How to install a travel eSIM on iPhone
Updated 2026-09-27
Installing an eSIM on iPhone takes a few minutes. Do it before you leave, while you are connected to Wi-Fi, so you are online the moment you land.
Before you start
- Connect to Wi-Fi.
- Have your eSIM email open on another screen, or print the QR code, so you can scan it with your iPhone's camera.
- Check your iPhone supports eSIM and is unlocked: see how to check.
Install the eSIM
- Open Settings and tap Mobile Service (called Cellular or Mobile Data on some iPhones).
- Tap Add eSIM (or Add Cellular Plan on older iOS versions).
- Choose Use QR Code and scan the code from your eSIM email.
- When asked, give the line a label such as "Travel" so you can tell your lines apart.
- For your default line, keep your usual number for calls and messages.
- For mobile data, choose Travel — or keep your usual line for now and switch when you land.
Tip: If you cannot scan the code, choose Enter Details Manually and type the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your email.
When you arrive
- Go to Settings > Mobile Service and tap your Travel line.
- Turn on Data Roaming for it. A travel eSIM always roams on a local network, so it will not connect without this.
- Go back and set Mobile Data to the Travel line.
- Turn off Allow Mobile Data Switching, so your iPhone does not fall back to your home line's data.
Tip: Open your home line's settings and make sure Data Roaming is off there, so your usual carrier cannot charge you for data abroad.
If it does not connect
- Check Data Roaming is on for the Travel line — this is the most common cause.
- Turn Aeroplane Mode on for a few seconds and off again, so the phone searches for networks.
- Make sure the travel line is turned on in Mobile Service.
- Check your plan covers the country you are in.
Do not delete the eSIM while troubleshooting: most eSIM QR codes can only be installed once.