How to Set Up eSIM on iPhone

Which iPhones Support eSIM?

Every iPhone from the iPhone XR (2018) onwards supports eSIM. That includes:

• iPhone XR, XS, XS Max
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2nd gen, 3rd gen)
• iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, 16e
• iPhone 17, 17 Air, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, 17e

iPhone 14 and later (US models) are eSIM-only — no physical SIM tray. iPhone 17 models are eSIM-only in 12 countries including the US, Canada, and Japan. The iPhone 17 Air is eSIM-only worldwide.

Not sure about your model? Check our compatible devices page for the full list.

Before You Start

Make sure you have:

• An eSIM-compatible iPhone (XR or later)
• Your iPhone is unlocked (not locked to a specific carrier)
• A stable internet connection (WiFi or cellular) to download the eSIM profile
• Your eSIM QR code — sent to your email after purchasing from eSIM-Now
• iOS updated to the latest version (Settings → General → Software Update)

Method 1: QR Code Setup (Recommended)

This is the fastest and easiest method. It works on all eSIM-compatible iPhones.

Step 1: Open eSIM Settings

• Go to Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data in some regions)
• Tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan

Step 2: Scan the QR Code

• Tap Use QR Code
• Point your iPhone camera at the QR code from your email
• Your iPhone will detect the eSIM profile automatically

Tip: If you received the QR code on the same iPhone, take a screenshot, AirDrop it to another device, and scan from there. Or use Method 2 below.

Step 3: Confirm and Label

• Tap Continue when prompted to add the cellular plan
• Choose a label for this plan (e.g., "Japan Travel" or "Vacation Data")
• Select whether this should be your Default or Secondary line

Step 4: Configure Data Settings

• When asked which plan to use for cellular data, select your new travel eSIM
• Keep your primary line for calls and texts
• Tap Done

Step 5: Activation

• For travel eSIMs: the plan activates when you connect to a supported network at your destination
• You'll see signal bars appear once activated
• Some eSIMs activate instantly upon installation — check your provider's instructions

Method 2: Manual Setup

If you can't scan the QR code (e.g., you only have one device), enter the details manually:

1. Go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code
2. Tap Enter Details Manually at the bottom
3. Enter the SM-DP+ address and Activation Code from your email
4. Tap Next and follow the prompts
5. Label and configure as in Method 1

Managing Multiple eSIMs

Your iPhone can store up to 8 eSIM profiles and have 2 active simultaneously. This is perfect for:

• Keeping your home carrier active while using a travel eSIM for data
• Storing eSIMs for countries you visit frequently
• Switching between plans without reinstalling

How to Switch Between eSIMs

1. Go to Settings → Cellular
2. You'll see all installed plans listed
3. Tap the plan you want to activate
4. Toggle Turn On This Line

How to Remove an eSIM

1. Go to Settings → Cellular
2. Tap the eSIM plan you want to remove
3. Tap Delete eSIM (or Remove Cellular Plan)

Warning: Most travel eSIMs cannot be reinstalled once deleted. Only remove an eSIM after your trip is over and you've used all the data.

Setting Up for Dual SIM (Home + Travel)

The most common travel setup:

Configure in Settings:

1. Settings → Cellular → Default Voice Line → select your home SIM
2. Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data → select your travel eSIM
3. Turn OFF "Allow Cellular Data Switching" — this prevents accidental roaming on your home SIM

Troubleshooting

eSIM won't install: - Update iOS to the latest version - Restart your iPhone and try again - Make sure you have a stable internet connection - Check that your iPhone is carrier-unlocked

No signal after installation: - Enable Data Roaming: Settings → Cellular → [your travel eSIM] → Data Roaming → ON - Toggle Airplane Mode on and off - Restart your iPhone - Make sure you're in a covered area

"Cellular Plan Cannot Be Added" error: - The QR code may have already been used (each code works once) - Contact your eSIM provider for a replacement code

Calls not working on travel eSIM: - Most travel eSIMs are data only — they don't include voice calls - Use WhatsApp, FaceTime, or other VoIP apps for calls over data - Your home SIM handles regular calls via dual SIM

Get Your Travel eSIM

Ready to set up an eSIM for your next trip? Browse plans for 140+ countries, get instant delivery via QR code, and follow this guide to install in 2 minutes.