Setting up an eSIM is quick and completely digital — no plastic card, no waiting. Once you have your QR code, you can install your data plan in just a few minutes. Follow the steps below for your iPhone or Android device, then activate it the moment you land.
Before you start
Make sure you have these four things ready for a smooth, one-time setup.
An eSIM-compatible device
Your phone, tablet or watch must support eSIM. Not sure? Check our compatible devices list.
Check compatibilityA carrier-unlocked phone
The device must not be locked to a single network. On iPhone, Settings › General › About should show "No SIM restrictions".
A stable Wi-Fi connection
You need internet to download the eSIM profile. Install over Wi-Fi before you travel — it only takes a couple of minutes.
Your eSIM QR code
After purchase you receive a QR code and activation details by email and in your account dashboard.
Three ways to install your eSIM
Pick whichever is easiest for you — scanning a QR code is the quickest.
Scan a QR code
The fastest and most common method — point your camera at the QR code from your order email and follow the prompts.
Enter details manually
Can't scan? Type in the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your confirmation email instead.
Direct / in-app install
On supported phones you can tap an install link, or add the eSIM straight from our app in a single step.
Step-by-step installation guide
Choose your device to see the exact steps.
- Connect your iPhone to a stable Wi-Fi network.
- Open Settings › Cellular (or Mobile Data).
- Tap Add eSIM (on older iOS this is "Add Cellular Plan").
- Tap Use QR Code and scan the code from your order email. No camera handy? Tap Enter Details Manually and paste the SM-DP+ address and activation code.
- Tap Continue, then label the plan something clear like "Travel eSIM".
- Choose your default line and which line to use for data — keep your home number for calls/texts and use the eSIM for data.
- Connect your phone to a stable Wi-Fi network.
- Go to Settings › Connections › SIM Manager.
- Tap Add eSIM.
- Tap Scan QR code from service provider and scan your QR code (or choose to enter the activation code manually).
- Tap Add, then Confirm to download the profile.
- Turn on the eSIM and select it as your line for Mobile data.
- Connect your phone to a stable Wi-Fi network.
- Go to Settings › Network & internet › SIMs.
- Tap + Add SIM, then choose "Download a SIM instead?".
- Tap Next and scan the QR code from your order email.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to download and activate the eSIM.
- Enable the eSIM and set it as your mobile data line.
Activate your eSIM when you arrive
Once you reach your destination, get online in a few taps:
- Enable your eSIM line: open Settings › Cellular (iPhone) or SIM Manager (Android) and switch the eSIM on.
- Turn ON Data Roaming for the eSIM line — this is required for travel eSIMs and adds no extra charge to your plan.
- Set the eSIM as your Mobile Data line so it handles your internet.
- Turn OFF mobile data and data roaming on your primary (home) line to avoid carrier roaming fees.
- No connection? Check the APN provided with your plan is set correctly, then toggle Airplane mode on and off to refresh.
Troubleshooting common issues
Hit a snag? Here are quick fixes for the most common eSIM setup problems.
Make sure the whole code is visible, in focus and well-lit. If it still won't scan, use the manual option and enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your confirmation email.
Confirm you're connected to Wi-Fi, restart your phone, and make sure the eSIM hasn't already been installed. Each QR code can usually only be used once.
Turn on Data Roaming for the eSIM line, set it as your mobile data line, and check the correct APN is configured. Toggling Airplane mode on and off often refreshes the connection.
Switch off mobile data and data roaming on your primary line so only the travel eSIM uses data while you're abroad.
Each eSIM QR code is single-use and tied to one device. If you deleted the profile you'll usually need a new one — contact our support team for help.
eSIM installation — frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about setting up and activating your eSIM.
You can install it as soon as you receive the QR code. We recommend installing before you travel — while you still have Wi-Fi — but only turning it on and enabling data roaming once you arrive at your destination.
Yes. You need Wi-Fi (or an existing data connection) to download and install the eSIM profile. Once it is installed, it connects to the local mobile network on its own — no Wi-Fi required.
No. Your physical SIM and phone number stay active. The eSIM is added as a separate line, which you typically use just for mobile data while travelling.
Yes. For a travel eSIM you must enable Data Roaming on the eSIM line so it can connect to local partner networks. This does not add any charges to your eSIM plan — just remember to keep roaming off on your home line.
No. Most eSIM QR codes are single-use and tied to a single device. To use an eSIM on another phone you would need to reinstall or repurchase it.
Check that the eSIM line is enabled, data roaming is turned on for that line, it is set as your mobile data line, and the APN is correct. Restarting your phone or toggling Airplane mode usually fixes it. If you're still stuck, contact our support team.
Ready to get connected?
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