FNB Connect Launches Global Travel eSIM To Keep Customers Connected In 240 Networks Worldwide

FNB Connect CEO Sashin Sookroo

Johannesburg – 4 September 2025: FNB Connect has unveiled its latest innovation, the Global Travel eSIM, giving South Africans a seamless and affordable way to stay connected in over 240 international mobile networks – without the hassle of swapping SIM cards or worrying about unpredictable roaming fees.

The new solution builds on the success of FNB Connect’s local eSIM, launched in 2024, which saw rapid adoption across its retail customer base. Now, with the Global Travel eSIM, the bank is extending its reach to cater for the growing demand for frictionless connectivity while abroad.

Simple, secure, and seamless connectivity abroad

FNB Connect CEO Sashin Sookroo highlighted how the eSIM is designed with customer convenience at its core:

“FNB Connect’s focus on innovation is driven by a deep understanding of how our customers live, work, and travel. Our Global Travel eSIM is one more way we are removing friction from their everyday experiences. Whether travelling for business or leisure, customers can now access reliable mobile services – with all functionality, including purchase – available directly through the FNB App.”

The Global Travel eSIM enables users to make calls and access data worldwide, with the added benefit of managing everything digitally. Customers can activate data plans upon arrival at their destination and even purchase packages up to 60 days in advance.

Features designed for modern travellers

Beyond affordability and transparency, the Global Travel eSIM offers a host of value-added benefits, including:

• Avoiding roaming shocks: no unexpected bills thanks to clear, upfront pricing.
• Security: staying connected through trusted mobile networks instead of relying on public Wi-Fi abroad.
• Lifetime use: customers can keep their Global Travel eSIM indefinitely.
• Multiple management: ability to set up and manage several eSIMs for family, friends, or colleagues – ideal for group or corporate travel.
• Real-time tracking: monitoring data usage for each eSIM directly in the FNB App.

Sookroo noted that the launch comes at a time when FNB Connect is seeing significant growth in mobile data usage, a sign of customer confidence in its digital-first approach.

“With the Global Travel eSIM, we’re extending that trust globally by offering seamless, secure, and affordable connectivity. This innovation reinforces our commitment to inclusion, integration, and innovation.”

Building on local success

FNB Connect’s 2024 local eSIM laid the foundation for this global expansion. Retail customers now account for 91% of total eSIM adoption, with the majority (61.7%) opting for top-up plans, while 38% use prepaid. Significantly, nearly 70% of customers activated their eSIMs directly through the FNB App without needing assistance, highlighting the simplicity of the solution.

Looking ahead

As global mobility continues to grow, FNB Connect sees its Global Travel eSIM as a gateway to wider collaborations across the travel and mobility ecosystem.

“We anticipate that our customers will find value in the simplicity, transparency, and digital convenience we offer. As we expand the reach of the Global Travel eSIM, we welcome opportunities to partner with like-minded players who share our vision of making global connectivity simpler, safer, and more accessible for all,” Sookroo concluded.

With this launch, FNB Connect positions itself at the forefront of mobile innovation, ensuring that wherever its customers go, staying connected is effortless, affordable, and secure.