What's blocked by country: WhatsApp, FaceTime, VPN, Instagram
Check what will work on holiday. Every fact with its source and date.
Checked 12.11.2026
In the UAE, WhatsApp, FaceTime and Viber calls are blocked on local networks, but messaging works. VPN is legal, but using it to break the law can bring a fine of 500,000 to 2 million dirhams.
- ⛔WhatsApp calls WhatsApp calls are blocked, messages workSource: freedomhouse.org, 05.2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 05.2024
- ⛔FaceTime FaceTime blocked since 2013 (according to FOTN 2024)Source: freedomhouse.org, 05.2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 05.2024
- ⛔Viber calls Viber blocked since 2013Source: freedomhouse.org, 05.2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 05.2024
- ⚠️VPN VPN is legal, but using it to break the law (including for blocked calls) can be fined AED 500,000 to 2 million, Law 34/2021Source: khaleejtimes.com, 27.03.2026 · verified
- ⚠️Other Dating sites, LGBT content, unlicensed VoIP and circumvention tools are blocked; Discord voice since 2016; legal alternatives for calls: Botim, Zoom, TeamsSource: freedomhouse.org, 05.2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 05.2024
- ❔Telegram calls No specific data found on Telegram calls; VoIP without a licence is bannedSource: freedomhouse.org, 05.2024 · not verified
- ❔Signal No reliable data foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2024 · not verified
✅ 8 more work
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) WhatsApp text messages workSource: techcentral.co.za, 14.08.2025 · verified
- ✅Facebook Works, no blocking mentioned in FOTNSource: freedomhouse.org, 2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2024
- ✅Instagram Works, no blocking mentioned in FOTNSource: freedomhouse.org, 2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2024
- ✅YouTube Works, no blocking mentioned in FOTNSource: freedomhouse.org, 2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2024
- ✅TikTok Works, no blocking mentioned in FOTNSource: freedomhouse.org, 2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2024
- ✅X (Twitter) Works, no blocking mentioned in FOTNSource: freedomhouse.org, 2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2024
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Works, no blocking mentioned in FOTNSource: freedomhouse.org, 2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2024
- ✅Streaming Works, no blocking mentioned in FOTNSource: freedomhouse.org, 2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2024
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local restrictions. eSIM sellers' blogs claim it does, but they are an interested party.
What to do
- To call: Botim, Zoom or Teams (allowed in the UAE), or a normal call from the Ukrainian SIM (expensive). WhatsApp messages, photos and voice notes work.
- VPN services' sites may not open here. Is a VPN legal: VPN is legal, but using it to break the law (including for blocked calls) can be fined AED 500,000 to 2 million, Law 34/2021
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
Everything works. TikTok was blocked from March 2025, but has been available again since February 2026.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No blocking foundSource: balcanicaucaso.org, 02.2026 · not verified
- ✅FaceTime No blocking foundSource: balcanicaucaso.org, 02.2026 · not verified
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No blocking foundSource: balcanicaucaso.org, 02.2026 · not verified
- ✅Telegram calls No blocking foundSource: balcanicaucaso.org, 02.2026 · not verified
- ✅Viber calls No blocking foundSource: balcanicaucaso.org, 02.2026 · not verified
- ✅Signal No blocking foundSource: balcanicaucaso.org, 02.2026 · not verified
- ✅Facebook No blocking foundSource: balcanicaucaso.org, 02.2026 · not verified
- ✅Instagram No blocking foundSource: balcanicaucaso.org, 02.2026 · not verified
- ✅YouTube No blocking foundSource: balcanicaucaso.org, 02.2026 · not verified
- ✅TikTok Works since 02.2026; it was blocked for a year from 06.03.2025, the decision was overturned on 03.02.2026Source: thesun.my, 05.02.2026 · verified
- ✅X (Twitter) No blocking foundSource: balcanicaucaso.org, 02.2026 · not verified
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No blocking foundSource: balcanicaucaso.org, 02.2026 · not verified
- ✅VPN No blocking foundSource: balcanicaucaso.org, 02.2026 · not verified
- ✅Streaming No blocking foundSource: balcanicaucaso.org, 02.2026 · not verified
- ✅Other No blocking foundSource: balcanicaucaso.org, 02.2026 · not verified
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks
Happened before
- 06.03.2025: Nationwide TikTok block (government decision No. 151, revoked by decision No. 62; on 11.03.2026 the Constitutional Court ruled it a violation of free speech) · source
What to do
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (06.03.2025). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
The internet is free and popular services work. We found no shutdowns during the June 2026 elections.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Telegram calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅VPN No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Other From 02.2025 some illegal casino sites were blocked, access was restored by 05.2025Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
Messengers and Google work, but since 12 October 2026 Instagram, TikTok and X are unavailable because of protests, and news sites have been blocked for a long time. Social media was already restricted during military events (2020, 2022, 2023).
- ⛔Other Independent news sites are blocked (for example Anaxeber.info since 02.2025, OC Media since 06.2026); since 07.2026 sites can be blocked without a court orderSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ⚠️Instagram Unavailable on several providers since 12.10.2026 (protests; confirmed by NetBlocks on 13.10). Whether the block was lifted is not checked as of 12.11Source: techradar.com, 13.10.2026 · according to techradar.com, 13.10.2026
- ⚠️TikTok Unavailable on several providers since 12.10.2026 (protests; confirmed by NetBlocks on 13.10). Whether the block was lifted is not checked as of 12.11Source: techradar.com, 13.10.2026 · according to techradar.com, 13.10.2026
- ⚠️X (Twitter) Unavailable on several providers since 12.10.2026 (protests; confirmed by NetBlocks on 13.10). Whether the block was lifted is not checked as of 12.11Source: techradar.com, 13.10.2026 · according to techradar.com, 13.10.2026
- ❔VPN No data found on VPN legality or blocking of VPN servicesSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
✅ 10 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Work now; during the 2020 war WhatsApp was blocked for over a monthSource: az-netwatch.org, 2020 · according to az-netwatch.org, 2020
- ✅Telegram calls Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks
Happened before
- 27.09.2020: War: Facebook, WhatsApp, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Zoom, Skype blocked, internet slowed down (NetBlocks) · source
- 09..2.2022: TikTok blocked for about 2 months during clashes · source
- 19.09.2023: TikTok blocked during the operation in Karabakh · source
- 01.2025: Internet slowdown in Imishli during a protest · source
- 12.10.2026: Instagram, TikTok, X unavailable on several providers (NetBlocks, according to Proton VPN and AZ NetWatch) · source
What to do
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (27.09.2020, 09..2.2022, 19.09.2023, 01.2025, 12.10.2026). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
We found no blocks on popular services, everything works.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅FaceTime No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Telegram calls No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Viber calls No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Signal No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Facebook No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Instagram No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅YouTube No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅TikTok No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅X (Twitter) No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅VPN No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Streaming No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Other No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
Everything works. The only quirk: news from media outlets is not shown on Facebook and Instagram in Canada.
- ⚠️Facebook Works, but since 08.2023 Meta does not show news (links to media) in Canada because of the Online News ActSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ⚠️Instagram Works, but since 08.2023 Meta does not show news (links to media) in Canada because of the Online News ActSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
✅ 13 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Telegram calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅VPN No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Other No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks. We have not checked whether a tourist sees news on Facebook via a roaming eSIM (foreign IP)
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
We found no blocks on popular services, everything works.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅FaceTime No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Telegram calls No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Viber calls No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Signal No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Facebook No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Instagram No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅YouTube No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅TikTok No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅X (Twitter) No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅VPN No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Streaming No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Other No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In China, Google, WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and X do not work on local networks and hotel Wi-Fi. A travel eSIM with roaming usually routes traffic abroad, so these services work, but you need to install it before the trip.
- ⛔WhatsApp calls WhatsApp (including calls) does not work on Chinese networks.Source: canberratimes.com.au, 05.11.2026 · verified
- ⛔Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) WhatsApp and Telegram are blocked; WeChat is recommended for contacting locals. According to travel guides, iMessage works.Source: canberratimes.com.au, 05.11.2026 · verified
- ⛔Telegram calls Telegram is blocked on Chinese networks.Source: canberratimes.com.au, 05.11.2026 · verified
- ⛔Signal Signal is on the blocked list.Source: canberratimes.com.au, 05.11.2026 · according to canberratimes.com.au, 05.11.2026
- ⛔Facebook Facebook is blocked.Source: canberratimes.com.au, 05.11.2026 · verified
- ⛔Instagram Instagram is blocked.Source: canberratimes.com.au, 05.11.2026 · verified
- ⛔YouTube YouTube is blocked.Source: canberratimes.com.au, 05.11.2026 · verified
- ⛔X (Twitter) X (Twitter) is blocked.Source: canberratimes.com.au, 05.11.2026 · verified
- ⛔Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Search, Gmail, Google Maps and Drive are blocked; Apple Maps works.Source: canberratimes.com.au, 05.11.2026 · verified
- ⛔Streaming Netflix is unavailable; so are ChatGPT and Reddit.Source: canberratimes.com.au, 05.11.2026 · verified
- ⛔Other The Great Firewall blocks thousands of domains (FOTN 2025: 9/100, the worst score). Wikipedia has been blocked in all languages since April 2019 (OONI). Tip: install WeChat and Alipay in advance, both accept foreign Visa/Mastercard since 2023.Source: ooni.org, 05.2019 · according to ooni.org, 05.2019
- ⚠️FaceTime According to travel guides, one-to-one FaceTime works on an iPhone bought outside China; Group FaceTime and call links are unavailable in mainland China (Apple policy, 2022). Weak source.Source: chinadigitaltimes.net, 2022 · not verified
- ⚠️TikTok International TikTok does not work in China, only the Chinese Douyin is available (from travel guides, weak source).Source: saily.com, 2026 · not verified
- ⚠️VPN Unlicensed VPNs are illegal, fines for citizens up to 15,000 yuan; we found no cases of tourists being penalized. In November 2025 China's Ministry of State Security again warned about "illegal VPNs". VPNs in China are often unstable.Source: scmp.com, 01.2019 · according to scmp.com, 01.2019
- ❔Viber calls No reliable source found on Viber in China.Source: · not verified
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: Canberra Times (November 2026): a UNSW researcher says some travel eSIMs bypass filtering because traffic goes through gateways in Hong Kong, Singapore or Australia; the eSIM must be installed before arrival; a local SIM or a "Chinese" eSIM is filtered. An Airalo study (arXiv 2024) records home routing for eSIMs in China. Depends on the provider.
Happened before
- постійно: Regional shutdowns (Xinjiang, Tibet) and a separate blocking system in Henan province (FOTN 2025); usually does not affect tourists in big cities · source
What to do
- Messages work, calls may drop. Have a fallback: voice notes or a normal call.
- Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube don't work on local networks and hotel Wi-Fi. Install WeChat and Alipay (they take foreign Visa/Mastercard) and Apple Maps. A roaming eSIM usually routes traffic outside China: Tutu's goes out via Hong Kong or Singapore, so blocked services usually work without a VPN. That's a property of the supplier's roaming, not a guarantee.
- VPN services' sites may not open here. Is a VPN legal: Unlicensed VPNs are illegal, fines for citizens up to 15,000 yuan; we found no cases of tourists being penalized. In November 2025 China's Ministry of State Security again warned about "illegal VPNs". VPNs in China are often unstable.
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (постійно). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
The main messengers and social networks usually work, but independent media are blocked and the internet often goes down because of blackouts. Some US services do not work from Cuban IPs because of sanctions.
- ⛔Other Independent news sites are blocked by the authorities; in addition, some US websites and services block Cuban IPs themselves because of US sanctionsSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · verified
- ⚠️WhatsApp calls Usually work, but connection is unstable due to blackoutsSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · not verified
- ⚠️Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Usually work; in July 2021 WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook and Instagram were blocked during protests, FOTN records signs of messenger blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ⚠️Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Search and Maps work; some services (paid apps, some cloud services) may be unavailable from Cuban IPs because of US sanctionsSource: usenix.org, 2024 · not verified
- ❔VPN No data found on VPN legality or blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · not verified
✅ 10 more work
- ✅FaceTime Usually works, but the internet is slow and often drops due to power cutsSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · not verified
- ✅Telegram calls Usually works, but the internet is slow and often drops due to power cutsSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · not verified
- ✅Viber calls Usually works, but the internet is slow and often drops due to power cutsSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · not verified
- ✅Signal Usually works, but the internet is slow and often drops due to power cutsSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · not verified
- ✅Facebook Usually works, but the internet is slow and often drops due to power cutsSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · not verified
- ✅Instagram Usually works, but the internet is slow and often drops due to power cutsSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · not verified
- ✅YouTube Usually works, but the internet is slow and often drops due to power cutsSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · not verified
- ✅TikTok Usually works, but the internet is slow and often drops due to power cutsSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · not verified
- ✅X (Twitter) Usually works, but the internet is slow and often drops due to power cutsSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · not verified
- ✅Streaming Usually works, but the internet is slow and often drops due to power cutsSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · not verified
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks. It makes sense that with roaming the traffic does not exit from a Cuban IP, but we found no source
Happened before
- 11.07.2021: Social networks and messengers restricted during protests (NetBlocks) · source
- 10.2024: Nationwide blackout, most of the country offline (NetBlocks) · source
- 10.09.2025: Total collapse of the power grid · source
- 03.2026: Total blackout, traffic fell by 65% (Cloudflare) · source
- 14.05.2026: Widespread internet loss in Havana during protests over power cuts · source
What to do
- Messages work, calls may drop. Have a fallback: voice notes or a normal call.
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (11.07.2021, 10.2024, 10.09.2025, 03.2026, 14.05.2026). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
We found no blocks on popular services, everything works.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅FaceTime No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Telegram calls No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Viber calls No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Signal No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Facebook No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Instagram No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅YouTube No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅TikTok No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅X (Twitter) No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅VPN No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Streaming No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Other No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
We found no blocks on popular services, everything works.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅FaceTime No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Telegram calls No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Viber calls No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Signal No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Facebook No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Instagram No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅YouTube No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅TikTok No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅X (Twitter) No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅VPN No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Streaming No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Other No blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · not verified
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
Egypt blocks more than 500 websites, including news and VPN sites; internet calls on mobile networks are officially restricted and sometimes do not work. Messengers and social networks work for messaging.
- ⚠️WhatsApp calls VoIP is blocked from time to time on mobile networks; the lifting of the ban promised in 2024 for May 2025 did not happenSource: freedomhouse.org, 05.2025 · verified
- ⚠️FaceTime Some VoIP services are unavailable, FaceTime was blocked in 2017Source: freedomhouse.org, 05.2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 05.2025
- ⚠️Telegram calls Some VoIP services are unavailableSource: freedomhouse.org, 05.2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 05.2025
- ⚠️Viber calls Some VoIP services are unavailableSource: freedomhouse.org, 05.2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 05.2025
- ⚠️VPN VPN service websites have been blocked since 2018 (AFTE and OONI)Source: ooni.org, 07.2018 · according to ooni.org, 07.2018
- ⚠️Other 562 websites blocked, ~132 of them news sites (FOTN, June 2024); Discord blocked on WE and Vodafone in January 2026 (Al Manassa/Masaar, OONI)Source: freedomhouse.org, 06; 2.2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 06; 2.2024
- ❔Signal No data found on Signal blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2024 · not verified
✅ 8 more work
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) WhatsApp messaging is widely usedSource: freedomhouse.org, 2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2024
- ✅Facebook Works, no blocking of major platforms foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram Works, no blocking of major platforms foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube Works, no blocking of major platforms foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok Works, no blocking of major platforms foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) Works, no blocking of major platforms foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Works, no blocking of major platforms foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming Works, no blocking of major platforms foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local restrictions. eSIM sellers' blogs claim it does, but they are an interested party.
What to do
- Messages work, calls may drop. Have a fallback: voice notes or a normal call.
- VPN services' sites may not open here. Is a VPN legal: VPN service websites have been blocked since 2018 (AFTE and OONI)
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
Everything works. Since July 2025 some websites and social networks may ask you to verify your age; this is not a block.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Telegram calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅VPN VPN is legalSource: techradar.com, 07.2025 · according to techradar.com, 07.2025
- ✅Streaming No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Other Not blocking: since 25.07.2025, under the Online Safety Act, some sites and features (18+ content, some social media sections) ask you to verify your ageSource: theregister.com, 28.07.2025 · verified
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
There are no blocks on popular services: messengers, calls, social networks and VPN work. In 2026 Freedom House lowered the rating to Partly Free because of pressure on journalists, not because of blocking.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅FaceTime No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅Telegram calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅Viber calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅Signal No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅Facebook No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅Instagram No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅YouTube No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅TikTok No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅X (Twitter) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅VPN No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅Streaming No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅Other No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In Indonesia, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and Google work just like at home. Porn, gambling and services without local registration are blocked (Vimeo, and in 2026 the Wikipedia login); Reddit was blocked in the past.
- ⚠️TikTok Works; on 30.08.2025 TikTok itself switched off Live because of protests, in October 2025 its licence was temporarily frozen.Source: thejakartapost.com, 31.08.2025 · verified
- ⚠️X (Twitter) X works; Grok was blocked in January 2026 and later unblocked; since March 2026 accounts of users under 16 are restricted.Source: gigazine.net, 02.02.2026 · according to gigazine.net, 02.02.2026
- ⚠️Streaming Vimeo blocked since 2014 (current status not confirmed); in 2022 Steam, PayPal, Epic and Yahoo were blocked over PSE registration, most were later unblocked.Source: theregister.com, 01.08.2022 · according to theregister.com, 01.08.2022
- ⚠️Other The Internet Positif filter blocks porn and gambling; Reddit was blocked from 2014 (a VPN blog says it was unblocked in 2026, not confirmed); Wikipedia login (auth.wikimedia.org) has been blocked since 25.02.2026 over PSE registration; Archive.org was briefly blocked in May 2025.Source: voi.id, 04.2026 · according to voi.id, 04.2026
- ❔VPN No official VPN rules for users found.Source: · not verified
✅ 10 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls Major social media and messaging apps work (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime Major social media and messaging apps work (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Work; the Telegram web version was blocked on 14.07–10.08.2017.Source: thejakartapost.com, 14.08.2017 · according to thejakartapost.com, 14.08.2017
- ✅Telegram calls Works; the 2017 block was lifted.Source: thejakartapost.com, 14.08.2017 · according to thejakartapost.com, 14.08.2017
- ✅Viber calls Major social media and messaging apps work (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal Major social media and messaging apps work (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook Major social media and messaging apps work (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram Major social media and messaging apps work (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube Major social media and messaging apps work (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Major social media and messaging apps work (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no specific data on blocking from test trips with a roaming eSIM; a study of the Airalo ecosystem shows that traffic from such eSIMs usually reaches the internet abroad (home routing / IPX hub), but nobody has checked local blocks for this particular country.
Happened before
What to do
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (30.08.2025, 01.2026). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In Israel all popular services are available to tourists. Some individual sites are blocked, for example Al Jazeera since May 2024.
- ⚠️Other Al Jazeera websites blocked on several networks since 05.05.2024Source: explorer.ooni.org, 05.2024 · according to explorer.ooni.org, 05.2024
✅ 14 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No blocking of popular services foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2024 · not verified
- ✅FaceTime No blocking of popular services foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2024 · not verified
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No blocking of popular services foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2024 · not verified
- ✅Telegram calls No blocking of popular services foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2024 · not verified
- ✅Viber calls No blocking of popular services foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2024 · not verified
- ✅Signal No blocking of popular services foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2024 · not verified
- ✅Facebook No blocking of popular services foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2024 · not verified
- ✅Instagram No blocking of popular services foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2024 · not verified
- ✅YouTube No blocking of popular services foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2024 · not verified
- ✅TikTok No blocking of popular services foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2024 · not verified
- ✅X (Twitter) No blocking of popular services foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2024 · not verified
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No blocking of popular services foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2024 · not verified
- ✅VPN No blocking of popular services foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2024 · not verified
- ✅Streaming No blocking of popular services foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2024 · not verified
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: Not checked separately: there are no significant permanent blocks for tourists.
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In India, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube and Google work, but TikTok has been banned since 2020. The authorities often shut down mobile internet locally (Manipur, Kashmir, during unrest or exams): 65 times in 2025.
- ⛔TikTok TikTok has been banned since June 2020 (Section 69A of the IT Act) along with other Chinese apps; in August 2025 the government confirmed the ban is still in force.Source: newsonair.gov.in, 23.08.2025 · verified
- ⚠️VPN Using a VPN is legal; since 2022 VPN providers must keep user data (CERT-In), some VPN apps were removed from app stores in 2025.Source: scroll.in, 2026 · according to scroll.in, 2026
- ⚠️Other Some websites are blocked, including Pakistani media since May 2025; frequent local internet shutdowns (65 in 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
✅ 12 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls Works; social media platforms are not blocked as a whole (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime Works; social media platforms are not blocked as a whole (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Works; social media platforms are not blocked as a whole (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Telegram calls Works; social media platforms are not blocked as a whole (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls Works; social media platforms are not blocked as a whole (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal Works; social media platforms are not blocked as a whole (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook Works; social media platforms are not blocked as a whole (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram Works; social media platforms are not blocked as a whole (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube Works; social media platforms are not blocked as a whole (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) Works; social media platforms are not blocked as a whole (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Works; social media platforms are not blocked as a whole (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming Works; social media platforms are not blocked as a whole (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no specific data on blocking from test trips with a roaming eSIM; a study of the Airalo ecosystem shows that traffic from such eSIMs usually reaches the internet abroad (home routing / IPX hub), but nobody has checked local blocks for this particular country.
Happened before
What to do
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (2025 (весь, 11.2024). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In Jordan, TikTok (since December 2022) and Clubhouse are blocked, and some VPN sites are unavailable. WhatsApp calls used to be blocked by operators, recent data are mixed; messengers were temporarily switched off during school exams in June 2024.
- ⛔TikTok Blocked since 16.12.2022, still blocked as of the end of May 2024Source: freedomhouse.org, 05.2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 05.2024
- ⚠️WhatsApp calls Operators blocked WhatsApp and Viber calls; in 2025 Reuters still mentions VoIP restrictionsSource: techcentral.co.za, 14.08.2025 · according to techcentral.co.za, 14.08.2025
- ⚠️Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Messaging apps were temporarily blocked during exam hours in June-July 2024Source: freedomhouse.org, 06.2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 06.2024
- ⚠️Viber calls Viber calls were blocked by operators (FOTN 2021)Source: ecoi.net, 05.2021 · not verified
- ⚠️Facebook Facebook Live was throttled during the 2020-2022 protestsSource: freedomhouse.org, 2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2024
- ⚠️VPN ExpressVPN, Proton, NordVPN and TunnelBear have been blocked since 2021; a 2023 law penalizes anonymizersSource: freedomhouse.org, 06.2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 06.2024
- ⚠️Other Clubhouse blocked since 2021; 12 news sites were blocked in May 2025Source: freedomhouse.org, 05.2025 · verified
- ❔FaceTime Not foundSource: · not verified
✅ 7 more work
- ✅Telegram calls Telegram and Messenger were available (FOTN 2021)Source: ecoi.net, 05.2021 · not verified
- ✅Signal No blocking mentioned in FOTNSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram No blocking mentioned in FOTNSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube No blocking mentioned in FOTNSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) No blocking mentioned in FOTNSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No blocking mentioned in FOTNSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming No blocking mentioned in FOTNSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local restrictions. eSIM sellers' blogs claim it does, but they are an interested party.
Happened before
What to do
- Messages work, calls may drop. Have a fallback: voice notes or a normal call.
- VPN services' sites may not open here. Is a VPN legal: ExpressVPN, Proton, NordVPN and TunnelBear have been blocked since 2021; a 2023 law penalizes anonymizers
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (06/07.2024, 12.2022). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
The internet in Japan is free: no websites or social networks are blocked, everything works just like at home.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No blocking of websites or social media (FOTN 2025: "no blocks on websites").Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ✅FaceTime No blocking of websites or social media (FOTN 2025: "no blocks on websites").Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No blocking of websites or social media (FOTN 2025: "no blocks on websites").Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ✅Telegram calls No blocking of websites or social media (FOTN 2025: "no blocks on websites").Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ✅Viber calls No blocking of websites or social media (FOTN 2025: "no blocks on websites").Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ✅Signal No blocking of websites or social media (FOTN 2025: "no blocks on websites").Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ✅Facebook No blocking of websites or social media (FOTN 2025: "no blocks on websites").Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ✅Instagram No blocking of websites or social media (FOTN 2025: "no blocks on websites").Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ✅YouTube No blocking of websites or social media (FOTN 2025: "no blocks on websites").Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ✅TikTok No blocking of websites or social media (FOTN 2025: "no blocks on websites").Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ✅X (Twitter) No blocking of websites or social media (FOTN 2025: "no blocks on websites").Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No blocking of websites or social media (FOTN 2025: "no blocks on websites").Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ✅VPN No blocking of websites or social media (FOTN 2025: "no blocks on websites").Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ✅Streaming No blocking of websites or social media (FOTN 2025: "no blocks on websites").Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ✅Other No blocking of websites or social media (FOTN 2025: "no blocks on websites").Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: Not needed: there are no blocks.
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In Kenya everything usually works, but Telegram is blocked during the KCSE exams in November (2023, 2024) and during protests. On 25.06.2024 the internet was disrupted for about 7 hours.
- ⚠️Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Telegram was blocked on 7-29.11.2024 during the KCSE exams and on 25.06.2025 during protestsSource: ooni.org, 2025 · verified
- ⚠️Telegram calls Telegram is blocked from time to time (exams, protests)Source: ooni.org, 2025 · verified
- ⚠️Signal Signs of blocking for a few hours on 25.06.2024Source: freedomhouse.org, 25.06.2024 · according to freedomhouse.org, 25.06.2024
✅ 12 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No permanent blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime No permanent blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls No permanent blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook No permanent blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram No permanent blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube No permanent blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok No permanent blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) No permanent blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No permanent blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅VPN No permanent blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming No permanent blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Other No permanent blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: Not checked separately: there are no significant permanent blocks for tourists.
Happened before
What to do
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (25.06.2024, 07.11.2024, 25.06.2025). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In Korea messengers and social networks work. The main inconvenience: Google Maps does not give walking or driving directions, so it is better to install Naver Map or Kakao Map.
- ⚠️Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Google Maps works only partly: no turn-by-turn navigation for driving or walking; map export was approved on 27.02.2026, launch expected no earlier than 2027. Naver Map and Kakao Map are recommended.Source: nbcnews.com, 27.02.2026 · verified
- ⚠️Other North Korean sites (for example, Uriminzokkiri since 2010), porn and gambling sites are blocked; in February 2025 DeepSeek was temporarily removed from the app store.Source: rsf.org, 2010+ · according to rsf.org, 2010+
✅ 13 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls Social media and messaging apps are not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime Social media and messaging apps are not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Social media and messaging apps are not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Telegram calls Social media and messaging apps are not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls Social media and messaging apps are not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal Social media and messaging apps are not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook Social media and messaging apps are not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram Social media and messaging apps are not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube Social media and messaging apps are not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok Social media and messaging apps are not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) Social media and messaging apps are not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅VPN Social media and messaging apps are not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming Social media and messaging apps are not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: The Google Maps restriction concerns the map data itself, roaming does not bypass it.
What to do
- Google Maps has no walking or driving directions: install Naver Map or Kakao Map.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
Messengers, social networks and Google work, but VPN sites and some news sites are blocked. The authorities can shut down the internet in emergencies, as in January 2022.
- ⛔Other At least 17 news sites and 73 circumvention sites blocked (2023-2024)Source: ooni.org, 2024 · verified
- ⚠️Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Work; on 14.08.2026 Telegram was hard to reach in several regions, no reason givenSource: adilsoz.kz, 14.08.2026 · according to adilsoz.kz, 14.08.2026
- ⚠️Telegram calls Usually work; Telegram had outages in 08.2026Source: adilsoz.kz, 14.08.2026 · according to adilsoz.kz, 14.08.2026
- ⚠️VPN Websites of popular VPNs (NordVPN, ExpressVPN, ProtonVPN, Surfshark) are blocked; the law allows blocking anonymizersSource: ooni.org, 2024 · verified
✅ 11 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks
Happened before
What to do
- VPN services' sites may not open here. Is a VPN legal: Websites of popular VPNs (NordVPN, ExpressVPN, ProtonVPN, Surfshark) are blocked; the law allows blocking anonymizers
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (04.01.2022, 06.2026, 14.08.2026). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In Sri Lanka all the usual services work. During crises the authorities have blocked social networks for a few hours before (2018, 2019, 2022).
- ⚠️Other Some websites are blocked (FOTN 2025); the Online Safety Act has been in force since 2024.Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
✅ 14 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls Social media is not blocked at the moment (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime Social media is not blocked at the moment (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Social media is not blocked at the moment (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Telegram calls Social media is not blocked at the moment (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls Social media is not blocked at the moment (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal Social media is not blocked at the moment (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook Social media is not blocked at the moment (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram Social media is not blocked at the moment (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube Social media is not blocked at the moment (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok Social media is not blocked at the moment (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) Social media is not blocked at the moment (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Social media is not blocked at the moment (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅VPN During the 2022 block people widely used VPNs; no VPN restrictions found.Source: netblocks.org, 03.04.2022 · not verified
- ✅Streaming Social media is not blocked at the moment (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no specific data on blocking from test trips with a roaming eSIM; a study of the Airalo ecosystem shows that traffic from such eSIMs usually reaches the internet abroad (home routing / IPX hub), but nobody has checked local blocks for this particular country.
Happened before
What to do
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (03.04.2022, 04 (В.2019). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
Morocco does not block websites or social networks; WhatsApp calls have worked since November 2016, when a year-long VoIP ban was lifted.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls The VoIP ban on mobile networks (January-October 2016) was liftedSource: globalvoices.org, 26.10.2016 · according to globalvoices.org, 26.10.2016
- ✅FaceTime No specific restrictions foundSource: fortune.com, 04.11.2016 · not verified
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) The government has not blocked websites or social mediaSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Telegram calls The government has not blocked websites or social mediaSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls The government has not blocked websites or social mediaSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal The government has not blocked websites or social mediaSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook The government has not blocked websites or social mediaSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram The government has not blocked websites or social mediaSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube The government has not blocked websites or social mediaSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok The government has not blocked websites or social mediaSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) The government has not blocked websites or social mediaSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) The government has not blocked websites or social mediaSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅VPN The government has not blocked websites or social mediaSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming The government has not blocked websites or social mediaSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Other The government has not blocked websites or social mediaSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: Not checked separately: there are no significant permanent blocks for tourists.
Happened before
- 28.04.2025: The Orange Maroc network was down for almost a day because of the blackout in Spain and Portugal (not a government shutdown) · source
What to do
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (28.04.2025). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
All popular services work. Only Russian propaganda media are blocked, which tourists will not notice.
- ⚠️Other Dozens of Russian propaganda sites (RT, TASS, Interfax and others) blocked since 2024; does not affect the services tourists usually useSource: rferl.org, 10.2024 · according to rferl.org, 10.2024
✅ 14 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No blocking foundSource: rferl.org, 10.2024 · not verified
- ✅FaceTime No blocking foundSource: rferl.org, 10.2024 · not verified
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No blocking foundSource: rferl.org, 10.2024 · not verified
- ✅Telegram calls No blocking foundSource: rferl.org, 10.2024 · not verified
- ✅Viber calls No blocking foundSource: rferl.org, 10.2024 · not verified
- ✅Signal No blocking foundSource: rferl.org, 10.2024 · not verified
- ✅Facebook No blocking foundSource: rferl.org, 10.2024 · not verified
- ✅Instagram No blocking foundSource: rferl.org, 10.2024 · not verified
- ✅YouTube No blocking foundSource: rferl.org, 10.2024 · not verified
- ✅TikTok No blocking foundSource: rferl.org, 10.2024 · not verified
- ✅X (Twitter) No blocking foundSource: rferl.org, 10.2024 · not verified
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No blocking foundSource: rferl.org, 10.2024 · not verified
- ✅VPN No blocking foundSource: rferl.org, 10.2024 · not verified
- ✅Streaming No blocking foundSource: rferl.org, 10.2024 · not verified
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
We found no recent blocks on popular services, everything works. The last time WhatsApp and Viber were briefly blocked was on election day in 2016.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No current blocking foundSource: globalvoices.org, 2016 · not verified
- ✅FaceTime No current blocking foundSource: globalvoices.org, 2016 · not verified
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Work; the only known case: on election day 16.10.2016 WhatsApp and Viber were blocked for a few hoursSource: globalvoices.org, 17.10.2016 · according to globalvoices.org, 17.10.2016
- ✅Telegram calls No current blocking foundSource: globalvoices.org, 2016 · not verified
- ✅Viber calls No current blocking foundSource: globalvoices.org, 2016 · not verified
- ✅Signal No current blocking foundSource: globalvoices.org, 2016 · not verified
- ✅Facebook No current blocking foundSource: globalvoices.org, 2016 · not verified
- ✅Instagram No current blocking foundSource: globalvoices.org, 2016 · not verified
- ✅YouTube No current blocking foundSource: globalvoices.org, 2016 · not verified
- ✅TikTok No current blocking foundSource: globalvoices.org, 2016 · not verified
- ✅X (Twitter) No current blocking foundSource: globalvoices.org, 2016 · not verified
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No current blocking foundSource: globalvoices.org, 2016 · not verified
- ✅VPN No current blocking foundSource: globalvoices.org, 2016 · not verified
- ✅Streaming No current blocking foundSource: globalvoices.org, 2016 · not verified
- ✅Other No current blocking foundSource: globalvoices.org, 2016 · not verified
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks
Happened before
- 16.10.2016: WhatsApp and Viber blocked on parliamentary election day until polls closed · source
What to do
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (16.10.2016). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In Mauritius everything works. The only episode: on 1-2.11.2024, before the elections, social networks were blocked for less than a day.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No permanent blocking foundSource: hrw.org, 07.11.2024 · not verified
- ✅FaceTime No permanent blocking foundSource: hrw.org, 07.11.2024 · not verified
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No permanent blocking foundSource: hrw.org, 07.11.2024 · not verified
- ✅Telegram calls No permanent blocking foundSource: hrw.org, 07.11.2024 · not verified
- ✅Viber calls No permanent blocking foundSource: hrw.org, 07.11.2024 · not verified
- ✅Signal No permanent blocking foundSource: hrw.org, 07.11.2024 · not verified
- ✅Facebook No permanent blocking foundSource: hrw.org, 07.11.2024 · not verified
- ✅Instagram No permanent blocking foundSource: hrw.org, 07.11.2024 · not verified
- ✅YouTube No permanent blocking foundSource: hrw.org, 07.11.2024 · not verified
- ✅TikTok No permanent blocking foundSource: hrw.org, 07.11.2024 · not verified
- ✅X (Twitter) No permanent blocking foundSource: hrw.org, 07.11.2024 · not verified
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No permanent blocking foundSource: hrw.org, 07.11.2024 · not verified
- ✅VPN No permanent blocking foundSource: hrw.org, 07.11.2024 · not verified
- ✅Streaming No permanent blocking foundSource: hrw.org, 07.11.2024 · not verified
- ✅Other No permanent blocking foundSource: hrw.org, 07.11.2024 · not verified
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: Not checked separately: there are no significant permanent blocks for tourists.
Happened before
- 01.11.2024: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X blocked before the elections, lifted the next day · source
What to do
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (01.11.2024). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In the Maldives porn sites and some local news sites are blocked. We found no data on blocking of WhatsApp, Instagram or Google.
- ⚠️Other The CAM regulator blocks porn sites, some opposition news sites (December 2023, later unblocked) and pirated TV; the media law of 18.09.2025 allows blocking media websites.Source: dailytimes.com.pk, 09.2025 · according to dailytimes.com.pk, 09.2025
- ❔WhatsApp calls No independent measurements found (FOTN does not cover the Maldives); we came across no tourist complaints about messenger blocking.Source: · not verified
- ❔FaceTime No independent measurements found (FOTN does not cover the Maldives); we came across no tourist complaints about messenger blocking.Source: · not verified
- ❔Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No independent measurements found (FOTN does not cover the Maldives); we came across no tourist complaints about messenger blocking.Source: · not verified
- ❔Telegram calls No independent measurements found (FOTN does not cover the Maldives); we came across no tourist complaints about messenger blocking.Source: · not verified
- ❔Viber calls No independent measurements found (FOTN does not cover the Maldives); we came across no tourist complaints about messenger blocking.Source: · not verified
- ❔Signal No independent measurements found (FOTN does not cover the Maldives); we came across no tourist complaints about messenger blocking.Source: · not verified
- ❔Facebook No independent measurements found (FOTN does not cover the Maldives); we came across no tourist complaints about messenger blocking.Source: · not verified
- ❔Instagram No independent measurements found (FOTN does not cover the Maldives); we came across no tourist complaints about messenger blocking.Source: · not verified
- ❔YouTube No independent measurements found (FOTN does not cover the Maldives); we came across no tourist complaints about messenger blocking.Source: · not verified
- ❔TikTok No independent measurements found (FOTN does not cover the Maldives); we came across no tourist complaints about messenger blocking.Source: · not verified
- ❔X (Twitter) No independent measurements found (FOTN does not cover the Maldives); we came across no tourist complaints about messenger blocking.Source: · not verified
- ❔Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No independent measurements found (FOTN does not cover the Maldives); we came across no tourist complaints about messenger blocking.Source: · not verified
- ❔VPN No independent measurements found (FOTN does not cover the Maldives); we came across no tourist complaints about messenger blocking.Source: · not verified
- ❔Streaming No independent measurements found (FOTN does not cover the Maldives); we came across no tourist complaints about messenger blocking.Source: · not verified
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no specific data on blocking from test trips with a roaming eSIM; a study of the Airalo ecosystem shows that traffic from such eSIMs usually reaches the internet abroad (home routing / IPX hub), but nobody has checked local blocks for this particular country.
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
No services are blocked, everything works.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Telegram calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅VPN No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Other No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In Malaysia all the usual messengers, social networks and Google work. Some individual sites are blocked; in January 2026 Grok was blocked for two weeks.
- ⚠️X (Twitter) X works; Grok was blocked on 11–23.01.2026.Source: thestar.com.my, 23.01.2026 · verified
- ⚠️Other Some websites are blocked (FOTN 2025, no details); since 2025 social media licensing and the Online Safety Act are in force.Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ❔VPN No data found on VPN restrictions.Source: · not verified
✅ 12 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Telegram calls Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no specific data on blocking from test trips with a roaming eSIM; a study of the Airalo ecosystem shows that traffic from such eSIMs usually reaches the internet abroad (home routing / IPX hub), but nobody has checked local blocks for this particular country.
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
We found no blocks on popular services, everything works.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅FaceTime No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Telegram calls No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Viber calls No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Signal No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Facebook No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Instagram No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅YouTube No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅TikTok No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅X (Twitter) No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅VPN No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Streaming No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Other No blocking foundSource: explorer.ooni.org, 2025 · not verified
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In Oman, since December 2024 users report that WhatsApp calls work without a VPN, but the TRA has not officially announced this. Other services are generally available.
- ⚠️WhatsApp calls Since 04.12.2024 calls work according to users, not officially announcedSource: timesofoman.com, 04.12.2024 · according to timesofoman.com, 04.12.2024
- ⚠️Other Clubhouse blocked since 2021 (according to unofficial reports)Source: vpn.doft.com, 2025 · not verified
- ❔FaceTime No recent reliable data found; FaceTime was blocked in 2020Source: hrw.org, 07.04.2020 · not verified
- ❔Telegram calls Not foundSource: · not verified
- ❔Viber calls Not foundSource: · not verified
- ❔Signal One OONI measurement from 2022 showed signs of blocking, possibly a false positiveSource: explorer.ooni.org, 18.08.2022 · not verified
- ❔Facebook Not found (FOTN does not cover Oman)Source: · not verified
- ❔Instagram Not found (FOTN does not cover Oman)Source: · not verified
- ❔YouTube Not found (FOTN does not cover Oman)Source: · not verified
- ❔TikTok Not found (FOTN does not cover Oman)Source: · not verified
- ❔X (Twitter) Not found (FOTN does not cover Oman)Source: · not verified
- ❔Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Not found (FOTN does not cover Oman)Source: · not verified
- ❔VPN No data found on a banSource: · not verified
- ❔Streaming Not found (FOTN does not cover Oman)Source: · not verified
✅ 1 more work
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Messaging apps work for textingSource: timesofoman.com, 04.12.2024 · according to timesofoman.com, 04.12.2024
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local restrictions. eSIM sellers' blogs claim it does, but they are an interested party.
What to do
- Messages work, calls may drop. Have a fallback: voice notes or a normal call.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In the Philippines messengers, social networks and Google work. During large religious processions in Manila (January) the police temporarily jam mobile signal along the route.
- ⚠️Other Some websites are blocked (FOTN 2025); Grok was briefly blocked in January 2026.Source: contentasia.tv, 01.2026 · according to contentasia.tv, 01.2026
- ❔VPN No data found on VPN restrictions.Source: · not verified
✅ 13 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Telegram calls Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no specific data on blocking from test trips with a roaming eSIM; a study of the Airalo ecosystem shows that traffic from such eSIMs usually reaches the internet abroad (home routing / IPX hub), but nobody has checked local blocks for this particular country.
Happened before
- щороку 9 с: Mobile signal temporarily switched off along the route of the Black Nazarene procession in Manila · source
What to do
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (щороку 9 с). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
Qatar has no law against VoIP, but WhatsApp and FaceTime calls through local operators are restricted or unstable. Messaging and social networks work.
- ⚠️WhatsApp calls Calls are restricted and unstable; there is no official banSource: techcentral.co.za, 14.08.2025 · according to techcentral.co.za, 14.08.2025
- ⚠️FaceTime Complaints about FaceTime outages, no official status foundSource: gulf-times.com, 06.09.2017 · not verified
- ⚠️Viber calls Complaints about Viber call outagesSource: gulf-times.com, 06.09.2017 · not verified
- ❔Telegram calls Not foundSource: · not verified
- ❔Signal Not foundSource: · not verified
- ❔Facebook Not found (FOTN does not cover Qatar)Source: · not verified
- ❔Instagram Not found (FOTN does not cover Qatar)Source: · not verified
- ❔YouTube Not found (FOTN does not cover Qatar)Source: · not verified
- ❔TikTok Not found (FOTN does not cover Qatar)Source: · not verified
- ❔X (Twitter) Not found (FOTN does not cover Qatar)Source: · not verified
- ❔Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Not found (FOTN does not cover Qatar)Source: · not verified
- ❔VPN No data found on a VPN banSource: · not verified
- ❔Streaming Not found (FOTN does not cover Qatar)Source: · not verified
- ❔Other No independent data found on other blockingSource: · not verified
✅ 1 more work
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Messages workSource: techcentral.co.za, 14.08.2025 · according to techcentral.co.za, 14.08.2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local restrictions. eSIM sellers' blogs claim it does, but they are an interested party.
What to do
- Messages work, calls may drop. Have a fallback: voice notes or a normal call.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
Social networks, messengers and websites are not blocked. Freedom House lowered the rating because of pressure on protesters and journalists, not because of blocking.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Telegram calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅VPN No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Other No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In Singapore everything a tourist usually needs works. Only individual sites are blocked by decision of the regulator.
- ⚠️Other IMDA blocks some websites (for example, 10 sites of "hostile information campaigns" in October 2024).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ❔VPN No data found on VPN restrictions.Source: · not verified
✅ 13 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Telegram calls Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no specific data on blocking from test trips with a roaming eSIM; a study of the Airalo ecosystem shows that traffic from such eSIMs usually reaches the internet abroad (home routing / IPX hub), but nobody has checked local blocks for this particular country.
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In Thailand WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Google work. Gambling sites and content critical of the monarchy are blocked, which hardly affects tourists.
- ⚠️Other Sites criticizing the monarchy are blocked (lèse-majesté law), Change.org on some providers, and hundreds of thousands of online casino links (945,000 in fiscal year 2026).Source: nationthailand.com, 10.2026 · verified
- ❔VPN No data found on VPN restrictions.Source: · not verified
✅ 13 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025: Social Media Blocked: No).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025: Social Media Blocked: No).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025: Social Media Blocked: No).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Telegram calls Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025: Social Media Blocked: No).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025: Social Media Blocked: No).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025: Social Media Blocked: No).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025: Social Media Blocked: No).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025: Social Media Blocked: No).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025: Social Media Blocked: No).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025: Social Media Blocked: No).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025: Social Media Blocked: No).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025: Social Media Blocked: No).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming Social media is not blocked (FOTN 2025: Social Media Blocked: No).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no specific data on blocking from test trips with a roaming eSIM; a study of the Airalo ecosystem shows that traffic from such eSIMs usually reaches the internet abroad (home routing / IPX hub), but nobody has checked local blocks for this particular country.
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
Tunisia does not block social networks or websites. The problem is prosecution for posts, not access.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No blocking recordedSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime No blocking recordedSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No blocking recordedSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Telegram calls No blocking recordedSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls No blocking recordedSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal No blocking recordedSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook No blocking recordedSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram No blocking recordedSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube No blocking recordedSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok No blocking recordedSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) No blocking recordedSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No blocking recordedSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅VPN No blocking recordedSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming No blocking recordedSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Other No blocking recordedSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: Not checked separately: there are no significant permanent blocks for tourists.
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
Messengers, Instagram, YouTube and Google usually work, but during protests (March and September 2025) social networks and WhatsApp were restricted for 1-2 days. Since July 2025 the websites and apps of foreign eSIM services are blocked, so it is better to buy and install your eSIM at home.
- ⛔Other Websites and apps of eSIM services (Airalo, Holafly, Saily, Nomad, Instabridge, Mobimatter, Alosim, BNESIM) blocked since 10.07.2025; an eSIM that is already installed works. Discord (since 09.10.2024) and Wattpad (since 07.2024) are also blockedSource: medyascope.tv, 11.07.2025 · verified
- ⚠️WhatsApp calls Usually work; WhatsApp was restricted during the protests on 7-8.09.2025Source: al-monitor.com, 08.09.2025 · verified
- ⚠️Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Usually work; WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal were throttled during protests in March 2025Source: bianet.org, 19.03.2025 · according to bianet.org, 19.03.2025
- ⚠️Facebook Works, but access was restricted during protests on 19-21.03.2025 and 7-8.09.2025Source: al-monitor.com, 08.09.2025 · verified
- ⚠️Instagram Works; it was blocked for 9 days in August 2024 and restricted twice during protests in 2025Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ⚠️YouTube Works, but access was restricted during protests on 19-21.03.2025 and 7-8.09.2025Source: al-monitor.com, 08.09.2025 · verified
- ⚠️TikTok Works, but access was restricted during protests on 19-21.03.2025 and 7-8.09.2025Source: al-monitor.com, 08.09.2025 · verified
- ⚠️X (Twitter) Works; some journalists' and politicians' accounts are hidden in Turkey, access was restricted during the 2025 protestsSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · verified
- ⚠️VPN Using a VPN is not banned, but the websites of dozens of VPNs (NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Proton, Surfshark) have been blocked since 11.2023Source: tomsguide.com, 11.2023 · according to tomsguide.com, 11.2023
✅ 6 more work
- ✅FaceTime Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅Telegram calls No specific blocking found; Telegram was throttled during protests in 03.2025Source: bianet.org, 19.03.2025 · according to bianet.org, 19.03.2025
- ✅Viber calls Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅Signal Not blocked; affected by throttling during protests in March 2025Source: bianet.org, 19.03.2025 · according to bianet.org, 19.03.2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
- ✅Streaming Usually worksSource: freedomhouse.org, 2026 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2026
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks. The eSIM block only affects websites and apps for buying, not mobile data: an eSIM that is already installed works (Teknoblog, Medyascope)
Happened before
- 07 (б.2024: Internet slowdown in Kayseri province during protests · source
- 02.08.2024: Instagram blocked nationwide for 9 days · source
- 19.03.2025: X, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok restricted and messengers slowed down after Imamoglu's arrest (NetBlocks) · source
- 07.09.2025: X, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, WhatsApp restricted (NetBlocks), especially in Istanbul · source
What to do
- Messages work, calls may drop. Have a fallback: voice notes or a normal call.
- Sites and apps of many eSIM services are blocked in Turkey since 10.07.2025: buy and install the eSIM at home. An installed eSIM works.
- VPN services' sites may not open here. Is a VPN legal: Using a VPN is not banned, but the websites of dozens of VPNs (NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Proton, Surfshark) have been blocked since 11.2023
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (07 (б.2024, 02.08.2024, 19.03.2025, 07.09.2025). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In Tanzania X (Twitter) has been blocked since May 2025, and during the elections on 29.10-03.11.2025 the internet was shut down nationwide. Other services usually work.
- ⛔X (Twitter) Blocked since 20.05.2025, confirmed by the government on 04.06.2025Source: tech-ish.com, 05.06.2025 · verified
- ⚠️WhatsApp calls Did not work during the shutdown on 29.10-03.11.2025Source: globalnetworkinitiative.org, 01.12.2025 · according to globalnetworkinitiative.org, 01.12.2025
- ⚠️Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) WhatsApp was unavailable during the election shutdown on 29.10.2025Source: globalnetworkinitiative.org, 01.12.2025 · verified
- ⚠️Instagram Unavailable during the elections, Live was switched off in October 2025Source: globalnetworkinitiative.org, 01.12.2025 · according to globalnetworkinitiative.org, 01.12.2025
- ⚠️TikTok TikTok Live was switched off in October 2025Source: business-humanrights.org, 10.2025 · according to business-humanrights.org, 10.2025
✅ 10 more work
- ✅FaceTime No permanent blocking foundSource: globalnetworkinitiative.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Telegram calls No permanent blocking foundSource: globalnetworkinitiative.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Viber calls No permanent blocking foundSource: globalnetworkinitiative.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Signal No permanent blocking foundSource: globalnetworkinitiative.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Facebook No permanent blocking foundSource: globalnetworkinitiative.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅YouTube No permanent blocking foundSource: globalnetworkinitiative.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No permanent blocking foundSource: globalnetworkinitiative.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅VPN No permanent blocking foundSource: globalnetworkinitiative.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Streaming No permanent blocking foundSource: globalnetworkinitiative.org, 2025 · not verified
- ✅Other No permanent blocking foundSource: globalnetworkinitiative.org, 2025 · not verified
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local restrictions. eSIM sellers' blogs claim it does, but they are an interested party.
Happened before
What to do
- Messages work, calls may drop. Have a fallback: voice notes or a normal call.
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (29.10.2025, 30.08.2024). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
Everything works, including TikTok: the deal on its US owner was closed in January 2026.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Telegram calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok Works: the deal on TikTok's US joint venture closed on 22.01.2026, there is no banSource: abc7.com, 22.01.2026 · verified
- ✅X (Twitter) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅VPN No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Other No reports of blocking foundSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no reliable source that a roaming eSIM bypasses local blocks
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
In Vietnam the services tourists are used to work: WhatsApp, Viber, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Google. Telegram was blocked for a month and a half in 2025; the internet sometimes slows down because of damaged undersea cables.
- ⚠️Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) WhatsApp and Viber work; Telegram was blocked in 2025 on the telecom authority's order (letter of 21.05.2025), according to OONI the block was lifted on 10.07.2025.Source: explorer.ooni.org, 13.06.2025 · according to explorer.ooni.org, 13.06.2025
- ⚠️Telegram calls Telegram was blocked on Viettel, VNPT and FPT from 25.05 to 10.07.2025 (OONI); later status is unclear, check before your trip.Source: explorer.ooni.org, 13.06.2025 · according to explorer.ooni.org, 13.06.2025
- ⚠️VPN Using a VPN is not explicitly banned; since 2026 (Decree 330/2026) there is a fine of up to 20 million dong for instructions on bypassing blocks.Source: thevietnamese.org, 27.08.2026 · according to thevietnamese.org, 27.08.2026
- ⚠️Other Some opposition websites are blocked (FOTN 2025: 22/100, Not Free). Frequent slowdowns due to damaged undersea cables.Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
✅ 11 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No blocking found (FOTN 2025, OONI).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime No blocking found (FOTN 2025, OONI).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls No blocking found (FOTN 2025, OONI).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal No blocking found (FOTN 2025, OONI).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook Works; in 2020 the authorities threatened a block but did not impose it.Source: aljazeera.com, 24.05.2025 · according to aljazeera.com, 24.05.2025
- ✅Instagram No blocking found (FOTN 2025, OONI).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube No blocking found (FOTN 2025, OONI).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok Works; a ban was considered in 2023 but not introduced.Source: aljazeera.com, 24.05.2025 · according to aljazeera.com, 24.05.2025
- ✅X (Twitter) No blocking found (FOTN 2025, OONI).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No blocking found (FOTN 2025, OONI).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming No blocking found (FOTN 2025, OONI).Source: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: We found no specific data on blocking from test trips with a roaming eSIM; a study of the Airalo ecosystem shows that traffic from such eSIMs usually reaches the internet abroad (home routing / IPX hub), but nobody has checked local blocks for this particular country.
Happened before
- 25.05.2025: Telegram blocked on Viettel, VNPT, FPT · source
What to do
- During protests, elections or exams the internet or some services have been cut here (25.05.2025). It usually affects a tourist for a day or two.
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
The internet in South Africa is free: social networks, messengers and calls work without restrictions.
✅ 15 more work
- ✅WhatsApp calls No blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅FaceTime No blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Messages (WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) No blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Telegram calls No blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Viber calls No blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Signal No blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Facebook No blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Instagram No blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅YouTube No blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅TikTok No blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅X (Twitter) No blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Google (Search, Gmail, Maps) No blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅VPN No blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Streaming No blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
- ✅Other No blockingSource: freedomhouse.org, 2025 · according to freedomhouse.org, 2025
Getting round via a roaming eSIM: Not checked separately: there are no significant permanent blocks for tourists.
What to do
- Install and sign in to the apps you need at home: WhatsApp, Telegram, Privat24, monobank, Diia, Maps. Some app stores and sites may not open in the country.
- Keep your Ukrainian SIM in the phone with roaming on: bank SMS come to it. Switch data to the eSIM and turn off «Data roaming» on the Ukrainian SIM.
- About Tutu eSIM, honestly: Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Normal calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM at roaming rates. So where calls in messengers are blocked, the eSIM alone won't open them.
All countries
⛔ Some apps blocked (5)
⚠️ Some limits (13)
❔ Little data (1)
✅ Everything works (24)
Ukrainian services abroad
Diia
Works abroad mostly without restrictions; in some countries you need a VPN with a Ukrainian server; log in via BankID/bank or NFC with a biometric passport.
Privat24
The app works abroad; logins and transactions are confirmed via the 'financial' number (SMS or push); you can change it to a foreign number only through support.
monobank
Works abroad; a new device is confirmed with an SMS code; since April 2022 the bank has closed accounts of customers staying in Russia, Belarus, North Korea, Syria, Eritrea.
Oschad 24/7
The 'Oschad 24/7' app works anywhere with internet; SMS in roaming arrive at your operator's rates.
gov_sites
Some government resources restrict access from foreign IPs; the State Tax Service officially describes how to unblock an IP abroad (except for 'unfriendly countries').
megogo
The catalogue is licensed by country; from abroad some content (including sports: Champions League, Ligue 1) is unavailable; Poland, Romania and others have separate plans.
sweettv
The subscription stays active abroad, but with fewer channels; the full list comes back in Ukraine; the full list requires an account registered in Ukraine.
kyivstar_tv
Under the terms, the service is provided within Ukraine; from abroad the catalogue is limited or unavailable.
dual_sim_tip
Confirmed by how banks work: SMS/OTP codes go only to the registered 'financial' number, so the Ukrainian SIM must stay in the phone with roaming on; data goes through the eSIM.
Questions
Do WhatsApp calls work in the UAE?
No, on local networks and most Wi-Fi WhatsApp, FaceTime and Viber calls are blocked (Freedom House, 2024–2025). Messages work. Botim, Zoom and Teams are allowed for calls.
Does WhatsApp work in Egypt?
Messages yes. Internet calls on mobile networks are officially restricted and sometimes fail; the promised lifting of the ban by May 2025 didn't happen (Freedom House 2025).
What is blocked in Turkey?
The usual apps work. Blocked: Discord (since 10.2024), Wattpad, VPN sites and since 10.07.2025 the sites and apps of foreign eSIM services. During protests (03.2025, 09.2025) social media was throttled for 1–2 days.
Do Google and WhatsApp work in China?
Not on local networks. Apple Maps, iMessage and WeChat work. A roaming eSIM usually routes traffic outside China (Tutu's via Hong Kong or Singapore), but that's no guarantee.
Is a VPN legal in the UAE, China, Turkey?
UAE: VPNs are allowed, but using one to break the law can cost AED 500,000–2 million (Law 34/2021). China: unlicensed VPNs are illegal; we found no cases of tourists punished. Turkey: using one isn't banned, VPN sites are blocked.
Will Privat24, monobank and Diia work abroad?
Yes, mostly. Banks confirm log-ins by SMS or push to the «financial» number, so keep the Ukrainian SIM in the phone. Diia advises turning on a VPN with a Ukrainian server if there's an error (diia.gov.ua, 06.2026).
Does an eSIM get round blocks?
Sometimes. A roaming eSIM routes traffic through another country, so the local filter may not see it: independently confirmed only for China. In the UAE it isn't confirmed, and getting round the call ban there may break the law. Treat it as a bonus, not a guarantee.
Can I call from a normal number with Tutu eSIM?
No, Tutu eSIM is data only, without a number. Calls and SMS go through your Ukrainian SIM.
Does Google Maps work in Korea?
Partly: no walking or driving directions; Naver Map or Kakao Map are better.
Can the internet be cut during my holiday?
It happens during protests, elections and exams: Kenya (Telegram during exams), Tanzania (elections 10.2025), Azerbaijan (10.2026), India (locally). It's rare in resort countries.
How we checked
Freedom House (Freedom on the Net), OONI, NetBlocks via the media, Access Now, regulators and the media; checked 12.11.2026. We sell eSIMs; a roaming eSIM doesn't promise to get round blocks.

