How to install an eSIM on iPhone
Updated 30 October 2026
Every iPhone from the XR and XS onwards can hold an eSIM next to your usual SIM. Install it at home on Wi-Fi, then switch it on when you land. Here's the whole process, including the settings iPhone asks about.
Before you start
- Your iPhone is an XR, XS or newer, and not locked to a carrier (Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock should say “No SIM restrictions”).
- You're on Wi-Fi. Installing downloads the eSIM profile; it doesn't use the plan's data.
- You have the order email or your order page open. On iOS 17.4 or later you can install with one tap; otherwise you'll scan the QR code from another screen.
Option 1: one-tap install (iOS 17.4 and later)
- On the iPhone you want to use, open the order email or your order page and tap Install eSIM.
- iPhone opens the eSIM setup. Tap Continue and wait a few seconds while the eSIM downloads.
- Give the new line a label, for example “Travel”.
- When iPhone asks which line to use: keep your usual line as the default line and for iMessage and FaceTime, and for now keep Cellular Data on your usual line too. You'll switch data when you land.
- Turn off Allow Cellular Data Switching, so your home SIM isn't used for data abroad.
Option 2: scan the QR code
- Open the QR code on another screen (a laptop, or a printout).
- On your iPhone go to Settings → Mobile Service (or Cellular) → Add eSIM → Use QR Code.
- Scan the code and follow the same steps as above for the label and line choices.
Can't scan? On the scan screen tap Enter Details Manually and type the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your order page.
When you land
- Settings → Mobile Service (Cellular) → tap your travel line → switch on Turn On This Line and Data Roaming.
- Settings → Mobile Service (Cellular) → Mobile Data (Cellular Data) → choose the travel line.
- Switch Wi-Fi off and open a website to check. In a minute or two you should see the local network name at the top of Control Center.
Data roaming is safe here: it's switched on only for the travel eSIM, which is prepaid. Leave data roaming off on your usual line.
If it doesn't connect
- Turn Airplane Mode on for 10 seconds, then off.
- Check Data Roaming is on for the travel line and that Mobile Data is set to it.
- Go to the travel line → Network Selection, turn off Automatic and pick a network from the list.
- Restart the iPhone. Still nothing? Write to us with your order email; we reply fast.
Questions
Can I install the eSIM before my trip?
Yes, and it's the best time: install at home on Wi-Fi. The plan only starts when your phone first connects to a network at your destination.
Will I keep my number and WhatsApp?
Yes. Your usual SIM stays on for calls and texts, and WhatsApp and iMessage keep using your number.
Can I delete the eSIM after the trip?
Better not. Each eSIM can be installed only once. Keep it, turn the line off, and next time just add a new plan to it.
What if I get a new iPhone?
Use Apple's eSIM transfer when you set up the new phone, or write to us and we'll help.