Can I use a VPN with an eSIM? Yes, here's how
Yes. A VPN works on your travel eSIM's data just like on Wi-Fi. Connect to data first, then turn the VPN on. If pages stop loading, turn it off or try another VPN server.
Do this now
- Check Data Roaming is on for your travel eSIM line.
- Confirm pages load without the VPN first.
- Turn on your VPN, then pick a server.
- Turn the VPN off if pages stop loading.
- Try another VPN server, then turn the VPN on again.
- Restart your phone and pick another network if speeds stay slow.
Does a VPN work on a travel eSIM?
Yes. A VPN works on a travel eSIM's data in the same way it works on Wi-Fi.
What order should I connect in?
Connect to data first, then turn the VPN on.
- iPhone: Settings → Mobile Service → tap a line → Data Roaming
- Samsung: Settings → Connections → Mobile networks → Data roaming
- Pixel: Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → tap a SIM → Roaming
Data Roaming must be ON for your travel eSIM and OFF for your home line, because the travel eSIM uses local partner networks.
Why does data stop when the VPN is on?
Every connection goes through the VPN's server, so a slow or distant server can stall pages. If pages stop loading with the VPN on, turn the VPN off. If they load again, the VPN is the cause, so try another VPN server.
Why is my speed slower with a VPN?
A VPN adds a little extra data and can slow things a bit. Some plans route data through another country, so websites may show a different location. A VPN lets you choose the location you appear in, which helps when you need your home services. For more, see why your IP address shows another country.
What if it's slow with the VPN off too?
Restart your phone and pick another network. For more, see slow eSIM speeds.
- iPhone: Settings → Mobile Service → tap a line → Network Selection (turn off Automatic)
- Samsung: Settings → Connections → Mobile networks → Network operators → Search now
- Pixel: Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → tap a SIM → Automatically select network (turn off to pick by hand)
What to do next
If the VPN still won't work, contact us with your order number and phone model. Otherwise, keep your VPN on and check the data left on your eSIM page. China has its own rules on VPNs and apps, so read our China guide first.
Will a VPN use up my eSIM data faster?
A VPN adds a little extra data, since every connection goes through its server. Keep an eye on data left on your eSIM page.
Does a VPN work on iPhone and Android with a travel eSIM?
Yes. A VPN works on the data from a travel eSIM on iPhone, Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel, just like on Wi-Fi.
Why is my VPN not connecting on the travel eSIM?
Check that Data Roaming is on for the travel line, then try again. If pages load without the VPN, try another VPN server.
