Frequently Asked Questions

Think of eSIM as a digital version of a SIM card - you get all the benefits of a SIM card without the hassle of swapping them and having to store them safely when not in use.

The 'e' stands for 'embedded' - devices that support eSIM have a chip inside the device that functions like an internal SIM card
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‍Your device must be network-unlocked to use plans from other operators. Learn more about your device status.

Why use an eSIM?

Flexibility: You can store multiple eSIM profiles on a single device and switch between them, making it easier to change carriers or plans.
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Convenience: eSIMs can be activated quickly and easily without the need for physical SIM cards or a trip to a store.
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Travel-friendly: eSIMs enable easier switching to local networks when traveling, reducing roaming charges and losing existing cards.
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Environmentally Friendly: Reduces the need for plastic SIM cards, contributing to a reduction in plastic waste.

Can I use eSIM?

If you're using an iPhone, you're likely able to be able to use eSIM. If you're using a device from another manufacturer, you may need to check if your device supports eSIM. Most modern smartphones will list eSIM compatibility in their product specifications.

Your device will also need to be network-unlocked to use our plans. On some devices, you can check your unlock status. You may need to contact your network provider to confirm this. More information is available below.
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Further Reading
eSIM Compatible Handsets
Phone Unlocking

Is eSIM secure? Can someone steal my eSIM?

Yes, eSIM technology incorporates robust security features similar to traditional SIM cards, with the added benefit of not being physically removable. Once installed, your eSIM cannot be moved to another device, making it even more secure than a physical SIM card. However, please take care to not reveal your eSIM details to others if you do not intend to give this plan to someone else.

Can I use more than one eSIM at a time?

Some devices support multiple eSIM profiles, but they can typically only use one at a time. Check your device manufacturer guidelines for more information.

Note, that many devices will limit the number of eSIMs you can store at any one time, usually up to 10. You may have to remove old eSIMs to be able to use new ones.

Can I switch between eSIM profiles?

Yes, most devices allow you to switch between eSIM profiles. However, the process can vary by device and carrier. It's best to consult your device manufacturer for more information about this.

Can I keep my eSIM if I change my phone number?

Yes, your eSIM is tied to your carrier account, not your phone number. You can use your eSIM alongside your existing SIM Card on most modern devices.

How do Sim Local plans work?

Sim Local partners with local network carriers around the world to offer competitive plans that offer data, texts and calls at affordable rates.

When you purchase and activate a plan from Sim Local, we will provide you with download details for your eSIM, along with instructions on how to install it to your device.

Note, that activating your plan requires an Internet connection. It's best to do this on the day of travel.

What does validity mean?

All plans come with a validity period in days, which refers to how many days you may use the plan for. The validity period begins once you activate your plan.

This validity is only applied when your plan has been activated, so you can purchase a plan and activate it when you’re ready to start using it.

Validity is measured relative to time your plan is active - a 1 day plan purchased at 16:15 will expire at 16:15 the next day.

What does activation mean?

When you register an account and purchase a plan, you have the choice to activate now or later - this may come in useful if you wish to purchase a plan for now, and decide to use it on your day of travel.

The validity of your plan will not start until you activate your plan. It's important to remember to activate it when you plan to start using it.

Note: Guest checkout purchases activate at the time of purchase. To activate your plan later, we recommend signing up so that you can log into your account to activate your plan later.

What are local and international call minutes?

When a plan offers call minutes, there is usually a distinction between local and international minutes.
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Local minutes represent call minutes for calls made within the country you are using the plan in.
International minutes represent call minutes for calls made from one country to another.

Some terms and conditions may apply, depending on your operator. If you're unsure, you can refer to Network Terms and Conditions for more information.

What payment methods do you support?

Sim Local accepts Paypal, Visa and all cards associated with Visa (Visa PrePaid, Visa Premium Deferred Debit, etc), Mastercard and all cards associated with Mastercard (Maestro, etc.).

Apple Pay and Google Pay are also supported on the iOS and Android App.

All credit/debit card transactions on simlocal.com are processed securely by Stripe, to keep your information safe.
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Can I return my eSIM?

If you've purchased an eSIM and have not yet activated it yet, you can return it for a full refund within 60 days of purchase.

On the My eSIM page, go to your plan details. If the plan has not been activated, you will see the Return Plan option. Select it and confirm. Your refund will be processed automatically.

Already activated your plan and having an issue with your eSIM? Contact us for assistance.

My eSIM failed to activate or got stuck activating.

Sometimes, if you try to install an eSIM but you are not in the destination country, it will not be able to complete activation, as it cannot connect to the destination local network.

However, if your eSIM is installed to the device, you do not need to complete activation - once you arrive at your destination, your eSIM will be able to connect, and you'll be able to use it.

I installed my eSIM, I have no connection, or I receive the error "PDP Authentication Failure".

There may be a few causes for this:

You may be attempting to use your plan in your home country - If you have bought a plan for another destination, it may not work successfully until you are in your destination country.

You need to turn on Data Roaming - You may not have Data Roaming enabled for your eSIM. You can do this via your eSIM settings on iPhone, Connections > Mobile Network settings on Samsung, or via the SIMs setting on Android devices.

You have not set your eSIM to use data - In your eSIM settings, make sure that the eSIM is switched on, data settings are enabled, and that Data Roaming is enabled.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)