9 Best Ways to Call India from USA (2025)
Complete Guide to Affordable International Calling with eSIM, VPN & Free Apps
📖 18 min read · Updated October 27, 2025
Looking for the best way to call India from USA? You're not alone. With over 4 million Indian expats living in America, staying connected with family back home is important. But international calling can get expensive fast.
The good news? You have plenty of options in 2025. Whether you're traveling to India and want a local phone number, living in a country where apps like WhatsApp are blocked, or just want the cheapest way to call home, we've tested everything.
In this guide, we'll compare 9 different ways to call India from USA. We'll cover premium options like eSIM plans and VPN services that offer the best call quality, plus completely free options that work great if you have WiFi. By the end, you'll know exactly which solution fits your needs and budget.
🔑 Quick Navigation
Quick Comparison: At a Glance
Here's a quick overview of all 9 methods we'll cover. Each has different strengths depending on your situation.
| Service | Best For | Cost | Call Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airalo eSIM | Travelers to India | From $4.50 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Saily eSIM | Premium travelers | From $3.99 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Yesim eSIM | Budget travelers | From $2.50 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| NordVPN | Restricted countries (UAE, China) | $3.39/month | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| WiFi calling | Free | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
| Google Voice | US residents | Free to 1¢/min | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| FaceTime Audio | iPhone users | Free | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Skype | Landline calls | Free to 2.3¢/min | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Rebtel | Budget callers | 1¢/min | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Premium Options: Best for Travelers & Quality
These paid options offer the best call quality and most features. They're perfect if you're traveling to India, need a local phone number, or live in a country with calling restrictions.
1. Airalo eSIM
Best for TravelersBest for: Travelers visiting India who want a local phone number and mobile data
How it works: Airalo is an eSIM service that gives you a local Indian phone number and data plan without needing a physical SIM card. You download the eSIM profile to your phone, and you're ready to make calls at local rates. Perfect for when you're actually in India.
💡 Why Airalo is Our Top Pick
With Airalo, you get an actual Indian phone number that family and friends can call you back on. No confusing international codes, no expensive roaming charges. Plus, your data plan lets you use WhatsApp, Google Maps, and other apps while traveling. If you're planning a trip to India, an eSIM offers the best value and convenience compared to traditional roaming.
Pros
- Get a real Indian phone number
- Local calling rates (very cheap)
- Includes mobile data for apps
- No physical SIM card needed
- Works in 200+ countries
- Set up in minutes from your phone
Cons
- Need an eSIM-compatible phone
- Only works when traveling (not from USA)
- Data packages expire after 7-30 days
Pricing: India plans start at $4.50 for 1GB (7 days) up to $26 for 20GB (30 days). Once in India, calling within India is very cheap or included in your plan.
Get Airalo eSIM for India →2. Saily eSIM
Premium AlternativeBest for: Premium travelers who want reliable service backed by Nord Security
How it works: Saily is a newer eSIM service created by the team behind NordVPN. Like Airalo, it gives you a local data connection and phone number in India. The app is simple to use, and their customer support is excellent.
Pros
- Backed by trusted Nord Security
- Very reliable network coverage
- Great customer support
- Easy-to-use app
- Competitive pricing
Cons
- Newer service with fewer reviews
- Slightly more expensive than budget options
- Limited to compatible devices
Pricing: India plans from $3.99 for 1GB (7 days) to $31.99 for 20GB (30 days). Similar to Airalo but with slightly different package sizes.
Try Saily eSIM →3. Yesim eSIM
Budget-FriendlyBest for: Budget-conscious travelers who want the cheapest eSIM option
How it works: Yesim offers similar eSIM service to Airalo and Saily, but at lower prices. They partner with local carriers in India to provide data and calling. Great choice if you're watching your budget but still want the convenience of an eSIM.
Pros
- Cheapest eSIM option
- Good coverage in major cities
- Simple setup process
- Flexible data packages
Cons
- Coverage may be weaker in rural areas
- Customer support not as robust
- Fewer package options
Pricing: India plans start at just $2.50 for 1GB (7 days) up to $18 for 10GB (30 days). The most affordable eSIM option for India travel.
Get Yesim eSIM →4. NordVPN
Best for Restricted CountriesBest for: People living in UAE, China, Saudi Arabia, or other countries where WhatsApp and calling apps are blocked
How it works: NordVPN is a virtual private network that lets you bypass restrictions and access calling apps like WhatsApp that might be blocked in your country. Once connected to NordVPN, you can use any free calling app normally. If you're facing restrictions, check out our guide to the best VPNs for calling.
💡 Why NordVPN for Calling?
Many countries block calling apps like WhatsApp and Skype. NordVPN solves this by routing your connection through servers in other countries, making it look like you're browsing from somewhere else. It's the #1 solution for expats in restricted countries. For detailed setup instructions, see our complete NordVPN guide.
Pros
- Bypass country restrictions
- Access all calling apps
- Fast speeds for calling
- Secure and private
- Works on all devices
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Requires monthly subscription
- Adds extra step before calling
- May slow down connection slightly
Pricing: $3.39/month on 2-year plan, or $12.99/month. Includes 30-day money-back guarantee. Much cheaper than international calling plans.
Get NordVPN Now →Free Calling Options: Best for Budget-Conscious Users
These options won't cost you a penny if you have WiFi or a data connection. They're perfect for regular calls home when you're in the USA and have internet access.
5. WhatsApp
FreeBest for: Free calls over WiFi or mobile data
How it works: WhatsApp is completely free for voice and video calls when you're connected to WiFi or have a data connection. Both you and the person you're calling need WhatsApp installed, but with over 2 billion users, most people in India already have it. Learn more about the differences in our WhatsApp vs regular calls comparison.
Pros
- Completely free
- Excellent call quality
- Video calling included
- Works on any smartphone
- Send messages and photos too
- Group calls supported
Cons
- Both people need WhatsApp
- Requires internet connection
- Can't call landline numbers
- Blocked in some countries (UAE, China)
Our take: WhatsApp is the go-to choice for most people calling India from USA. It's free, easy to use, and the call quality is excellent on good WiFi. The only downside is you can't call landlines, and it's blocked in some countries. If you're in one of those countries, you'll need a VPN like NordVPN to access it.
6. Google Voice
Free to 1¢/minBest for: US residents who want a free US phone number
How it works: Google Voice gives you a free US phone number that can make calls over WiFi or data. Calls within the USA and Canada are free. Calls to India cost 1¢ per minute, which is very cheap. You can also call landlines, which WhatsApp can't do. For a detailed comparison, read our Google Voice vs WhatsApp guide.
Pros
- Free US phone number
- Very cheap India calls (1¢/min)
- Can call landlines
- Voicemail transcription
- Works on any device
- No contracts or fees
Cons
- Only available to US residents
- Requires Google account
- India calls cost 1¢/min (not free)
- Call quality varies
Our take: Google Voice is perfect if you're in the USA and want the cheapest possible way to call India. At 1¢ per minute, a 30-minute call costs just 30 cents. Plus, you can call landlines, which is great for reaching older family members who don't use smartphones.
7. FaceTime Audio
FreeBest for: iPhone users calling other iPhone users
How it works: If you and your family in India both have iPhones, FaceTime Audio offers free voice calls over WiFi or data. The call quality is excellent, and it's built right into your iPhone, so there's nothing extra to download.
Pros
- Completely free
- Excellent call quality
- Built into iPhone
- Very reliable
- Easy video calling too
Cons
- Both people need iPhones
- Requires internet connection
- Can't call Android or landlines
- Not available on other platforms
Our take: If everyone in your family has iPhones, FaceTime Audio is perfect. The call quality is often better than WhatsApp, and it's completely free. The limitation is that it only works between Apple devices, so it's not an option if family members have Android phones.
8. Skype
Free to 2.3¢/minBest for: Calling landlines from your computer or phone
How it works: Skype offers free Skype-to-Skype calls, plus very cheap calls to Indian phone numbers and landlines. You can call from your computer or smartphone. It's been around for years and is very reliable.
Pros
- Free Skype-to-Skype calls
- Cheap landline calls (2.3¢/min)
- Works on all devices
- Screen sharing available
- No contracts needed
Cons
- Both people need Skype for free calls
- Call quality not always great
- Interface feels outdated
- Landline calls require credit
Our take: Skype is still useful for calling landlines in India, especially if you're calling older relatives who don't have smartphones. The rates are cheap, and it's reliable. However, for smartphone-to-smartphone calls, WhatsApp or FaceTime are usually better options.
9. Rebtel
From 1¢/minBest for: Budget international calling without internet
How it works: Rebtel is a traditional international calling service that offers cheap rates to India. Unlike the other options, it works without internet - you can call directly from your regular phone line. Rates to India start at 1¢ per minute.
Pros
- Very cheap rates (1¢/min)
- No internet required
- Can call any phone
- Simple to use
Cons
- Not free (costs money per minute)
- Call quality varies
- Requires account setup
- Other options are often better
Our take: Rebtel is a decent backup option, but with so many free choices available (WhatsApp, FaceTime, etc.), we don't recommend it for most people. It's only useful if you absolutely need to call without internet access and don't want to use your regular carrier's international rates.
Which Method Should You Choose?
With 9 different options, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Here's our quick decision guide to help you pick the perfect solution for your situation.
🎯 Quick Decision Guide
Traveling to India soon? → Get Airalo eSIM for local rates and data. You'll have an Indian phone number that family can call, plus mobile data for apps. Check out our detailed eSIM comparison for India travel.
Living in UAE, China, or Saudi Arabia? → Get NordVPN to bypass restrictions and use WhatsApp. It's much cheaper than international calling plans. Read our complete guide to calling India from UAE.
Just want free calls from home? → Use WhatsApp on WiFi. It's completely free and has excellent quality. Both you and the person you're calling need the app, but most people in India already have it.
Need to call landlines? → Use Google Voice for 1¢/min or Skype for 2.3¢/min. Both can call landlines, which the free apps can't do.
Everyone has iPhones? → Use FaceTime Audio for free, crystal-clear calls. It's built into your iPhone and works great.
Want the cheapest overall? → WhatsApp on WiFi is completely free. For travel, Yesim eSIM offers the lowest prices. Learn more in our cheapest ways to call India guide.
💰 Budget-Based Recommendations
$0 Budget (Completely Free):
- WhatsApp (best overall for free calls)
- FaceTime Audio (if both have iPhones)
- Skype (free Skype-to-Skype only)
Under $5/month:
- Google Voice at 1¢/min (about $3-5/month for regular use)
- NordVPN at $3.39/month (unlock all calling apps)
For One-Time Travel:
- Airalo eSIM from $4.50 (best value)
- Yesim eSIM from $2.50 (cheapest option)
- Saily eSIM from $3.99 (premium service)
⚠️ Avoid These Common Mistakes
Don't use your regular carrier's international roaming. Carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile charge $5-10 per day for international roaming. A week-long trip to India could cost $35-70 just for roaming, when an eSIM costs $4-10 and gives you way more data.
Don't buy airport SIM cards. Airport kiosks charge 2-3x more than buying an eSIM before your trip. You also waste time at the airport dealing with them.
Don't use calling cards. Old-school calling cards from convenience stores have hidden fees and terrible rates. All the options we've listed are better and more transparent.
📚 Related Guides You Might Find Helpful
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to call India from USA?
The cheapest way is using WhatsApp on WiFi, which is completely free for voice and video calls. Both you and the person you're calling need WhatsApp installed. If you need to call landlines, Google Voice costs just 1 cent per minute, making a 30-minute call only 30 cents.
Can I use WhatsApp to call India for free?
Yes, WhatsApp is completely free when you're connected to WiFi or have a data connection. Both you and the person in India need WhatsApp installed. The call quality is excellent on good WiFi. However, WhatsApp is blocked in some countries like UAE and China, where you'd need a VPN to access it.
Do I need a VPN to call India?
You only need a VPN if you're in a country that blocks calling apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or FaceTime. This includes UAE, China, Saudi Arabia, and some other countries. If you're calling from USA, you don't need a VPN - just use WhatsApp or any other calling app directly. Learn more about when you might need a VPN in our detailed guide.
What is an eSIM and do I need one?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card that you download to your phone instead of using a physical SIM card. You need an eSIM if you're traveling to India and want a local phone number with mobile data. It's much cheaper than international roaming and gives you local rates. If you're just calling from USA with WiFi, you don't need an eSIM - free apps like WhatsApp work great.
Can I call landlines in India using these methods?
Yes, but not all methods work. Google Voice and Skype can call Indian landlines for 1-2.3 cents per minute. WhatsApp, FaceTime, and other free apps only work for calls to other smartphones with the same app installed. If you need to call grandparents or relatives who only have landlines, use Google Voice or Skype.
How much data does a WhatsApp call use?
A WhatsApp voice call uses about 0.5 MB per minute, so a 30-minute call uses around 15 MB of data. A WhatsApp video call uses more - about 4 MB per minute or 120 MB for a 30-minute call. On WiFi, this doesn't matter. On mobile data, make sure you have enough data in your plan. For more details, check out our WhatsApp data usage guide.
What's better: Airalo or Saily for India travel?
Both are excellent choices. Airalo has more user reviews and slightly more package options. Saily is backed by Nord Security (makers of NordVPN) and has great customer support. Prices are similar. We recommend Airalo for most people, but Saily is a great alternative if you value premium support. Read our detailed Airalo vs Saily comparison.
Final Thoughts
Calling India from USA doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. With the right solution for your situation, you can stay connected with family and friends without breaking the bank.
For most people calling from USA, WhatsApp on WiFi is the perfect solution - it's completely free and offers excellent quality. If you're traveling to India, an Airalo eSIM gives you a local number and mobile data starting at just $4.50. And if you're in a country where calling apps are blocked, NordVPN unlocks everything for just $3.39/month.
The key is choosing the right tool for your specific needs. Use our decision guide above to find your perfect match, and you'll be talking to loved ones in India without worrying about the cost. For more money-saving tips, check out our comprehensive guide to the cheapest ways to call India.
Whatever method you choose, staying connected with family is priceless. We hope this guide helps you find the best solution for your situation. Happy calling!
