There are a few common reasons why WhatsApp may not be working properly when you’re abroad:
You Don’t Have an Internet Connection
The most obvious reason why WhatsApp isn’t working is because you don’t have an internet connection. WhatsApp requires an internet connection (whether WiFi or mobile data) in order to send and receive messages. Make sure you’re connected to the internet before troubleshooting further.
Your Phone Number Format Changed
When you insert a new SIM card in a different country, your phone number format changes. For example, your number may change from a UK format like +44XXXXXXXXX to a US format like +1XXXXXXXXXX. This new phone number won’t match your WhatsApp account. To fix this:
- Open WhatsApp > Settings > Account > Change Number
- Enter your full international number (with country code) and tap Next
- Enter the verification code you receive and you’re all set
You Exceeded the Verification Code Limit
If you entered the verification code incorrectly too many times, WhatsApp will lock you out for 8 hours before you can request a new code. This is done for security reasons. If you encounter this issue, you’ll simply have to wait 8 hours before you can verify your number again.
Your Phone’s Clock is Incorrect
WhatsApp uses your phone’s clock to regulate when verification codes expire. If your clock is set to the wrong time, the verification code will expire before you can enter it. To fix this:
- Go into your phone’s Date & Time settings
- Toggle “Automatic date & time” to ON
- Toggle “Automatic time zone” to ON
This will sync your phone’s clock to the correct time using your mobile network or internet connection.
Your SIM Card Isn’t Properly Installed
If your SIM card isn’t installed correctly, you’ll have connectivity issues that can prevent WhatsApp from working. Try removing your SIM card and reinserting it to ensure it’s sitting properly in the SIM tray.
You can also try cleaning the SIM card with a soft, dry cloth. Dirt on the metal contacts can interfere with connectivity.
You’re Blocked or Banned
In rare cases, you may find your WhatsApp account has been banned or blocked. This can happen if you violated WhatsApp’s Terms of Service. Unfortunately the only way to fix this is to appeal to WhatsApp directly and hope they unblock you.
Your Phone Number Was Previously Deactivated
If your phone number was previously deactivated from WhatsApp, you’ll be unable to verify it again. WhatsApp permanently deactivates accounts that have been inactive (unused) for 120 days. There’s no way around this – you’ll have to use a new phone number.
You’re Registered on Another Device
WhatsApp can only be activated on one device at a time per phone number. If you’re getting verification errors, it’s possible your number is still tied to another device:
- On your old device, open WhatsApp > Settings > Account > Deactivate.
- This will erase your account from that device and allow you to activate on a new one.
Your Phone Number Is Banned by WhatsApp
In extreme cases, your phone number itself may be banned by WhatsApp. This can happen if the number was previously used to spam or violate WhatsApp’s Terms of Service.
Unfortunately there’s nothing you can do here except acquire a new phone number that hasn’t been banned.
You Need to Re-Verify Your Number
If you haven’t used WhatsApp in over 6 months, the app may prompt you to re-verify your number as an added security measure. Just follow the on-screen prompts to receive a new SMS code and enter it to verify your number again.
Your Phone’s Software is Out of Date
Using an outdated version of your phone’s operating system can cause issues with apps like WhatsApp. Make sure your phone is updated to the latest OS version for the best compatibility.
On iPhone, go to Settings > General > Software Update. On Android, go to Settings > System > Advanced > System Update.
Your Phone’s Time Zone is Incorrect
As mentioned previously, WhatsApp relies on your phone’s clock for timing security features and verification code expiration. If your phone’s time zone is set incorrectly, it can cause issues.
To update your time zone, go to your phone’s Date & Time settings. Toggle “Automatic time zone” to ON and make sure the correct time zone is selected.
You Have a Weak Internet Connection
While you may have a working internet connection, if the signal is weak or inconsistent, it can interfere with WhatsApp functioning properly. Try moving closer to your WiFi router or network cell tower for a stronger, more reliable signal.
You can also try disabling mobile data and only using WiFi – this will provide a more robust internet connection.
Your Phone’s Storage is Full
A phone that’s out of storage space can cause all sorts of issues with apps and connectivity. Make sure you have ample free space on your device.
On iPhone: Settings > General > iPhone Storage. On Android: Settings > Storage.
Delete unused apps, photos and files to free up internal storage space.
You Need to Reset Network Settings
As a last resort, you can try resetting your phone’s network settings entirely. This will clear out any corrupted data that could be interfering with WhatsApp.
Note: This will reset ALL network settings, not just WhatsApp. You’ll have to re-connect to WiFi networks etc.
On iPhone: Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings. On Android: Settings > System > Advanced > Reset Options > Reset WiFi, Mobile Data & Bluetooth.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting WhatsApp connectivity issues abroad can be frustrating, but is usually caused by an incorrect configuration, out of date software, or weak signal strength. Following the tips above should help identify and correct the problem so you can get back to messaging abroad!
| Reason | Solution |
|---|---|
| No internet connection | Connect to WiFi or mobile data |
| Phone number format changed | Change number in WhatsApp settings |
| Exceeded verification limit | Wait 8 hours and try again |
| Incorrect phone clock | Update automatic date & time settings |
| SIM card not installed properly | Remove and reinsert SIM card |
| Account banned or blocked | Appeal to WhatsApp support |
| Number previously deactivated | Use a new number |
| Registered on another device | Deactivate account on old device |
| Phone number banned | Get a new number |
| Need to re-verify | Enter new verification code |
| Outdated phone software | Update to latest OS version |
| Incorrect time zone | Update time zone settings |
| Weak internet signal | Move closer to router/tower |
| Phone storage full | Delete unused apps & files |
| Network issues | Reset network settings |
Related Troubleshooting Tips
Force Close and Re-Open the App
A simple reboot of the app can sometimes clear up minor issues. Close WhatsApp completely, restart your phone, then open WhatsApp again.
Update WhatsApp
Make sure you’re running the latest version of WhatsApp. Outdated versions may have unfixed bugs or compatibility issues.
Clear Local Data/Cache
This will clear temporary files stored by the app and refresh everything. You may need to re-register your number afterwards.
Try WhatsApp Web
If the mobile app isn’t working, try using WhatsApp through the web browser interface to narrow down the issue.
Contact Your Network Provider
For recurring signal or connectivity issues, contact your mobile network provider for assistance.
Factory Reset Your Phone
For software-related issues, a factory reset can purge any corrupted files/settings although you’ll lose data.
Preventing WhatsApp Issues Abroad
Here are some tips to avoid WhatsApp trouble when traveling internationally:
- Update to the latest version of WhatsApp before your trip
- Make sure your phone’s operating system is updated
- Back up your WhatsApp messages to Google Drive or iCloud
- Ensure your phone plan includes international roaming
- Get a local SIM card to avoid roaming fees
- Enable WhatsApp security features like two-step verification
- Turn on automatic time zone and date/time settings
- Know how to change your registered number or re-verify if needed
- Bring wireless chargers and battery packs to manage device power
With the right preparation and settings, you can avoid most of the common WhatsApp issues that tend to arise when users travel abroad. Enjoy your trip and stay connected with friends & family back home!