Call Forwarding for Israeli Phone Numbers

Understanding Call Forwarding in the Israeli Network

In 2026, staying reachable while travelling to Israel is more efficient than ever. Whether you are a business professional needing to maintain a local presence or a traveller keeping in touch with local contacts, call forwarding on an Israeli number is a vital tool. Call forwarding allows you to redirect incoming calls from your local Israeli number to another phone number, such as your international home line or a colleague’s device.

When using an eSIM for your trip, you gain the flexibility of a local Israeli number without the need for a physical SIM card. This digital-first approach means you can manage your connectivity directly from your smartphone settings. In Israel, mobile networks like 5G and 4G support standard GSM protocols for call redirection, making the setup process straightforward for most users.

How to Set Up Call Forwarding Using GSM Codes

One of the most reliable ways to manage call forwarding on an Israeli network is through MMI codes (Man-Machine Interface). These codes are typed directly into the phone’s dialer and work across almost all devices, including those using an eSIM. Here are the most common codes you will need:

• Unconditional Forwarding: To forward all incoming calls immediately, dial *21* followed by the destination number and #. Press call.
• Forwarding when Busy: To redirect calls only when you are already on a line, dial *67* followed by the destination number and #.
• Forwarding when No Answer: If you want calls to redirect only after several rings, dial *61* followed by the destination number and #.
• Forwarding when Unreachable: To forward calls when your phone is turned off or out of coverage, dial *62* followed by the destination number and #.

To deactivate all active forwarding settings, you can simply dial ##002# and press call. This is particularly useful when you return from your travels or no longer require the redirection service.

Configuring Forwarding via Smartphone Settings

If you prefer a visual interface over dialing codes, both iOS and Android devices offer built-in menus to manage call settings for your Israeli eSIM. This is especially convenient when using a dual-SIM setup, as it allows you to specify settings for each line independently.

For iPhone Users:

Navigate to Settings > Phone > Call Forwarding. If you have multiple SIMs active, select your Israeli eSIM line. Toggle the switch to 'On' and enter the number where you want your calls to be sent. Ensure your phone has a stable connection to the Israeli 5G or 4G network for these changes to register with the carrier.

For Android Users:

Open the Phone app and tap the three dots (menu) in the top corner. Select Settings > Supplementary Services > Call Forwarding. Choose 'Voice Calls' and select the specific Israeli line. From here, you can choose between unconditional forwarding or conditional options like 'Forward when unreachable'.

The Advantages of Using an Israeli eSIM for Call Management

The transition to eSIM technology has simplified how travellers interact with local mobile networks. By choosing an eSIM with an optional Israeli phone number, you eliminate the logistical hurdles of physical SIM cards. There is no postal delivery involved; the service is delivered instantly via a QR code. This allows you to set up your local number and configure features like call forwarding in approximately two minutes.

Because the eSIM works alongside your home line via dual-SIM technology, you can keep your primary number active for SMS and emergency calls while using the Israeli number for local data and voice. This dual-capacity is essential for effectively managing call forwarding without losing access to your home-based accounts or apps.

Technical Requirements and APN Configuration

For call forwarding and general mobile data to function correctly on Israeli networks, your device must be properly configured. While voice services often work automatically, data-dependent features require the correct Access Point Name (APN). For eSIM Israel services, the APN is "internet". Ensuring this is correctly entered in your cellular data settings ensures that your 5G/4G connection remains stable, which is necessary for the network to process supplementary service requests like call redirection.

Furthermore, because activation is digital, you can ensure your Israeli number is ready to receive and forward calls before you even land. This is a significant advantage for those who need to be reachable the moment they arrive in the country.

Practical Tips for Managing Your Forwarded Calls

When forwarding calls from an Israeli number to an international destination, be aware that the local carrier may treat the redirected portion of the call as an international outgoing call. To minimize costs, many travellers choose to forward their Israeli number to a VoIP service or a local contact within Israel. Additionally, always verify that your device's battery is sufficient when managing settings, as frequent network updates for call forwarding can marginally increase power consumption in areas with fluctuating signal strength.

In 2026, the reliability of Israeli 5G networks ensures that forwarded calls maintain high audio quality with minimal latency. By leveraging the instant delivery and rapid activation of modern eSIMs, you can maintain a professional and accessible presence throughout your journey in Israel.