You've just landed in your dream destination, ready to share your first panoramic photo on social media. But when you open your smartphone, there's no connection. No data, no maps, no messages.
The truth? Not all countries support eSIMs yet, and finding out at the last minute can ruin the start of your trip. In this article, I'll show you exactly where eSIMs work (and where they don't), so you can always leave prepared and connected.
Where is eSIM not yet available?
Although eSIM technology is rapidly spreading, some countries do not yet support this technology for regulatory, technical, or local infrastructure reasons.
Major countries where eSIMs are currently unavailable or have severe limitations include:
Cuba – Government Restrictions on Mobile Technology
North Korea – Closed Telecommunications System
Sudan and South Sudan – Limited infrastructure
Syria – Restricted technological access
Turkmenistan – State control over telecommunications
Belarus – Regulatory Restrictions on eSIMs
In other countries, such as Iran, Myanmar, Venezuela, or Zimbabwe , eSIMs may technically work, but access is very limited or depends on specific carriers.
The good news? Most popular tourist destinations (Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Sub-Saharan Africa) support eSIMs without any issues.
Why don't some countries support eSIMs?
There are mainly three reasons :
1. Government regulation: In some states, authorities require each SIM card to be physically registered with identity documents. This process is more difficult to control with digital eSIMs, so they are blocked or severely limited.
2. Outdated technological infrastructure. eSIMs require local operators to update their backend systems to support digital provisioning. In countries with outdated networks, this update has not yet occurred.
3. Political Control of Communications In countries with authoritarian regimes, eSIMs are a difficult technology to monitor. Therefore, they are often banned or severely restricted.
eSIM vs. physical SIM: What's the difference when traveling?
Important note: Even when eSIM is theoretically available, some local operators may not offer it. Therefore, international providers like BLIVALE guarantee coverage in over 200 countries/regions, bypassing the limitations of individual national operators.
If you are thinking of taking a trip alone or with friends or for work, do not forget the importance of staying connected wherever you are. For unlimited Internet connection, contact BLIVALE where you can get unlimited Internet according to the destinations:
For unlimited plans like data BLIVALE guarantees free roaming anywhere in the world, no additional or hidden costs. Don't let the lack of connection stop you; get ready to explore the world with freedom and spontaneity.
How to check if your destination supports eSIMs
Before leaving, follow these 3 steps:
Step 1: Check your provider's official list. Each eSIM operator (including BLIVALE ) has a dedicated page with a complete list of supported countries. Always check before booking your flight.
Step 2: Find updated information online . Regulations change rapidly. A search of the eSIM page description, especially regional and global ones, should reveal the names of the countries where eSIM use is permitted.
Step 3: Have a Plan B If you go to a high-risk country, consider:
Carry a physical international SIM card with you as a backup
Download offline maps before departure
Store important addresses and contacts
What to do if your destination doesn't support eSIMs
✅ Use a global provider like BLIVALE – With coverage in over 200 countries/regions, it often works even where local operators don't support eSIM
✅ Buy a physical prepaid SIM – With BLIVALE you can buy SIM Cards for the country or region/global if you don't find a matching eSIM usage in the destination country
✅ Take advantage of public WiFi – Hotels, cafes, museums offer free internet, understanding the dangers that public WiFi entails.
Global connectivity without surprises
If you want to avoid surprises during your travels, BLIVALE offers international eSIM and SIM cards with unlimited free roaming in over 200 countries and regions .
Even in destinations where local operators don't yet support eSIMs, BLIVALE guarantees you connection thanks to its global network of partners.
What you get with BLIVALE:
✅ Instant activation in seconds via app
✅ By purchasing an UNlimited eSIM you do not need to check the consumption of the chosen plan
✅ Coverage in Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa, Oceania
✅ No hidden costs, transparent rates
✅ Customer support via email and WhatsApp in multiple languages
No hassle, no surprises on arrival — just simple, reliable connectivity wherever you are.
Leave informed, travel connected
Now you know exactly where eSIMs work and where there may be limitations. Most tourist destinations support this technology, but it's always best to check before you travel.
With BLIVALE , you eliminate any doubt: thanks to coverage in over 200 countries/regions and instant activation, you stay connected from the moment you land until you return home.
