the internet instead of cellular towers, so any device with an internet connection works as a phone.

This isn't limited to calling other app users either. VoIP connects to real landline and mobile numbers in over 200 countries. Your phone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer can all place calls this way.

How to Call Without a SIM Card

The right method depends on who you're calling and what you have available. Some options work only when both people use the same app, while others let you dial any phone number worldwide.

1. Use VoIP or a Virtual Phone Number

VoIP services dial actual phone numbers—landlines, mobiles, businesses—directly from your browser or an app. The person you're calling answers on their regular phone. They don't download anything or sign up for anything.

• How it works: Your voice converts to data, travels through internet servers, then connects to traditional phone networks.
• Best for: Calling banks, airlines, family abroad, businesses, or anyone with a phone number.
• What you'll want: A stable WiFi or mobile data connection.

Browser-based VoIP services like CallTuv skip the app download entirely. You sign up, add credits, and dial any number from Chrome, Safari, or Firefox. Rates start around $0.03/min to many destinations.

Make your first call

2. Enable WiFi Calling on Your Phone

WiFi Calling is a feature built into most modern smartphones. It routes calls over wireless networks instead of cellular towers. This improves indoor reception.

Here's the catch, though: WiFi Calling still requires an active carrier account. Without a SIM or eSIM tied to a carrier plan, the feature won't work. It's useful for people who have a carrier but want better indoor coverage—not for going completely SIM-free.

3. Get an eSIM Instead of a Physical SIM

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a traditional SIM card built into newer devices. You download carrier plans directly to your phone without swapping physical cards, which travelers often find convenient.

That said, an eSIM still requires a carrier subscription. It replaces the physical card but not the carrier relationship. If you want to avoid carrier plans entirely, VoIP offers a different path.

4. Download an Internet Calling App

Apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime Audio, and Messenger offer free calling between users. The limitation? Both people have to use the same app for the call to connect.

When you're trying to reach a business, a landline, or someone without a smartphone, app-to-app calling falls short. VoIP services that dial real phone numbers handle those situations better.

What You Need to Make Calls Without a SIM Card

Getting started takes minimal setup. Here's what you'll want:

• Stable internet connection: WiFi works best. Mobile data from another device's hotspot also works.
• Compatible device: Any smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop with a microphone and speaker.
• Calling service or app: A VoIP provider, WiFi calling feature, or internet calling app.
• Account setup: Most services require an email address. Browser-based options skip the app download.

Best Services for Calling Without a SIM Card

Different services work better for different situations. Here's how the main categories compare.

Browser-Based VoIP Services

Browser-based VoIP works directly in your web browser with no app installation. You can call any landline or mobile number worldwide, typically with pay-as-you-go pricing.

CallTuv covers 200+ countries with rates starting from $0.03/min. You see the exact cost before dialing, and credits never expire.

Mobile Calling Apps

WhatsApp, Viber Out, and Skype offer calling features. App-to-app calls are usually free, but calls to regular phone numbers cost extra. Pricing structures vary between apps, and some require subscriptions.

Carrier WiFi Calling

Carrier WiFi Calling uses your existing carrier relationship to route calls over WiFi. It helps when traveling, but you're still bound by your carrier's rates and coverage.

eSIM Providers

Travel-focused eSIM services like Airalo and Holafly provide alternatives to traditional carrier plans. While convenient for data, eSIM providers are carrier alternatives—not truly SIM-free calling solutions.

WiFi Calling vs VoIP Without a SIM Card

WiFi Calling and VoIP often get confused, but they work quite differently.

WiFi Calling is a carrier feature. It uses your existing phone number and carrier account, just routing the call over WiFi instead of cellular towers. Your carrier still sets the rates, and you still have a plan.

VoIP services operate independently of any carrier. You can get a new virtual number or simply dial out without one. You choose your provider and your rates. No contracts, no carrier relationship required.

For truly SIM-free calling—or for international calls at up to 90% lower rates—VoIP is typically the better fit.

How to Make International Calls Without a SIM Card

Calling abroad without roaming fees is where VoIP stands out. Traditional carriers often charge $1-3 per minute for international calls. VoIP services start around $0.03/min to many destinations.

• No roaming charges: Calls route over the internet, bypassing carrier fees entirely.
• Transparent pricing: You see the exact cost per minute before placing the call.
• Global coverage: Reach landlines and mobiles in 200+ countries.
• Works anywhere: Make calls from any location with WiFi or data access.

Browser-based services work from any country with internet. Whether you're in a hotel in Tokyo or a café in Lisbon, you call home at the same rate.

Make your first call

Tips for Better Call Quality Without a SIM Card

Internet-based calling depends on your connection. A few adjustments make a noticeable difference.

Use a Stable WiFi or Mobile Data Connection

Call quality reflects your internet speed and stability. WiFi generally outperforms mobile data. Private networks beat congested public ones for important calls.

Close Background Apps and Browser Tabs

Streaming, downloads, and other bandwidth-heavy activities compete with voice traffic. Closing unnecessary apps frees up resources for clearer audio.

Choose Services with HD Audio

Not all VoIP providers deliver the same sound quality. Look for services advertising HD voice or wideband audio. Browser-based services using WebRTC technology typically provide excellent clarity.

Test Your Setup Before Important Calls

A quick test call takes 30 seconds and saves you from technical issues during a critical conversation. Also verify that your browser has microphone permissions enabled.

Common Mistakes When Calling Without a SIM Card

A few pitfalls trip up first-time users. Knowing them in advance helps you avoid frustration.

Relying Only on App-to-App Calling

WhatsApp and similar apps work great when the other person has the same app. For calling businesses, landlines, or people without smartphones, you'll want a VoIP service that dials real phone numbers.

Ignoring International Per-Minute Rates

Many apps advertise "free calling" but charge significant fees for calls to actual phone numbers. Always check the per-minute rates before committing to a service.

Choosing Services with Hidden Fees or Subscriptions

Connection fees, monthly minimums, and expiring credits add up. Pay-as-you-go services with non-expiring credits offer more predictable costs.

Forgetting Emergency Calling Limitations

Most VoIP and WiFi calling services cannot reliably connect to emergency services like 911 or 112. Always have a backup option for emergencies. Interestingly, phones can often dial emergency numbers even without a SIM card installed.

How to Choose a SIM-Free Calling Service

With several options available, a few criteria help narrow down the right fit.

Country Coverage and Destinations

Confirm the service covers everywhere you'll want to call. For maximum flexibility, look for providers offering 200+ countries.

Transparent Per-Minute Pricing

The best services display rates clearly before you dial. Avoid providers that hide pricing or bundle fees in confusing ways.

Audio Quality and Connection Reliability

HD audio and direct carrier connections typically mean better reliability. When researching, look for reviews mentioning call quality specifically—not just price.

Device and Browser Compatibility

Browser-based services generally offer the widest compatibility since they're not limited by app store restrictions or device requirements.

Security and Encryption

For business calls or sensitive conversations, end-to-end encryption keeps your discussions private. Not all services offer this level of protection.

Start Calling Without a SIM Card From Your Browser

Calling without a SIM card is straightforward with the right service. Browser-based VoIP offers the simplest path: sign up, add credits, and dial any number directly from your browser.

• No downloads required
• No subscriptions
• No hidden fees
• Credits never expire
• End-to-end encrypted calls

Make your first call

FAQs About Calling Without a SIM Card

Can you receive calls without a SIM card?

Yes, if you use a VoIP service that provides a virtual phone number. When someone dials that number, your device rings over your WiFi connection—no SIM required.

Can a phone work properly without a SIM card?

A phone without a SIM card handles all WiFi-connected tasks normally: internet calling, messaging apps, browsing, and more. It simply can't make traditional cellular calls or access mobile data networks.

Do I need a SIM card for phone calls?

No. VoIP and WiFi-based calling services route calls over the internet instead of cellular networks, eliminating the SIM card requirement.

How can I make a phone call with just WiFi?

Connect to a WiFi network and use a VoIP service or calling app to dial. Browser-based services like CallTuv let you call landlines and mobiles worldwide without downloading anything.

Can I keep my phone number without a SIM card?

Your carrier-assigned number typically requires an active SIM or eSIM. However, some VoIP services allow number porting, or they can provide a new virtual number for permanent use.

Is calling without a SIM card legal?

Yes. Using VoIP and internet-based calling services is completely legal in most countries. You're simply using a different technology to place voice calls.