Obtaining an eSIM for EE in America

[federaI]

Hello,

I'm wondering if it's possible to obtain an eSIM while in America for EE. I'm looking to get a UK-based number for SMS and voice calls only; I do not need DATA. The reason I'm seeking this is because I'm tired of paying the exorbitant fees I incur with my current carrier for making business calls. I paid $137 for my last phone call, and it wasn't even that long. It's absolutely insane.

I'm really hoping that either this service or someone out there offers it because I'm desperately in need. If you have any information or recommendations regarding how I can obtain a UK-based eSIM for voice and SMS in America, I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you for your assistance.

[XRaySpeX]

@federaI : You need to take out a contract with EE in order to get an eSIM & to get a contract you need to pass a UK credit check & almost certainly need to be a UK resident.

You could get a PAYG SIM but that wouldn't come with an eSIM.

[federaI]

@XRaySpeX  Thank you for your response and for shedding some light on obtaining an eSIM with EE. However, I still have a few questions regarding my specific situation.

As you mentioned, taking out a contract with EE seems to be a challenging option for me as a non-UK resident. Since I won't be in London until May, activating it in person is not feasible. My primary requirement is to obtain a UK-based number for texting and calling, and I was advised that an eSIM would be the best choice.

If an eSIM isn't possible, could you please guide me on where I might find a regular SIM card that suits my needs? Are there any providers or alternatives that offer UK-based numbers for voice and SMS without the need for a contract or UK residency?

[XRaySpeX]

A PAYG SIM would suit your purpose.

To save the SIM going into hibernation due to lack of use, just remember within every 179 days (~ 6 months) to make a chargeable action like making a chargeable call or text, topping up or buying a Pack or Add-on, not just using your mins, texts or data from any Pack or Add-on you might have.

[bristolian]

In theory, any PAYG SIM could be used abroad without needing a UK address. This forum can only sensibly advise on EE's offering, whereby a new PAYG SIM would need to be activated on EE's UK network first - at which point roaming is automatically enabled to unlock usage abroad.

[federaI]

Hello @XRaySpeX @bristolian 

I'm grateful for your previous responses and the information you've provided about using a PAYG SIM for a UK-based number. However, I must admit that I'm still a bit confused about the activation process.

To clarify, do I need to ship the PAYG SIM to my house in the USA and then activate it there? Will it work on the EE network for my desired purpose (SMS and voice) if I activate it from abroad, or do I need to be physically in the UK to complete the activation process?

My main goal is to obtain a UK number for texting and calling; I don't require any data services. Any further guidance on the activation steps would be greatly appreciated.

[XRaySpeX]

A PAYG SIM must be activated by using it 1st on EE's home UK network.

[carguy143]

In the UK, pay and go SIM cards can be found in most highstreet stores or supermarkets so it may be easier for you to just wait till you get here and pick one up from a store. They're usually £1, plus a little extra for the top up. EE also have physical stores where you can go for support if needed. 

[federaI]

I truly appreciate your response and the valuable information you provided about obtaining a PAYG SIM card in the UK. However, I want to emphasize the urgency of my situation. I desperately need a UK number for voice and SMS only, as I've mentioned multiple times, and I do not require data.

Given my immediate need, waiting until I arrive in the UK may not be an option. Can you please advise if there's a way to expedite the process or if there are any specific options for obtaining a UK-based number quickly, even while I'm in the USA?

[XRaySpeX]

1 way would be to get an EE PAYG SIM sent to someone in the UK who would make a call or text here before sending it on to you in US.