Yes, you can make international calls with Verizon, but understanding the specifics of how, when, and at what cost is essential for avoiding bill shock. The Verizon network supports international roaming, allowing your device to connect to partner towers abroad, though the implementation varies significantly depending on your specific plan, device capabilities, and destination. Many customers assume that simply having service is enough, but international functionality often requires proactive management and add-ons to ensure seamless connectivity.
How International Calling Works on the Verizon Network
Verizon operates a robust 4G LTE and 5G network that extends coverage through agreements with international carriers in over 200 countries. When you travel outside the United States, your phone connects to these partner networks using your existing Verizon number. This process, known as roaming, allows you to send texts, use data, and make or receive calls as if you were still at home, provided your account is in good standing and your device is enabled for the service. The key is that the connectivity is facilitated by the local carrier, not by Verizon building its own towers overseas.
Device Compatibility and Settings
For international calling to function properly, your device must be compatible with the frequency bands used in the country you are visiting. Most modern smartphones support the necessary bands, but it is critical to verify this before traveling. You will also need to ensure that "Data Roaming" is turned on in your phone's settings, even if you do not intend to use mobile data, as this setting often controls the signaling channel required for voice calls to route correctly through the foreign network.
Verizon International Plans and Add-Ons
While basic roaming is available, the costs associated with it can be substantial without the right plan. Verizon offers several tiers of service to manage these expenses, ranging from pay-as-you-go daily charges to unlimited international options. Selecting the right plan is the most effective way to use the service without financial stress, as rates for calls, texts, and data vary wildly depending on the destination.
TravelPass: This daily subscription provides a set amount of data, talk, and text in a specific country or region, resetting every 24 hours while you are abroad.
Unlimited International Plus: Included in select postpaid plans, this feature offers data and messaging at no extra cost in dozens of countries, with talk and text often requiring a small daily fee.
Pay-As-You-Go: For light users or those on basic plans, per-minute charges apply for calls made and received while roaming, which can accumulate quickly.
How to Make a Call While International
When you are ready to place a call, the method depends on your plan and whether you are using Wi-Fi calling. If you have an active roaming package, you can dial the international number directly, including the exit code for your origin country, the country code, and the local number. For example, calling a number in Japan from the United States would involve dialing 011-81 followed by the local number. If you are on a plan that includes Wi-Fi calling, you can often use the Verizon Messages app to place a call over the internet, which bypasses roaming charges entirely for the outbound leg.
Managing Costs Effectively
To avoid unexpectedly high bills, it is wise to review your account settings and usage before departure. Setting up billing alerts or a spending limit can provide a buffer against cost overruns. Additionally, utilizing Wi-Fi for voice calls through apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Skype is a reliable method to maintain communication without touching your cellular minutes, provided the recipient also has access to the internet. This is particularly useful for video calls or lengthy conversations where cellular rates would be prohibitive.
