How to Activate eSIM: Complete Step-by-Step Guide for All Devices

January 8, 2026 6 min read Setup Guide

Just bought an eSIM and not sure how to activate it? Don't worry—it's easier than you think! This complete guide will walk you through activating your eSIM on any device in just 5 minutes.

Whether you have an iPhone, Android, or iPad, we've got you covered with step-by-step instructions, screenshots, and troubleshooting tips.

What You'll Need Before You Start

✅ Pre-Activation Checklist:

  • An eSIM-compatible device (check compatibility)
  • Your eSIM QR code (received via email after purchase)
  • Stable WiFi or internet connection
  • Unlocked device (not locked to a specific carrier)
  • 5 minutes of free time

⚠️ Important Note:

Do NOT activate your eSIM until you're ready to use it. Most eSIM plans start counting validity from the moment of activation. Wait until you arrive at your destination or need the data plan to begin.

Choose Your Device

iPhone
Android
iPad

How to Activate eSIM on iPhone (iOS 18)

iPhone makes eSIM activation incredibly simple. Here's the fastest method:

Step 1: Open Settings

Tap the Settings app on your iPhone home screen.

Step 2: Go to Cellular

Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data in some regions).

Step 3: Add eSIM

Tap "Add eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan".

Step 4: Scan QR Code

Select "Use QR Code" and point your camera at the QR code you received via email. Make sure the entire QR code is visible on your screen.

Step 5: Confirm Installation

Tap "Add Cellular Plan" when prompted. Wait 10-30 seconds for installation to complete.

Step 6: Label Your eSIM

Give your eSIM a name like "Travel" or "Europe eSIM" to easily identify it later.

Step 7: Turn On Data Roaming

Go to Settings > Cellular > [Your eSIM Name] > Data Roaming and toggle it ON. This allows your eSIM to connect to networks abroad.

✅ Success!

Your eSIM is now installed! You'll see signal bars appear when you arrive in your destination country.

Need detailed screenshots? Check our complete iPhone installation guide with visual walkthrough.

How to Activate eSIM on Android

Android activation varies slightly by manufacturer, but the process is similar:

Step 1: Open Settings

Open the Settings app on your Android device.

Step 2: Find Network Settings

Look for one of these options (varies by brand):

  • Samsung: Connections > SIM Manager
  • Google Pixel: Network & Internet > SIMs
  • Other Brands: Network > Mobile Network > SIM

Step 3: Add eSIM

Tap "Add eSIM", "Add Mobile Plan", or the + icon.

Step 4: Scan QR Code

Select "Scan QR Code" or "Download a SIM instead?" Point your camera at the QR code.

Step 5: Download eSIM Profile

Tap "Download" or "Activate". Wait for the profile to install (10-60 seconds).

Step 6: Enable eSIM

Toggle your new eSIM ON and enable Mobile Data and Data Roaming.

✅ All Set!

Your eSIM is active. You should see network coverage when you arrive at your destination.

Brand-specific guides: Visit our Android installation page for Samsung, Google Pixel, and other manufacturers.

How to Activate eSIM on iPad

iPad activation is nearly identical to iPhone:

  1. Open Settings > Cellular Data
  2. Tap "Add a New Plan"
  3. Select "Use QR Code"
  4. Scan your eSIM QR code
  5. Tap "Add Cellular Plan"
  6. Enable Data Roaming in settings

Detailed walkthrough: See our iPad eSIM installation guide.

Alternative: Manual eSIM Installation (No QR Code)

If you can't scan the QR code (lost, damaged screen, etc.), you can enter the details manually:

  1. Open your eSIM email and find the activation code (SM-DP+ address)
  2. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM
  3. Select "Enter Details Manually"
  4. Copy and paste:
    • SM-DP+ Address: (provided in email)
    • Activation Code: (provided in email)
  5. Tap "Next" and wait for installation

Troubleshooting Common Issues

❌ "Unable to Add Cellular Plan" Error

Solutions:

  • Check your WiFi connection—must be stable
  • Restart your device and try again
  • Ensure the QR code is not already used (single-use only)
  • Contact your eSIM provider for a new QR code

❌ No Signal or "No Service"

Solutions:

  • Turn on Data Roaming (Settings > Cellular > eSIM > Data Roaming ON)
  • Select your eSIM as the active line for Mobile Data
  • Toggle Airplane Mode ON, wait 10 seconds, then OFF
  • Manually select a network (Settings > Cellular > Network Selection)

❌ QR Code Won't Scan

Solutions:

  • Clean your camera lens
  • Display the QR code on another device (laptop, tablet) and scan from there
  • Increase screen brightness to maximum
  • Use manual installation method (see above)

❌ eSIM Activated But No Internet

Solutions:

  • Check your eSIM plan hasn't expired
  • Ensure you have remaining data balance
  • Verify you're in a covered country
  • Reset network settings (backup data first!)

Tips for Using Multiple SIMs (Dual SIM)

Most modern phones support physical SIM + eSIM simultaneously. Here's how to use both:

  • Primary Number: Keep your physical SIM for calls and texts from home
  • Travel Data: Use eSIM for mobile data when abroad
  • Select Default Line: Go to Settings > Cellular > Default Line for calls
  • Choose Data Line: Set your eSIM as "Cellular Data" to use it for internet

💡 Pro Tip:

Turn off Data Roaming on your primary SIM to avoid accidental charges. Only enable it for your travel eSIM.

How to Check Your eSIM Data Usage

On iPhone:

  1. Settings > Cellular
  2. Scroll down to see data usage by app
  3. Tap your eSIM name to see detailed statistics

On Android:

  1. Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs
  2. Tap your eSIM
  3. View "App data usage" or "Data usage"

How to Remove or Delete an eSIM

When you're done traveling, you can remove the eSIM to clean up your device:

On iPhone:

  1. Settings > Cellular
  2. Tap your eSIM name
  3. Tap "Remove Cellular Plan"
  4. Confirm deletion

On Android:

  1. Settings > Network > SIMs
  2. Select your eSIM
  3. Tap "Delete SIM" or "Erase SIM"

⚠️ Warning:

Once deleted, you cannot reactivate the same eSIM. You'll need to purchase a new plan if you remove it.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I activate my eSIM?

Activate your eSIM just before or immediately after arriving at your destination. Most plans start counting down from the moment you scan the QR code.

Can I install an eSIM without WiFi?

No, you need an internet connection (WiFi or mobile data) to download the eSIM profile. Install it before leaving home or at your hotel upon arrival.

How many eSIMs can I have on one phone?

Most devices can store 5-20 eSIM profiles but only use 1-2 at a time. Check your device specifications for exact limits.

Do I need to turn off my physical SIM?

No, both can work simultaneously. Just make sure to select your eSIM for mobile data usage in settings.

Why is my eSIM showing "SIM Not Provisioned"?

This usually means the eSIM profile didn't install correctly. Try removing it and scanning the QR code again. If the issue persists, contact your eSIM provider for a new QR code.

Next Steps After Activation

  • ✅ Test Your Connection: Open a web browser to verify internet works
  • ✅ Download Offline Maps: Save Google Maps for offline use to save data
  • ✅ Disable Auto-Updates: Turn off app updates on mobile data
  • ✅ Monitor Data Usage: Keep an eye on consumption to avoid running out
  • ✅ Save QR Code: Keep the email with your QR code for troubleshooting

Conclusion

Activating an eSIM is quick and easy once you know the steps. Whether you're using an iPhone, Android, or iPad, the process takes less than 5 minutes.

Key takeaways:

  • ✅ Install eSIM before you travel using WiFi
  • ✅ Only activate when you're ready to use it
  • ✅ Turn on Data Roaming for your eSIM
  • ✅ Keep both physical SIM and eSIM active (dual SIM)
  • ✅ Monitor data usage regularly

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Happy travels! 🌍✈️