Wise is built for people who move between countries — but its SMS codes still go to one phone number. Keep a permanent UK mobile number on eSIM and never lose access, wherever you live.
The people who use Wise most — expats, nomads, international freelancers — are exactly the people whose phone numbers keep changing. Fix the number and the account follows you.
Cancel your old SIM without fear. The eSIM number stays yours through every move, so the "code sent to a number you no longer own" lockout can't happen.
Incoming SMS works worldwide at no extra charge. Approve logins and transfers from Bangkok, Berlin or Bogotá exactly as if you were home.
A dedicated number used only for financial verification — never given out, never posted — is far harder for SIM-swap attackers to find and hijack.
Buy the permanent UK number and install the eSIM — about a minute, no shipping, no store visit.
Settings → Security → change phone number. Do it while you still have the old number for a smooth handover.
The SMS lands on your eSIM in seconds. From now on your Wise number never changes again.
💡 Change the number before you lose the old one. Wise confirms a number change by texting BOTH numbers when possible. The smoothest path is to add your permanent eSIM number while your old SIM still works. Already lost the old number? Wise support can re-verify your identity, then add the eSIM number so it never happens again.
Wise rejects VoIP numbers for security verification. eSIMfly numbers are real UK mobile numbers on the O2 network delivered via eSIM, so they register as genuine mobile lines and pass Wise's checks like any normal SIM.
This is the classic Wise lockout: you cancel your old SIM after moving, then Wise sends the login code to a number you no longer have. A permanent eSIM number solves it - the number stays yours no matter which country you live in, and receives SMS worldwide.
Wise re-verifies by SMS at logins, new devices and security changes - for as long as you hold the account. A one-time number that expires will eventually lock you out of your own money. Use the permanent O2 SMS eSIM ($9.87/30 days) and keep control of the number indefinitely.
Yes. Add the number in Wise under Settings → Security. Codes arrive on your eSIM in seconds, wherever you are, over any mobile network or WiFi-assisted connection. Many users pair it with the Wise app's built-in approval for a layered setup.
Yes - it reduces SIM-swap risk. Attackers target the number that's publicly connected to you. A dedicated number used only for financial verification, never shared anywhere, is a much smaller target. It also keeps working if you lose or change your main SIM.
Yes. A Wise Business account can have its own contact and verification number, keeping your personal line out of business paperwork, invoices and team workflows. The eSIM number behaves exactly like a normal UK mobile.
Also securing other accounts? See PayPal, Revolut, Telegram or general SMS verification numbers — or compare all options on the virtual number page.
