How to Call a Phone from the Internet Without Extra Fees?

International calls can quickly add up, leaving you with expensive phone bills when staying in touch with family, friends, or clients abroad. The solution is to call a phone from the internet using Wi-Fi calling, VoIP apps, and international eSIM plans. These methods let you maintain your number, enjoy better call quality, and avoid roaming fees while traveling. Read the blog to explore the best ways and tools to make affordable internet calls.

Your phone bill just arrived, and there's a $200 charge for international calls you made during last month's business trip. Sound familiar? You're not alone in wondering why calling abroad costs so much when everything else seems to work seamlessly over the internet.

The reality is, you can call a phone from an internet connection without those shocking fees. Whether you travel often, have family overseas, or run a business with global clients, internet-based calling can save you hundreds of dollars a year, and often gives you clearer call quality than traditional phone networks.

Let's explore how internet calling works, the different methods available, and how to set everything up so you never get surprised by outrageous phone bills again.

What Does "Calling a Phone from the Internet" Really Mean?

When you call a phone from an internet connection, you're using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology instead of traditional cellular networks. Your voice gets converted into digital data packets that travel through internet connections rather than cell towers.

This method works whether you're calling another internet user or reaching someone on a regular phone line. The key difference is that your call travels primarily through Wi-Fi or mobile data connections, which often cost significantly less than standard voice calling plans.

Internet calling isn't just for tech enthusiasts anymore. Major phone manufacturers now build these features directly into their devices, making it as simple as selecting Wi-Fi calling in your settings or downloading a calling app.

What are the Different Ways to Call a Phone Using the Internet?

4 Internet-based Calling Apps (Google Voice, Viber, WhatsApp)

1. Google Voice lets you make calls to any phone number in the US and Canada for free, with international rates significantly lower than traditional carriers. The service provides you with a Google phone number that works across all your devices.

2. Viber offers free calls between Viber users worldwide, plus low-cost calls to regular phone numbers. The app works on smartphones, tablets, and computers, so you can stay connected regardless of which device you're using.

3. WhatsApp provides free voice calls to other WhatsApp users globally. While it doesn't support calling regular phone numbers directly, it's perfect for staying in touch with contacts who also use the app.

4. Skype remains one of the most versatile options, allowing you to call regular phone numbers worldwide at competitive rates while offering free Skype-to-Skype calls.

3 Social Media Apps with Voice Call Features

1. Facebook Messenger includes voice calling between users, making it convenient if you're already connected with people on Facebook.

2. Instagram offers voice calls within direct messages, though this feature is limited to Instagram users only.

3. Discord provides excellent voice call quality for both one-on-one conversations and group calls, originally designed for gamers but now popular for general communication.

Using Wi-Fi Calling on Your Phone

Most modern smartphones include Wi-Fi calling features that let you use your regular phone number over internet connections. This method seamlessly switches between Wi-Fi and cellular networks without interrupting your calls.

• iPhone Wi-Fi Calling: Available through Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling, this feature works with most major carriers and maintains your existing phone number.
• Android Wi-Fi Calling: Usually found in Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network, though exact locations vary by manufacturer and carrier.

Calling from Your Primary Number Via Data/Wi-Fi

When you can, you use an eSIM to make calls. The answer depends on your eSIM provider and plan type. Many international eSIM services support voice calls through data connections, allowing you to maintain connectivity while traveling without expensive roaming charges.

Some international eSIM plans include traditional voice calling, while others focus on data-only services that work perfectly with internet-based calling apps.

How to Set Up Internet Calling on Your Device?

iPhone Setup Process

Enable Wi-Fi Calling

Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling

Toggle "Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone"

Follow prompts to verify your address for emergency services

Download Calling Apps

App Store search for your preferred calling service

Create an account and verify your phone number if required

Grant the microphone and contact access permissions

Configure eSIM for Data

If using the best eSIM for travel, ensure data settings are properly configured

Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan for new eSIM installation

Android Setup Process

Activate Wi-Fi Calling

Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network

Select "Wi-Fi Calling" (location varies by manufacturer)

Enable the feature and complete carrier verification

Install Calling Applications

Google Play Store download for chosen apps

Complete account setup and phone verification

Allow necessary permissions for calls and contacts

eSIM Configuration

Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network

Add a new eSIM profile if using international eSIM services

Verify data connectivity before testing calls

Can You Keep Your Same Number When Using Internet Calls?

Yes, you can typically keep your existing phone number when making internet calls, though the method depends on which calling solution you choose.

Wi-Fi Calling automatically uses your regular phone number, so recipients see your familiar number on their caller ID. This seamless integration means friends and family won't notice any difference in how you're calling them.

VoIP Apps with Number Porting, like Google Voice, allow you to port your existing number to their service, maintaining continuity while gaining internet calling benefits.

Dual Number Systems let you keep your original number while adding a secondary internet-based number for specific purposes like international calling or business use.

eSIM Integration means you can use an eSIM to make calls while maintaining your primary number for incoming calls and texts. This setup works particularly well when you use eSIM to make calls in foreign country scenarios.

Will Internet Calls Work Internationally (and for Free)?

Internet calling can work internationally, often at no additional cost beyond your regular internet connection fees. However, call quality and availability depend on several factors.

Free International Calling works when both parties use the same internet-based service (WhatsApp to WhatsApp, Skype to Skype, etc.). These calls typically don't incur any charges beyond your normal internet usage.

Paid International Calling through services like Google Voice or Skype often costs significantly less than traditional best phone plan for international calls options. Rates vary by destination country but generally range from $0.01 to $0.50 per minute.

eSIM Advantages become apparent when you use eSIM to make calls in foreign countries. Your international eSIM provides local data rates, making internet calling much more affordable than international roaming charges.

Network Quality Considerations matter since call quality depends on internet connection stability. Wi-Fi networks in hotels or cafes may have limitations, while mobile data from reliable international eSIM plans often provides more consistent performance.

4 Simple Tips to Avoid Extra Fees When Calling Over the Internet

1. Monitor Your Data Usage

Internet calls consume mobile data when not connected to Wi-Fi. Track usage to avoid overage charges, especially when using international eSIM services with data limits.

2. Choose the Right Calling Method

• App-to-App Calls (WhatsApp, Viber, Skype) typically offer the best value for international communication when both parties have the service installed.
• Wi-Fi First Strategy means connecting to Wi-Fi networks whenever possible to avoid using mobile data for calls.
• eSIM Data Plans can provide cost-effective solutions when you need to call a phone from the internet while traveling. Research the best eSIM for travel options that include generous data allowances.

3. Understand Your Carrier's Policies

• Some carriers charge for Wi-Fi calling to international numbers, even though the call uses your internet connection. Review your plan details or contact customer service for clarification.
• International Roaming charges may still apply if your primary SIM card is active while making internet calls abroad. Consider switching to airplane mode with Wi-Fi enabled, or use international eSIM plans exclusively while traveling.

4. Quality vs. Cost Balance

• HD Voice Calling through internet services often provides better quality than traditional phone networks, but higher quality settings use more data.
• Bandwidth Management helps optimize call quality while controlling data usage. Most calling apps allow you to adjust quality settings based on your connection speed and data limitations.

Make Every Internet Call Effortless with Jetpac eSIM

When you need to call a phone from the internet while traveling, stable data makes all the difference. Jetpac international eSIM is built for reliable internet calling, giving you a smooth experience wherever you go.

Global coverage: One eSIM works in 200+ countries, so you don’t need to switch providers or worry about authentication errors.

High-speed data: Strong network partnerships keep your voice calls, video calls, and conferences clear.

Flexible plans: Choose from international eSIM plans that fit your travel style — whether it’s short trips or frequent business travel.

Easy setup: Activate instantly by scanning a QR code. Jetpac auto-configures settings for Wi-Fi calling and internet-based apps.

Transparent pricing: Unlike the typical best phone plan for international calls with hidden charges, Jetpac gives you upfront rates with no surprises.

24/7 support: Help is always available through WhatsApp or email, no matter your time zone.

With Jetpac, you can use eSIM to make calls in foreign countries confidently. It’s trusted by frequent flyers as the best eSIM for travel, ensuring your internet calls are effortless, affordable, and dependable.

FAQs

Can I make phone calls through the internet?

Yes, you can absolutely call a phone from internet connections using various methods, including Wi-Fi calling, VoIP apps like Skype or Google Voice, and messaging apps with voice features. These services work over Wi-Fi or mobile data connections and often cost significantly less than traditional phone calls.

Can I call a phone number through Wi-Fi?

Yes, Wi-Fi calling allows you to call regular phone numbers using your internet connection instead of cellular networks. Most modern smartphones include built-in Wi-Fi calling features that work with your existing phone number, and you can also use internet-based calling apps to reach any phone number worldwide.

How to call someone without service for free?

You can call someone without cellular service by using Wi-Fi connections with calling apps like WhatsApp, Viber, or Skype for app-to-app calls, or services like Google Voice for calls to regular phone numbers. If you have an international eSIM data service, you can also use eSIM to make calls in a foreign country through internet calling methods.

What is the downside of WiFi calling?

WiFi calling drawbacks include dependency on internet connection quality, potential audio delays or drops with poor Wi-Fi, possible emergency services location issues, battery drain, and some carriers may still charge for international WiFi calls. International eSIM plans can help mitigate some of these issues by providing reliable mobile data as a backup.

What is required for Internet calling?

Internet calling requires a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data), a compatible device (smartphone, tablet, or computer), appropriate calling software or app, and account setup with your chosen service provider. For travel scenarios, having the best eSIM for travel ensures reliable data connectivity for internet calling.

Which providers offer WiFi calling?

Major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and most international carriers support WiFi calling built into their service plans. Additionally, standalone providers like Google Voice, Skype, WhatsApp, and Viber offer internet-based calling services. When traveling, international eSIM providers often support internet calling through their data services.