How to activate eSIM on iPhone

If you are getting a new phone, changing your plan, or getting ready to travel, eSIM makes it easy to stay connected without having to swap out a physical SIM card.

With Sim Local, you can install your new eSIM in minutes. No contracts, no roaming charges, and no need to visit a store. Just follow the steps below to activate your plan and start using your phone as soon as you land.

You’ll need an eSIM compatible device to get started. Most iPhone models from the iPhone XS, iPhone XR, and iPhone SE (2nd generation) onward support eSIM capability.

Here’s a quick list of compatible iPhone models:

• iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max
  
  
• iPhone XR
  
  
• iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 series
  
  
• iPhone SE (2nd gen and later)
  
  
• New iPhone models with iOS 16+
  
  

You can also use eSIMs on iPad Pro, iPad Air, and the Apple Watch with cellular service enabled. 

To check if your device is eSIM-ready:

Go to Settings > General > About and look for "Digital SIM" or "Available SIM." If you see it, your iPhone supports eSIM technology.

Or, go to Setting > Mobile Service. If you see the option "Add eSIM", your iPhone is eSIM ready.

• Go to settings:
  Open the Settings app from your home screen to get started.
• Tap mobile service or cellular:
  This is where you can download and manage your eSIM plans. You'll find all downloaded plans here.
• Choose add eSIM:
  Select this option to add your new eSIM plan.
• Select use QR Code or enter details manually:
  You can scan a QR code from your eSIM provider or type in the activation info yourself.
• Follow the prompts to finish setup:
  Your iPhone will guide you through the rest. Just confirm a few details to complete the activation.
• You’re all set:
  Once it’s done, your eSIM will be ready to use just like any regular SIM card.

eSIMs are a popular way to stay connected when you travel because they make it easy to join local networks without relying on your home plan. Many network providers offer travel eSIMs, but the setup steps can be a little different with each one.

Here’s how you can activate your Sim Local eSIM in four easy steps.

​To purchase a plan from Sim Local, go to the website or download the Sim Local app. Enter your destination country and choose your preferred plan based on your needs (data amounts, calls, texts, trip length, etc.)

After choosing a Sim Local eSIM, you can download your eSIM by clicking Download Plan immediately.

Your screen will display Connecting to Network, which might take a couple of minutes.

Once complete, you’ll see either Mobile Plan Setup Complete or Cellular Plan Setup Complete. If you want to install it later, you can do that too.

Simply download the Sim Local app and create an account using the same email address used to purchase the plan. You'll find your plan in the My eSIM section of the app.

If you don't want to use an app, you can also scan a QR code or enter manual activation codes. You'll find these details in the confirmation email sent to your inbox.

Remember to download your plan close to your travel date, as the plan starts immediately.

• If you have a dual SIM setup (SIM card + eSIM), you need to choose which plan to use for calls, texts, and data. Your iPhone will usually guide you through the activation process. If it doesn't, you can do it manually. You'll find your new plan here: Settings > Mobile Service or Cellular

• Make sure "Allow Mobile Data Switching" is turned OFF to avoid unexpected charges.

Turn on Data Roaming for your eSIM so your phone can connect to mobile networks while outside your home coverage area.

Your eSIM will only work once your phone connects to a supported mobile network. This typically happens when you reach your destination.

• Make sure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi during setup.
  
  
• Restart your device after installing the eSIM.
  
  
• Check that you’re using a compatible device and iOS version.

• Make sure data roaming is enabled.
  
  
• If the QR code won’t scan, use the “Enter Details Manually” option.

• Check your APN settings.
  
  

Still stuck? Contact Sim Local’s customer support — we’re happy to help.

You can also activate eSIMs on other compatible devices like the Apple Watch Series 6 or newer, and iPads with cellular capability. Just open Apple Support or visit the Settings app on your watch or iPad to begin the eSIM activation process.

Some newer iPhones even allow you to set up a nearby iPhone and transfer your cellular plan directly.

Once your plan is active, your iPhone is ready to go, no need to wait for a SIM card to arrive or struggle with installation. With your plan, you can use all the usual features like calls, data, hotspot, and texts just like you would with a regular SIM card.

Sim Local also supports hotspot sharing on most plans, so you can use your mobile data across your laptop or tablet without hassle.

• Faster setup.
  
  
• No more physical SIM cards.
  
  
• Easy switching between plans.
  
  
• Travel-friendly with no roaming charges.
  
  
• Great for people who use more than one device or number.
  
  

Whether you're upgrading from a previous iPhone, setting up a brand new iPhone, or activating a new eSIM for travel, Sim Local gives you a stress-free experience. You stay in control of your data and coverage, and you can activate everything in just a few clicks.

Ready to activate your eSIM and connect instantly? Whether you're exploring new cities, switching networks, or just want more control over your cellular plan, Sim Local has you covered.

Check out our eSIM plans today, or try a FREE eSIM plan to get started.

Pssst....Apple have announced that iPhone 17 Air will be eSIM only worldwide. Read more about iPhone 17 and eSIM here.