How to Install an eSIM on iPhone and Android: Step-by-Step Guide
Contents (8)
Installing an eSIM is much simpler than it sounds, but the order of the steps matters. Here's how to do it right, so you arrive at your destination ready to get online.
On iPhone (iOS)
Before you start
- A device that supports eSIM. Not sure? Check your model with our device checker and get an answer in a second.
- An unlocked device. If your iPhone is locked to a specific carrier, it won't be able to add another eSIM. You can check this with the manufacturer or the carrier you bought the phone from.
- A stable internet connection. Wi-Fi is recommended for downloading the eSIM profile, but a decent 4G connection also works.
Method 1: Scan the QR code (fastest)
- Go to Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data).
- Tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan.
- Choose Use QR Code and scan the code we sent you by email.
- Confirm, and wait for the profile to finish installing. This usually takes a few seconds.
Your iPhone may ask which line to use for iMessage and FaceTime. It doesn't have to be the new eSIM: you can keep your regular line for those.
Important: each QR code can be used only once. If you've already scanned it (even if the installation failed), contact us for a new code rather than trying to scan it again.
Method 2: Enter the details manually (no camera available, or installing from another screen)
- On the same Add eSIM screen, choose Enter Details Manually.
- Enter the SM-DP+ address and the activation code shown under the QR code in your email.
- Confirm, and the iPhone downloads the profile exactly as it would from a scan.
3 settings to check after installing
- Line label: give the new line a clear name (for example "Travel eSIM") so you don't mix it up with your physical SIM.
- Default line for cellular data: make sure the new eSIM, not your physical SIM, is set as the default for data. This is the most common reason someone's eSIM is "installed but not connected".
- Data Roaming: open the new eSIM line and make sure Data Roaming is turned on. Otherwise you won't have data even though the profile installed successfully.
If you get an error during activation
In most cases this is a momentary connection hiccup, not a problem with the profile itself. Try these steps in order:
- Make sure you're connected to stable Wi-Fi and try again.
- Restart your phone and try once more.
- Still not working? Get in touch and we'll send you a new code at no extra cost.
On Android
- Go to Settings → Network & internet → SIMs (the exact location varies slightly between manufacturers; on Samsung it's Settings → Connections → SIM manager).
- Choose Add SIM, Download a SIM or Add eSIM.
- Scan the QR code and confirm the installation.
- Check your mobile data settings: make sure the new eSIM is active for data, and that Data Roaming is turned on for it.
An important tip before your flight
Install the eSIM before you land, ideally before you even leave for the airport, but only switch it on when you arrive at your destination. That saves precious time, and your phone connects to the local network within seconds of finding it.
Ready to get started? See our eSIM plans for Greece and Thailand, or find another destination and pick the plan that suits you.