If you've ever landed in a new country and scrambled for Wi-Fi before shelling out $10 a day on international roaming… (1) been there, and (2) this one’s for you.
Most people don’t realize this, but certain Visa cards in the U.S. come with a hidden travel perk… free international eSIM data through a partnership with GigSky. And I’m not talking about some weird card from a bank you’ve never heard of. This works with tons of popular cards, including the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, and even the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card.
Here’s how it works, why it’s worth trying, and which cards will get you the most data.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card that lives in your phone (no physical chip required). You download it, activate it, and it’s that easy… you’ve got service in another country (yay!). There’s no need to remove your current SIM or deal with any tiny, annoying tools.
Most newer smartphones support eSIMs (like iPhones XS/XR and up, or newer Pixel, Galaxy, and Fold devices), and your phone must also be carrier-unlocked to qualify. If your phone does qualify, this really is just a few quick steps. And keep in mind that eSIM is data-only, so no calling or texting — unless you’re using apps like WhatsApp or iMessage, or your carrier supports Wi-Fi calling.
Visa and GigSky Partnership, Explained
Through its partnership with GigSky, Visa offers complimentary international eSIM data to eligible cardholders. There are two tiers:
U.S. Visa Infinite®: Get 3 GB for 15 days, once per calendar year, and 30% off future plans
U.S. Visa Signature®: Get 1 GB for 15 days, once per calendar year, and 20% off future plans
The exact amount of data and duration depends on your card type, but the key takeaway is that if you’re holding the right Visa card, you can get online overseas for free, with no carrier plan or extra purchases required.
Once your initial data runs out, you’ll still have access to discounted GigSky rates, which can be cheaper than buying international data directly from your normal provider.
And, keep in mind:
The plan doesn’t start automatically when you redeem — you have to activate it manually, and it will last 15 days after activation
You must activate it within 365 days of claiming it
Best Travel Cards to Unlock This Perk
If you’re not sure whether your card qualifies, look for “Visa Signature” or “Visa Infinite” branding. Many of the best travel cards fall into these categories, and here are a few worth checking out:
Sapphire Reserve: Comes with solid points on travel, Priority Pass lounge access, and a free international eSIM plan
Venture X: Earns 2x miles on everyday purchases and includes access to Capital One Lounges (and the free data is just one more reason to keep this one)
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless: Earns you a free night award each year and also gets you a free data plan abroad
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Earns 2x miles on everyday purchases and is a Visa Signature, so you’re eligible for free data with GigSky
The New United Club℠ Card: Earns up to 9x miles on United purchases and 2x miles on general travel purchases
💡 Pro Tip: If you have more than one eligible Visa card, you can technically redeem the perk more than once. That’s extra data for each card you add. You can redeem once per card, per 365 days.
How to Claim Your Free eSIM in Five Minutes
Again… you’ll need an eligible U.S. Visa card and a phone that supports eSIMs.
Step-by-Step Setup:
Download the GigSky app
Tap “Visa Benefits”
Add your Visa card as the default payment method, not via Apple Pay or Google Pay
Follow the prompts to create an account and link your card
Select your free data plan and check out
Install the eSIM when prompted (which takes about two minutes 😄)
💡 Another Pro Tip: Install the eSIM before your flight so it activates as soon as you land. Your future self with thank you!
Bottom Line
International travel can be expensive, y’all. And, you shouldn’t have to tack on $10 (or more) each day just to load directions or send a message when you land.
This little-known Visa benefit is an easy win. It takes a few minutes to set up, costs nothing, and helps you stay connected when you’re moving around.
Don’t forget to install the eSIM before takeoff, and maybe keep an eye on that second Visa card for later.
