Traveling to Morocco from France? You're probably wondering: how to keep your French number active in Morocco? Whether you're heading to Marrakech, Casablanca, or the Sahara, staying connected is essential. This guide covers everything you need to know about keeping your French number reachable while enjoying affordable data in Morocco.
Why Keeping Your French Number Matters
Your French number is linked to your bank accounts, online services, and contacts. Receiving SMS for two-factor authentication (2FA) is crucial. Here's why you shouldn't let it go dormant:
- Banking alerts – Many banks send SMS codes for transactions.
- Social media and email – Platforms like Google and Facebook use SMS verification.
- Contact with France – Friends and family can reach you at your usual number.
Option 1: Keep Your French SIM Active (Roaming)
The simplest way to keep your French number active is to leave your French SIM in your phone and enable roaming. Here's what you need to know:
EU Roaming Rules in Morocco
Morocco is not part of the EU, so EU roaming regulations do not apply. Your French operator will charge you extra for roaming. Typical costs:
- Orange France: €3.50/100MB (data), €0.99/min (calls)
- SFR: €5/100MB (data), €1.00/min (calls)
- Bouygues Telecom: €5/100MB (data), €1.00/min (calls)
These rates add up quickly. For a week, you could spend over €50 just on data. However, you can minimize costs by turning off data roaming and using Wi-Fi. Your number stays active, and you receive SMS for free (but sending SMS costs extra).
Option 2: Use a Morocco eSIM for Data
Instead of paying high roaming fees, many travelers opt for a Morocco eSIM for data. This way, you keep your French SIM active for calls/SMS (if you need to make/receive calls) and use the eSIM for internet. Here's how it works:
- Install the eSIM before you travel (QR code sent by email instantly).
- Keep your French SIM in the phone (or use a dual-SIM phone).
- Set the eSIM as the default for data.
- Disable data roaming on your French SIM.
This setup gives you unlimited data in Morocco for a fraction of the cost. For example, a 7-day plan costs €24, while roaming data would cost you at least €35 for 700MB (and that's not unlimited).
Step-by-Step: How to Keep Your French Number Active with an eSIM
- Before you leave: Contact your French operator to ensure your account is in good standing and that international roaming is enabled (if you want to receive SMS).
- Purchase a Morocco eSIM from eSIM Maroc – choose the duration that fits your trip.
- Install the eSIM: You'll receive a QR code by email. Scan it with your phone's camera (Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM).
- Set the eSIM as data line: On iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data > select eSIM. On Android: Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > choose eSIM.
- Keep your French SIM active: Make sure your French SIM is still active in the phone (primary line for calls/SMS if needed).
- Disable data roaming on your French SIM: Go to Settings > Cellular > your French line > Data Roaming: Off.
- Enjoy! You'll have unlimited data for maps, messaging, and VoIP calls via WhatsApp, FaceTime, etc.
What About Receiving SMS on Your French Number?
If you have a dual-SIM phone, you can receive SMS on your French number while using the eSIM for data. This is perfect for receiving 2FA codes. Just ensure your French SIM is active and has no data roaming (SMS reception is free).
If you have a single-SIM phone, you can't use both SIMs simultaneously. In that case, you might consider a data-only eSIM and temporarily deactivate your French SIM, but then you won't receive SMS. Alternatively, you could use a cheap local SIM for data, but eSIM is more convenient.
Why Choose eSIM Maroc?
eSIM Maroc is a specialist in Morocco eSIMs. Here's why travelers love us:
- Unlimited data – no need to count gigabytes, just enjoy.
- Plans from 1 to 30 days – flexible for any trip length.
- Instant delivery – QR code by email in 5 minutes.
- Coverage on all Moroccan networks – Maroc Telecom, Orange, Inwi.
- Support in French, English, and Spanish – we're here for you.
Conclusion
Keeping your French number active in Morocco is easy with the right setup. By using a Morocco eSIM for data, you avoid hefty roaming charges while staying connected. Check your phone's compatibility and choose the plan that fits your trip. Safe travels!