What You Need

Before starting, make sure you have:

  • An unlocked phone that supports eSIM (iPhone XS+, Samsung S20+/Z Flip/Z Fold+, Google Pixel 3+)
  • A QR code or activation code from your eSIM provider
  • WiFi connection for initial setup (you can also use cellular data from your home SIM)

Install eSIM on iPhone (XS and newer)

  1. Open Settings → Cellular (or “Mobile Data”)
  2. Tap Add Cellular Plan
  3. Scan the QR code provided by your eSIM provider
  4. Label your plan (e.g., “Travel Data”)
  5. Set as secondary line — keep your home SIM as primary for voice
  6. Set Default Voice Line to your home SIM
  7. Set Default Data Line to your travel eSIM
  8. Tap Done

Your iPhone is now configured. When you arrive at your destination, the eSIM will activate automatically.

Tip for iPhone users: Enable Data Roaming in the eSIM’s settings once you land. Without it, no data will flow.

Install eSIM on Samsung Galaxy (S20+/Z Fold/Z Flip+)

  1. Open Settings → Connections → SIM card manager
  2. Tap Add eSIM
  3. Scan the QR code from your provider
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions
  5. Name your eSIM (e.g., “Japan Travel”)
  6. In SIM card manager, set your Mobile data to the eSIM
  7. Toggle Data roaming on for the eSIM line

Install eSIM on Google Pixel (3 and newer)

  1. Open Settings → Network & internet → SIMs
  2. Tap Add eSIM → Download a SIM instead?
  3. Scan the QR code when prompted
  4. Follow the on-screen prompts
  5. In SIMs, tap your eSIM and enable Data roaming

Activating Your eSIM at Your Destination

  1. On arrival, turn off airplane mode
  2. Make sure data roaming is ON for your eSIM line
  3. Wait 1–2 minutes for network registration
  4. You should see your provider’s network name in the status bar
  5. Open a browser or app to confirm connectivity

Troubleshooting

Problem Solution
No service after arrival Toggle Airplane Mode ON, wait 10s, turn OFF
“No SIM” error Restart phone. If persists, re-install the eSIM profile
Slow data Check you’re connected to 4G/5G. Some eSIMs prioritize local partner networks
eSIM not showing in settings Make sure your phone is carrier-unlocked and eSIM-compatible
Can’t scan QR code Some providers allow manual entry of the SM-DP+ address and activation code

How to Check Your eSIM Data Balance

Airalo: Open the Airalo app → Dashboard → Your plan → Remaining data Holafly: Open the Holafly app → My eSIMs → Data remaining Saily: Open Saily app → My plans → Usage

eSIM Compatibility by Device

Brand Models
Apple iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, SE (2020+), iPad Pro 3rd gen+, iPad Air 3rd gen+, iPad 7th gen+
Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, S25, Z Flip, Z Fold, Note 20+
Google Pixel 3, 3a, 4, 4a, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Huawei P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro
Other Motorola Razr+, OnePlus 11+, Fairphone 4+

Not sure? Check your phone’s IMEI in Settings → About Phone → IMEI. Most eSIM providers offer a compatibility checker.

What NOT to Do

  • ❌ Don’t delete the eSIM before your trip ends — you can’t recover it
  • ❌ Don’t remove your home SIM — eSIM is your data line, home SIM for calls/SMS
  • ❌ Don’t wait until you land at the airport to buy — buy before departure for best prices