Yes, paying for international calls is still an option today, but with so many free alternatives available. If you’re looking to cut costs, definitely explore the best ways to make free international calls.
1. Best Ways to Make Free International Calls
You’ll find all of the most useful ways to get free international calls. If you’re looking to save money while staying connected, then you’ve come to the right place.
1.1. Messaging apps with free international calls
Today, there are so many free apps that let you make calls from anywhere. With just a stable internet connection, you can chat, video call, or send messages to anyone, anywhere.
- WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps with 3 billion monthly active users. It’s very convenient for connecting multiple friends or colleagues at once.
- Like WhatsApp, Signal supports free voice and video calls worldwide. Its standout feature is its commitment to data security.
- Facebook Messenger lets you call friends and family anywhere in the world as long as you’re connected to the internet.
- If you use an Apple device, you can enjoy high-quality video and audio calls through FaceTime.
- Viber offers free voice and video calls along with messaging features.
Benefits of messaging apps:
With these apps, you can stay in touch with friends, family, or colleagues abroad. As long as you have a stable internet connection, most of these apps offer high-quality voice and video calls.
There are also several features, such as group calls, messaging, and file sharing, which make communication more versatile and convenient.
However, keep in mind:
- App requirement: To make calls, both parties must have the app installed and an internet connection.
- Geographical restrictions: Most of these apps can be blocked or restricted in certain countries. For example, WhatsApp calling is restricted in the United Arab Emirates, and Facebook & Messenger are blocked in China and North Korea.
- Device compatibility: FaceTime only works on Apple devices.
>>> Read more: How To Get A Free eSIM Phone Service
1.2. Wi-Fi calling
Wi-Fi Calling is built directly into your smartphone, allowing you to call any regular phone number.
Many carriers now offer Wi-Fi Calling, for example:
T-Mobile Wi-Fi Calling:
- Calls to the U.S. from abroad: Free when using Wi-Fi Calling to reach U.S. numbers (some coverage extends to Canada and Mexico, depending on your plan).
- Calls to other countries from abroad: Charged at T-Mobile’s international rates (commonly $0.25/min for over 215 countries).
- Calls from the U.S. to other countries: Billed at your international long-distance rates unless you have an additional plan like Stateside International Talk.
Verizon Wi-Fi Calling:
- Calls and texts to U.S. numbers are free; international calls follow your long-distance plan or pay-as-you-go rates.
- Calling back to the U.S. is usually free, but calls to other countries are billed according to your international plan.
Benefits of Wi-Fi Calling:
This is also an excellent option, particularly when traveling. Wi-Fi Calling works just like a normal phone call, and the person you’re calling doesn’t need to install any special app.
It is not entirely free for international calls and is also dependent on the quality of the Wi-Fi network. Still, Wi-Fi Calling is convenient and reliable.
1.3. VoIP services for international calling
In general, international calling through VoIP (Voice over IP) apps comes in two forms: completely free app-to-app calls and low-cost or credit-based calls to regular phone numbers.
These services run over the internet and often use unique pricing models, commonly offering free calls within the U.S., unlimited app-to-app communication, and low per-minute rates for international numbers.
Online meeting platforms:
- Zoom is widely known for online meetings and is also a reliable platform for international calls.
- Google Meet is primarily for professional video conferencing, but it works well for personal calls too. It allows group meetings with high-quality audio and video.
Limitations of free versions: Free versions of Zoom and Google Meet may have restrictions on call duration or participant numbers.
Dedicated VoIP calling services:
- Google Voice offers free and unlimited calls to U.S., Canadian, and Puerto Rico numbers while keeping international rates extremely low.
- Rebtel connects international calls through local numbers. Calls between Rebtel app users are free, but reaching standard phone numbers usually requires a small top-up or subscription.
- TextNow offers a free U.S. or Canadian number with unlimited calling and texting within those regions. You can place free calls anywhere in the U.S. and Canada, and enjoy low-cost international rates to Mexico and over 230 other countries, starting at under $0.01 per minute.
- Similarly, Dingtone uses a credit-based system where you can earn credits by watching ads, completing tasks, or inviting friends. Those credits can then be used for international calls.
On the more traditional side, services like Skype Credits, Viber Out, and Vonage operate mostly on a pay-per-minute or subscription model.
They’re not entirely free and often include small promotional offers, like free trial minutes, to let new users experience call quality before committing.
Benefits of VoIP services:
Most of these apps offer free app-to-app calling worldwide, though both parties generally need to be on the same platform for the calls to remain free.
When contacting landlines or mobile numbers, rates are usually far lower than traditional carrier fees. However, call quality may vary depending on your internet speed and connection stability.
1.4. Free international calls through the Lifeline program
If you have a limited income, you’ll definitely want to take a closer look at the Lifeline program. Created to support eligible low-income households, Lifeline plans help cut down your monthly phone bill.
Surprisingly, certain participating providers, such as StandUp Wireless, AirTalk Wireless, and SafeLink Wireless, also offer extra perks, often including free government smartphones.
One of the most outstanding benefits of AirTalk Wireless is free international calling to 200+ countries and territories.
- AirTalk Wireless includes free international calling to over 200 countries and territories, with more than 80 of those offering unlimited minutes, so you can talk for as long as you like without worrying about extra charges.
- Calls can be made to both landlines and mobile phones. There are no hidden fees.
Benefits of free international calling from AirTalk Wireless:
AirTalk Wireless lets you make international calls directly through the mobile network. So, no internet required.
This is especially helpful since, in reality, not everyone abroad has a smartphone or reliable internet access at all times, especially older adults, those living in rural areas, or people who aren’t tech-savvy.
With traditional calling, you only need to dial the recipient’s mobile or landline number.
Calls over mobile networks are also typically more stable, as they use dedicated lines and are less affected by network congestion or Wi-Fi quality.
2. Get Free International Calls to 200+ Countries and Territories with Lifeline: Only Available on AirTalk Wireless
To get this perk, you’ll need to qualify for Lifeline first.
Eligibility for Lifeline is determined either by income or by participation in qualifying federal assistance programs.
- Income-Based: Your household income must be at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- Program-Based: If you or someone in your household participates in Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, FPHA/Section 8, Veterans and Survivors Pension, or certain Tribal assistance programs, you’re automatically eligible.
Steps to get access to free international calling
Now, here is how to apply for Lifeline on AirTalk Wireless and get free international calls:
Step 1: Visit the AirTalk Wireless website and enter your ZIP code to begin.
Step 2: Choose from available plans such as Basic/Standard, Plus, Premium, or Unlimited. Each option comes with a free device, or you can select a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) plan to keep your current phone while still enjoying all Lifeline benefits.
Keep in mind that no matter which plan you choose, you’ll still receive:
- Free international calling to 200+ countries
- Unlimited talk and text
- Free SIM kit or eSIM
- Free Wi-Fi calling, plus free calls to 911 and 411
- Caller ID, call waiting, voicemail, and 3-way calling
- Nationwide coverage on reliable networks
Step 3: Pick your free device (Optional)
Step 4: Verify your eligibility. Most applicants are verified automatically, though some may need to provide documents.
Step 5: Submit your application.
How to make an international call
- Enable the “International Calling” feature in your account settings.
- Dial the country code (starting with “+”), followed by the area code.
- Enter the phone number of the person you’re calling.
Making a call is simple. You can connect with both landlines and mobile phones in all countries covered under the unlimited calling list.
FAQs
Is there a way to call internationally for free?
The most common method is using apps like WhatsApp. With these services, you can call other users of the same app for free, regardless of their location, as long as both parties have a stable internet connection.
Which app is best for free international calls?
For personal, app-to-app communication, WhatsApp is a top choice due to its massive global user base. Google Voice is great for free and unlimited calls to U.S. and Canadian numbers while keeping international rates extremely low.
Can I make international calls over Wi-Fi for free?
Make free international calls over Wi-Fi by using VoIP apps like WhatsApp, Signal, Messenger, or Zoom. In addition, many carriers offer Wi-Fi Calling, which lets you place calls using a Wi-Fi network instead of cellular service.
Conclusion
So what’s new? With AirTalk Wireless, you can now enjoy free international calls to over 200 countries and territories, making it easier than ever to stay connected with loved ones across the globe. If you’re eligible for Lifeline, apply ASAP!