How to Install eSIM on iPhone (Step by Step)
Before You Begin
Make sure you have the following ready before installing your eSIM on your iPhone:
- An iPhone XS or newer (iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 series and their variants)
- iOS 16 or later installed (go to Settings > General > Software Update to check)
- A stable Wi-Fi connection (you need internet access to download the eSIM profile)
- Your eSIM QR code displayed on another screen or printed out
If your iPhone is carrier-locked, contact your carrier first to confirm eSIM support. Most unlocked iPhones work without any issues.
Step 1: Open Cellular Settings
Unlock your iPhone and navigate to Settings > Cellular (or Settings > Mobile Data in some regions). You will see your existing SIM information listed here.
Step 2: Add a New eSIM
Tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan. On iOS 17.4 and later you may see a prompt asking if you would like to transfer a number or use a QR code. Select Use QR Code.
Step 3: Scan the QR Code
Your iPhone's camera will activate. Hold the phone steady and point it at the QR code you received after purchasing your eSIM plan. The phone will automatically detect the code and display a confirmation message: “Carrier Cellular Plan detected.”
If the camera does not detect the code automatically, tap Enter Details Manually at the bottom of the screen and type in the SM-DP+ address and activation code provided in your confirmation email.
Step 4: Confirm and Activate
Tap Continue when prompted. Your iPhone will download the eSIM profile from the carrier's server. This usually takes 10 to 30 seconds. Once complete, you will be asked to label the plan. Choose a label like “Travel” or “Data Only” so you can easily identify it later.
Step 5: Configure Your Lines
Your iPhone will ask you to choose default settings for your lines:
- Default Line — Keep your primary (physical) SIM as default for calls and messages.
- Cellular Data — Switch this to your new eSIM line so all data traffic uses the travel plan.
You can also toggle Allow Cellular Data Switching if you want your phone to fall back to the other line when one has no signal.
Step 6: Verify the Connection
Go back to Settings > Cellular. You should see both lines listed. Make sure the eSIM line shows a carrier name and signal bars. Open Safari and load any webpage to confirm data is working.
If your plan is set to activate on a future date (for example, you installed it before your trip), the line will show No Service until the activation date. This is normal.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
QR code not scanning
Make sure the QR code is displayed clearly with good contrast. Increase screen brightness on the device showing the code. Avoid glare if using a printed copy. If it still fails, enter the details manually.
“Cannot Add Cellular Plan” error
This usually means your iPhone is carrier-locked. Contact your carrier to request an unlock, or check if your device is already unlocked under Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock.
eSIM installed but no data
Go to Settings > Cellular, tap the eSIM line, and ensure Turn On This Line is enabled and Data Roaming is switched on. If you are abroad, data roaming must be active for the eSIM to connect to local networks.
Slow speeds
Toggle airplane mode on and off to force a fresh network connection. If speeds remain slow, check if your plan supports 5G and that your phone is set to use it under Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Voice & Data.
Need to remove the eSIM?
Go to Settings > Cellular, tap the eSIM line, scroll to the bottom, and tap Delete eSIM. Note that on most providers, a deleted eSIM cannot be reinstalled, so only do this if you are certain you no longer need it.