Which US SIM works in India? (Complete guide for travelers and NRIs). If you’re visiting India from the US — or you’re an NRI returning home — using your US SIM, it can be tricky. In this guide, we explain which SIMs work, roaming options, and the best ways to stay connected in 2025.
I. Can US SIM Cards Work in India?
Yes, many US SIM cards can work in India, but not all of them work well.
To use a US SIM card in India, two things must be true:
- Your phone must be unlocked – If your phone is locked to a carrier (like AT&T or Verizon), it may not connect to Indian networks.
- Your SIM must support international roaming – Not all prepaid or budget plans allow roaming in India.
If both these conditions are met, your US SIM should connect automatically to an Indian partner network like Airtel, Jio, or Vi.
II. Which US SIM Cards Work in India?
T-Mobile
T-Mobile offers free international roaming on many postpaid plans — including India. You’ll usually get slower speeds (128kbps or 256kbps), unless you pay extra for high-speed data. It’s good for basic use like messaging or checking emails.
Verizon
Verizon provides international roaming in India with its “TravelPass” service. It costs around $10/day and lets you use your US plan just like home. It’s reliable but expensive for long stays.
AT&T
AT&T also offers international roaming through its “International Day Pass,” which costs $10/day. It works well in India but can become costly if you’re staying for more than a few days.
Mint Mobile, Visible, Google Fi (Flexible Plan)
Some low-cost or prepaid carriers either don’t support India or offer limited roaming features. Always check with your provider before you travel.
III. Is It a Good Idea to Use a US SIM in India?
Technically, yes — but practically, it depends.
Using your US SIM in India is convenient for short trips, but it can be expensive and limited in speed. If you’re staying longer than a week or need good internet, it may not be the best option.
Here’s what to consider:
- Short stays (under 7 days): US SIM with roaming is fine
- Longer stays (2 weeks or more): Better to get a local SIM or eSIM
- Frequent visits: Consider using an international eSIM that works in both US and India
IV. Why Many Travelers Choose eSIM Instead
If your phone supports eSIM (like iPhone XS or newer, Pixel 4+, and most Samsung flagships), you can install a digital SIM card from an international provider that works in India.
This is useful when:
- Your US carrier doesn’t offer roaming in India
- Roaming is too expensive
- You want to avoid switching physical SIM cards
With an eSIM, you can keep your US number active (for WhatsApp, OTPs, etc.) and use a separate data plan in India.
One helpful resource for this is esimindia.net, where you can compare multiple eSIM plans that work in India, including options for tourists, NRIs, and remote workers.
V. What’s the Best Option for You?
The right choice depends on how long you’re staying and what you need the SIM for.
If you’re traveling for a few days, using your US SIM with roaming is the simplest option.
If you’re staying for more than a week, or need lots of data, it’s smarter to use:
- A local Indian SIM (from Airtel, Jio, or Vi)
- Or an international eSIM that works in India
This way, you get high-speed internet and save money.
VI. How to Get an eSIM That Works in India
Here’s how to get started with an international eSIM:
- Make sure your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked
- Go to esimindia.net
- Choose a plan that suits your trip duration and data needs
- Buy the plan and scan the QR code
- Activate the eSIM and enjoy local connectivity in India
It only takes a few minutes, and you don’t need to visit a store.
VII. Final Tips Before You Travel
- Check if your US plan includes roaming in India
- Call your carrier to unlock your phone, if needed
- Install your eSIM before arrival using Wi-Fi
- Keep your US SIM active if you still need OTPs or WhatsApp on your US number
- Avoid pay-per-use roaming — it’s extremely expensive