What to do if iMessage is not working with an International eSIM?

Using iMessage while traveling is a smart way to avoid SMS roaming charges. But if it stops working after switching to an international eSIM, you’re probably wondering, “Why isn’t my iMessage working?” Don’t worry, this article will show you how to activate iMessage with a data-only international eSIM, so you can stay connected without missing a beat.

Common Reasons why is iMessage not working

If you’re using a data-only eSIM and iMessage isn’t working after activation, there are a few common reasons this might be happening.

• Your eSIM may be set up incorrectly.
• You haven’t activated your Apple ID email in iMessage.
• You’re not connected to mobile data or Wi-Fi.
• iMessage is not enabled on your device.
• You haven’t correctly activated iMessage for use only with data or Wi-Fi.
• Your primary number is selected for sending and receiving messages.
• The international network you’re on has restrictions.
• Your time zone may be misconfigured for the city or country you’re in.
• Your iPhone is not updated to the latest version of iOS.

Steps to troubleshoot and resolve iMessage issues

If iMessage isn’t working while you’re traveling, pinpointing the cause is the first step to fixing it. Whether it’s an eSIM setup issue or a connectivity glitch, this guide will help you troubleshoot the problem and get iMessage activated again, so you can keep messaging without interruption.

1. Check if Your iMessage is correctly activated 

To use iMessage with an international or only data eSIM, it’s essential to make sure iMessage is properly activated. If you’re unsure whether it’s set up correctly, follow these steps to check and activate it.

• Go to Settings → Scroll down → Tap on Apps → Scroll down → Select Messages → Ensure that iMessage is turned on → Tap Send & Receive → Deselect your phone number → Tap Remove to confirm and unlink your number from iMessage and FaceTime → Now, your iMessage is set up with your email address, allowing you to send and receive messages using only a data connection. Make sure the selected email is the one linked to your Apple ID.

2. Send and receive messages through your Apple account email

If you’re unable to send or receive iMessages while abroad, don’t stress, you can still keep in touch without racking up carrier fees. Instead of using your phone number, just send messages over Wi-Fi or mobile data to your friends’ Apple ID email addresses. They can reply using the email linked to your iPhone as well. Here’s how to do it step by step:

• Open the Messages app → Tap the icon to create a new message in the top right corner → In the ‘To‘ field, enter the recipient’s Apple email → Type your message in the bottom bar → Tap the upward arrow to send it. And that’s it! Your message should be sent as an iMessage, appearing in a blue bubble.

3. Identify that your messages were sent as iMessage

iMessage works over the internet, which means you can skip SMS fees and avoid extra carrier charges while traveling. To make sure your conversations stay seamless, it’s important to confirm your messages are being sent as iMessages, not SMS. Here’s how to check on your device with an active eSIM:

• Open the Messages app → Send a message, and if it appears in a blue bubble, it was sent as an iMessage. If it’s in a green bubble, it was sent as an SMS, which may incur charges from your carrier.

4. Set the time zone on your iPhone

Having the correct time zone set on your iPhone is essential for iMessage to work properly, especially when you’re traveling. An incorrect time setting can lead to delays or even prevent messages from being delivered. Here’s how to update your time zone to keep iMessage running smoothly:

• Go to Settings → General → Date & Time → Time Zone → Tap the search bar → Type the country or city you’re in → Select the correct location.

5. Disable sending messages as SMS

When using a data-only international eSIM, it’s important to disable SMS for iMessage to avoid surprise charges and make sure all your messages are sent over the internet. This way, you can enjoy the full benefits of iMessage while traveling. Here’s how to adjust the settings on your iPhone:

• Go to Settings → Scroll down → Tap on Apps → Scroll down → Select Messages → Scroll down → Send as Text Message (SMS) → Toggle the button off.

To keep in mind:

• Free Roaming’s eSIM doesn’t support text messages.
• If you send a message in a green bubble while using data-only eSIM abroad, your primary SIM is active, which may incur additional charges. Disable it to avoid fees. 
• When using iMessage with the international eSIM, you can only message other iPhone or iOS users. 
• To switch back to iMessage with your primary SIM, follow the same activation steps and verify your number again.