Buy an eSIM

Install an eSIM on Iphone (complete guide)

You’ve just bought a travel eSIM? Here’s how to install it on your iPhone in a few minutes—no physical card needed. This guide covers setup via QR code, the provider’s app, or Apple’s Quick Transfer when supported. We’ll finish with APN settings, dual-SIM tips, and quick troubleshooting.

Table of contents

Before you start

Before installing a travel eSIM on your iPhone, make sure your device is compatible (iPhone XR and newer) and carrier-unlocked.

  • Compatible models: generally iPhone XR/XS/XS Max and newer models (including 11, 12, 13, 14, 15…). Some US models are eSIM-only.

  • Requirements:

    • Up-to-date iOS (Settings → General → Software Update).
    • A stable Wi-Fi connection for activation.
    • The QR code or activation code (SM-DP+ / Activation code) provided by the vendor.
    • Data roaming that can be enabled for your destination (useful for many travel plans).

Method 1 — Install an eSIM on iPhone with a QR code

  1. On iPhone: Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data) → Add eSIM.
  2. Choose “Use QR Code”.
  3. Scan the vendor’s QR code.
  4. When iOS detects the plan, tap Continue then Add Cellular Plan.
  5. iOS will suggest labeling the line (Travel, USA, Data…).
  6. Select the line as the default for mobile data (usually the travel eSIM).
  7. Finish the setup wizard, then restart if iOS suggests it.

Tip: keep your main SIM for calls/WhatsApp and set the travel eSIM for Cellular Data.

Method 2 — Install an eSIM via the provider’s app

  1. Install the vendor’s app (e.g., Airalo / SimOptions / aloSIM).
  2. Buy your plan and open My eSIMs.
  3. Choose Install / Add eSIM → Install automatically (or Add using Activation code).
  4. Allow the app to add the eSIM.
  5. Select the new line as your mobile data line.

Advantage: no need to print or display a QR code. Ideal if you’re already on the move.

Method 3 — Transfer an eSIM from one iPhone to another (Quick Transfer)

  1. On the new iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add Cellular Plan.
  2. If the old iPhone is nearby, iOS may offer Transfer from iPhone.
  3. Confirm on the old iPhone, then follow the steps until you see “Plan Added”.

Handy if you already have an active eSIM and you’re switching iPhones.

Set up the APN — Fix Internet issues after installation

Some plans require you to configure the APN (Access Point Name).

  1. Settings → Cellular → [your eSIM line] → Cellular Data Network.
  2. In “Cellular Data → APN”, enter the APN provided by the vendor (e.g., internet, mobile, etc.).
  3. Go back and enable data roaming: Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data Options → Data Roaming = On.
  4. Toggle cellular data off/on or restart the iPhone.

Manage Dual SIM — Use a physical SIM and an eSIM together

  • Label your lines: Settings → Cellular → [each line] → Cellular Plan Label.
  • Cellular Data: choose the travel eSIM for Internet.
  • Voice / SMS: keep your main line if you want to keep your usual number.
  • Quick switch: Control Center → Data → choose the line.

Best practices while traveling

  • Activate the eSIM the day before or on departure day using Wi-Fi.
  • Once there, check that “Cellular Data” is using the travel eSIM.
  • If you have no signal: enable Data Roaming and keep 4G/5G Auto (if available), then restart.
  • Keep the vendor’s app installed to check your balance or top up.

Quick troubleshooting

Here are the most effective steps if your eSIM isn’t working properly on iPhone.

  • No signal / no data:

    1. Make sure cellular data is enabled on the right line,
    2. Data Roaming is enabled,
    3. Airplane mode on/off (5 s),
    4. Restart the iPhone,
    5. Check/enter the vendor’s APN.
  • Invalid QR code: check the activation code spelling (SM-DP+ / Code), or use the vendor’s app.
  • iMessage/FaceTime: wait a few minutes after activation, or disable/re-enable iMessage.
  • Still nothing: delete the eSIM (Settings → Cellular → [line] → Delete eSIM) then reinstall, or contact the vendor’s support.

FAQ

Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code, scan the vendor QR, then add the plan. Label the line and select it under Cellular Data if it’s your travel data line.

Enable Data Roaming, make sure the correct line is selected under Cellular Data, restart the iPhone, and enter the vendor APN (Settings → Cellular → [your eSIM] → Cellular Data Network).

Depending on the plan: either when it’s activated on the iPhone or at the first network connection in the destination. Check the plan details before purchase.

Often yes, but some plans block it. If hotspot doesn’t work, it’s likely not included with that plan.

Code copié !