Step-by-Step Guide

How to Install an eSIM on iPhone

The complete 2026 guide. Works for all eSIM-compatible iPhone models. Takes under 2 minutes.

Which iPhones Support eSIM?

eSIM was introduced with iPhone XS in 2018. All models from XS onward support eSIM, with the exception of the original iPhone SE (which came out before XS). In the USA, iPhone 14 and later removed the physical SIM tray entirely.

iPhone Model	eSIM Support
iPhone 16 / Pro / Pro Max / Plus	eSIM only (US), Dual SIM internationally
iPhone 15 / Pro / Pro Max / Plus	eSIM only (US), Dual SIM internationally
iPhone 14 / Pro / Pro Max / Plus	eSIM only (US), Dual SIM internationally
iPhone 13 / mini / Pro / Pro Max	Dual SIM (nano-SIM + eSIM)
iPhone 12 / mini / Pro / Pro Max	Dual SIM (nano-SIM + eSIM)
iPhone 11 / Pro / Pro Max	Dual SIM (nano-SIM + eSIM)
iPhone XS / XS Max	Dual SIM (nano-SIM + eSIM)
iPhone XR	Dual SIM (nano-SIM + eSIM)
iPhone X and earlier	No eSIM support

Method 1: QR Code (Recommended)

This is the fastest and most common method. Your eSIM provider (like eSIM) emails you a QR code after purchase.

Buy your eSIM plan — Visit eSIM and purchase a data plan for your destination. After payment, a QR code arrives in your email instantly.
Buy before you fly. You can install the eSIM days in advance.
Open iPhone Settings — On your iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data on international models). Tap "Add eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan".
On iOS 16+, the exact wording may be "Add eSIM" or "Add Data Plan".
Tap "Use QR Code" — When prompted, choose to scan a QR code. The iPhone camera opens. Point it at the QR code in your eSIM email.
Use another device to display the QR code if you need to scan from your iPhone.
Confirm installation — iOS will ask you to confirm adding the eSIM. Tap "Add Cellular Plan". The profile downloads in seconds.
Label and configure your eSIM — Name the line (e.g., "eSIM Turkey"). Choose whether it is for data, calls, or both. Your existing SIM stays active.
Keep your home SIM as default for calls/SMS. Use eSIM for data only.
Activate when you land — When you arrive at your destination, go to Settings → Cellular, select the eSIM, and toggle it ON. Enable Data Roaming if prompted.
You are now connected locally — no roaming charges from your home carrier.

Method 2: Manual Entry

If you cannot scan a QR code (e.g., the QR code is on the same device), use manual entry. In the eSIM setup screen, tap "Enter Details Manually" and enter the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code provided by your eSIM provider.

⚠️ Note: Manual entry codes are found in your eSIM account dashboard or confirmation email. They are long strings — copy and paste carefully.

eSIM is our top recommendation. QR code sent instantly after purchase.

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Troubleshooting Common Issues


"No SIM card installed" error after eSIM setup	Go to Settings → Cellular and ensure the eSIM line is toggled ON. If it shows but is off, simply enable it.
QR code scan fails or is not recognized	Make sure you are using the default iPhone Camera app, not a third-party app. Ensure good lighting. Alternatively, tap "Enter Details Manually" in the eSIM setup screen.
eSIM downloads but shows "Not Activated"	Wait 1–2 minutes for the activation to propagate. If it persists, restart your iPhone. The eSIM activates once you arrive in the destination country.
"Carrier Lock" prevents eSIM installation	Your iPhone may be locked to your home carrier. Contact your carrier to unlock it. In the US, carriers are legally required to unlock fully-paid devices.
Data not working after arrival	Go to Settings → Cellular → select the eSIM line → ensure "Data Roaming" is ON. Also check that it is set as your default for cellular data.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install an eSIM before traveling?

Yes. You should purchase and install the eSIM profile before you leave. Simply do not activate it until you arrive in the destination country. This ensures instant connectivity upon landing.

Will installing an eSIM delete my current SIM?

No. Your physical SIM card and existing plan remain completely untouched. The eSIM is an additional line. You choose which line to use for data, calls, or SMS.

Can I install multiple eSIMs on my iPhone?

Yes. iPhones can store multiple eSIM profiles, though you can only have one or two active at the same time depending on the model. You can switch between stored eSIMs in Settings.

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