Is FaceTime Free Internationally?
FaceTime is one of the easiest ways to stay in touch with friends and family while traveling, especially for iPhone users. But many travelers still worry about international charges. Does FaceTime cost money abroad? Does it use data? And will it work in every country?
Here’s everything you need to know about using FaceTime internationally, including how to avoid roaming charges, which countries block it, and how an eSIM can keep you connected on the go.
Is FaceTime Free on Wi-Fi?
There are no call charges for FaceTime itself. Apple does not bill you for using FaceTime, no matter who you're calling or where they are located. Whether you’re placing a call to a friend in your own country or video chatting with someone across the world, FaceTime is technically free.
But, FaceTime still relies on an internet connection. That means:
- If you’re connected to Wi-Fi, your FaceTime call is free.
- If you’re using mobile data, it will use up your data allowance.
- If you’re roaming (using your regular SIM abroad), FaceTime will work, but your carrier may charge expensive roaming fees.
This is the same situation with apps like WhatsApp, which are also free but depend on internet connectivity
How Much Data Does FaceTime Use?
Data usage depends on the type and length of the call:
Data usage varies depending on the type and quality of the call. Audio calls use around 3MB per minute, while video calls can use 5–15MB per minute. A single 20-minute video call could consume over 200MB.
Want to reduce mobile data use overall? Check out our guide on how to lower data usage while traveling for tips that apply to FaceTime too.
Does FaceTime Use My Phone Number or Apple ID?
FaceTime works with both your phone number and your Apple ID email. You can use either when traveling.
- If you’re abroad and switch SIMs (or use eSIM), your number might change, but your Apple ID stays the same.
- To avoid confusion, go to Settings > FaceTime and make sure your Apple ID is listed and enabled for FaceTime.
- You can also manually choose whether to place a FaceTime call using your phone number or Apple ID.
Planning to switch to an eSIM? Learn how to keep your number active using dual SIM mode.
Does FaceTime Work on Airplane Mode?
Yes, as long as you enable Wi-Fi. Turning on Airplane Mode disables your cellular radios, but you can manually re-enable Wi-Fi.
FaceTime will then work as long as you're on a stable network—perfect for using FaceTime on flights that offer in-flight Wi-Fi. Just keep in mind that many airlines restrict VoIP calling onboard.
Want to know if your alarm will still go off during a FaceTime call or while on Airplane Mode? See our article: Do alarms work during FaceTime?
Can I Use FaceTime From My Laptop or iPad?
Yes. FaceTime works on all Apple devices that are signed in with your Apple ID. That includes:
- iPhone
- iPad
- MacBook / iMac
- Apple Watch (FaceTime Audio only)
This is useful when your phone is charging or out of service but you have Wi-Fi on another device. FaceTime syncs across devices so you can pick up a call on your Mac or iPad even while traveling.
FaceTime now lets you send call links to Android users too. They can join via browser, no app required.
FaceTime vs WhatsApp: Which One Should You Use?
- FaceTime is best if:
- Both you and the person you're calling use Apple devices.
- You want seamless integration with your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- You're on a strong Wi-Fi or fast mobile data connection.
- WhatsApp is better if:
- You or your contacts use Android or non-Apple devices.
- You’re in a country with low bandwidth or restricted internet.
- You want a single app for text, calls, video, and media sharing.
Bottom line: Use FaceTime for Apple-to-Apple calls when the connection is good. Use WhatsApp for flexibility and broader compatibility while traveling.
Using FaceTime Over Wi-Fi vs Data Abroad
Here’s how to use FaceTime while avoiding international charges:
1. Connect to Wi-Fi
Using FaceTime on hotel Wi-Fi or café networks is the safest and cheapest option. It doesn’t cost anything and uses no mobile data. Just make sure:
- Your Wi-Fi is stable (FaceTime needs 128 Kbps minimum for audio, more for video)
- You trust the network (avoid public networks without a VPN if you're security-conscious)
2. Use a Travel eSIM Instead of Roaming
If you want to use FaceTime while sightseeing, commuting, or in transit, Wi-Fi won’t always be available. Using a regular SIM abroad often means:
- $10+/day data roaming charges
- Slow speeds and limits
- Surprise bills if you go over your data cap
The better option is to use a travel eSIM. With a prepaid eSIM, you can buy local or global data at much cheaper rates. Your FaceTime calls will still use data, but it’s data you control. No hidden fees, no unexpected roaming charges.
If you’re unfamiliar with how eSIM works, see our guide on how to set up an eSIM on iPhone.
Will FaceTime Work in Every Country?
Most of the time, yes. FaceTime is available in almost every country where iPhones are sold. But there are a few exceptions due to local laws or device restrictions.
Countries Where FaceTime May Not Work
- United Arab Emirates (UAE): FaceTime is often blocked by local carriers, and many iPhones sold in the UAE come with FaceTime disabled.
- China: FaceTime works, but only on global iPhone models. Locally purchased devices may have FaceTime Audio disabled at the hardware level.
- Qatar and Oman: VoIP services like FaceTime are sometimes restricted or throttled by telecom providers.
- Pakistan: Some carriers intermittently block VoIP features, including FaceTime.
FaceTime Blocked? Try These Workarounds:
- Use a VPN: Some travelers use VPNs to bypass VoIP blocks (check legality in your destination).
- Switch to WhatsApp or Zoom: These may work where FaceTime doesn’t.
- Use a global eSIM: Some FaceTime blocks are carrier-specific. Switching data providers (via eSIM) may bypass restrictions.
FaceTime with Eskimo eSIM
FaceTime is only free when you have reliable internet, and that’s where Eskimo eSIM helps.
With Eskimo, you get:
- 2-year data validity (keep or transfer leftover data)
- Free 500MB starter data for new users
- No throttling or speed limits
- Instant top-ups and universal compatibility
- Works across 130+ countries without changing SIMs
Whether you're calling from a train in France or a beach in Bali, Eskimo gives you the data you need to FaceTime with zero roaming anxiety.
Try Eskimo now and get 500MB free
FAQs
Is FaceTime free internationally?
Yes, FaceTime is free. But it uses internet data. If you're on Wi-Fi, there’s no cost. If you're using mobile data abroad, you could incur charges depending on your plan.
Does FaceTime work in Dubai or China?
FaceTime is restricted in the UAE. In China, it works only on iPhones that support FaceTime globally. FaceTime Audio may be limited on some local Chinese models.
How much data does a FaceTime call use?
Audio calls use ~3MB/min. Video calls can use 5–15MB/min depending on quality and bandwidth. Use Wi-Fi when possible to save data.
Will FaceTime still work if I change SIMs?
Yes. FaceTime can use your Apple ID as the caller ID. Changing SIMs won’t affect it if you're signed in with the same Apple ID.
Can I FaceTime without a SIM?
Yes, as long as you have Wi-Fi. FaceTime does not require a SIM or cellular connection, just an Apple ID and internet access.