In our increasingly connected world, eSIM technology has revolutionized the way we stay online while traveling. With the ability to switch carriers without swapping physical SIM cards, eSIMs offer unparalleled convenience. However, there are still places where this technology faces significant hurdles. eSIM blocked countries

Let’s delve into the challenges and possibilities of using eSIMs in North Korea, Cuba, Palestine, Myanmar, and Iran.

North Korea: The Ultimate Blackout

North Korea remains one of the most isolated countries globally, with stringent controls over information and communication. The country’s sole mobile operator, Koryolink, offers limited services primarily to foreigners, and even then, access is heavily restricted. Foreigners can purchase Koryolink SIM cards for international calls, but internet access is generally unavailable.

eSIM technology is virtually nonexistent in North Korea. The country’s infrastructure and policies do not support such advancements, and no known eSIM providers are operating within its borders. Even if one could activate an eSIM before entering, the lack of roaming agreements and the government’s strict control over telecommunications would render it useless.

In essence, if you’re traveling to North Korea, don’t count on staying connected via eSIM or any other mobile service.

Palestine: Infrastructure in Crisis

In Palestine, connectivity varies dramatically between the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, but overall, the telecom landscape remains heavily constrained. Services are primarily provided by Jawwal and Ooredoo, but both rely on infrastructure controlled by Israel. For years, Palestinians were denied access to 3G and 4G technology—only recently gaining limited 4G coverage in the West Bank, while Gaza still lags behind.

eSIM services are largely unavailable for Palestinians. Most international eSIM providers do not list Palestine as a supported region, and roaming is highly restricted due to political and technical limitations. Yet many eSIM providers are offering Palestine eSIMs, some of them are: Airalo, KiteMobil, eSIMX, eSIM4Travel, GigSky, Yesim, Bytesim, alosim, Esimatic, Roamless – to name a few.

During recent crises, people around the world tried to help by sending eSIM QR codes to those in Gaza and the West Bank, hoping to restore some connection. But without stable electricity, widespread 4G, or compatible roaming agreements, these well-intentioned efforts were mostly symbolic. eSIM blocked countries 

VPNs are commonly used when Wi-Fi is available, but that’s not enough to overcome the fundamental infrastructure and political barriers Palestinians face.

What about aid workers? Even they face restrictions, with Israeli or Egyptian mobile networks sometimes reaching parts of Gaza, but inconsistently.

VPNs could help when using Wi-Fi (if available), but cellular-based data is extremely unreliable.

Cuba: Slowly Opening Up

Cuba has made strides in improving its telecommunications infrastructure over the past decade. The introduction of 3G and 4G networks has increased internet accessibility, albeit still under government oversight. The state-owned telecom company, ETECSA, controls all mobile services, and while SIM cards are available for tourists, eSIM support remains limited.

Some international eSIM providers list Cuba among their supported countries, but the reliability and legality of these services can be questionable. Moreover, the U.S. embargo imposes restrictions on technology exports, further complicating the availability of eSIM-compatible devices and services.

Some of the eSIM providers with Cuban data are: Yesim, GigSky, ByteSIM, Nomad, Roamic, MobiMatters – to name a few.

Iran: Yes, But Complicated

Iran presents a more nuanced scenario. The country has a relatively advanced mobile network infrastructure, and eSIM services are available through certain providers. However, international sanctions, particularly from the U.S., have led to restrictions on technology imports and services, affecting the availability and functionality of eSIMs.

Additionally, the Iranian government exercises strict control over internet access, with frequent censorship and surveillance. While VPNs are commonly used to bypass restrictions, their legality is ambiguous, and users risk penalties if caught.

For travelers, using an eSIM in Iran is possible but fraught with challenges. It’s essential to research thoroughly and consider the legal implications before attempting to use such services. eSIM blocked countries

These eSIM providers are offering Iran data: Airhub, Travel4SIM, Yesim, Esimatic, GoMoWorld etc.

Myanmar: The Shutdown State

Myanmar (formerly Burma) once had one of the fastest-growing telecom markets in Asia. But after the 2021 military coup, things went south — fast.

The junta has routinely shut down internet services, blocked social media, and demanded backdoor access from telecom operators. Many international tech firms pulled out due to human rights concerns, and local operators are under tight government surveillance.

eSIMs? Almost completely blocked. Most major eSIM providers exclude Myanmar altogether from their country lists. And even if you manage to activate an eSIM before arrival, you’ll be flying blind once inside.

What about VPNs? Like in Iran, VPNs are in use — but illegal. If caught, users can face arrest or worse.

Myanmar takeaway: One of the riskiest places for digital communication. eSIMs and VPNs won’t offer meaningful access unless the political landscape shifts.

SIM local is offering data for Myanmar.

Syria: Sanctioned and Silenced

Syria’s long-running civil war and international sanctions have devastated its telecom infrastructure. While mobile networks still operate — primarily through state-run Syriatel and MTN Syria (recently nationalized) — they offer limited services, and eSIM support is non-existent. International eSIM providers typically block service to Syria due to U.S. and EU sanctions, and many devices purchased abroad won’t activate eSIM profiles tied to Syrian IP addresses.

Even when mobile internet is available, it’s slow, censored, and monitored. Much like in Iran and Myanmar, VPNs are used widely, but at users’ own risk. There’s also frequent downtime and regional blackouts tied to security events. While a few Syrians in urban centers might manage to connect via Wi-Fi and VPN, reliable eSIM usage simply isn’t an option in the country’s current state.

The Role of VPNs: A Double-Edged Sword

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) can be valuable tools for bypassing internet censorship and accessing restricted content. However, in countries like Iran and Cuba, the use of VPNs is often monitored, and unauthorized usage can lead to legal consequences. In North Korea, the concept of using a VPN is virtually inconceivable due to the extreme level of control over internet access.

While VPNs can enhance privacy and access, they are not a panacea, especially in regions with strict digital surveillance.

Conclusion: Navigating the Digital Divide eSIM blocked countries

eSIM technology offers incredible convenience for global travelers, but its efficacy is limited in countries with strict control over telecommunications. In North Korea, eSIMs are unusable; in Cuba, they are unreliable; and in Iran, they are accessible but come with significant caveats.

When planning travel to these regions, it’s crucial to understand the local regulations and limitations regarding mobile connectivity. Staying informed and prepared can help navigate the complex digital landscapes of these countries.

As technology continues to evolve, there’s hope that increased connectivity will lead to greater openness and access to information worldwide.