The short answer
- 1The SMS code goes to the number you typed, wherever that SIM is.
- 2Abroad, the SIM must be on a network: roaming on, mobile data not needed.
- 3A second logged-in device or a login email avoids SMS altogether.
In this article
The code follows the number, not the phone
Telegram sends an SMS code to the number you typed on the login screen. It does not matter which country you are in, which Wi-Fi you are on, or which phone the SIM card is in. So the question when you travel is always the same: can the SIM for that number receive a text message right now, where you are?
Before thinking about SMS at all, check the easier route: if Telegram is still logged in on another device, such as a laptop you brought along, the code usually goes there as a message and needs no mobile signal. See getting your code in the Telegram app on another device.
Abroad with your home SIM
| Situation | Will the SMS arrive? | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Roaming on, network found | Usually yes. Incoming texts generally work wherever roaming does | Ask for the code once and wait |
| Roaming switched off to save money | No. The SIM is not on any network | Turn roaming on just for the login, then off again |
| Wi-Fi only, SIM out or in airplane mode | No | Use another logged-in device or a login email |
| Local travel SIM in the phone | Only if you log in with the travel number | Log in with your usual number on your usual SIM |
Data roaming and roaming are often separate switches. Receiving a text needs the SIM to be registered on a network; it does not need mobile data. If your plan charges heavily for data, you can leave data roaming off and still get the SMS.
Login codes on dual-SIM phones
On a phone with two SIM cards or an eSIM, the code goes to whichever of the two numbers you typed, and arrives on that line:
- Make sure that SIM is switched on. Many phones let you disable one line while travelling. A disabled line receives nothing.
- Look in the right inbox. Some messaging apps show texts for each SIM separately, or file messages from unknown senders away.
- Type the number of the SIM your account uses. Signing in with the other number starts a different, new account.
Set things up before you travel
The easiest fix is the one you do at home, while everything works:
- Stay logged in on a second device you take with you. Codes reach it over any internet connection.
- Add a login email, so codes can go to your inbox instead of SMS. See adding a login email.
- Turn on Two-Step Verification and make sure you know the password. It also makes a code read out by phone call available. See getting the code by phone call.
- Do not log out on the trip unless you have to. You only need a code when you sign in again.
If you are stuck abroad
- Asked for a code several times? Stop and wait; see 'Too many attempts'.
- Your SIM is lost or stolen? Ask your carrier for a replacement SIM with the same number; it can often be sent or activated as an eSIM.
- Nothing works and you have no other device? Work through the full login checklist.
Next step: a new number that still has the previous owner's Telegram.
FAQ
Can I get Telegram's SMS code while roaming?
Usually, if roaming is on and the SIM has found a network. Incoming texts do not need mobile data.
My dual-SIM phone gets no Telegram code. Why?
Check that the SIM for the number you typed is switched on, and look in that line's messages.
How do I log in to Telegram abroad without SMS?
Use a device that is still logged in, where the code arrives as a message, or a login email set up beforehand.
Sources
At a glance
- 1Roaming
Roaming on for the SIM; data roaming can stay off.
- 2Country
Pick your number's home country, not where you are.
- 3Before you go
Second device, login email, Two-Step Verification.
Updated
