When traveling to Japan, returning home temporarily, on business trips, or studying abroad, you may be asked for SMS verification when using Japanese services.
As a result, many people considering a phone number-enabled eSIM may wonder, "If I have a Japanese phone number, can I also receive SMS verification?"
With a phone number-enabled eSIM, if you have a plan that supports SMS reception, you may be able to receive authentication codes.
However, just having a phone number does not guarantee that you can use all SMS verifications.
Depending on the plan, there may be cases where it supports data communication and voice calls but does not allow SMS reception, or it may only support SMS reception without allowing sending.
Additionally, for banks, payment services, government services, ride-hailing apps, etc., there may be cases where verification is not possible depending on the type of phone number or contract.
This article explains the conditions for using SMS verification with a phone number-enabled eSIM, services that may not be supported, and points to note before purchase and after setup.
What is a Phone Number-Enabled eSIM?
A phone number-enabled eSIM is an eSIM that allows you to use a phone number in addition to data communication.
Most typical travel eSIMs are data-only products and may not include a regular phone number or SMS functionality.
On the other hand, with a phone number-enabled eSIM, you can use the following features depending on the product:
- Data communication within Japan
- Voice calls from Japan
- Incoming calls within Japan
- Receiving SMS
- Sending SMS
- Receiving SMS authentication codes
However, the available features vary by plan.
Even if it is labeled "phone number-enabled," it does not guarantee support for voice calls, SMS reception, and SMS sending.
For details on plans with phone numbers, please check Phone Number-Enabled eSIM.
Can I Use SMS Verification with a Phone Number-Enabled eSIM?
If you have a phone number-enabled eSIM that supports SMS reception, you may be able to receive SMS authentication codes.
However, whether SMS verification is successful depends not only on the eSIM but also on the conditions set by the service performing the verification.
To use SMS verification, you mainly need to meet the following conditions:
- The eSIM has an actual phone number assigned
- The plan supports SMS reception
- The phone number is within its validity period
- The smartphone is connected to a Japanese network
- The verification service accepts that phone number
- It is not subject to restrictions on short numbers or international SMS
Therefore, even if you purchase a phone number-enabled eSIM, it does not guarantee that you can use SMS verification on all websites or apps.
SMS Reception Support and SMS Verification Support Are Not the Same
Even if you have a phone number that can receive SMS, it does not mean you can use it for all SMS verifications.
If the service does not accept certain types of phone numbers, the authentication code may not be sent, or there may be an error during the phone number registration stage.
| Function | Meaning | Verification Points |
|---|---|---|
| SMS Reception | Can receive regular SMS | Check if it is reception-only |
| SMS Sending | Can send SMS from your side | Check for additional fees or sending restrictions |
| SMS Verification | Receive authentication codes from services | Check the service's acceptance conditions |
| Short Number SMS | SMS sent from a short number | Check if the plan supports it |
| International SMS | SMS sent from overseas providers | Check if it supports receiving international SMS |
Main Services That Are Easy to Use for SMS Verification
With a phone number-enabled eSIM, you may be able to receive general authentication SMS.
For example, services like the following:
- Account verification for messaging apps
- Identity verification for hotels and travel services
- Some ride-hailing apps
- Some shopping services
- Some membership registration services
- Some delivery and courier services
However, since the verification conditions vary by service, this does not guarantee usage.
When registering a phone number, you may be asked to provide a mobile phone number, a number that can be used long-term, and one in your name.
Services That May Not Support SMS Verification
Banks and Financial Services
In financial services such as banks, securities, credit cards, and electronic payments, the conditions for phone numbers may be strictly set to prevent fraudulent use.
Prepaid, short-term use, numbers not in the user's name, and certain types of lines may be excluded from verification.
Government and Public Services
For administrative procedures and public services, you may be required to provide a Japanese address, identity verification, and a long-term contract phone number.
Some SNS and Messaging Apps
For SNS and messaging apps, if the same phone number is used repeatedly for verification or if the number has been used for another account in the past, you may be restricted from using it.
SMS Sent from Short Numbers
Authentication SMS sent from short numbers, rather than regular phone numbers, may not be received depending on the eSIM contract details.
SMS Sent from Overseas Providers
If the SMS sender for the verification service is located overseas, it may not be received due to international SMS reception conditions.
Services That Do Not Accept IP Phone Numbers
Some services may not allow the use of IP phone numbers or virtual phone numbers for verification.
Please check what type of number the phone number-enabled eSIM you plan to purchase will provide.
Does Having a Japanese Phone Number Guarantee SMS Verification?
Even if you have a Japanese phone number assigned, it does not guarantee that you can use all SMS verifications.
The service may check not only the country code of the phone number but also the following information:
- Is it a mobile phone number?
- Is it an IP phone number?
- Is it a prepaid contract?
- Is it a verified number?
- Is it a short-term use number?
- Has it been used for multiple accounts in the past?
Therefore, do not assume that just because it has a "Japanese phone number," it is guaranteed to be verifiable.
Can I Use SMS Verification with an SMS Reception-Only eSIM?
SMS verification can generally be completed by just receiving the authentication code, so it may be possible to use a phone number that is SMS reception-only.
However, some services may require the following actions:
- Replying to an SMS sent to a specified number
- Automated voice verification by phone
- Sending a confirmation message after verification
- Continuing to use the same number
For services that require SMS sending or voice calls, it may not be possible to complete verification with a reception-only plan.
Even with Voice Call Capability, SMS May Not Be Supported
Even if you have a phone number-enabled eSIM that allows voice calls, it does not necessarily include SMS functionality.
Before purchasing, please check the following items in the product description:
- Outgoing voice calls
- Incoming voice calls
- SMS reception
- SMS sending
- International SMS
- Short number SMS
Types of Phone Number-Enabled eSIMs
| Type of Plan | Data Communication | Voice Calls | SMS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Data-Only eSIM | Supported | Not Supported | Not Supported |
| Phone Number Display Only | Supported | Depends on the product | Depends on the product |
| Voice Call Enabled eSIM | Supported | Supported | Depends on the product |
| SMS Reception Enabled eSIM | Supported | Depends on the product | Reception Supported |
| Voice & SMS Enabled eSIM | Supported | Supported | May support sending and receiving |
The plan name alone may not allow you to determine the features.
Check the specifications and notes on the product page, and if you have any questions, contact support before purchasing.
Checklist Before Purchasing a Phone Number-Enabled eSIM
Does it Support SMS Reception?
The most important thing is whether it states that it supports SMS reception.
Even if it says "phone number-enabled" or "call capable," if there is no mention of SMS reception, you may not be able to receive authentication codes.
Does it Also Support SMS Sending?
If you plan to use services that require a reply, please check whether SMS sending is supported.
Will a Japanese Mobile Phone Number Be Assigned?
When using services in Japan, you may not be able to register overseas numbers or IP phone numbers.
Check the country code and type of the assigned number.
Start Date and Validity Period
The phone number used for verification may become unusable once the eSIM's validity period expires.
If you log in to the same service after your trip, you may not be able to receive a re-verification code.
Is Identity Verification Required?
For plans with phone numbers, you may be required to submit documents such as a passport, residence card, or identity verification documents at the time of purchase.
Does it Support Short Numbers or International SMS?
If the services you plan to use utilize short numbers or overseas SMS sending services, please check their compatibility.
Conditions for Reissue or Reinstallation
Check whether you can reissue the same phone number if you delete the eSIM or change your smartphone.
How to Contact Support
In case SMS does not arrive, check the contact method, support hours, and supported languages.
For inquiries regarding purchases or setup, please refer to Japan eSIM Support.
How to Purchase a Phone Number-Enabled eSIM
The general process for purchasing a phone number-enabled eSIM is as follows:
- Check if your device supports eSIM
- Check if the SIM lock is removed
- Select a phone number-enabled plan
- Confirm SMS reception and sending support
- Select the usage period and data capacity
- Check the identity verification conditions
- Enter the required information
- Make payment online
- Confirm the QR code and phone number
You can check compatible devices from the list of eSIM compatible devices.
How to Set Up a Phone Number-Enabled eSIM
The basic installation method is the same as for data-only eSIMs.
Setting Up on iPhone
- Connect to a stable Wi-Fi
- Open "Settings"
- Select "Cellular"
- Select "Add Cellular Plan"
- Select "Use QR Code"
- Scan the QR code received after purchase
- Follow the on-screen instructions to add the eSIM
- Change the line name to "Japanese Phone Number" or similar
Setting Up on Android
- Connect to a stable Wi-Fi
- Open "Settings"
- Select "Network & Internet" or "Connections"
- Select "SIM" or "SIM Manager"
- Select "Add eSIM"
- Scan the QR code
- Follow the on-screen instructions to add the eSIM
For detailed setup instructions, please refer to the eSIM Setup Guide.
Settings to Check Before Performing SMS Verification
After installing the eSIM, check the following items:
- The phone number-enabled eSIM line is ON
- Connected to a Japanese network
- Airplane mode is OFF
- Signal is displayed
- The line for receiving SMS is correctly selected
- The eSIM's usage period has started
- There are no issues with the device's message reception settings
If you are using multiple phone numbers with dual SIM, please check that the number registered with the verification service matches the line waiting for the SMS.
Basic Flow of SMS Verification
- Open the website or app you will use
- Enter the Japanese phone number
- Check how to enter the country code
- Select to send the authentication code
- Open the messaging app on your smartphone
- Check the received authentication code
- Enter the code within the time limit
The country code for Japan is "+81".
In formats where you select the country code, you may need to remove the leading "0" from the phone number.
For example, a number starting with "090" may need to be entered as "+81 90".
However, the input method may vary by service, so please follow the on-screen instructions.
If the SMS Verification Code Does Not Arrive
Check the Entered Phone Number
Check the digits of the phone number, the country code, and how the leading "0" is handled.
Check if the eSIM Line is ON
If the phone number-enabled eSIM is OFF, you will not be able to receive SMS.
Check Signal Conditions
In basements, inside buildings, or mountainous areas, SMS reception may be delayed.
Please move to a location with good signal.
Wait a Moment and Resend
Authentication SMS may arrive late due to congestion or the status of the sending provider.
If you resend immediately multiple times, there may be temporary restrictions from the service side.
Restart the Device
After checking the line settings, turn airplane mode ON and then OFF, or restart your smartphone.
Check Spam Message Settings
Due to spam SMS settings on your device or communication service, the automatically sent authentication message may be blocked.
Try Voice Call Verification
If the service supports automated voice verification, you can try methods other than SMS.
However, the eSIM you are using must support incoming voice calls.
Check for Service Restrictions
If the SMS does not arrive even after entering the phone number correctly, the service may not accept short-term use numbers or prepaid numbers.
Contact eSIM Support
If you have a plan that supports SMS reception but still do not receive regular SMS, check the phone number, start date, device, and signal conditions, and contact support.
Is It Okay to Delete the eSIM If SMS Does Not Arrive?
If SMS does not arrive, do not delete the eSIM immediately based on your judgment.
The eSIM QR code can only be used once, and if deleted, you may not be able to reconfigure the same phone number.
First, check the line settings, signal conditions, phone number, and the service's verification conditions.
For methods to check communication and settings, please refer to Troubleshooting Japan eSIM Connectivity.
Using a Foreign Main Line and a Phone Number-Enabled eSIM Simultaneously
If you have a dual SIM compatible device, you may be able to use a foreign main line and a Japanese phone number-enabled eSIM simultaneously.
| Usage Purpose | Foreign Main Line | Japanese Phone Number-Enabled eSIM |
|---|---|---|
| SMS Verification with Foreign Number | Used | Not Used |
| SMS Verification with Japanese Number | Not Used | Used |
| Mobile Data Communication | Recommended OFF | Used |
| Data Roaming | OFF | Follow product instructions |
If the foreign main line is ON, there may be overseas charges for making and receiving calls or sending SMS.
It is also safe to turn OFF the automatic switching of mobile data communication.
Can I Continue Using the Same Phone Number After Traveling?
With a short-term use phone number-enabled eSIM, once the validity period expires, you may no longer be able to use the phone number.
If the service registered with that number requests re-verification later, you may not be able to receive the authentication code.
Therefore, be cautious when registering for long-term use with banks, payment services, SNS, and important accounts.
If you plan to use a short-term eSIM phone number, please check the following points:
- Validity period of the phone number
- Whether it can be extended or renewed
- Whether the same number can be continued
- Whether reissuing the number is possible
- Whether the phone number can be changed later for the account
Points to Note When Using a Phone Number-Enabled eSIM for SMS Verification
Use a Long-Term Number for Important Accounts
It is safer not to register a number that will become unusable in a short period for banks, credit cards, and payment services.
Products May Not Guarantee Verification
Even if it supports SMS reception, some products do not guarantee successful verification for each service.
The Same Phone Number May Be Reassigned in the Future
There is a possibility that the phone number will be reassigned to another user after the short-term contract ends.
Please change or delete the phone number registered with the services before the end of use.
Some Services May Require Identity Verification
In addition to the phone number, you may be asked for a Japanese address, residence card, or a contract in your name.
Do Not Share Authentication Codes with Others
Do not share the authentication code received via SMS with anyone, including support staff.
Who Should Consider a Phone Number-Enabled eSIM?
- Those who want to use a Japanese phone number
- Those who want to receive calls from hotels or stores
- Those who need to receive SMS
- Those who want to register for some Japan-specific services
- Those who want to use both data communication and voice calls on one eSIM
Who Can Get By with a Data-Only eSIM?
- Those who only communicate via LINE or WhatsApp
- Those whose main usage is Google Maps or SNS
- Those who do not need a Japanese phone number
- Those who can receive SMS verification with a foreign main line
- Those who do not use regular phone services during short trips
If you primarily use data communication, please also compare Japan eSIM products and pricing plans.
Frequently Asked Questions About SMS Verification with Phone Number-Enabled eSIMs
Can I Always Receive SMS with a Phone Number-Enabled eSIM?
It is not guaranteed that you will always receive SMS.
Please check if the product supports SMS reception.
If I Can Receive SMS, Can I Use It for All SMS Verifications?
It is not guaranteed that it can be used for all services.
The service may restrict prepaid numbers, short-term numbers, IP phone numbers, etc.
Can I Use an SMS Reception-Only eSIM for Verification?
If the service only requires receiving an authentication code, it may be usable.
However, if SMS replies or voice verification are required, it may not be usable.
Can I Use It for Bank SMS Verification?
It depends on the bank's conditions.
You may need a number in your name, a long-term contract, and a Japanese address, so please check with the bank.
Can I Use It for LINE Verification?
If it is a phone number that supports SMS reception, there is a possibility of verification.
However, it may not be usable depending on the number's usage history and LINE's verification conditions.
How Long Does It Take for the Authentication Code to Arrive?
It usually arrives within a short time, but it may be delayed due to communication conditions or the sending service.
Is It Okay to Resend the Authentication Code?
You can resend it, but if you do so multiple times in a short period, there may be temporary restrictions.
What Is the Country Code for Japan?
The country code for Japan is "+81".
When adding the country code, you may need to remove the leading "0" from the phone number.
If I Delete the eSIM, Will I Lose the Phone Number?
If you delete it from the device, you will lose access to the line, and it may not be possible to reinstall it.
Please check with support before deleting.
Can I Receive SMS Verification Codes After Traveling?
Once the validity period of the eSIM and phone number expires, you may not be able to receive them.
Will There Be Additional Charges for SMS Sending?
It varies by plan.
Please check the sending fees, possible sending countries, and limits on the number of sends.
For other questions, please refer to Frequently Asked Questions about eSIM.
Summary | Check SMS Reception Support and Service Usage Conditions
With a phone number-enabled eSIM, if you have a plan that supports SMS reception, you may be able to receive SMS verification codes.
However, just having a phone number does not mean you can use all SMS verifications.
For banks, payment services, government services, and some SNS, there may be cases where verification is not possible depending on the type of phone number, identity verification, and contract duration.
Before purchasing, please check the following items:
- Does it support SMS reception?
- Does it also support SMS sending?
- Will a Japanese mobile phone number be assigned?
- Does it support short numbers or international SMS?
- What is the validity period of the phone number?
- Can the same number be extended or continued?
- Is identity verification required?
- Will the planned services accept that number?
Be cautious not to register a phone number that will become unusable in a short period for important accounts such as banks and payment services.
For those who need SMS verification, it is important to check the product specifications and the conditions of the services you plan to use before purchasing.
For details on phone number-enabled plans, please refer to Phone Number-Enabled eSIM.
If you want to compare data capacity and usage periods, please check Japan eSIM Pricing and Plan Comparison.
