What happened
KBC introduced new KBC Mobile features on 22 June 2026, including an integrated Firsty travel eSIM. A customer can select overseas mobile data, pay for a package and activate it within the banking app.
The integration is part of KBC’s effort to combine banking, payment, travel and everyday digital services in one application.
How eSIM works in KBC Mobile
Before travelling, the user selects one or more destinations and the trip duration, then pays through KBC Mobile. The eSIM is installed on a compatible phone or tablet and enabled for mobile data roaming abroad.
The profile is installed once and can be reused on later trips by buying another destination package.
Where the service works
KBC initially described coverage in more than 180 countries; its current service page states 185. Examples include European countries, the United States, Canada, China, Japan, Thailand, Australia and South Africa.
The app shows the current destination list, available packages and final price.
Which terms are stated
Packages are sold for a selected duration and one or more destinations, with price depending on the trip. KBC says the profile can be reused and hotspot sharing is supported.
The service offers up to 5 GB of high-speed data per day before speed is reduced, while the user can keep the ordinary phone number for messaging and other services.
What users should check
The service requires an eSIM-compatible device and access to KBC Mobile. Check account eligibility, destination coverage, the daily high-speed allowance, hotspot terms and the moment the validity period begins.
The integration is primarily for KBC customers; it does not mean Firsty can be bought through every banking app or without a KBC account.
Why it matters
Travel eSIM is becoming a feature inside products that already handle payments, currency exchange, insurance and travel notifications. Connectivity can now be prepared in the same app used to manage spending abroad.
The partnership gives Firsty access to an established audience and helps KBC extend its travel services beyond conventional banking.
What it means for the travel-eSIM market
The KBC integration reflects several trends: eSIM distribution through apps with existing audiences, reusable profiles and sales closer to the moment a trip is planned.
Banks, airlines and travel services are becoming connectivity channels. The embedded format still does not remove the need to compare coverage, high-speed limits, fair use, validity and total price.