How to install eSIM on iPhone?

Using Android? See the Android guide →

Switching to an eSIM with eTravelSim is a breeze. Follow these steps to install and activate your eSIM on an iPhone.

Step-by-step guide to installing an eSIM on iPhone

EXPLORE PLANS NOW

1. Check compatibility

Before you begin, make sure your iPhone supports eSIM:

iPhone XR, XS and later models.
Update your iPhone to the latest version of iOS.
Not sure? Check device compatibility.

2. Buy your eTravelSim eSIM plan

You will receive a QR code by email instantly. You need it to install your eSIM.

3. Connect to Wi-Fi

Your iPhone needs a Wi-Fi connection to download the eSIM.

4. Open Settings

Open the Settings app on your iPhone.

5. Open Mobile Service and tap Add eSIM

Tap Mobile Service (called Cellular or Mobile Data on some iPhones), then Add eSIM.

6. Scan the QR code

Use your iPhone's camera to scan the QR code from eTravelSim. If prompted, enter the confirmation code from your email.

7. Label your eSIM

Give the new eSIM a label such as "eTravelSim" so you can tell it apart from your other plans.

8. Choose your lines

Choose default lines for iMessage, FaceTime and mobile data, and select eTravelSim for mobile data when you travel.

9. Confirm activation

Check that your eTravelSim eSIM is listed and switched on under Mobile Service.

Troubleshooting tips

Restart your iPhone if the eSIM doesn't activate straight away.
Check your mobile data settings: make sure eTravelSim is selected for mobile data, and turn on Data Roaming for this line if your plan requires it (see your plan details).
Contact support at support@etravelsim.com or by chat on our website.

Benefits of an eTravelSim eSIM

Convenient: no physical SIM card to swap.
Flexible: keep your home SIM and add travel data.
Eco-friendly: no plastic SIM card.

Quick ways to confirm eSIM support

Via Settings (iPhone)

Open Settings → General → About.
Look for Available SIM / Digital SIM or an EID field.
If visible, your iPhone supports eSIM.

All iPhone XR/XS and newer models support eSIM.

Via Settings (Android)

Open Settings → Network & Internet / Connections.
Tap SIMs / SIM Manager / eSIMs.
If you see an option to Add eSIM, your phone supports eSIM.

Menu names vary by brand (Samsung, Google Pixel, etc.).

Dial Code

Dial *#06# on your phone.
Check the numbers shown. If you see an EID, eSIM is supported.

EID = eSIM ID. Presence of EID generally confirms eSIM capability.

Heads‑up: Some carrier‑locked or region‑specific variants may disable eSIM even if the global model supports it. Always confirm in Settings before purchasing.

Brand‑by‑brand quick notes

Apple: iPhone XR/XS and newer support eSIM, including iPhone Air, iPhone 17e, iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Duo. Dual eSIM on many recent models.

Google Pixel: Pixel 3 and newer generally support eSIM (some early/region variants limited).

Samsung Galaxy: S20 and newer, Note20, and Z series support eSIM on most variants. Check SIM Manager.

Others: Recent models from Honor, Huawei, Motorola, OnePlus, Xiaomi may support eSIM depending on region and firmware.

For corporate/MDM or carrier‑locked devices, administrators or carriers may disable eSIM.

FAQs

Will my eSIM work worldwide?

Your eSIM works only in the countries your plan covers. Your phone must be factory-unlocked and eSIM-capable. Coverage and 5G/4G availability vary by location and network.

Dual SIM: can I keep my home number active?

Yes—most modern devices support Dual SIM (eSIM + physical SIM). You can keep calls/SMS on your home SIM and use ETravelSim for data while abroad. Configure default lines in Settings.

I can’t see eSIM options in Settings

Update to the latest OS, restart, and check again. If still missing, your device/region/carrier may have eSIM disabled. Please contact your carrier or device maker.