UK eSIM with Phone Number: Best Plans for Calls and SMS

Why You Might Need a UK Phone Number with Your eSIM

Many essential UK services require a phone number for SMS verification, which data-only eSIMs cannot provide. giffgaff charges between GBP 6 and GBP 20 per month for a UK phone number with data, but data-only eSIMs from providers like Roami cost less and work well for users who do not need to receive SMS verification codes from Uber, banks, or food delivery services.

Understanding what you actually need before you buy will save you money and frustration. Let’s break down the options so you can choose the right setup for your trip.

Can I Get a UK Phone Number with eSIM?

Short answer: yes, absolutely. Several UK providers now offer plans that include a real UK mobile number, giving you full calling, SMS, and data capabilities. Understanding how to get a UK phone number with eSIM starts with choosing between data-only and full-service providers based on your needs. These aren’t VoIP numbers or virtual SIMs — they’re proper mobile lines that work exactly like any UK phone number.

The longer answer is that it depends on the provider and the type of plan you pick. Most providers fall into two camps:

Data-only plans — these give you a data connection only. No phone number, no SMS, no calls. Think of it like a data-only tablet plan. Roami falls into this category, and honestly, a lot of travellers find that’s all they actually need — as long as they’re prepared for the limitations. The UK eSIM data only vs with calling plan decision ultimately comes down to whether you need SMS verification for banking, Uber, and other services.

Full-service plans — these include a UK phone number with voice minutes, SMS, and data. They’re essentially a regular mobile plan delivered as an eSIM. Providers like giffgaff, Lebara, and Lyca Mobile all offer these, and they’re the closest thing to having a proper UK SIM without needing a physical card.

The catch? Full-service plans often cost more than data-only options, especially for short trips. And you’ll typically need to go through some form of ID verification to get one, because UK regulations require mobile providers to verify your identity before assigning a number.

Do I Need ID to Buy an eSIM in the UK?

Yes. Since 2022, UK regulations require all mobile providers to verify your identity before activating a line. This applies to both physical SIMs and eSIMs. The exact process varies by provider, but you’ll generally need to submit a photo of your passport or national ID card, and sometimes a proof of address.

For data-only plans like Roami, the verification process is much simpler — usually just an email address and payment. That’s because data-only services aren’t classified the same way under UK telecoms regulations. So if you want a UK phone number, be prepared for a bit of paperwork.

Do I Need a UK Address for an eSIM?

Some providers ask for a UK address during registration, but most full-service providers that cater to tourists don’t require one. giffgaff, for instance, lets you sign up with just your passport and any address — even if it’s back home. Lebara does the same. The key is sticking with providers that are used to dealing with visitors rather than ones primarily targeting UK residents.

If a provider insists on a UK postcode during online signup, you could use your hotel address or an accommodation address, but honestly, just pick a provider that doesn’t need one. There are plenty that don’t.

Why You Need a UK eSIM for Uber and Essential Apps

Before we dive into specific plans, let’s talk about why you might, or might not, need a UK number in the first place. This will help you decide whether a full-service plan or data-only option makes more sense for your trip.

Banking and Financial Services

This is the big one. If you’re planning to open a UK bank account — and many long-term visitors and digital nomads do — you’ll need a UK phone number for SMS verification. Almost every UK bank uses two-factor authentication via text message. Monzo, Starling, Revolut, HSBC, Lloyds — they all do it. Without a UK number, you’ll hit a wall.

Even if you’re just using your existing credit card abroad, you might run into issues. Some payment systems trigger SMS verification for transactions they deem unusual. Having a UK number to receive those OTPs can save you from a declined payment at a critical moment.

If you’re unsure whether your phone supports eSIM, Apple’s official guide has a full list of compatible models. For Android devices, the GSMA’s eSIM database is the most comprehensive compatibility resource available.

Ride-Hailing and Food Delivery Apps

Uber, Bolt, Deliveroo, Just Eat, Uber Eats — every single one of these requires a phone number to create and verify your account. Can you use your home number? Sometimes. But if your home number doesn’t work for SMS while you’re abroad (and many don’t, or they charge exorbitant roaming rates), you’ll be stuck.

The real hassle comes when you need to contact your driver or delivery person. Uber’s in-app messaging helps, but occasionally the driver needs to call you. If they dial your home number and you’re paying international roaming rates, that’s not ideal. A UK number solves this cleanly. This is exactly why a UK eSIM for Uber and public transport apps is so valuable.

NHS and Healthcare Access

If you need to register with a GP, book an appointment, or access NHS services, you’ll need a UK phone number. The NHS uses SMS for appointment reminders, test results, and prescription notifications. Even registering for NHS login requires a UK mobile number for verification.

For shorter trips this probably won’t matter, but for anyone staying more than a few weeks — especially students, digital nomads, or people visiting family — it’s worth having.

Job Applications and Professional Contact

Looking for work while in the UK? Putting a foreign number on your CV is a red flag for many employers. They want to be able to call you, and they don’t want to deal with international dialling codes. A UK number makes you look local and accessible.

Public Wi-Fi and Services

You might be surprised how many public Wi-Fi networks in the UK require SMS verification to connect. Train stations, coffee shops, libraries, and shopping centres often use SMS-based authentication. Without a UK number, you’re stuck with mobile data, which defeats the purpose of connecting to free Wi-Fi.

So, Do You Really Need One?

Here’s the honest take: for a short trip of a week or less, staying mostly in London and major cities, you can probably get by with a data-only UK eSIM plus a few workarounds. But for any trip longer than that, or if you’re planning to do anything beyond basic sightseeing, having a UK number makes life much easier.

Top UK eSIMs with Phone Number Plans in 2026

Alright, let’s get into the specifics. Here are the best options for getting a UK eSIM that includes a proper phone number with calling and SMS. If you are looking for a strong UK eSIM with phone number, giffgaff and Lebara are top contenders for different reasons.

For official guidance on UK telecoms regulations and consumer rights, the UK government website provides up-to-date information for visitors. You can also check Ofcom’s mobile coverage checker to see how each network performs in the areas you’re visiting.

giffgaff — Best Overall for Tourists

giffgaff is probably the most popular option for visitors who want a UK number. It runs on the O2 network, which gives you solid coverage across the UK, including decent service in rural areas. What makes giffgaff stand out is its flexibility — there are no fixed contracts, no credit checks, and you can change your plan month to month.

For eSIM users, giffgaff offers a straightforward process. You download the app, verify your identity with your passport, purchase a “goodybag” (their term for a plan), and you’re set. You’ll get a UK number immediately.

Their current goodybags that work for most travellers:

£10/month — 15GB data, unlimited calls and texts, £15/month — 50GB data, unlimited calls and texts, £25/month — 150GB data, unlimited calls and texts, and £35/month — Unlimited data, unlimited calls and texts

The £10 or £15 options are plenty for most visitors. Having unlimited calls and texts means you can use your UK number freely for Uber, food delivery, bank verification, and everything else without watching your balance.

One thing to note: giffgaff can take a few hours to activate your eSIM, so don’t leave it until you’re standing in the arrivals hall at Gatwick. Set it up a day or two before you travel, and it’ll be ready when you land.

Lebara — Strong Contender for Short Trips

Lebara runs on Vodafone’s network, which gives it strong coverage across the UK, particularly in cities. It’s especially popular with travellers from Europe, Australia, and South Asia, partly because they offer competitive international calling rates.

Their eSIM setup is straightforward via the app. You’ll need to send a photo of your passport for verification, but the whole process usually completes within 30 minutes.

Key plans for visitors:

• £6.90/month — 5GB data, unlimited UK calls and texts
• £8.90/month — 15GB data, unlimited UK calls and texts
• £12.90/month — 30GB data, unlimited UK calls and texts
• £15.90/month — 100GB data, unlimited UK calls and texts

For a week-long trip, the £6.90 plan is actually plenty, especially if you’re using Wi-Fi at your accommodation. The £8.90 plan gives you more breathing room for maps and social media.

Lebara also includes some international calling minutes in certain plans, which is handy if you need to call home for any reason. And like giffgaff, it’s a monthly rolling plan with no contract, so you can cancel when you leave.

Lyca Mobile — Budget-Friendly Option

Lyca Mobile is worth considering if you’re on a tight budget. They run on EE’s network, which offers the fastest average data speeds in the UK. Their pricing is aggressive, especially for their smaller plans.

eSIM availability with Lyca has improved in 2026, though it’s still not as seamless as giffgaff or Lebara. You’ll need to go through their app or website, and ID verification is required.

Their pricing:

• £5/month — 3GB data, 500 UK minutes, unlimited texts
• £10/month — 12GB data, unlimited UK minutes and texts
• £15/month — 30GB data, unlimited UK minutes and texts
• £25/month — 100GB data, unlimited UK minutes and texts

The £5 plan is incredibly cheap for what you get, though 3GB of data won’t go far if you’re using maps and social media heavily. It’s really only suitable for very light usage or as a secondary number.

Lyca’s main downside is customer service — reviews are mixed, and if you run into activation issues, getting help can be frustrating. But for the price, it’s hard to complain.

Comparison Table

Provider	Starting Price	Data	Calls & Texts	Network	eSIM Activation Speed	Best For
giffgaff	£10/month	15GB	Unlimited	O2	1-24 hours	Overall value, reliability
Lebara	£6.90/month	5GB	Unlimited	Vodafone	30 min - 2 hours	Short trips, budget
Lyca Mobile	£5/month	3GB	500 min/unlimited texts	EE	1-4 hours	Tight budgets, EE speed
Vodafone UK	£10/month	10GB	Unlimited	Vodafone	Instant (in-store)	Full service, support
EE	£10/month	10GB	Unlimited	EE	Instant (in-store)	Best speeds, 5G coverage

UK eSIM Data Only vs with Calling Plan: VoIP Workaround

If you’ve already got a data-only UK eSIM — from Roami or another provider — and you’re realising you need a UK number, don’t panic. You’ve got options.

VoIP Services as a Workaround

Voice over IP services can give you a UK phone number that works over your data connection. Here’s how they stack up:

Skype — Skype offers UK phone numbers starting at about £3.50/month. You get a real UK number that can receive calls, and voicemail is included. SMS reception is hit-or-miss, though. Skype-to-Skype calls are free, but calling UK landlines and mobiles uses your Skype credit.

Google Voice — This one’s tricky. Google Voice numbers are generally only available to US users, so if you’re not in the US, you probably can’t get one. If you already have a Google Voice number from home, it’ll work over data in the UK, but it’s not a UK number.

Zadarma — Less well-known but works well for UK virtual numbers. Prices start around £2/month for a UK number, and you pay for calls as you use them. SMS support is limited, so don’t rely on it for OTPs.

TextNow — Free US and Canada numbers, but UK numbers require a paid plan. Not ideal for most travellers.

The big limitation with all VoIP options is SMS verification. Many banks, government services, and apps won’t send verification codes to VoIP numbers because they’re flagged as non-mobile. So while a VoIP number works for receiving calls, it won’t reliably handle the OTPs you actually need.

When VoIP Works

• Making and receiving voice calls
• Voicemail
• WhatsApp and iMessage registration
• Non-SMS two-factor apps (authenticator apps work fine)

When VoIP Falls Short

Bank SMS verification (almost always blocked), Uber, Deliveroo, Just Eat account creation, NHS services, Government service logins, and Any SMS-based OTP system

Best UK eSIM with Phone Number: The Hybrid Approach

Here’s the setup I personally recommend to most travellers heading to the UK, and it’s the approach we suggest at Roami for anyone who needs a UK eSIM with phone number and reliable service.

Option 1: Data Plan + Cheap Voice eSIM

This hybrid approach is the most elegant solution. You use a data-focused UK eSIM like Roami for your primary internet connection — the auto carrier switching across EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three means you’re always on the strongest available network, and you get live customer support if anything goes wrong. Then you add a cheap voice eSIM as a secondary line for calls and SMS.

This dual SIM setup gives you:

• Primary (Roami data plan): High-speed data, auto network switching, no worrying about data caps for maps and streaming
• Secondary (giffgaff or Lebara voice eSIM): A UK phone number for SMS verification, OTPs, and calls when needed

Modern phones handle dual SIMs brilliantly. An iPhone with iOS 18 lets you run two eSIMs simultaneously, labelling them clearly so you know which line is for data and which is for calls. We’ve covered this in detail in our UK eSIM dual SIM setup guide, including step-by-step instructions for both iPhone and Android.

The cost works out well too. A one-month giffgaff goodybag at £10 plus a Roami data plan for your trip length often costs less than a single provider’s all-in-one roaming plan, and you get better data performance because Roami’s auto-switching is constantly optimising your connection.

Option 2: Keep Your Home SIM + UK eSIM

If you just need occasional SMS verification and your home provider has reasonable roaming rates for SMS reception, you can keep your home SIM active while using a UK eSIM for internet.

Most modern phones support dual SIM mode where one line (your home SIM) handles calls and SMS while the other (your UK eSIM) handles all data traffic. You can set this up in about two minutes in your phone settings.

The catch? If your home provider charges for incoming SMS while roaming, those costs can add up. And some home providers block SMS reception entirely when you’re roaming outside your home region. Check with your provider before you go.

Option 3: Full-Service Plan Only

For sheer simplicity, just get a full-service plan from giffgaff or Lebara. You get data, calls, and a UK number all in one package. The data speeds are good but won’t match a dedicated data plan with auto network switching.

This is the “set it and forget it” option, and it works fine for most people. Unless you’re a heavy data user or need guaranteed speeds for video calls or remote work, a full-service profile is perfectly adequate.

UK eSIM for Multiple Device Laptop iPad: What You Need to Know

Let’s address something that comes up a lot. You’re travelling with a laptop and an iPad, maybe you’re working remotely. Can you use your UK eSIM across all your devices?

Using a UK eSIM for multiple device laptop iPad setups is easy when your plan supports hotspot tethering or direct eSIM installation on tablets.

Personal Hotspot / Tethering

Most UK eSIMs in 2026 support personal hotspot, but not all. If you need a UK eSIM with unlimited hotspot tethering — especially for sharing with family or using a laptop for work — here’s the breakdown:

Data-only plans (including Roami): Hotspot is fully supported. You can share your connection with your laptop, iPad, or any other Wi-Fi device. Roami plans include hotspot data within your plan allowance — and the 1Mbps post-cap speed means even after you hit your daily high-speed limit, tethering remains usable for basic tasks. This makes Roami one of the few true UK eSIM with unlimited hotspot tethering options available to travellers.

giffgaff: Hotspot is supported on all plans, including their £10/month goodybag. If you’re looking for a UK eSIM with unlimited hotspot tethering that also includes a UK phone number, giffgaff is a solid choice.

Lebara: Hotspot is supported. Works fine.

Lyca Mobile: Hotspot is supported on most plans, though some very cheap plans may restrict it.

EE and Vodafone: Hotspot is supported on standard consumer plans.

eSIM on iPad

If your iPad has eSIM support (iPad Pro 12.9-inch 3rd gen and later, iPad Air 3rd gen and later, iPad 7th gen and later, iPad mini 5th gen and later), you can either:

1. Install the plan directly on the iPad if your provider allows multi-device installation (most data-only plans do)
2. Use hotspot from your phone if you only have a single-device eSIM

Roami supports direct eSIM installation on compatible iPads, which is handy if you want your iPad to have its own connection independent of your phone.

eSIM on Laptop

Very few laptops have built-in eSIM support — Apple’s newer MacBooks with cellular don’t exist yet, and Windows laptops with eSIM are still rare. For most people, hotspot from your phone is the way to go for laptop connectivity.

Multiple Lines on One Device

Can you have multiple UK eSIMs on one phone? Absolutely. Modern iPhones support 8 or more eSIMs stored on the device, with two active simultaneously. Android support varies by manufacturer, but most 2025 and 2026 flagships support at least two active eSIMs.

This means you could have:

• Roami data plan as your primary data line
• giffgaff voice eSIM for your UK number
• Your home eSIM/SIM for your original number
• Additional eSIMs for other countries if you’re doing a multi-country trip

It’s worth reading our UK eSIM ranking comparison to see how different eSIMs stack up for multi-device usage and overall performance.

Can I Keep My Existing Number with a UK eSIM?

This is one of the most common questions we get. The answer depends on what exactly you mean by “keep your existing number.”

If You Mean Porting Your Home Number

If you want to transfer your existing home mobile number to a UK eSIM — so your friends back home can still reach you on the same number — that’s technically possible through number porting, but it’s almost certainly a bad idea. Number porting only works within the same country, so you can’t port a non-UK number to a UK mobile service. You’d have to give up your home number entirely and get a UK number instead.

If You Mean Using Your Home Number While in the UK

This dual SIM method is much more practical. With a dual SIM setup, you keep your home SIM active (physical or eSIM) and add a UK eSIM as a second line. Your home number stays reachable for calls and SMS, while you use the UK eSIM for data and optionally a UK number.

This is the approach we recommend in our UK eSIM setup guide — it gives you the best of both worlds without losing access to your existing number.

If You Mean Getting a UK Number That Looks Professional

If you run a business or work as a freelancer and want a UK number that doesn’t look like a mobile number, some providers offer “virtual” UK numbers with area codes like 020 (London), 0161 (Manchester), or 0121 (Birmingham). These are usually VoIP-based and work best paired with a data plan. They’re great for business cards and professional listings.

How Uber and Other Essential Apps Work with Your Plan

Let’s get practical. Here’s exactly which apps need a UK phone number and which ones work fine with data-only.

Choosing a UK eSIM for Uber and public transport apps like Citymapper means you can navigate the city and book rides without worrying about your home number being unreachable.

The Uber Scenario in Detail

Uber is a great example of why a UK number can be useful. Here’s a typical situation. You’ve just landed at Heathrow, you’ve cleared customs, and you open Uber to book a ride to your hotel. The app opens. Your account is there. You request a ride. But then your driver tries to call you because they can’t find your exact pickup point at Terminal 3. If your home number doesn’t work for incoming calls while roaming, they can’t reach you. The driver cancels. You rebook. Same thing happens.

With a UK number on your eSIM, this friction disappears. The driver calls your UK number, you answer, you explain where you are, and the ride goes smoothly.

Same issue applies to:

• Bolt (similar to Uber, popular in some UK cities)
• Addison Lee (London minicab service)
• Local taxi companies that use SMS dispatch
• Food delivery drivers who need to call about substitutions or delivery instructions

Public Transport Apps

London’s public transport system is excellent, but many of its apps benefit from a UK number:

TfL Oyster and contactless: You don’t need a number to use contactless payment on the Tube and buses, but creating a TfL account for journey history and refunds is easier with a UK number, Trainline and other rail apps: Work with email registration, but some advanced features (delay repay, season ticket management) may require phone verification, Citymapper: No phone number needed, works fine on data, Google Maps: No phone number needed for navigation, and Bus check-in apps: Some regional bus companies use SMS-based tickets or verification.

Food Delivery and Local Services

Food delivery in the UK is a massive industry, and almost every service requires phone verification:

Deliveroo: SMS verification for account creation and password resets. If you lose access to your account while in the UK, recovering it without a UK number is difficult, Uber Eats: Same requirements as Uber — SMS verification plus the ability for drivers to call you, Just Eat: SMS verification required, Too Good To Go: This popular app for surplus food from restaurants and shops requires phone verification, and Olio: Food sharing app, requires phone number.

Apps That Need SMS Verification (UK Number Required or Tricky)

Uber and Bolt: Require SMS verification for account creation. Existing accounts usually work fine with data-only, but if you need to change your number or contact a driver by phone, a UK number helps., Deliveroo, Uber Eats, Just Eat: All require phone number verification. Existing accounts may work if you set them up before travelling., Monzo, Starling, Revolut: Banking apps require SMS for transactions and login. A UK number is strongly recommended., NHS App: Requires UK number for registration., GOV.UK Verify and other government services: UK number required., and Facebook Marketplace: Often triggers SMS verification when used from a new location.

Apps That Work Fine with Data-Only

WhatsApp: Works over data. Verify with your home number before you travel and it’ll continue working., Telegram: Works over data. Same approach as WhatsApp., Google Maps, Apple Maps: Data only, no phone number needed., Citymapper: Data only., Trainline: Works with email registration and data., Airbnb: Works with existing account and data., Booking.com: Works with existing account and data., Instagram, TikTok, Twitter/X: Data only., and Netflix, Spotify, YouTube: Data only.

The WhatsApp Exception

WhatsApp is the one app where a UK number isn’t really necessary but can be useful. If you verify WhatsApp with your home number before leaving, it’ll continue working over data throughout your trip. You can make voice and video calls, send messages, and receive calls from anyone.

The only issue is if you need to re-verify WhatsApp while abroad — say, because you switched phones or reinstalled the app. If your home number can’t receive SMS while roaming, you’ll be stuck. Having a UK number as a backup gives you more flexibility.

UK eSIM Can’t Receive SMS Verification: Common Fixes

This is probably the most common problem people run into. You’ve got a UK eSIM with a phone number, but SMS messages just aren’t arriving. Here’s what to check.

If your UK eSIM cannot receive SMS verification codes, the first thing to confirm is whether your plan actually includes SMS capability rather than being data-only.

Is It Actually a Full-Service Plan?

Double-check that your eSIM includes SMS. Some travel plans advertise as “with phone number” but only support data and maybe voice calls, not SMS. Read the fine print. If you bought a data-only plan that claimed to include a number, that might be your problem.

Is SMS Properly Configured?

On iPhones, go to Settings > Messages > Send & Receive and make sure your UK number is selected. On Android, check that your messaging app is set to use the correct SIM for SMS.

In a dual SIM setup, your phone might be trying to send SMS from your home SIM, or the UK line might not be set as the default for SMS. You can usually set this in Settings > Cellular or Settings > Mobile Data > Default Voice Line.

Is Your Provider Blocking SMS?

Some budget providers route SMS differently from standard mobile networks. Certain shortcodes used by banks and apps may not reach your eSIM. This is more common with MVNOs that use secondary routing for SMS.

If you consistently can’t receive SMS from a specific service, try:

1. Switching to manual network selection and trying a different UK network
2. Checking with your provider whether they support SMS from shortcodes
3. Using an authenticator app (like Google Authenticator or Authy) instead of SMS for 2FA
4. Contacting support to see if they can use a voice call for verification instead

Is iMessage Interfering?

If you’re on iPhone and have iMessage enabled, SMS from other iPhone users gets delivered through iMessage rather than traditional SMS. If iMessage activation is pending or stuck, you won’t receive messages from iPhone users.

Go to Settings > Messages and toggle iMessage off and on again. You can also check Settings > Messages > Send & Receive to make sure your UK number is listed and verified.

Making Calls with UK eSIM: What You Need to Know

Can You Make Calls with a Data-Only UK eSIM?

No. If your eSIM is data-only, voice calling isn’t supported. You’d need to use VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp, or Zoom for voice calls. These work over data and are fine for most purposes, but they won’t work for calling UK landlines or numbers that aren’t on the same service.

Can You Make Calls with a Full-Service Plan?

Yes. If you’ve got giffgaff, Lebara, Lyca, or another full-service provider, you get standard voice calling. Dial a number, it connects through the mobile network. Simple.

International Calling

If you need to call home, check your provider’s international calling rates. Here’s a quick guide:

• giffgaff: International calls are charged separately from your goodybag. Rates vary by country but are generally reasonable. Calls back to the US, Australia, and most of Europe cost around 2-5p per minute.
• Lebara: Some plans include international minutes. Even without them, their international rates are competitive — calls back to India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh are particularly cheap.
• Lyca Mobile: Historically strong on international calling, with very competitive rates to South Asia, Africa, and Eastern Europe.
• Roami: As a data-only plan, Roami doesn’t offer voice calling. Use WhatsApp, Skype, or another VoIP app over your data connection instead.

Best UK eSIM with Phone Number: Network Coverage Comparison

We’ve talked about the main options, but coverage varies significantly depending on which UK network your eSIM uses. Here’s a quick breakdown.

Network Ownership

EE owns its infrastructure (best speeds, best 5G coverage, good rural reach), Vodafone owns its infrastructure (strong city coverage, good for Europe roaming), O2 owns its infrastructure (decent coverage, best for rural Wales and Scotland), Three owns its infrastructure (good city speeds, weaker rural coverage), giffgaff uses O2’s network, Lebara uses Vodafone’s network, and Lyca Mobile uses EE’s network.

What Roami Does Differently

Roami’s unique advantage is auto carrier switching. Instead of locking you to one network, Roami’s eSIM automatically selects the strongest available network at your location, switching between EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three as needed. So if you’re in central London, you might be on EE for speed, then switch to O2 when you head to the Scottish Highlands for better rural coverage.

This is something no standard single-network plan can match. If you’re moving around the UK — and especially if your trip includes both cities and countryside — this auto-switching capability makes a real difference in day-to-day reliability.

For more on how UK networks compare, check out our UK eSIM network and MVNO guide, which goes deep into the differences between the big four networks and the MVNOs that use them.

How to Get a UK Phone Number with eSIM for Your Trip Type

For the Weekend Tourist

On a short stay in one or two cities, the data-only approach is the simplest. Grab a small data plan for about £10-15, use WhatsApp and iMessage for communication, and your existing Uber and Deliveroo accounts work fine on data. You won’t miss having a UK number for a short trip.

The alternative is a full-service option like Lebara’s £6.90 30-day plan, which gives you 5GB of data, unlimited calls and texts, and a UK number. Set it up a day before you travel. But honestly, for a weekend, data-only is perfectly fine — don’t overthink it.

For the Digital Nomad

Those staying a month or more and working during UK hours need a different approach. A Roami mid-term data plan with auto-network switching is your primary connection — you’ll appreciate this when your Airbnb’s WiFi is unreliable and you need to hotspot for work. Pair it with a giffgaff £15 goodybag for a UK number, bank verification, and local calls. Together they give you professional-grade data speeds for video calls plus a UK number for SMS verification. Total cost runs around £30-50 per month depending on your data allowance.

Pro tip: If your work involves a lot of Zoom or Teams calls, the auto-carrier switching from Roami is a real advantage. Some UK networks throttle video streaming; Roami’s intelligent routing avoids those bottlenecks.

For the Student

Those moving to the UK for a semester or a full year need a proper UK setup.

Recommended approach: Go with a standard UK plan from giffgaff, Vodafone, or EE. Your student accommodation will have Wi-Fi, so your mobile data needs are lower. The key priority is having a reliable UK number for university communications, banking, and NHS registration.

Student deals:

• giffgaff offers occasional student discounts through UNiDAYS
• Vodafone’s student deals include extra data and entertainment perks
• EE has student plans with Apple Music or BT Sport included

For Business Travelers

Quick trips, multiple cities, need to stay reachable.

Recommended setup:

• Roami data plan for reliable connectivity across cities (auto-switching means you don’t think about networks)
• Your existing business phone on roaming or a dual SIM with a local number

Most business travellers find that as long as they have data, they’re fine. Email, Slack, Teams, Zoom all work over data. If you need a UK number for client calls, add a giffgaff eSIM as a second line.

For the Multi-Country Traveller

Anyone doing the UK plus Europe has extra considerations. Many UK eSIMs offer EU roaming, but the terms vary.

• Lebara: Includes EU roaming on most plans, with generous data allowances that carry over
• giffgaff: EU roaming is included on goodybags, though data speeds may be capped
• Lyca Mobile: EU roaming available on selected plans, but check the fair usage policy
• Roami: Offers multi-country Europe plans that include the UK plus EU countries in a single plan, with the same auto carrier switching across local networks in each country

For more on this, our UK eSIM multi-country Europe guide covers the best options for trips that span multiple countries.

For Families and Group Travellers

Travelling with family adds another layer of complexity to connectivity. Here’s how to handle it.

The data-sharing problem: Most UK eSIMs don’t support data sharing between devices on a single plan. Each person needs their own eSIM. The exception is some full-service UK plans that offer family or multi-SIM discounts.

Recommended family setup:

• Parents: Each get a Roami data plan for reliable individual connectivity. The auto carrier switching ensures coverage even when the family splits up for different activities
• Kids: If they have phones, give them data-only plans. They don’t need UK phone numbers — WhatsApp or FaceTime over data works for staying in touch
• Shared device: If you’re carrying a family tablet or hotspot device, get a separate data-only plan for it. With Roami’s UK eSIM with unlimited hotspot tethering, you can share your connection across all family devices seamlessly.

Cost saving tip: Roami offers referral discounts in some cases, and using code WEB20 gives 20% off each plan. For a family of four, that adds up to meaningful savings.

The contact dilemma: If your kids need to be reachable by local numbers (summer camps, school groups, sports programmes), consider a giffgaff goodybag for them too. The £10/month plan gives them a UK number and enough data for messaging apps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a UK phone number with eSIM?

Yes. Providers like giffgaff, Lebara, and Lyca Mobile all offer eSIMs with a proper UK mobile number. You’ll need to verify your identity with a passport or ID card, and you’ll get a standard UK number that supports calls, SMS, and data.

Do I need a UK address for eSIM?

No, not for the tourist-friendly providers. giffgaff and Lebara let you register with your home address and a passport. Some providers may ask for a UK address, in which case your hotel or Airbnb address should work for verification purposes.

Do I need ID to buy an eSIM in the UK?

Yes, if you want a UK phone number. UK regulations require mobile providers to verify your identity before assigning a number. You’ll typically need to submit a photo of your passport. Data-only plans don’t require ID since they don’t include a phone number or voice/SMS services.

Can I keep my existing number with UK eSIM?

You can’t port your non-UK number to a UK eSIM, but you can keep your existing number active through dual SIM. Your home SIM stays in the phone (physical or eSIM) while your UK eSIM runs alongside it. Calls and SMS to your home number still come through, and you use the UK eSIM for data and optionally a UK number.

Do tourists need passport for UK eSIM?

For full-service plans with a UK number, yes. giffgaff, Lebara, Lyca Mobile, and all major UK providers require passport or national ID verification. Data-only plans don’t require ID.

Can I make calls with UK eSIM?

With a full-service plan (giffgaff, Lebara, Lyca), yes — you get standard voice calling. With a data-only plan (Roami), no — you’ll need to use VoIP apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or Zoom for voice calls.

Why can’t I receive SMS with my UK eSIM?

Common causes: The plan is data-only (check your plan), SMS isn’t properly configured in your phone settings, the wrong line is set as default for SMS in a dual SIM setup, or your provider doesn’t support SMS from certain shortcodes used by banks and apps.

Can I use WhatsApp with UK eSIM?

Yes. WhatsApp works completely over data. Install it with your home number before you travel, and it’ll work throughout your trip on your UK plan’s data connection. If you want to use a UK number for WhatsApp, you can change your WhatsApp number in the app settings.

Is a UK eSIM with phone number more expensive than data-only?

Generally, yes. Full-service plans that include a phone number, voice, and SMS cost more than data-only plans. However, the difference is often modest — Lebara’s £6.90 plan is only slightly more than a data-only plan of similar size. The hybrid approach (data plan + cheap voice eSIM) can sometimes work out cheaper than a single full-service plan with comparable data.

Can I use my UK number for bank verification?

Generally, yes — as long as the plan includes SMS. Full-service plans from giffgaff and Lebara work fine with UK banks. Some budget eSIMs may have issues with certain shortcodes, so stick with established providers for anything involving financial services.

What happens to my UK number after I leave the UK?

Most UK eSIMs with phone numbers are prepaid monthly plans. When your month ends, the number is held for a grace period (usually 30-90 days) during which you can top up and reactivate. After that, the number is recycled. If you plan to return to the UK regularly, keep the account active with the minimum top-up to hold your number.

Can I receive calls on my UK eSIM while outside the UK?

It depends on whether your plan includes international roaming for voice. giffgaff and Lebara allow limited EU roaming on most plans, but roaming outside Europe typically isn’t included. Calls to your UK number while you’re abroad may go to voicemail or fail entirely. Check your provider’s roaming policy.

Is a UK eSIM with phone number suitable for business use?

For light business use (client calls, conference calls, professional WhatsApp), yes — giffgaff and Lebara are perfectly adequate. For heavy business use (multiple calls per day, reliable conference calling, professional voicemail), consider a proper business plan from EE or Vodafone, or use a VoIP service like RingCentral over a data plan.

Can I port my UK number to another provider if I decide to switch?

Yes, number porting works the same way for eSIMs as for physical SIMs in the UK. If you want to switch from giffgaff to Vodafone, for instance, you can request a PAC code from giffgaff and give it to Vodafone to transfer your number. The process takes 1-2 working days.

How do I top up or extend my UK eSIM with a phone number?

Each provider handles this differently:

• giffgaff: Top up via the app or website. Credit is added to your account, and goodybags are purchased separately
• Lebara: Auto-renewal is available, or you can manually extend through the app
• Lyca Mobile: Top up online or through the app
• Roami (data-only): Top up through the website or app for additional data

What if I lose my phone with the UK eSIM installed?

If you lose your phone, contact your provider immediately to suspend the line. For full-service plans with a phone number, the provider can deactivate the profile and issue a new one when you get a replacement phone. For data-only plans, the remaining plan value is typically lost, though some providers may transfer it to a new device.

Do UK eSIMs support emergency services?

All UK mobile networks support 999 emergency calls from any active SIM, including eSIMs. Even if your eSIM has no credit or data remaining, you can dial 999 for emergency services. This applies to both full-service and data-only plans.

Making Your Decision

Let’s wrap this up with some straightforward recommendations based on your situation.

You’re visiting for less than a week: Go data-only. A Roami UK eSIM will cover your needs. Use WhatsApp for calls, your existing accounts for Uber and Deliveroo. You’ll save money and avoid the ID verification hassle.

You’re visiting for 1-4 weeks: Consider the hybrid setup. Roami for data (with auto-carrier switching across four UK networks for the best speeds), plus a giffgaff or Lebara voice eSIM for your UK number. Total cost is probably £20-40, and you get the best of both worlds.

You’re staying for a month or more: Get a full-service plan and add a data eSIM if needed. Sign up for giffgaff or a standard UK plan, get your UK number sorted properly. Add Roami as a secondary data line if you need faster or more reliable data for work.

You’re a digital nomad or remote worker: This is where the hybrid setup really shines. Use Roami’s data eSIM for your primary connection — the auto-network switching and live support mean you can rely on it for work. Add giffgaff for your UK number. Your setup will be better than most locals'.

The most important thing is to be honest with yourself about what you actually need. A lot of travellers buy a full-service plan thinking they need a UK number and then never use the calls or SMS. Others buy data-only and regret it the first time an Uber driver needs to call them.

If you’re on the fence, get a data eSIM from Roami first (using code WEB20 for 20% off), then add a cheap voice eSIM later if you find you need one. You can activate it from your phone in minutes, and you’re not locked into anything. Not sure which profile is right for you? Try it free first with Roami’s free trial and see how it works on your device before committing to a full plan.

And if you decide you don’t need a UK number at all, that’s fine too. The UK setup guide will walk you through getting online in under five minutes. Happy travels.