eSIM Installation
Follow this guide to install your eSIM with a QR code, manual setup details, and the key phone settings to check before departure.
- Works for iPhone and Android eSIM devices
- QR code, manual entry, and in-app setup
- Keeps your main SIM available when supported
Before you start
A quick check now helps you avoid the most common installation problems later.
- Phone support Confirm that your iPhone, Samsung, Pixel, or other device supports eSIM.
- Carrier lock Make sure the phone is unlocked. Locked devices often cannot add a travel eSIM.
- Order email Prepare the QR code email, manual setup details, or app instructions from your order.
- Network Use a stable Wi-Fi connection during installation so the eSIM profile can download correctly.
Common installation methods
Most travelers complete setup with one of the three options below.
Install with a QR code
Open the phone eSIM menu, choose Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan, then scan the QR code from your order email.
This is the fastest and most common method for travel eSIM orders.Install with manual details
If scanning fails, enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code manually in the phone settings.
Use manual setup when a second screen is not available or the QR image is unclear.Install inside the provider app
Some providers allow direct installation from their mobile app after login and payment confirmation.
Use the in-app flow only if your order specifically mentions app-based installation.Step-by-step installation flow
Open the eSIM settings on your phone
On iPhone go to Cellular or Mobile Data. On Android open SIM Manager, Network, or eSIM settings depending on the brand.
Choose Add eSIM or Add Mobile Plan
Start the new plan flow and select QR code, manual entry, or app-based installation if that option is shown.
Download and label the line
After the profile downloads, give the line a clear label such as Travel eSIM so it is easy to recognize later.
Set data, roaming, and preferred line options
Choose whether the eSIM will be used for mobile data, and enable data roaming if the product instructions require it.
Turn it on when you reach the destination
Some plans activate immediately after installation, but many work best when switched on only after arrival.
After the eSIM is added
After the eSIM is added, these are the settings most often missed before the trip starts.
- Line name Rename the eSIM so customers can tell it apart from their main SIM.
- Mobile data Select the travel eSIM as the data line only when you are ready to use the package.
- Data roaming Many travel eSIM plans require data roaming to be enabled on the eSIM line to connect correctly.
- Primary number Keep the main SIM active for calls or verification codes if the phone supports dual SIM use.
If setup fails, check the common causes first
Most installation issues come from unsupported devices, carrier locks, missing roaming settings, or enabling the line at the wrong time.
Troubleshooting the most common issues
QR code will not scan
Increase screen brightness, remove app overlays, and try the manual setup details if the QR image is not recognized.
The phone says the device is locked
That usually means the handset is carrier-locked. The customer needs an unlocked phone before the eSIM can be added.
The eSIM installs but there is no signal
Check whether the traveler has arrived in the supported destination, selected the eSIM for data, and enabled roaming if required.
Manual setup details do not work
Copy the SM-DP+ address and activation code exactly as provided, and contact support if one character may be missing.
Installation FAQ
Should customers install the eSIM before the trip?
Yes. Installation is usually easiest before departure while stable Wi-Fi is available. Activation can still happen later depending on the plan rules.
Can they keep their original SIM active?
Usually yes. Dual SIM devices can often keep the primary SIM for calls and OTP while the eSIM handles mobile data.
Do they need to delete an old eSIM first?
Only if the phone has reached its maximum number of stored eSIM profiles or if the previous line is no longer needed.
What details should be sent to support if setup fails?
Send the order email, device model, screenshots of the error, and the destination so support can identify the issue faster.
