How to install a travel eSIM on an iPhone

Setting up a travel eSIM on an iPhone takes about two minutes. The only part that has to happen before you fly is the install itself, because it needs an internet connection.

Before you start

• Check the phone is unlocked. A carrier-locked iPhone will refuse the profile. Go to Settings → General → About and look for Carrier Lock: No SIM restrictions.
• Check the model. Every iPhone from the XR and XS onwards supports eSIM. The device list has the full set.
• Connect to Wi-Fi. The profile downloads over the internet, and you will not have mobile data abroad until it is installed.

Install the profile

1. Open the email with your order and keep the QR code on another screen, or print it.
2. On the iPhone, open Settings → Mobile Service (called Cellular in some regions).
3. Tap Add eSIM, then Use QR Code.
4. Point the camera at the code. If you cannot scan it, choose Enter Details Manually and paste the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your order page.
5. When asked, give the new line a label such as Travel. Keep your main line as the default for calls and messages.

The travel line now sits next to your normal one. It will not start counting days until it first connects to a network at your destination.

When you land

1. Open Settings → Mobile Service, tap the Travel line and turn on Data Roaming.
2. Go back and set Mobile Data to the Travel line.
3. Leave Allow Mobile Data Switching off, so the phone does not quietly fall back to your home carrier and its roaming charges.

Your home number keeps receiving calls and texts as usual. If you want to avoid roaming charges on it entirely, turn off Data Roaming on the home line.

If something goes wrong

• "Unable to add eSIM" almost always means the phone is carrier-locked.
• Installed but no signal usually means Data Roaming is still off for the travel line.
• Deleted the profile by accident? Most carriers treat a QR code as single-use. Contact support with your order number before buying again.