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Wifi calling and Rogers Canada

One of my biggest concerns when traveling internationally is not being able to receive those darn codes/2factor authentication texts from banks, Google etc.

Would it work to turn on wifi calling for those times (using Rogers as my provider) and not get charged for it? I have unlimited texts and calls, so as long as those texts originate from Canada, no surprise charges? Would I only turn it on when I'm expecting them, or would it need to be on prior to leaving Canada (I think I saw on a YouTube video that said it needed to be).

Any info on this would be helpful.

Posted by
4656 posts

I have avoided setting these up for as long as possible, but they are inevitable. I do all business and banking prior to travel and as I often change out sim cards I can't expect to get texts. Instead, I try to set up codes to be received via email, that allows me to get them regardless of location and phone number.

Posted by
504 posts

I can't comment on your carrier specifically, but carriers don't normally charge for roaming access, only for usage. So that means you shouldn't be charged to receive a text message, only to send one, or to make and receive voice calls via the standard phone network. Incidentally it doesn't matter where the text originated from.

If you haven't used roaming previously, you may need to activate it before departure, either by calling your carrier, or via their app/web site.

Also, many banks are moving to app based authentication for two factor authentication, as it is more secure that text. You may want to see whether your bank supports this. Google certainly does - it pushes an authentication request to your phone via app, rather than using text.

Posted by
8821 posts

Often sites with 2 step authorizations offer a choice of having the code sent by text or email. Would it help your travel plan to get it by email?

Posted by
451 posts

I'd be okay if I had the option for email, but that's not what I'm finding. Text or phone call. I'm more interested in if wifi calling would eliminate this problem.

Posted by
504 posts

My understanding is in theory, yes, but it is network-dependent, ie some carriers geoblock wifi calling when the user is overseas. Having said that, it appears your carrier does not geoblock:

"If you are using WiFi Calling while outside of Canada, the following will be deducted from your airtime and messaging limits included in your wireless plan without incurring any long distance or roaming charges:

Incoming calls and messages received from anywhere in the world
Outgoing calls and messages made or sent by you to a Canadian number.'

https://www.rogers.com/support/mobility/wifi-calling-everything-you-need-to-know#how-is-wifi-calling-billed-when-i-am-travelling-outside-of-canada-