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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/trav-esim-needs-unlocked-phone

To use a local phone company's eSIM abroad, what must be true of your phone?

It must be unlocked so it can work with another carrier.

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  1. It must be unlocked ✔
  2. It must be brand new
  3. It must stay in airplane mode

Why: A locked phone is tied to the carrier that sold it. Purdue's study abroad handbook says phones that are unlocked can get a new eSIM from a local provider and a local number.

Huh, didn't know that: Purdue notes a local number means your family needs to know how to dial an international call to reach you.

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My phone was locked to one carrier. I told it to see other networks.
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References

Answer: It must be unlocked. A locked phone is tied to the carrier that sold it. Purdue's study abroad handbook says phones that are unlocked can get a new eSIM from a local provider and a local number.

  1. Purdue University Study Abroad Handbook: Technology Abroad www.purdue.edu/gpp/sa/outbound/studyabroadhandbook/technologyabroad.html
    Most phones now have an E-Sim so phones that are unlocked can just get a new ESIM with a new phone provider
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. Purdue University Study Abroad Handbook: Technology Abroad (cons) www.purdue.edu/gpp/sa/outbound/studyabroadhandbook/technologyabroad.html
    your phone must be unlocked, home country calls can have additional fees
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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