4 MIN READ
Adding an eSIM to an Android phone usually takes only a few taps, but menu names differ between phone brands. This guide therefore gives general steps, not a separate path for each brand. Wherever a menu name may differ, check your phone maker's instructions. If you use an iPhone, see how to install an eSIM on an iPhone.
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. Dialling *#06# and looking for an EID helps identify eSIM capability, but it is not a guarantee. The phones on the device check are examples; the manufacturer and your carrier have the final word.
- 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.
Add the eSIM with a QR code
These are general steps. Menu names and their order on your phone may differ; check your phone maker's instructions.
- Connect to Wi-Fi.
- Open your phone's Settings and look for the section about connections, mobile network or SIM. The name of this section differs by brand and Android version: check your phone maker's instructions.
- Look for the option to add an eSIM or a new mobile plan. The wording may differ (for example "Add eSIM", "Add plan" or similar): check your phone maker's instructions.
- Choose to add it with a QR code and scan your QR code.
- Follow the prompts on screen to finish.
We have not dated these steps against any particular brand or Android version, so treat them as a guide rather than a script.
If the QR code will not scan
Make the code bigger on the other screen and try again. If that still fails, you can install by hand with the SM-DP+ address and the activation code from your eSIM details. The manual entry screen is in the same add-eSIM section; its name and position differ by brand, so check your phone maker's instructions. Our article on installing when the QR code will not scan has more.
If you do not see the option to add an eSIM
Confirm that your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked, because a phone without eSIM support will not show it.
After installing
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. If the eSIM is installed but there is no data, see eSIM installed but no data.
You can install on Wi-Fi before your trip. When validity starts depends on the plan, so check the plan details before you install.
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. If you cannot see the email, read I did not receive my eSIM email. 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 plans are data plans. Use internet apps for calls and messages; regular calls depend on your primary SIM and carrier.
If something goes wrong
If installation stops or fails, check your Wi-Fi, restart the phone and try once more. If it says the code is invalid or already used, please do not try repeatedly. Go to the contact page and include your order number.