By Malika Joshi in Conversation with Sarthak Gharti, Nabil Bank
International travel is booming this year among Nepali families and it will continue to flourish as honeymoon season is here! It’s all fun and joy, untill you have to plan, budget, and simultaneously figure out way to stay connected with the world and our loved ones back home.
One often overlooked yet essential part of travel planning is buying a SIM card. Searching for kiosks at airports can be tiring and costly. In today’s digital age, traveling without a SIM or internet connection will make you feel doomed (atleast I’ve felt that). That’s why I want to share a smart digital solution that makes travel easier – the eSIM. An eSIM is a lifesaver, it saves your time, money, and hassle by eliminating the need to buy new SIM cards abroad. With just a simple QR code scan, you can activate your data plan instantly and stay connected from the moment you land.
Technology has sowed its seed in Nepal too, and it’s up to us to reap the most of it. In Nepal, some banks and telecom partners are stepping in to make our travels easier. Leading the way, Nabil Bank recently partnered with Nimbuzz to offer international data eSIMs directly through its app
Please provide information about Data e-SIM in brief. How does it work and who is it targeted to?
Data e-SIM is a digital travel hassel free connectivity service available through the nBank app. It allows customers to purchase mobile data plans for international destinations without needing a physical SIM card. The service is primarily targeted at Nepali travelers going abroad, including tourists, students, and professionals who fast, convenient access to data connectivity.
Why did the bank feel there was a need for a travel-focused digital service beyond traditional banking products?
With increasing international travel, customers face challenges such as high roaming costs and inconvenience in buying SIM cards abroad. The Nabil Bank’s e-SIM addresses this issues by offering a convenient, cost-effective, and fully digital solution, aligning with Nabil Bank’s broader strategy of providing digital services through its platform.
How is e-SIM service different from buying a physical SIM card abroad or using international roaming?
Unlike physical SIM cards, the e-SIM does not require store visits and doesn’t required identity verification at the destination. Customers can purchase the e-SIM directly through the nBank app, even while already abroad using nBank.
Who can access this service? Do customers need a specific type of Nabil Bank account?
The service is available to nBank app users who hold an active Nabil Bank account. No special account is required.
Could you walk us through the process of purchasing and activating the e-SIM through the nBank app?
Step 1: Log in to the nBank app
Step 2: Tap on the “More” section
Step 3: Go to “Marketplace”
Step 4: Select “Nimbuzz”
Step 5: Choose “Data e-SIM” and complete the purchase.
Once purchased, customers receive an email (sent to the email address provided during purchase) with a PDF attachment containing a QR code and step-by-step installation instructions.
Which regions or countries are currently covered under the e-SIM plans?
The e-SIM plans cover more than 190 countries, including major destinations across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and other regions.
Are there flexible data plans based on duration, destination, or data usage?
Yes, Customers can choose from multiple data plans based on destination, data volume, and validity period, depending on their travel needs.
Is the e-SIM intended mainly for short-term travelers, students, or long-term overseas workers?
The service is designed to support a wide range of users, including short-term travelers, international students, and overseas professionals, depending on their data usage requirements.
How user-friendly is the process for first-time or less tech-savvy users?
The process is simple and user-friendly. Clear, step-by-step instructions are provided in the PDF sent via email, making it easy even for first-time or less tech-savvy users to install and use the e-SIM.
What kind of customer support is available if users face issues while abroad?
Customers have access to 24/7 digital support. Support contact details are included in the confirmation email sent after purchasing the e-SIM.
Which regions or countries are currently covered under the e-SIM plans?
The service includes coverage across multiple international destinations. The coverage list is available within the nBank app at the time of purchase.
Can customers purchase the e-SIM before travel and activate it later?
Yes, customers can purchase the e-SIM in advance and activate it at their convenience, typically upon arrival at their destination or they can activate just after purchasing, however, the SIM gets activated once customer reaches the destnation.
Is the service backed by international telecom partners, and how reliable is the network connectivity?
Yes, the e-SIM service is supported through international telecom partners, ensuring reliable network connectivity across supported regions.
Can someone purchase multiple e-SIMs through a single nBank account?
Yes, customers can purchase multiple e-SIMs through a single nBank account.
