Installing an eSIM on your iPhone is easier than you think! This complete guide walks you through the entire process in just 5 minutes. Whether you're using the latest iPhone 15 or an older iPhone XS, we've got you covered with step-by-step instructions for iOS 17 and iOS 18.
📱 Which iPhones Support eSIM?
Before we begin, make sure your iPhone supports eSIM technology:
✅ Compatible iPhone Models:
- iPhone 15 Series: iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 Series: iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 Series: iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 Series: iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11 Series: iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone XS/XR Series: iPhone XS, XS Max, XR
- iPhone SE: iPhone SE (2020), SE (2022)
✅ Good News! If you have an iPhone XS (2018) or newer, you can use eSIM! That's any iPhone from the last 6+ years.
🛒 Step 1: Purchase Your eSIM Plan
Before you can install an eSIM, you need to purchase a plan. Here's the smart way to do it:
- Visit GoConnect: Choose your destination at GoConnect Shop
- Select Your Plan: Pick the data amount and duration that fits your trip
- Use GOCONNECT30: Apply code GOCONNECT30 at checkout for 30% OFF
- Complete Purchase: Pay securely and check your email
- Receive QR Code: You'll get your eSIM QR code within 5 minutes via email
💡 Save 30% on Your eSIM!
Use code GOCONNECT30 for 30% OFF all BNESIM eSIM plans. Works on all countries and top-ups!
📲 Step 2: Install eSIM on iPhone (iOS 17/18)
Now let's install your eSIM! Follow these detailed steps:
1Open Settings App
Tap the gray Settings icon on your iPhone home screen.
2Go to Cellular/Mobile Data
Scroll down and tap "Cellular" (US) or "Mobile Data" (UK/EU).
3Tap "Add Cellular Plan" or "Add eSIM"
You'll see this option near the top of the Cellular menu. Tap it to begin.
4Scan Your QR Code
Your iPhone's camera will activate. Point it at the QR code in your email. The phone will automatically detect and scan it.
Tip: You can also open the email on your computer and scan from the screen!
5Tap "Add Cellular Plan"
After scanning, a confirmation screen appears. Tap "Add Cellular Plan" to proceed.
6Label Your eSIM
Give your eSIM a name like "Travel", "BNESIM", or the country name (e.g., "Japan"). This helps you identify it later.
7Choose Default Line
Your iPhone will ask which line to use for calls and messages. Keep your primary SIM as default, and use eSIM for data.
8Set eSIM as Default for Cellular Data
When asked "Which line do you want to use for Cellular Data?", select your eSIM line. This ensures you use eSIM data when traveling.
🎉 Installation Complete! Your eSIM is now installed. It will activate automatically when you arrive in your destination country.
⚙️ Step 3: Configure eSIM Settings
To ensure your eSIM works properly when you travel, follow these important configuration steps:
Enable Data Roaming (Critical!):
- Go to Settings → Cellular
- Tap on your eSIM line (the one you labeled)
- Toggle "Data Roaming" to ON (green)
⚠️ Important: You MUST enable Data Roaming for your eSIM to work abroad. Don't worry - you won't get surprise charges with a prepaid eSIM plan!
Turn Off Data Roaming for Primary SIM (Recommended):
- Go to Settings → Cellular
- Tap on your Primary line (home carrier)
- Toggle "Data Roaming" to OFF (gray)
This prevents your home carrier from charging roaming fees while you're using eSIM data.
Set eSIM as Cellular Data Line:
- Go to Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data
- Select your eSIM line
- This ensures all data goes through your eSIM
✈️ Step 4: Activate When You Arrive
Your eSIM will activate automatically when you land in your destination:
- Land at Your Destination: Turn off Airplane Mode
- Wait 30-60 Seconds: Your iPhone will search for networks
- Connection Established: You'll see the carrier name appear
- Check Signal: Look for bars in the top corner
- Test Connection: Open Safari or any app to confirm data works
🌍 You're Connected! Your eSIM is now active and you can use data in your destination country.
🔧 Troubleshooting Common Issues
Issue: "No Service" or No Network Connection
Solutions:
- Make sure Data Roaming is ON for your eSIM line
- Toggle Airplane Mode OFF and back ON
- Restart your iPhone
- Manually select a network: Settings → Cellular → Network Selection → Turn off Automatic
Issue: QR Code Won't Scan
Solutions:
- Make sure you have good lighting
- Hold your phone steady, 6-8 inches from the code
- Display QR code on computer screen (easier to scan)
- Clean your iPhone camera lens
- Try manual entry (see "Details" option when scanning)
Issue: Data Not Working Despite Connection
Solutions:
- Verify Cellular Data is set to eSIM line
- Check you have data remaining in your plan
- Reset Network Settings: Settings → General → Reset → Reset Network Settings
- Contact BNESIM support: support@bnesim.com or WhatsApp +1 833 529 1671
📱 Ready to Get Your eSIM?
Purchase your BNESIM eSIM now and save 30% with code GOCONNECT30
💡 Pro Tips for Using eSIM on iPhone
- Install Before You Travel: Set up your eSIM at home where you have WiFi - it won't activate until you arrive
- Keep Physical SIM In: You can use both SIMs simultaneously (dual SIM)
- Label Clearly: Use descriptive names like "Japan eSIM" or "Europe Travel" to avoid confusion
- Monitor Data Usage: Check Settings → Cellular to see how much data you've used
- Save QR Code: Keep the email with your QR code - you'll need it if you reset your phone
- Top Up with GOCONNECT30: Running low? Top up and use the same 30% discount code!
🔄 Managing Multiple eSIMs
You can store multiple eSIMs on your iPhone (up to 8-10 depending on model), but only use 2 at once (1 physical SIM + 1 eSIM, or 2 eSIMs on iPhone 13+).
How to Switch Between eSIMs:
- Go to Settings → Cellular
- Under "SIMs", tap the eSIM you want to activate
- Toggle "Turn On This Line"
- Set it as your Cellular Data line if needed
This is perfect for frequent travelers - keep Japan, Europe, and USA eSIMs installed and just activate whichever you need!
🗑️ How to Delete/Remove an eSIM
When you're done with an eSIM or want to clean up:
- Go to Settings → Cellular
- Tap the eSIM you want to remove
- Scroll down and tap "Remove Cellular Plan"
- Confirm by tapping "Remove"
⚠️ Warning: Once you remove an eSIM, you'll need the QR code to reinstall it. Make sure you're done using the plan or have the QR code saved!
📊 Comparing eSIM vs Physical SIM on iPhone
| Feature | eSIM | Physical SIM |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Time | 5 minutes (scan QR) | 15+ minutes (find store, purchase, insert) |
| Activation | Before travel (at home) | After arrival (at airport/store) |
| Can Lose/Damage | No (digital) | Yes (physical card) |
| Dual SIM | Yes (keep home SIM in) | No (must remove home SIM) |
| Cost | 30% OFF with GOCONNECT30 | Full price at airport |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need WiFi to install eSIM?
Yes, you need internet connection (WiFi or cellular data) to download the eSIM profile initially. That's why we recommend installing it at home before your trip.
Can I use eSIM and physical SIM at the same time?
Absolutely! This is called Dual SIM. You can keep your home SIM for calls/texts and use eSIM for data. Perfect for staying reachable while traveling.
What happens if I reset my iPhone?
Your eSIM will be erased. You'll need to reinstall it using the original QR code from your email. That's why we recommend saving the email!
Can I transfer my eSIM to a new iPhone?
For prepaid travel eSIMs like BNESIM, you typically cannot transfer. You'll need to purchase a new plan for the new phone. However, you can use GOCONNECT30 for 30% OFF!
How many eSIMs can I store on my iPhone?
You can store 8-10 eSIMs (depends on iPhone model), but only activate 1 or 2 at a time. Great for keeping multiple destination eSIMs ready!
🌍 Popular Destinations & eSIM Plans
Now that you know how to install eSIM, check out our most popular plans:
- Japan eSIM: From $3.50 (with GOCONNECT30) - Perfect for Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto
- Europe eSIM: One plan for 40+ countries - From €4.55
- USA eSIM: Nationwide coverage - From $4.50
- Thailand eSIM: Bangkok, islands, beaches - From $2.50
- UK eSIM: England, Scotland, Wales - From £4.50
All plans work with the installation steps in this guide + get 30% OFF with GOCONNECT30!
📱 Ready to Install Your eSIM?
Get your BNESIM eSIM now and save 30% with code GOCONNECT30
Instant delivery • Easy 5-min setup • Works worldwide • 24/7 support