Before you start: three requirements
- eSIM-compatible iPhone: iPhone XS, XS Max, or XR (2018) or any newer model. iPhone 14 and later in the US are eSIM-only (no physical SIM tray).
- Unlocked phone: Your iPhone must be unlocked from your carrier. Most iPhones bought from Apple directly or on a financing plan that is paid off are unlocked. To check: Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock. If it says "No SIM restrictions", you are unlocked.
- Wi-Fi connection: eSIM installation requires an internet connection. Do this before you board your flight.
Method 1: Install via QR code (recommended)
- Open the email from your eSIM provider (e.g., Flysimio) on a different device — a laptop, tablet, or another phone — so you can scan the QR code with your iPhone camera.
- On your iPhone: open Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data).
- Tap Add eSIM.
- Tap Use QR Code.
- Scan the QR code shown on your other device.
- Tap Continue when prompted.
- Give the eSIM a label — "Japan", "USA", or the country you are visiting. Tap Continue.
- On the Default Line screen: keep your home SIM as the default for Calls and Messages. Set the travel eSIM as your Cellular Data line.
- Tap Done.
Method 2: Manual entry (if you cannot scan the QR code)
If you only have one device and cannot display and scan the QR code simultaneously, use the manual entry option.
- Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code.
- Below the camera viewfinder, tap Enter Details Manually.
- Enter the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code from your eSIM provider email.
- Tap Next. The eSIM installs in 10–30 seconds.
Setting up dual SIM correctly
After installing the travel eSIM, your iPhone has two active lines. You need to configure which SIM does what — otherwise your home carrier may charge international roaming.
- Settings → Cellular → Default Voice Line: keep your home SIM. This way incoming calls still reach your home number.
- Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data: set to the travel eSIM.
- Settings → Cellular → tap the travel eSIM line → enable Data Roaming.
- Settings → Cellular → tap your home SIM line → disable Data Roaming. This prevents your home carrier from charging you.
- iMessage and FaceTime: if prompted, choose which number to use. Keep your home number for iMessage so contacts can still reach you.
How to verify it is working
In the top-left corner of your iPhone, you should see two signal bars — one labeled with your home carrier, one labeled with the local carrier (e.g., NTT Docomo for Japan). Open Safari and load any webpage. If it loads, your eSIM is working.
Installing on Android (brief)
Android eSIM installation varies by manufacturer but the steps are similar. Settings → Network & Internet (or Connections) → SIM Manager (or SIMs) → Add eSIM → Scan QR Code. On Samsung: Settings → Connections → SIM Card Manager → Add eSIM. On Google Pixel: Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → Download a SIM.
Frequently asked questions
How long does eSIM installation take on iPhone?
The installation itself takes 10–30 seconds after scanning the QR code. Allow 2–3 minutes total including opening Settings, scanning, labeling the eSIM, and configuring dual SIM settings.
Can I install the eSIM after I land without Wi-Fi?
Potentially, using airport Wi-Fi. However, some eSIM activations require a cellular connection, not just Wi-Fi. It is strongly recommended to install before your flight using your home Wi-Fi.
Can I have more than one eSIM installed on my iPhone?
iPhone XS through iPhone 12: one active eSIM at a time, but multiple stored. iPhone 13 and 14: two simultaneous active eSIMs. iPhone 15 and later: up to four stored eSIMs with two active simultaneously.
Will installing a travel eSIM delete my home SIM?
No. Installing a travel eSIM does not affect your home physical SIM or your existing eSIM. Your home number stays active. You are adding a new line, not replacing one.
How do I delete an eSIM when I get home?
Settings → Cellular → tap the travel eSIM line → scroll to the bottom → Remove Cellular Plan. This permanently removes it from your device.