# Wi-Fi calling

> Wi-Fi calling is a phone feature that routes voice calls and texts over a Wi-Fi connection instead of the mobile network, using your existing phone number.

Source: https://viasimo.com/glossary/wifi-calling/
Also known as: WiFi calling, VoWiFi, voice over Wi-Fi

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Wi-Fi calling is a phone feature that routes voice calls and texts over a Wi-Fi connection instead of the mobile network, using your existing phone number. To the person calling you, nothing changes: your normal number rings as usual.

It is a carrier feature rather than an app. Once your home operator supports it and you switch it on in your phone settings, calls and SMS to your regular number travel over the internet whenever the phone is on Wi-Fi. This is what separates it from WhatsApp or FaceTime calls, which are app-to-app services; Wi-Fi calling is your real number, reachable by anyone, including banks sending verification codes.

For travellers it solves a specific problem: staying reachable on your home number abroad without paying roaming rates for every incoming call. Connected to hotel Wi-Fi, your phone can receive calls and texts as if you were at home. Many operators bill Wi-Fi calls made abroad as if they were domestic, but policies differ, so confirm with your home carrier before relying on it.

Wi-Fi calling pairs naturally with a [dual SIM](/glossary/dual-sim/) travel setup: your home SIM stays active for calls and verification texts over Wi-Fi, while a travel eSIM handles all mobile data. On some phones the home line can even place Wi-Fi calls over the travel eSIM's data connection when no Wi-Fi is available, though support varies by carrier and handset.

Two caveats. First, most carriers require Wi-Fi calling to be enabled while you are still on their home network, so switch it on before you fly, not after you land. Second, with data [roaming](/glossary/roaming/) switched off for your home SIM, leaving the feature enabled costs nothing extra.

Concrete example: in a Tokyo hotel, your UK number receives a call from your bank over the hotel Wi-Fi, at no roaming charge, while your travel eSIM handles maps and messaging all day.

See our [dual SIM travel setup guide](/magazine/dual-sim-travel-setup-guide/) and [how to keep your WhatsApp number abroad](/magazine/keep-whatsapp-number-abroad-esim/) for the full arrangement.