With Skype discontinuing in May 2025, many travelers and expats are scrambling for alternatives. Whether you use Skype to chat with family back home, call 0800 numbers, or receive those critical 2FA messages, here are some ideas to keep you connected.

Mint

My top pick is Mint Mobile. This prepaid plan stands out for two major reasons:

• Banks and services that block VoIP numbers will accept a Mint number.
• You can receive text messages worldwide—even without roaming, Wi-Fi, or Mint's Minternational pass.

No VoIP app can offer both of these advantages. Plus, there are more benefits:

• When you have Wi-Fi or a local data SIM, you can enable Wi-Fi calling and text as if you were in the US without extra charges (note: this requires a dual-SIM phone or Wi-Fi).
• If you're on a short trip and don't want to deal with a local SIM, travel eSIM, or Wi-Fi, you can buy the Minternational pass to enable regular roaming.

If you're not in the US, you might be able to find a prepaid plan in your home country that offers Wi-Fi calling with the same benefits.

Video Calls

Maybe you don’t need to keep a US number and just want to stay in touch with family and friends. In that case, consider these options:

• FaceTime – Great for Apple users; it works without a VPN in China.
• WeChat – If you're in China, you're likely already using WeChat. You might even convince your family back home to switch, making video calls hassle-free without a VPN.
• WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram – Chances are one of these apps is already in use among your friends or family. While they require a VPN in China, they remain reliable choices.

These options provide a range of solutions depending on your needs, from maintaining a US number with Mint to keeping in touch via video calls. Happy connecting!