What is eSIM?

An eSIM profile contains carrier and network subscription information, just like a normal SIM card. However, instead of coming in the form of a physical chip, the operator profile information is downloaded directly into the eSIM chip in your phone.

This means your phone has to support eSIM if you want to use it.  

What is an eSIM QR Code?

A QR code is simply a representation of a download link plus activation code for your eSIM profile. It is used to easily connect to the eSIM server and download the eSIM profile to your phone. 

It is easier to scan a QR code than typing a long string of text, but if for some reason you are unable to scan the QR code, you will have the option to activate your eSIM by entering the required information manually.

Please note that QR codes can be used only once. Once a QR code is scanned and an eSIM profile is downloaded, it cannot be used to download the same eSIM again, whether it is on the same or another device.

Is my phone eSIM capable?

As the eSIM technology advances, it becomes more prominent and you can find many phone models supporting it. We tried to summarize it and compile a single list that contains most phone models.

The sure way you can verify if your phone is compatible:

1. iPhone: 

   1. Go to Settings -> Cellular (or Mobile Data).

   2. If you see ‘Add Cellular Plan’ or ‘Add Mobile Plan’, the phone supports eSIM

2. Samsung: 

   1. Go to Settings -> Connections -> SIM Card Manager.

   2. If you see ‘Add Mobile Plan’, the phone supports eSIM

3. Google Pixel: 

   1. Go Settings -> Networks & Internet -> SIMs -> ‘+Add more’.

   2. If you are using Pixel 3/3a or a later model, it will be there and that means the phone supports eSIM.

List of Compatible Phones: 

1. iPhones introduced in Fall 2018 and later (iPhone XS/XR and all newer models)

2. iPads: 10.2, Air, Mini 2019, Pro 11, Pro 12.9

3. Google Pixel 3/3a and all the later models

4. Samsung phones like Galaxy S20 and many more! 

Important Exceptions 

Some models have exceptions depending on models and markets. Operator-locked devices: If your device is locked to a specific carrier due to a contract, it needs to be unlocked first to be able to use the eSIMs sold on our platform.

1. iPhone: 

   1. iPhone models produced for the Chinese market have 2 physical SIM card slots and do not support eSIM. If your iPhone can take 2 physical SIM cards you won't be able to use eSIM.

2. Samsung:

   1. Samsung restricts eSIM capability by software in some markets and some model sub-variants. Always check for individual phones by going to Settings-> Connections -> SIM Card Manager. If you can see the 'Add Mobile Plan' tab in the eSIMs section, you can use eSIM.

3. Operator locked devices:

   1. If your device is locked to a specific carrier due to a contract, it needs to be unlocked first to be able to use the eSIMs sold on our platform.

Full List of supported phone models

Apple phones that support eSIM

1. iPhone XS

2. iPhone XS Max

3. iPhone XR

4. iPhone 11

5. iPhone 11 Pro

6. iPhone 11 Pro Max

7. iPhone 12 mini (coming soon to US

8. iPhone 12

9. iPhone 12 Max

10. iPhone 12 Max Pro

11. iPhone 13 mini

12. iPhone 13

13. iPhone 13 Pro

14. iPhone 13 Pro Max

15. iPhone 14

16. iPhone 14 Plus

17. iPhone 14 Pro

18. iPhone 14 Pro Max

19. iPhone SE (2020)

20. iPad Air (3rd Generation)

21. iPad Pro (3rd Generation)

22. iPad Mini (5th Generation)

Google phones that support eSIM

1. Google Pixel 3/XL

2. Google Pixel 3a/XL

3. Google Pixel 4/XL

4. Google Pixel 4A 5G

5. Google Pixel 2/XL

6. Google Pixel 5

7. Google Pixel 5a

8. Google Pixel 6

9. Google Pixel 6 Pro

Samsung phones that support eSIM

1. Samsung Galaxy Fold

2. Samsung Galaxy S20

3. Samsung Galaxy S20+

4. Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra

5. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip

6. Samsung Galaxy S21

7. Samsung Galaxy S21+ 

8. Samsung Galaxy S21+ Ultra 

9. Samsung Galaxy Fold

10. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2

11. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3

12. Samsung Note 20+

I already have an eSIM in my phone, can I add another one?

Shall I buy before or after I reach my destination?

It is up to you.

We recommend buying and setting up the eSIM shortly before travel so you can start using it as soon as you land. You can keep the eSIM off until you arrive at your destination.

Can I use the same eSIM package in multiple countries or destinations?

Yes. If you buy a package that works in multiple countries, you can move between them and it will continue to work.

When does the package validity start?

It varies by operator and by product. Mostly the package gets activated after you scan the QR code and download the eSIM to your phone, but there are exceptions. Please read the product description of the eSIM package you want to buy.

Do I get a phone number with calls and SMS?

Please see the product description of the package.There are 3 options:

1. Data-only packages: No phone number and no option for calls and texts
   “This is a data-only eSIM. It does not come with a phone number.”

2. Has a phone number but no calls minutes and SMS: “This package does not include any minutes or SMS allowance.”

3. Has a phone number with call minutes and SMS: you will see a phone icon and a mention in the description. 

Please remember that if your eSIM doesn’t support voice calling, you can still make calls using any popular messaging app such as WhatsApp, Viber, Skype, FB Messenger, etc.

Your primary number will also remain active to make and receive calls.

Important Note

Even when the eSIM comes with a phone number, using the phone number to register to various Apps and Websites is NOT GUARANTEED.

Can I use hotspot with my eSIM?

Yes, you can use a hotspot with your eSIM. In order to make it work please:

1. Disconnect WiFi

2. Use data from your eSIM

3. Restart the phone

4. Then turn on your hotspot

If it still not working:

1. Make sure the correct APN is in the hotspot section.

Can I buy the eSIM for somebody else?

Yes. You can buy the eSIM and pass the QR code to a friend, colleague, or family member. Anyone with an eSIM capable device can use the QR code to download the eSIM.