eSIM QR code not working? Fix it in a minute
Each eSIM QR code installs once, on one phone, so it can't be reused. If it says already used, the eSIM is probably already on your phone. Check Settings → Mobile Service on iPhone.
Do this now
- Show the code on another screen at full brightness and clean your camera lens.
- Hold steady and fill the camera frame with the code.
- Connect to Wi-Fi first, because the install downloads your plan.
- Tap Install on this iPhone in your email (iOS 17.4 or later).
- Check Settings → Mobile Service (iPhone), SIM manager (Samsung) or SIMs (Pixel) for the eSIM.
- Type the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your eSIM page instead.
- Contact us with your order number if the install stopped halfway.
Why does my eSIM QR code say already used?
It usually means the eSIM is already on your phone. Each QR code installs once, on one phone, so it can't be used again.
- iPhone: Settings → Mobile Service
- Samsung: Settings → Connections → SIM manager
- Pixel: Settings → Network & internet → SIMs
If you see your travel eSIM listed, it's already installed. Find your eSIM if you need it again.
Can I reuse an eSIM QR code on a second phone?
No. Each QR code installs once, on one phone, so buy one eSIM for each phone you travel with.
How do I scan the QR code properly?
Small things often fix scanning. Try these first.
- Show the code on another screen at full brightness.
- Hold steady and fill the camera frame.
- Clean your camera lens.
- Connect to Wi-Fi first, because the install downloads your plan.
Still stuck? See scanning the QR code on the same phone.
What to do when my eSIM QR code is not working
Type in the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your eSIM page. On iPhone (iOS 17.4 or later), you can also tap Install on this iPhone in your email.
- iPhone: Settings → Mobile Service → Add eSIM → Enter Details Manually
- Samsung: Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM → Enter activation code
- Pixel: Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add SIM → Set up an eSIM
If Add eSIM won't work, see what to do when an eSIM can't be added.
Why was the install refused or stopped halfway?
Contact us with your order number if the install stopped halfway or a new eSIM was refused. First, check your phone is unlocked.
- iPhone: Settings → General → About → Network Provider Lock. "No SIM restrictions" means unlocked.
What to do next
Once installed, turn on Data Roaming for the travel line only. On iPhone: Settings → Mobile Service → tap a line → Data Roaming.
If the problem continues, contact us with your order number and phone model.
Can two phones use the same eSIM QR code?
No. Each QR code installs once, on one phone. For a second phone, buy a separate eSIM for that phone, so each phone has its own eSIM.
Can I get a refund if I never installed my eSIM?
Yes. An eSIM never installed can be cancelled within 30 days of buying for a full refund, with money back to your card.
Do I need Wi-Fi to install an eSIM QR code?
Yes, connect to Wi-Fi before you scan. The install downloads your plan, so you need a connection for that step.
