How to Get a Virtual Phone Number is a common question for people who want a second number without buying another phone or adding a traditional phone line. You can get a virtual phone number through an internet-based phone service and use it on Android, iPhone, a computer, or a web browser.
The process is usually simple: choose a provider, create an account, select an available number, complete verification if required, and set up calling or texting.
The important part is choosing a service that supports the country, number type, calling, texting, and verification features you actually need.
Top Virtual Phone Number Providers Free And Paid
If you want to get a virtual phone number, several services offer different options for personal use, business communication, second numbers, and international calling. The providers compared below include Google Voice, Quo, Hushed, RingCentral, Dialpad, Grasshopper, Nextiva, Vonage, TextNow, and Numero eSIM. Compare their pricing and intended use to find a virtual phone number service that fits your needs.
| Provider | Free or Paid | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Google Voice | Free and paid options | Personal and business use |
| Quo | Paid with trial | Small businesses and teams |
| Hushed | Paid | Second and privacy-focused numbers |
| RingCentral | Paid with trial | Business communications |
| Dialpad | Paid with trial | Business calling and messaging |
| Grasshopper | Paid with trial | Small businesses |
| Nextiva | Paid | Business phone systems |
| Vonage | Paid | Business communications |
| TextNow | Free and paid options | Personal calling and texting |
| Numero eSIM | Paid options | Secondary and international numbers |
Google Voice
- Free or Paid: Free and paid
- Best For: Personal and business use
- Number Options: Local numbers in supported markets
- Calling: Yes
- Texting: Yes
- Android: Yes
- iPhone: Yes
Quo
- Free or Paid: Paid with trial
- Best For: Small businesses and teams
- Number Options: Local and toll-free
- Calling: Yes
- Texting: Yes
- Android: Yes
- iPhone: Yes
Hushed
- Free or Paid: Paid
- Best For: Second and privacy-focused numbers
- Number Options: Supported local numbers
- Calling: Yes
- Texting: Plan dependent
- Android: Yes
- iPhone: Yes
RingCentral
- Free or Paid: Paid with trial
- Best For: Business communications
- Number Options: Local and toll-free
- Calling: Yes
- Texting: Yes
- Android: Yes
- iPhone: Yes
Dialpad
- Free or Paid: Paid with trial
- Best For: Business calling and messaging
- Number Options: Business numbers
- Calling: Yes
- Texting: Yes
- Android: Yes
- iPhone: Yes
Grasshopper
- Free or Paid: Paid with trial
- Best For: Small businesses
- Number Options: Local, toll-free and vanity
- Calling: Yes
- Texting: Paid plans
- Android: Yes
- iPhone: Yes
Nextiva
- Free or Paid: Paid
- Best For: Business phone systems
- Number Options: Local, toll-free and vanity
- Calling: Yes
- Texting: Yes
- Android: Yes
- iPhone: Yes
Vonage
- Free or Paid: Paid
- Best For: Business communications
- Number Options: Business numbers
- Calling: Yes
- Texting: Yes
- Android: Yes
- iPhone: Yes
TextNow
- Free or Paid: Free and paid
- Best For: Personal calling and texting
- Number Options: Availability varies
- Calling: Yes
- Texting: Yes
- Android: Yes
- iPhone: Yes
Numero eSIM
- Free or Paid: Paid options
- Best For: Secondary and international numbers
- Number Options: Availability varies by country
- Calling: Plan dependent
- Texting: Plan dependent
- Android: Yes
- iPhone: Yes
Important: A provider may offer virtual numbers in one country but not another. Calling, SMS, MMS, number verification, and number retention can also vary by plan and location.
What Is a Virtual Phone Number?
A virtual phone number is a telephone number that works through an internet-based communication service rather than requiring a separate traditional phone line.
You can use the number through an app, web browser, computer, or compatible mobile device.
Depending on the service, a virtual number may support:
- Incoming and outgoing calls
- SMS messaging
- Voicemail
- Call forwarding
- Business extensions
- Auto attendants
- Call recording
- Multiple devices
- International calling
- Local or toll-free numbers
A virtual number can be used as a virtual mobile phone number, business number, second personal number, or international communication number, depending on the provider.
How Does a Virtual Phone Number Work?
The basic process looks like this:
Caller or Text → Virtual Phone Service → Internet → Your App or Device
Instead of connecting the number directly to a physical telephone line, the provider manages calls and messages through its online communication system.
When someone calls your virtual number, the service routes the call to the device or application you have configured.
That means you may be able to use the same number on a smartphone, laptop, desktop computer, or web browser.
How to Get a Virtual Phone Number
If you want to create a virtual phone number, follow these steps.
1. Choose a Virtual Phone Number Service
Start by deciding what you need the number for.
For example:
- A second personal number
- Business calls
- Customer support
- Text messaging
- An international number
- A local business number
- Voicemail
- Calls across multiple devices
Your intended use will determine which type of provider makes sense.
2. Visit the Provider’s Website or Install Its App
Most services allow you to create an account through their website or mobile application.
If you plan to use the number mainly on your smartphone, check that the provider has an Android or iPhone app before signing up.
3. Create an Account
Enter the information requested by the provider.
Depending on the service, you may need to verify your email address, existing phone number, identity, or payment method.
The exact verification requirements vary between providers and countries.
4. Select a Country or Area Code
If the provider supports your desired location, you may be able to choose a country, city, area code, or number type.
For example, a service may let you choose between:
- Local number
- Toll-free number
- Mobile number
- Business number
- Vanity number
- International number
Available choices depend on the provider and the location.
5. Choose Your Number
The service will show available numbers.
Pick one that matches your requirements and confirm your selection.
Some providers allow you to choose a specific area code, while others assign an available number automatically.
6. Complete Any Required Verification
Some services require verification before activating a number.
This can include email verification, SMS verification, identity checks, or payment verification.
Don’t assume that every virtual number can receive every type of verification message. Some websites and apps restrict VoIP or virtual numbers.
7. Configure Calling and Texting
Once your number is active, configure the features you need.
You may be able to set up:
- Call forwarding
- Voicemail
- Caller ID
- Business hours
- Text messaging
- Notifications
- Call routing
- Multiple devices
8. Test the Number
Make a test call and send a test message if texting is supported.
Also check incoming calls, voicemail, notifications, and caller ID.
Testing the number before giving it to customers, clients, or contacts can prevent problems later.
How to Get a Virtual Phone Number on Android
Getting a virtual phone number on Android usually involves installing the provider’s application.
Android setup
- Choose a virtual phone number provider.
- Install its Android app from an official app store.
- Create or sign into your account.
- Select the available number options.
- Choose your number.
- Complete any required verification.
- Enable calling and messaging permissions.
- Make a test call.
- Send a test text if SMS is supported.
The exact screens vary between applications, but the basic process is similar.
If your virtual phone number app is using too much background activity or affecting battery life, see our guide on How to Stop Apps Running in Background Android for practical ways to manage background apps.
How to Get a Virtual Phone Number on iPhone
The process on an iPhone is also straightforward.
iPhone setup
- Choose a provider that supports iPhone.
- Install the official application.
- Create an account or sign in.
- Select your available number.
- Complete the required verification.
- Configure calling and messaging.
- Allow the necessary notifications and permissions.
- Test incoming and outgoing communication.
Some services also let you use the number through a browser or desktop application, so you are not necessarily limited to your iPhone.
If you also need to save important conversations, see our guide on How to Record a Phone Call on iPhone for step-by-step instructions.
Can You Get a Virtual Phone Number Without a SIM Card?
Yes. Many internet-based phone services can provide a virtual number without requiring a separate physical SIM for the virtual line.
The service handles communication through an internet connection.
However, this does not mean every virtual number works without any phone verification. A provider may still ask you to verify your identity or an existing telephone number before issuing the number.
You should also check whether the service requires Wi-Fi, mobile data, or a particular application.
Free Virtual Phone Number vs. Free Trial
These two terms are often confused.
Free Virtual Phone Number
A genuinely free virtual phone number is available under a provider’s free plan or free service conditions.
Free services often have limitations such as:
- Advertisements
- Limited geographic availability
- Fewer features
- Number inactivity rules
- Restrictions on international communication
- Limited verification support
For example, TextNow currently provides free calling and texting with a free number within North America, but registration is restricted to North America. TextNow Support
Free Trial Virtual Phone Number
A free trial gives temporary access to a normally paid service.
The number may work during the trial period, but you generally need to subscribe to continue using the service.
Examples include providers that currently advertise short trials, such as Quo, Dialpad, and Grasshopper. Quo
A free trial is therefore not the same as a permanently free virtual phone number.
How Much Does a Virtual Phone Number Cost?
The cost depends on the provider, country, number type, and features you need.
You may encounter:
- Free plans
- Free trials
- Monthly subscriptions
- Annual subscriptions
- Pay-as-you-go pricing
- Per-minute calling charges
- SMS charges
- International calling fees
- Additional charges for premium numbers
Business services often cost more because they include features such as call routing, team members, business messaging, analytics, integrations, and multiple numbers.
For example, current business services from providers such as Nextiva and Dialpad offer broader communication features than a basic second-number application. Nextiva
Always check the current plan details before purchasing because pricing and included features can change.
How to Choose a Virtual Phone Number
The cheapest option is not automatically the right option.
Consider these factors before creating a virtual phone number.
Number Availability
Make sure the provider offers numbers in the country or area you need.
Calling
Check whether calls are included or billed separately.
If you expect international calls, review international rates carefully.
Text Messaging
If SMS is important, confirm that the specific number supports texting.
Some services have different SMS capabilities depending on the country or number type.
Verification Codes
If you need the number for account verification, confirm whether the service supports the type of messages you expect to receive.
Mobile Apps
If you want to use the number from your smartphone, check Android and iPhone compatibility.
Number Retention
Find out what happens to your number if you cancel a subscription or stop using the service.
Business Features
Businesses may need features such as:
- Auto attendants
- Call forwarding
- Extensions
- Team messaging
- Call recording
- Voicemail transcription
- Analytics
- CRM integrations
Can a Virtual Phone Number Receive Verification Codes?
Sometimes, but not always.
This is one of the most important limitations to understand before purchasing a virtual number.
Some websites and applications accept virtual or VoIP numbers for verification. Others block them or accept only numbers associated with traditional mobile networks.
Even when SMS is supported by the provider, a particular third-party service may still reject the number.
Therefore, if verification is your main reason for getting a virtual phone number, check the provider’s current SMS capabilities and the rules of the service you intend to use.
Can You Use a Virtual Phone Number for WhatsApp?
Sometimes.
Whether a virtual phone number works with WhatsApp depends on the number type, provider, country, and WhatsApp’s current verification requirements.
A number that can receive ordinary SMS does not automatically guarantee successful WhatsApp registration.
If WhatsApp compatibility is important, verify this before purchasing the number rather than assuming every virtual number will work.
Virtual Phone Number for Personal Use
A virtual phone number can be useful for personal situations where you want a separate number without carrying another physical phone.
Common examples include:
- A second contact number
- Online marketplace communication
- Travel communication
- Separating personal and professional calls
- Keeping business contacts separate
- Managing calls on multiple devices
Check the provider’s number retention rules if you plan to keep the number for a long time.
Virtual Phone Number for Business
Businesses commonly use virtual phone numbers to separate work communication from employees’ personal numbers.
A business can use a virtual number for:
- Customer calls
- Sales
- Customer support
- Appointment scheduling
- Remote employees
- International customers
- Marketing campaigns
- Department extensions
Business-focused services can also provide call routing, shared communication history, voicemail, team messaging, and other tools.
For example, Nextiva provides business voice, SMS, mobile access, call routing, and other business communication features. Nextiva
Virtual Phone Number vs. Virtual Mobile Number
These terms are related but can describe different services.
A virtual phone number generally refers to a number delivered through an internet-based communication system.
A virtual mobile number may be marketed as a mobile-style number that can be used through an app or digital service.
The important question is not the label. Check whether the number supports the specific functions you need, such as:
- Voice calls
- SMS
- MMS
- Verification
- International calling
- Caller ID
- Number portability
International Virtual Phone Numbers
If you need to communicate with people in another country, an international virtual phone number may allow you to maintain a number associated with that location without installing a traditional telephone line there.
However, international availability varies significantly between providers.
Before purchasing, check:
- Supported countries
- Local number availability
- Calling rates
- SMS support
- Number retention
- Verification compatibility
- Regulatory requirements
Do not assume that a provider offering virtual numbers in one country also offers them in every other country.
Are Virtual Phone Numbers Safe?
A virtual phone number can be a practical communication tool, but it should not be treated as automatically private or anonymous.
Your provider may retain account information, payment details, call records, messages, or other data according to its policies.
For better account security:
- Use a strong password.
- Enable two-factor authentication when available.
- Keep recovery information updated.
- Use reputable providers.
- Review the provider’s privacy policy.
- Avoid sharing account credentials.
- Understand how long your number remains active.
- Check what happens to the number after cancellation.
Also remember that a virtual number is not a guarantee of anonymity.
Common Virtual Phone Number Problems
The Number Is Not Available in My Country
Providers have different geographic coverage. Try a service that specifically supports your country.
I Cannot Receive an SMS
The number may not support SMS, or the particular service may block virtual numbers.
Verification Keeps Failing
The third-party platform may not accept VoIP or virtual numbers for verification.
Calls Have Poor Quality
Virtual calling depends on your internet connection and the provider’s network. Weak Wi-Fi or mobile data can affect call quality.
My Number Expired
Some free and prepaid services have inactivity or expiration rules. Review the provider’s number retention policy.
International Calls Cost More
International calling may be billed separately from your basic subscription.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get a virtual phone number?
Choose a provider that supports your country and required features, create an account, select an available number, complete verification, and configure calling or messaging.
How do I get a virtual phone number for free?
Some services offer free numbers under specific conditions, but availability is usually limited by country and service features. Free services may also include advertisements or other restrictions.
Can I create a virtual phone number without a phone?
You can often create and use a virtual number through a computer or web application, depending on the provider. Some services still require an existing number for account or identity verification.
Can I get a virtual phone number without a SIM card?
Yes. Many virtual phone services operate through internet connectivity rather than requiring a dedicated SIM for the virtual number.
Can I get a US virtual phone number?
Some providers offer US virtual numbers, but availability depends on the provider, account type, and location. Google Voice, for example, has specific geographic availability rather than being a worldwide service.
Can I get an international virtual phone number?
Yes, some providers offer international numbers, but the countries and number types available vary considerably.
Can a virtual number receive SMS?
Some can. SMS availability depends on the provider, country, number type, and plan.
Can I use a virtual number for verification?
Sometimes. Many online services accept them, while others restrict VoIP or virtual numbers. Check compatibility before relying on one for account verification.
Can I use a virtual number for WhatsApp?
It may work, but it is not guaranteed. WhatsApp verification requirements and provider capabilities can affect whether registration succeeds.
Can I use one virtual number on multiple devices?
Many services support multiple devices through their apps or web platforms. The exact number of supported devices depends on the provider.
Do virtual phone numbers expire?
Some free, prepaid, or inactive numbers can expire or be reclaimed. Paid services generally have different retention rules. Always check the provider’s policy.
Final Thoughts
Getting a virtual phone number is usually straightforward: choose the right service, create an account, select an available number, complete verification, and configure the features you need.
The more important decision is choosing a number that actually works for your location and intended purpose.
Before signing up, check country availability, calling, SMS, verification support, pricing, mobile compatibility, and number retention. If you only need a second number for occasional personal communication, a simple service may be enough. Businesses may need a more complete VoIP system with routing, messaging, extensions, and team features.
That approach helps you get a virtual phone number that remains useful beyond the initial setup.
