How to Keep Your U.S. Mobile Number While Living Abroad
You're planning your move to India. But what happens to your U.S. phone number? If you're like most NRIs, your entire life—from banks to logins—is tied to that number. What if you could keep it... for just $20 forever?
How to Keep Your U.S. Mobile Number While Living Abroad: The Complete Google Voice Guide
Don't lose access to your US bank accounts, credit cards, and financial services. Learn how to port your number to Google Voice for just $20 and receive OTPs, texts, and calls from anywhere in the world.
Key Takeaways
- Port your US number to Google Voice for a one-time $20 fee—no monthly charges ever
- Receive bank OTPs, verification texts, and calls from anywhere with internet access
- Never cancel your carrier plan before porting—you'll permanently lose your number
- Google Voice works in India via Wi-Fi or mobile data through the app or web browser
- Essential for maintaining access to US banks, credit cards, and financial accounts abroad
What you'll learn: Why keeping your US number is critical for NRIs, how to port to Google Voice step-by-step, alternative options if Google Voice doesn't work for you, and common mistakes that cause people to lose their numbers permanently.
Why You Must Keep Your US Phone Number When Moving Abroad
You're planning your move to India. The flights are booked, the movers are scheduled, and you've started saying your goodbyes. But here's a question that catches most NRIs off guard: What happens to your US phone number?
If you're like most people who've lived in the US for years, your entire digital life is tied to that 10-digit number. Your bank sends OTPs to it. Your credit cards verify transactions through it. Your 401(k) provider, your brokerage account, your Amazon account—they all have that number on file.
This isn't a rare story. It's one of the most common—and most preventable—mistakes NRIs make when relocating. The good news? You can avoid it entirely for just $20.
What You'll Lose Without Your US Number
- Bank account access: Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo all send OTPs via SMS
- Credit card verification: Fraud alerts and transaction confirmations go to your phone
- Investment accounts: Fidelity, Schwab, Vanguard require phone verification for trades
- Retirement accounts: 401(k) and IRA providers need phone verification for withdrawals
- Two-factor authentication: Most US services default to SMS-based 2FA
- Account recovery: If you forget a password, recovery often requires your phone
Understanding this is part of the hidden steps NRIs miss before moving to India. Your phone number isn't just a convenience—it's your key to your entire US financial life.
⚠️ Critical Warning: Once you cancel your carrier plan, your number is released back to the pool. It can be reassigned to someone else within days. There is NO way to get it back. Port your number BEFORE canceling your plan.
The Google Voice Solution: Keep Your Number for $20 Forever
Here's the solution that's saved thousands of NRIs from losing access to their US accounts: Google Voice. For a one-time porting fee of $20, you can transfer your existing US phone number to Google Voice and keep it indefinitely—with no monthly charges.
Why Google Voice Is Perfect for NRIs
- One-time $20 fee: No monthly charges, no annual fees, no hidden costs
- Works anywhere: Receive calls and texts over Wi-Fi or mobile data globally
- Receives OTPs: Bank verification codes, 2FA texts all come through reliably
- Free US calls: Call any US number for free from anywhere in the world
- Voicemail transcription: Missed calls get transcribed and emailed to you
- Multi-device: Use on phone app, tablet, or web browser simultaneously
According to Wikipedia, Google Voice has been providing telecommunications services since 2009 and is widely used by expatriates and international travelers to maintain US phone connectivity.
Cost Comparison: Google Voice vs. Keeping a Carrier Plan
| Option | Monthly Cost | 5-Year Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Google Voice | $0 (one-time $20) | $20 |
| Mint Mobile | $10-15 | $600-900 |
| Google Fi | $20 | $1,200 |
| T-Mobile Prepaid | $25-40 | $1,500-2,400 |
Bottom line: Google Voice saves you $580-$2,380 over 5 years compared to maintaining a carrier plan.
This kind of smart financial planning is similar to the decisions you'll make about your 401(k) after leaving the US—small choices that compound into significant savings over time.
💡 Pro Tip: Set up Google Voice while you're still in the US. The initial signup and porting process is easiest when you have a US IP address. You can use it from India immediately after setup.
How to Port Your Number to Google Voice: Step-by-Step Guide
Porting your number to Google Voice is straightforward, but timing is critical. Here's exactly how to do it—and when.
Check Your Carrier's Porting Policy
Most major carriers (T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, Mint Mobile) allow number porting. Call your carrier or check online to confirm your number is eligible. You'll need your account number and PIN/passcode.
Where to find your account info: Check your carrier's app, website, or call customer service. Some carriers have a specific "transfer PIN" different from your account PIN.
Sign Up for Google Voice
Go to voice.google.com and sign in with your Google account. If you don't have a Google Voice number yet, you'll be prompted to choose one—but you can skip this since you're porting your existing number.
Important: Do this while in the US or using a VPN with a US IP address. Google Voice signup is restricted to US-based users.
Initiate the Port Request
In Google Voice settings (gear icon), select "Phones" then "Port a number." Enter your existing US phone number. Google will verify it's eligible for porting.
Enter Your Carrier Account Details
Provide your current carrier's account number and PIN. This authorizes the transfer. Double-check these details—incorrect information will delay the port.
Pay the $20 Porting Fee
Google charges a one-time $20 fee to port your number. This is the only cost you'll ever pay for Google Voice—there are no monthly fees.
Wait for Confirmation (24-72 Hours)
The port typically completes within 24 hours, but some carriers take up to 3 business days. You'll receive an email when the transfer is complete. Keep your old carrier service active until you receive confirmation.
Cancel Your Old Carrier Plan
Only after receiving confirmation that your number has been ported to Google Voice should you cancel your carrier plan. The port automatically releases your number from the old carrier.
✅ Timing Tip: Start the porting process 1-2 weeks before your departure date. This gives you buffer time if there are any issues, and you can test that everything works before you leave the US.
What You'll Need for Porting
- Your current US phone number
- Carrier account number (found in app or on bill)
- Carrier PIN or transfer PIN
- Google account (Gmail)
- Credit/debit card for $20 fee
- US IP address (or VPN) for initial setup
Alternative Options: When Google Voice Isn't Right for You
While Google Voice is the most cost-effective solution for most NRIs, there are situations where alternatives make more sense. Here's a comparison of your options.
📱 Mint Mobile
Cost: $10-15/month
Best for: Those who need a "real" carrier number for services that block VoIP
- Works with Wi-Fi calling abroad
- Some banks prefer carrier numbers over VoIP
- Requires annual prepayment for best rates
📶 Google Fi
Cost: $20/month base
Best for: Those who travel frequently between US and India
- Works internationally without extra fees
- Data works in 200+ countries
- Can pause service when not needed
📞 T-Mobile Prepaid
Cost: $25-40/month
Best for: Those who visit US regularly
- Pay-as-you-go flexibility
- International roaming options
- Keep number active with minimal use
🌐 Ultra Mobile
Cost: $15-25/month
Best for: Those who call India frequently
- Includes international calling minutes
- Wi-Fi calling works abroad
- Good balance of features and cost
⚠️ VoIP Limitations: Some banks and financial institutions block VoIP numbers (including Google Voice) for OTPs. If you encounter this, you may need a carrier-based solution like Mint Mobile or Google Fi as a backup. Test your critical accounts before fully committing to Google Voice.
Choosing the right phone solution is just one part of your relocation planning. For a comprehensive checklist, see our guide on what NRIs learned about shipping belongings to India—another area where planning ahead saves significant money and stress.
Common Mistakes That Cost NRIs Their Phone Numbers
After helping hundreds of NRIs with their relocation, I've seen the same mistakes repeated over and over. Here's what to avoid.
❌ Mistake #1: Canceling Carrier Before Porting
This is the most common and most devastating mistake. Once you cancel your carrier plan, your number is released. It can be reassigned to someone else within days, and there's no way to get it back.
Solution: Always initiate the port FIRST, wait for confirmation, THEN cancel your old plan.
❌ Mistake #2: Waiting Until the Last Minute
Porting can take 24-72 hours, and issues can extend this to a week or more. If you start the process the day before your flight, you risk leaving without your number properly transferred.
Solution: Start the porting process 2 weeks before departure. This gives you time to troubleshoot any issues.
❌ Mistake #3: Not Testing Before Leaving
Some NRIs port their number but never test if it actually works for receiving OTPs. They discover the problem only after landing in India when they can't access their bank account.
Solution: After porting, test receiving OTPs from your bank, credit cards, and other critical services while still in the US.
❌ Mistake #4: Wrong Account Information
Entering incorrect carrier account number or PIN causes the port to fail. Some carriers have a separate "transfer PIN" that's different from your account PIN.
Solution: Call your carrier before starting the port to confirm your exact account number and the correct PIN for transfers.
❌ Mistake #5: Not Updating Contact Info
After porting to Google Voice, some people forget to update their phone number with banks and services. When the old carrier number stops working, they lose access.
Solution: Your number stays the same after porting—but verify all your accounts still have the correct number on file and test OTP delivery.
These kinds of oversights are similar to the common reasons families struggle after moving back to India—small details that become big problems when not addressed proactively.
Using Google Voice in India: What to Expect
Once you've successfully ported your number to Google Voice, here's what your experience will be like using it from India.
How Google Voice Works in India
- Calls: Make and receive calls over Wi-Fi or mobile data. Calls to US numbers are free.
- Texts: Send and receive SMS. OTPs from banks arrive within seconds.
- Voicemail: Missed calls go to voicemail, which is transcribed and emailed to you.
- App or Web: Use the Google Voice app on your phone or access via web browser.
- Notifications: Get push notifications for incoming calls and texts.
Requirements for Using Google Voice in India
- Internet connection: Wi-Fi or mobile data (4G/5G works well)
- Google Voice app: Download from App Store or Google Play
- Google account: Stay signed in to your Google account
- Notifications enabled: Allow notifications so you don't miss OTPs
📱 Call Quality Tip: Google Voice call quality depends on your internet connection. On a stable Wi-Fi or 4G connection, calls are crystal clear. On slower connections, you may experience delays or dropped calls. For important calls, ensure you're on a reliable connection.
Limitations to Be Aware Of
- Emergency calls: Google Voice cannot call emergency services (911). Use your Indian number for emergencies.
- Some short codes: A few US short codes may not work with Google Voice.
- MMS limitations: Picture messages may not always work internationally.
- VoIP blocking: Some services may block VoIP numbers—have a backup plan.
For more on managing your US financial accounts from India, including tax implications and reporting requirements, check out our guide on DTAA and avoiding double taxation as an NRI.
🎯 Need Help With Your Relocation? Join the Desi Return Inner Circle for checklists, templates, and expert guidance on every aspect of your move. Join Inner Circle Community
Your Complete Phone Number Transition Checklist
Use this checklist to ensure you don't lose access to your US phone number when moving abroad.
2 Weeks Before Departure
- Confirm your carrier allows number porting
- Get your carrier account number and transfer PIN
- Sign up for Google Voice (while in US)
- Initiate the port request and pay $20 fee
- Wait for port confirmation email
After Port Confirmation
- Test receiving calls on Google Voice
- Test receiving texts/OTPs from your bank
- Test receiving OTPs from credit cards
- Download Google Voice app on your phone
- Enable notifications for the app
- Cancel your old carrier plan (only after testing!)
After Arriving in India
- Connect to Wi-Fi and test Google Voice
- Verify OTPs still arrive from US banks
- Set up your Indian SIM card for local calls
- Keep Google Voice app running in background
- Consider adding Indian number to some US accounts as backup
Don't Let Your Phone Number Become Your Biggest Regret
The decision to keep your US phone number is one of the simplest yet most impactful choices you'll make during your relocation. Unlike many aspects of moving abroad that are complex and expensive, this one is straightforward: port to Google Voice for $20, and you're set for life.
Final Recommendations
- For most NRIs: Google Voice is the best choice—$20 one-time, no monthly fees
- If banks block VoIP: Consider Mint Mobile ($10-15/month) as a backup
- If you travel frequently: Google Fi ($20/month) offers seamless international coverage
- Start early: Begin the process 2 weeks before departure
- Test everything: Verify OTPs work before leaving the US
This is just one piece of your relocation puzzle. For comprehensive guidance on every aspect of your return to India—from RNOR tax benefits to FEMA rules for foreign assets—explore our complete library of NRI return guides.
📞 Need Personalized Guidance? Every NRI's situation is unique. Book a quick clarity call to discuss your specific phone and connectivity needs. Book 15-Min Quick Clarity Call
Watch: Complete Guide to Keeping Your US Number Abroad
In this video, Avinash walks through the exact process of porting your number to Google Voice, demonstrates how it works from India, and shares tips from NRIs who've successfully made the transition.
Video highlights: Step-by-step Google Voice setup, live demonstration of receiving OTPs in India, comparison of alternatives, and answers to common questions from the NRI community.
Frequently Asked Questions
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