Alternatives to Skype for keeping a US phone number

zurlita Active member

Member since 17 August 2022

zurlitaActive member22 March 2025 22:49:02

To log into most online accounts these days, we need a phone number to receive a code for two-factor authentication. Right now, I use a US-based phone number through Skype to access all my accounts in the US. However, Skype recently announced that they will shut down their services on May 5th.

I don't have a Google Voice number, and now it's too late to get one. Since Google now recognizes me as living in Spain, they don’t allow me to obtain a US phone number from abroad. Additionally, I've read that Google Voice isn't always reliable for receiving two-factor authentication codes, and it also doesn't support porting a Skype number.

Does anyone know of any good alternatives to Skype for getting a US phone number that I can use while living in Spain? I’d appreciate any suggestions.

Thank you!

Zurlita M

Fred Indonesia Expert

Member since 02 August 2009

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Max Eastman

FredIndonesia Expert22 March 2025 23:34:09

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gwynj Bulgaria Expert

Member since 30 June 2020

gwynjBulgaria Expert24 March 2025 13:46:27

2435

@zurlita

I think Sonetel is a possibilty, but it didn't seem to like my mobile number.

I also found Numero eSim, and I've just finished setting it up. It cost me 14 euros for a US mobile number (special offer, 1 year). I installed their app on my phone. I did a call and SMS to test it (using my existing Skype) and both were fine. I've spent a couple of days with it and changed my online banking/brokerage to this new Numero number. No problems so far, and I actually like it better than Skype.

zurlita Active member

Member since 17 August 2022

zurlitaActive member27 March 2025 12:04:59

@gwynj

Thank you, GWYNJ, for your answer! Meanwhile I found Tello. They have the eSIM option, but my phone is not so advanced. I ordered a regular SIM card and a friend from the US will ship it to me. Then, I will activate it on my phone using the VPN. I understand that the SIM card can be activated even without a VPN by calling their customer service.

They have different plan options and you also have the possibility to customize your own plan based on your own needs. I picked up the one with 300 minutes, unlimited texts and no data. I think it was 6 or 7 dollars per month.

The SIM card (or eSIM) comes with a phone number, but they offer the possibility to port your own number.

I also searched online for reviews and it seems that they are a reliable company. I haven't received my SIM yet in order to be able to tell you my own opinion, but I am ready to give it a try.

Many thanks again. And have a great day.