How to turn data roaming on or off on iPhone
Data roaming is a switch under Cellular Data Options. Turn it on only after you check what your carrier charges abroad.
Photo by Nicole Geri on Unsplash
The fix
Turn data roaming on or off
- 1
Open Settings and tap Cellular.
- 2
Tap Cellular Data Options.
With two lines, tap the line you want to change first.
- 3
Switch Data Roaming on or off.
Check your plan before you turn it on
Data roaming lets your iPhone use another carrier's network when you are outside your own. That is useful when you travel, but it is also how people get large bills. Some plans include roaming in certain countries, such as Canada and Mexico. Others charge by the day or by the megabyte. Before you leave, check what your plan covers and how much it costs, or ask your carrier. Some carriers sell a day pass for travel.
Roaming when you are still at home
Roaming also matters inside your own country in places where your carrier has no coverage and a partner network takes over. Your plan may or may not include that. If you are not traveling and see a roaming message, turn Data Roaming off and use Wi-Fi.
Dual SIM and eSIM
On a dual SIM iPhone, each line has its own Data Roaming switch. Check the one for the line you use for data. If you use a travel eSIM, the roaming setting for that line works the same way. Your iPhone must be unlocked to use a travel eSIM. See what an eSIM is for how it works abroad.
Avoid surprise charges
- Turn Data Roaming off when you land if you have not checked your plan, and use hotel or cafe Wi-Fi.
- Use Wi-Fi Calling, if your carrier offers it, instead of cellular calls.
- Check Settings › Cellular for the amount of data used while roaming, if your iPhone shows it.
- Turn Data Roaming off when you come home.
Data roaming is on but nothing works
- 1
Turn Airplane Mode on for 15 seconds, then off.
This makes the iPhone search for a local network.
- 2
Restart the iPhone.
- 3
Check that your plan covers the country you are in.
Ask your carrier if you are not sure. Some plans need an international option turned on.
- 4
Check for a carrier settings update.
Settings › General › About shows a prompt if one is available.
If your iPhone still has no signal, see an iPhone with no service. For trip planning, read our guides to using your phone in Europe, Canada and Mexico.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Data Roaming on iPhone?
Open Settings › Cellular, tap Cellular Data Options and switch on Data Roaming. On a dual SIM iPhone, tap the line first.
Does data roaming cost money?
It can. Some plans include roaming in certain countries and others charge a lot. Check your plan or ask your carrier before you turn it on.
Should I leave data roaming on all the time?
No. Turn it on when you travel and off when you are home, so your iPhone does not use a foreign network by accident.
Why does my iPhone not work abroad with roaming on?
Your plan may not cover the country, the iPhone may be locked to your carrier's rules, or the network needs a refresh. Toggle Airplane Mode, restart, and contact your carrier.
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