Turn Off Data Roaming on iPhone With an eSIM

iPhone travel settings

Turn off Data Roaming on your Canadian line, then select VoyageSIM as your data line. Roaming may need to be enabled only on the travel eSIM, according to the instructions supplied with your plan.

Quick path: open Settings > Cellular, tap your primary line, open its data options and turn Data Roaming off. Return to Cellular Data, select VoyageSIM for Internet and turn off automatic cellular data switching.

How to turn off roaming on iPhone

  1. Open Settings, then Cellular or Mobile Data.
  2. Under SIMs, tap your primary Canadian line.
  3. Open Cellular Data Options.
  4. Turn Data Roaming off.
  5. Go back, tap Cellular Data and select the VoyageSIM eSIM.
  6. Turn off Allow Cellular Data Switching to prevent an automatic return to the Canadian line.

Menu wording can vary with the iOS version, phone language and carrier.

Which settings should each line use?

SettingCanadian lineVoyageSIM eSIM
Cellular DataDo not select for Internet abroadSelect as the data line
Data RoamingTurn off to prevent roaming data useEnable only when the plan instructions require it
Cellular Data SwitchingTurn off to prevent automatic line switching
Calls and textsMay remain on if you need messages; charges can applyVoyageSIM plans are intended for mobile data
Important: turning off Data Roaming does not necessarily block calls, SMS, voicemail or carrier services. Availability and billing depend on your Canadian plan. Review your carrier’s terms before departure.

Before departure and after arrival

Before you leave

  • Install the eSIM over Wi-Fi.
  • Label the line “VoyageSIM.”
  • Keep the setup email available offline.
  • Do not delete the eSIM after installation.
  • Download useful maps.

At your destination

  • Turn on the VoyageSIM line.
  • Select it for cellular data.
  • Enable its roaming setting if the plan email requires it.
  • Keep roaming off on the Canadian line.
  • Wait a few minutes or toggle Airplane Mode if needed.

Can I keep my Canadian number?

Yes. Your Canadian line can stay on for your number while VoyageSIM provides Internet. iMessage, FaceTime, WhatsApp, Messenger and other Internet apps can use eSIM data. Regular cellular calls and SMS remain tied to your carrier and can result in charges.

See also iMessage, FaceTime and WhatsApp with a travel eSIM.

If mobile data does not work

  • Confirm that VoyageSIM is selected for cellular data.
  • Check that the VoyageSIM line is turned on.
  • Enable roaming only on that eSIM when required.
  • Turn Airplane Mode on for about 30 seconds, then off.
  • Check country coverage, plan validity and any supplied APN.
  • Do not delete the eSIM; use the eSIM troubleshooting guide.

Frequently asked questions

Does turning off roaming disable my number?

No. It mainly prevents mobile data use on a foreign network. The line can remain active, but calls and texts still depend on your carrier plan.

Why enable roaming on VoyageSIM?

Some travel eSIMs connect through partner networks and require this setting. Enable it only on VoyageSIM when the instructions say so.

Should I turn my Canadian line off completely?

It is not required. Turning it off can further reduce billing risk, but you will not receive calls or SMS on that line.

Why turn cellular data switching off?

It stops iPhone from automatically returning to the Canadian line when the eSIM signal varies.

Prepare your connection before departure.

Choose a VoyageSIM eSIM