Install guide

How to Install an eSIM on iPhone

On iOS 17.4 or later, tap Install on this iPhone in your eSIM email, then Continue. Or go to Settings → Mobile Service → Add eSIM → Use QR Code. Install at home on Wi-Fi.

Way 1

One tap

Fastest. For iPhones on iOS 17.4 or later, reading the email on the same iPhone.

Connect to Wi-Fi.
Open your eSIM email or order page on your iPhone.
Tap Install on this iPhone.
Tap Continue.
Label the new line, for example "Travel".
Choose your home line as the default for calls and iMessage.
Choose the travel eSIM for mobile data, or keep your home line until you land.
Tap Done.

Way 2

Scan the QR code

When you can show the QR code on another screen, such as a laptop or tablet.

Connect to Wi-Fi.
Open the QR code on another screen.
On your iPhone, open Settings → Mobile Service (Mobile Data on some iPhones).
Tap Add eSIM (or Add Mobile Plan).
Tap Use QR Code and scan the code.
Tap Continue, then label the line "Travel".
Keep your home line for calls and iMessage.
Choose the travel eSIM for mobile data, or set it when you land.

Way 3

Enter the codes

Works on every eSIM iPhone, with no camera or second screen.

Connect to Wi-Fi.
Open your order page and copy the SM-DP+ address.
Open Settings → Mobile Service → Add eSIM.
Tap Use QR Code, then Enter Details Manually.
Paste the SM-DP+ address.
Paste the activation code. Leave confirmation code blank unless given one.
Tap Next, then label the line "Travel".
Keep your home line for calls and iMessage.

When you land

Open Settings → Mobile Service and make sure the travel line is on.
Tap the travel line and turn on Data Roaming.
Tap Mobile Data and choose the travel line.
Turn off Allow Mobile Data Switching so your home line stays off data.
Tap your home line and turn Data Roaming off.
No data within a minute? Restart your iPhone.

Tips

Install at home on Wi-Fi a day or two before you fly. Most plans start only when you connect at your destination.
On iOS 17.4 or later, you can also press and hold the QR code in the email and tap Add eSIM.
Label the line by country, such as "Japan", so you always know which is which.
Check your iPhone is unlocked: Settings → General → About → Network Provider Lock should say No SIM restrictions.
Keep the eSIM installed until your plan ends. A deleted eSIM usually can't be installed again.

Get my eSIM No data when I land?

Which iPhones support eSIM?

iPhone XS, XS Max, XR and every iPhone since, including the iPhone SE (2nd generation and later).

Will I keep iMessage and my number?

Yes. Choose your home line for calls, iMessage and FaceTime, and the travel eSIM for mobile data.

I can't see the Install on this iPhone button. Why?

One-tap install needs iOS 17.4 or later. Update in Settings → General → Software Update, or use the QR code or manual codes.

Does installing start my plan?

On most plans, no: they start when you first connect at your destination. The plan page says if yours starts on install.

Ready when you are