Bali eSIM Can’t Make Calls? Fix Telkomsel eSIM Issues Fast

Last Updated: Apr 15, 2026 17:09

Written by Gede Adi Aryanata

Gede Adi Aryanata Telecommunications Specialist | 8+ Years in Indonesian Networks Gede is part of the Balisim team based in Denpasar, Bali. He has helped 5,000+ international visitors get connected across Indonesia.

Calls on a Bali eSIM may not work because some eSIM plans are primarily designed for data, and voice services (calls) depend on activation status, device compatibility, and whether your plan includes a local number.

Some Bali eSIM packages also include free local call minutes (for example, 25 minutes), but these only apply to calls within Indonesia, not international numbers.

If you want to call outside Indonesia, you typically need international call credit or use internet-based calling apps.

Why Calls May Not Work on a Bali eSIM

1) Some eSIMs are data-only or have limited calling features

Not all Bali eSIMs support voice calls. Many tourist eSIMs are designed mainly for internet access.

If your eSIM:

doesn’t include a local number
or is labeled “data-only”

then calls (incoming & outgoing) will not work at all.

2) Your eSIM or number may not be fully activated yet

After installation, Telkomsel or local providers may take some time to fully activate voice services.

Common situation:

Data works immediately
Calls become active shortly after

3) Free call minutes only apply to Indonesian numbers

Many Bali eSIM plans include free local call minutes.

These can only be used for:

hotels
drivers
restaurants
local contacts

They do not work for international calls.

4) International calls require additional credit or alternative methods

Calling overseas numbers is usually not included in standard Bali eSIM plans.

You will need:

international call credit, or
apps like WhatsApp / FaceTime

5) Device or VoLTE compatibility issues

Voice calls in Bali rely on VoLTE (4G Calling).

If your phone:

doesn’t support VoLTE, or
has it turned OFF

calls may fail even if everything else is correct.

What to Do

1) Test your line

Dial:

*888#
or call a local Indonesian number

This confirms whether voice service is active.

2) Restart your phone

A simple restart can:

complete activation
refresh network connection

3) Make sure the eSIM is active

Check:

eSIM is ON
signal is available
no “No Service” error

4) Set the eSIM as your main line for calls

iPhone:
Settings → Cellular → Default Voice Line → select your Bali eSIM

Android:
Settings → SIM Manager → Calls → select your Bali eSIM

5) Toggle Airplane Mode

Turn Airplane Mode ON for 10 seconds, then OFF.

This helps your phone reconnect to the network properly.

Calling Within Indonesia vs International

Calling Indonesian numbers

Covered by free call minutes (if included)
Best for local needs

Calling international numbers

Not included in most plans
Requires additional credit or apps

Tips for a Smooth Calling Experience in Bali

Keep your home SIM active for OTP or banking
Use WhatsApp or similar apps for international calls
Make sure VoLTE is enabled
Choose an eSIM that includes voice support if you need calling

Better Option: Use a Voice-Ready Bali eSIM

To avoid all these limitations, it’s better to use a Balisim eSIM that already supports calls and data from the start.

With Balisim.com, you get:

Local Indonesian number included
Support for incoming & outgoing calls
Ready-to-use setup (no manual configuration)
Stable connection across Bali
24/7 support if you need help

This means you can:

call drivers instantly
contact hotels
stay reachable anytime

Need Help?

If your Bali eSIM still can’t make or receive calls after trying all the steps above, the issue is most likely with your eSIM plan—not your phone.

Instead of spending more time troubleshooting, the easiest solution is to switch to a voice-ready Bali eSIM from Balisim.com.

With Balisim, you get:

A local Indonesian number for calls & SMS
Full support for incoming and outgoing calls
Instant activation via QR code
No manual setup (no APN or VoLTE issues)
Reliable coverage across Bali

Frequently Asked Questions

⚙️ Activation & Setup

1. How do I activate my Balisim eSIM after purchase? +

Once you complete your purchase, you’ll receive an email with your unique QR code. On your phone:

Connect to Wi-Fi.
Go to Settings → Mobile/Cellular → Add eSIM.
Scan the QR code from your email.
Set Balisim as your Data SIM.
Turn on Data Roaming for the Balisim line.

2. When should I install and activate my eSIM? +

We recommend installing the eSIM before your trip while you have stable Wi-Fi. The validity period typically begins only when you first connect to a network in Indonesia.

3. Can I use Balisim and my home SIM at the same time? +

Yes. Most modern phones support Dual SIM. You can keep your home number active for calls/WhatsApp while using Balisim exclusively for mobile data.

📡 Coverage & Network

1. Where does Balisim have coverage? +

Balisim works across Bali (Canggu, Ubud, Uluwatu, etc.) and major Indonesian cities like Jakarta. Coverage is reliable in tourist areas but may be limited in remote mountains or tiny islands.

2. How fast is the connection? +

You can expect 4G/LTE and 5G speeds in urban areas, perfect for Maps, Social Media, and Video Calls.

🛠️ Troubleshooting

1. My eSIM isn't connecting after arrival. +

1. Ensure Data Roaming is ON.
2. Set Balisim as the primary Mobile Data SIM.
3. Restart your phone or toggle Airplane Mode.