How to install an eSIM
Step-by-step instructions, from ordering to connecting.
You can install an eSIM in a few minutes: buy the plan, open the confirmation email and scan the QR code through your smartphone's settings. It is best to set up the eSIM at home on Wi-Fi and only activate the data plan when you arrive in the country you are visiting, so you are online straight away.
Installing an eSIM takes only a few minutes. All you need is an eSIM-compatible smartphone and a Wi-Fi connection. Here we show you exactly how it works.
Before you start
- Check that your smartphone supports eSIM (Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM)
- Make sure your device is not SIM-locked
- Connect to a Wi-Fi network
- Have your order confirmation email with the QR code ready
Install an eSIM on an iPhone
For iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 and newer
- 1
Open Settings
Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM (or Add Cellular Plan on older iOS versions).
- 2
Scan the QR code
Choose 'Use QR Code' and scan the QR code from your order confirmation email.
- 3
Confirm the eSIM plan
Tap 'Continue' and then 'Add Cellular Plan'. The profile is installed in a few seconds.
- 4
Label the plan
Give it a name such as 'Travel eSIM' or 'Holiday' so you can easily find the plan again.
- 5
Switch on data roaming
Go to Settings > Cellular > [your eSIM plan] and switch on 'Data Roaming'. Make sure the eSIM plan is selected as the primary data line.
Install an eSIM on Samsung devices
For Galaxy S20 and newer, Galaxy Z Flip/Fold
- 1
Open Settings
Go to Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM.
- 2
Scan the QR code
Choose 'Scan QR code from service provider' and scan the QR code from your email.
- 3
Add the profile
Confirm the installation. The eSIM profile is downloaded and activated automatically.
- 4
Switch on data roaming
Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks and switch on 'Data roaming' for the eSIM.
Install an eSIM on a Google Pixel
For Pixel 3 and newer
- 1
Open Settings
Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Add eSIM.
- 2
Scan the QR code
Tap 'Use a QR code instead' and scan the QR code.
- 3
Confirm and activate
Follow the on-screen instructions. The profile is downloaded and the eSIM is activated.
- 4
Switch on data roaming
Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > [eSIM] and switch on 'Roaming'.
Setting up an eSIM by device
iPhone (iOS)
iPhone XS to iPhone 16 & 16 Pro
Open Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM and scan the QR code. From iOS 17 you can also move the eSIM over from an old iPhone with “Transfer eSIM”. Then switch on data roaming for the travel eSIM.
Samsung Galaxy (Android)
Galaxy S20 to S24 & S25, Z Flip and Z Fold
Go to Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM and scan the QR code. Set the travel eSIM as your data connection and switch on data roaming.
Google Pixel (Android)
Pixel 3 to Pixel 8 & 9
Open Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add eSIM and scan the QR code. Select the eSIM for mobile data and switch on data roaming.
Tips for the best experience
- Install the eSIM on Wi-Fi before you leave, not at the airport
- Name the eSIM plan after your destination so it is easy to identify
- Switch off data roaming on your main SIM to avoid unexpected costs
- After landing, check that the eSIM has connected automatically
Problems with the installation?
Frequently asked questions
Ready for your travel eSIM?
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