Guide · Understanding eSIMs

How to install an eSIM in 5 minutes (iPhone & Android)

Last updated April 2026

Installing an eSIM is simpler than most people expect, and it's the same process regardless of which provider you bought from. Do it at home on Wi-Fi, before you fly — not at the airport.

Step 1: Check your phone is compatible

On iPhone: go to Settings → General → About, scroll to "EID" — if a number appears, your phone supports eSIM. Alternatively dial *#06# and look for an EID line.

On Android: go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs (wording varies by brand) — if there's an option to "Add eSIM" or "Download a SIM instead," you're compatible.

Most phones from 2019 onward support eSIM: iPhone XS/XR and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer. Older or budget models sometimes don't — check before you buy.

Step 2: Buy your plan and get the QR code

After buying, the provider emails (or shows in-app) a QR code and/or an activation link. You don't need to be in the destination country to do this — buy it days or weeks ahead.

Step 3: Install it — while you still have Wi-Fi

iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code → scan it. Follow the on-screen steps and label it something clear like "Japan Trip."

Android: Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → Add eSIM (or "Download a SIM instead") → scan the QR code and follow the prompts.

Do this the day before you fly, on home Wi-Fi — airport Wi-Fi can be unreliable exactly when you need it most.

Step 4: Set it up correctly (this is the part people get wrong)

Keep your home SIM active for calls, SMS, and WhatsApp — the eSIM only needs to handle data.
In your phone's SIM settings, set the new eSIM as your "Cellular Data" line, and keep your home SIM as the "Default Voice Line."
Turn Data Roaming OFF on your home SIM to avoid any surprise charges — you want your phone pulling data only from the new eSIM.

Step 5: Activate on arrival

Most eSIM plans start their countdown only once they connect to a network in the destination country — so installing early doesn't waste days. When you land, turn on cellular data for the eSIM line and it should connect automatically.

If it doesn't connect immediately: toggle Airplane Mode on and off, or manually select the network operator in your carrier settings. This solves the vast majority of "my eSIM isn't working" moments.

Our verdict

The whole process takes about 5 minutes and only needs to be done once per trip. Install at home, activate on arrival, and keep your original SIM for calls and messaging.

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