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How to Install eSIM on iPad

Complete setup guide for iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad mini, and all cellular-enabled iPad models

5 Minutes
Setup Time
3 Steps
Easy Process
iPadOS 12.1+
Required

iPad Cellular Model Required

eSIM technology is only available on cellular-enabled iPad models (Wi-Fi + Cellular). If you have a Wi-Fi-only iPad, it cannot use eSIM or any mobile data connection.

How to check: Look for the SIM card tray on the side of your iPad, or check Settings → General → About → Model Name for "Wi-Fi + Cellular" designation.

Before You Start

Make sure you have everything ready

Compatible iPad

iPad Pro (2018+), iPad Air (2019+), iPad (2019+), or iPad mini (2019+) with cellular capability.

Check Full List →

Unlocked Device

Your iPad must be carrier unlocked. Contact your carrier if you're unsure about unlock status.

Internet Connection

You need Wi-Fi or mobile data to download and activate your eSIM.

QR Code Ready

Have your eSIM QR code from GoConnect email or screenshot ready.

Choose Your Installation Method

Two easy ways to install your eSIM on iPad

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Method 1: Scan QR Code

Recommended & Fastest

Scan the QR code sent to your email. You'll need another device (computer, phone, or print it) to display the QR code.

Jump to Instructions →
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Method 2: Manual Entry

No Second Device Needed

Manually enter the activation code if you don't have another device to display the QR code.

Jump to Instructions →

Method 1: Install via QR Code

Follow these steps to scan and install your eSIM on iPad

1

Open Settings

On your iPad, tap the Settings app (gray gear icon).

Tip: Ensure you're connected to Wi-Fi or have cellular data.

2

Navigate to Cellular Data

Scroll down and tap Cellular Data or Mobile Data.

Then tap Add a New Plan or Set Up Cellular Data.

3

Scan QR Code

Your iPad camera will activate. Position your iPad to scan the QR code displayed on another device or printed copy.

Note: Display the QR code on your computer, phone, or print it to scan.

4

Activate Your eSIM

After scanning, tap Continue to add the cellular plan.

You can label your plan (e.g., "Travel Data" or "GoConnect"). This helps identify it if you have multiple plans.

Wait for the activation to complete (usually takes 1-2 minutes).

5

Enable Data Roaming

Go to SettingsCellular Data → Select your new eSIM plan.

Toggle on Data Roaming for the eSIM.

Success! Your iPad is now connected with GoConnect eSIM.

Method 2: Manual Installation

Enter activation details manually (no QR code needed)

When to Use Manual Entry

Use this method if you don't have another device to display the QR code, or if the camera scan isn't working properly.

1

Open Settings & Go to Cellular Data

Open SettingsCellular DataAdd a New Plan

2

Choose "Enter Details Manually"

At the bottom of the QR scanner screen, tap "Enter Details Manually".

3

Enter Activation Code

Find the activation code in your GoConnect email (starts with "LPA:").

Carefully type or paste the complete code into the SM-DP+ Address field.

4

Complete Setup

Tap Next and wait for the eSIM to download and activate.

Remember to enable Data Roaming as described in Method 1, Step 5.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

"No Cellular Data Available"

Solution:

  • Verify Data Roaming is enabled for your eSIM
  • Check that cellular data is turned on
  • Toggle Airplane Mode on and off
  • Restart your iPad
  • Ensure you're in an area with network coverage

"Cellular Plan Cannot Be Added"

Solution:

  • Confirm your iPad is carrier unlocked
  • Check you have a stable internet connection
  • Update iPadOS to the latest version
  • Make sure you have a cellular-enabled iPad model
  • Contact your carrier to verify unlock status

QR Code Scanner Not Working

Solution:

  • Ensure the QR code is clearly visible and well-lit
  • Clean your iPad camera lens
  • Adjust the distance between iPad and QR code
  • Try displaying the QR code larger on screen
  • Use the Manual Entry method instead

Weak Signal or Slow Speeds

Solution:

  • Check local network coverage in your area
  • Move to a location with better signal
  • Try manually selecting a different carrier
  • Reset network settings (Settings → General → Reset → Reset Network Settings)

Compatible iPad Models

All cellular-enabled iPads that support eSIM

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iPad Pro 12.9-inch

  • 3rd generation (2018) and later
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iPad Pro 11-inch

  • All models (2018 and later)
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iPad Air

  • 3rd generation (2019) and later
  • 4th & 5th generation
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iPad

  • 7th generation (2019) and later
  • 8th, 9th & 10th generation
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iPad mini

  • 5th generation (2019) and later
  • 6th generation

Important: Only Wi-Fi + Cellular models support eSIM. Wi-Fi only models cannot use eSIM.

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