3 MIN READ
Adding an eSIM to an iPhone takes only a few taps, but it goes more smoothly when you set things up first. This walkthrough takes you through the preparation, the steps and a few things to check along the way.
Before you start
A little preparation saves a lot of frustration. Make sure you have:
- A phone that supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. If you are unsure, see our device check.
- Stable Wi-Fi. Installing on Wi-Fi helps the setup finish without interruption.
- Your QR code and activation details, from My eSIMs or from the installation email.
- A second screen or a printed copy to show the QR code on. The phone you are installing on cannot scan its own screen. Depending on the phone, a screenshot saved to the phone can sometimes be used instead.
Add the eSIM
Once you are ready, the path on an iPhone looks like this:
- Connect to Wi-Fi.
- Open Settings, then Cellular, then Add eSIM.
- Choose Use QR Code and scan your QR code.
- Follow the prompts on screen to finish.
Take your time with the prompts. They are short, and reading them once is quicker than starting over.
What if your screen looks different?
Menu names vary by iOS version and region, so the labels on your phone may not match ours word for word. If you do not see Cellular, look for a similar section about mobile or SIM settings. If Add eSIM is worded differently, look for the option that adds a new plan using a QR code.
We have not dated this menu path against a specific iOS version, so treat it as a guide rather than a script. If you cannot find the option at all, confirm that your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked, because a phone without eSIM support will not show it.
Check your plan's details
Some plans ask you to turn on a setting after installation, for example data roaming. Which settings apply depends on the plan, so we do not list any here. Open your plan's details and follow what they say. It is a quick read and it is the most reliable source for your specific plan.
Where to find your QR code
After an order is placed, your QR code and activation details appear in My eSIMs once you sign in and your eSIM has been prepared, and they are also sent in an installation email to the address on your order. Keep both private. Anyone who has your QR code and activation details could use your eSIM, so please do not share or post them.
Our delivery policy explains where everything arrives.
If something goes wrong
If installation stops or fails, check your Wi-Fi, restart the phone and try once more. If the QR code will not scan, make it bigger on the other screen and try again, or enter the details by hand. We cover that in our article on installing when the QR code will not scan. If it says the code is invalid or already used, please do not try repeatedly. Write to support@choesim.com with your order number instead.