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eSIM Activation Abroad

  • December 1, 2025
  • 6 replies
  • 54 views
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Hi, 

I just purchased the Koodo 360 Prepaid Plan in Spain. 

We need a Canadian phone number for 2-step verifications for our bank accounts there and unfortunately the VoIP method no longer works with some banks.

The eSIM is properly installed and seems to be properly activated.

However, I can’t receive text messages, the first one being the Short Code that Koodo sends to try and register my online account.

I tried the Assist but it just goes in circles and I can’t receive a call-back because I don’t have roaming (since I can’t even register) and Koodo assist says they don’t make long distance calls!

Can anyone help with this or know how I can in touch with a Koodo representative via chat, email or a call so this issue can be  resolved?

Would really appreciate any help.

Best answer by Robert T

Only Koodo postpaid monthly plans/phones can be used internationally. If you have a Koodo Prepaid plan/phone, you can only use it in Canada and the U.S. 

You can check Fongo, as they offer support for 2FA on one of their paid plans.

6 replies

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  • Robert T
  • Mobile Master
  • Answer
  • December 1, 2025

Only Koodo postpaid monthly plans/phones can be used internationally. If you have a Koodo Prepaid plan/phone, you can only use it in Canada and the U.S. 

You can check Fongo, as they offer support for 2FA on one of their paid plans.

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  • Ben Judgeson
  • Author
  • Organizer
  • December 1, 2025

Thanks for the reply Robert.

I asked a couple of questions in the other thread.

I don’t know if Fongo would work with BMO’s 2-step verification system.  VoIP (if it uses that technology) doesn’t work for sure, hence the panic.

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  • Robert T
  • Mobile Master
  • December 1, 2025

Can't you set up 2FA to a number other then Canadian or ask for a call instead of a SMS?

When you like my post, my boss gives me a raise, my dog is happier and my kids love me more.
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  • Ben Judgeson
  • Author
  • Organizer
  • December 2, 2025

Unfortunately not with BMO business accounts Robert (CIBC does both call and text to our Spanish number no problem) and we don’t even have problems with BMO Investorline.

Even with BMO personal accounts you can use an authenticator App.  Monumental shitshow!

But so many people are affected (based on my last conversation with them) I’m thinking they’re going to have to resolve the issue somehow.

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  • Robert T
  • Mobile Master
  • December 2, 2025

The core issue here; prepaid plans straight up don’t work internationally. That’s not a glitch, that’s by design. Your eSIM can be “activated” but Koodo’s prepaid network simply won’t route international traffic.

Since BMO won’t accept calls or authenticator apps for business accounts, you’re genuinely stuck with prepaid. Switching to a postpaid monthly plan would fix this, but I get that’s not ideal mid-trip.

For now, Fongo’s the play if it works with BMO, or honestly, you might need to bite the bullet and upgrade temporarily. This isn’t something the community can troubleshoot around. 

Check here : https://support.fongo.com/hc/en-us/articles/212434926-Activation-authentication-or-marketing-texts-SMS-short-codes

When you like my post, my boss gives me a raise, my dog is happier and my kids love me more.
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  • Ben Judgeson
  • Author
  • Organizer
  • December 2, 2025

Will do Robert.  Thank you very much for taking the time to reply and all the useful info.  Cheers.

I just hope I can get my money back from Koodo.

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