Installing an eSIM is easier than it seems — the entire process takes less than 5 minutes. This guide will walk you through it step-by-step, for both iPhone and major Android models, with screenshots of the exact menus and tips to avoid common mistakes.
Before you start: what you need
- eSIM-compatible phone — iPhone XS or later, Samsung S20 or later, Pixel 3 or later (check with *#06# for EID number)
- WiFi connection — necessary to download the profile. Do not use mobile data for installation
- Your PuraSIM eSIM QR code — arrives by email after purchase. Have the email open on another device or printed
- Install at home before you leave — install calmly, without rush at the airport
Important: The eSIM QR is for single use and for a single device. Do not scan it as a test on another phone.
How to install an eSIM on iPhone
The process is virtually identical on all iPhones from XS (iOS 12.1 onwards). These instructions are for iOS 16/17/18:
Step 1: Open Settings
Go to the Settings app (the gray gear icon) on your iPhone's home screen.
Step 2: Go to Cellular Data
Tap "Cellular Data" in the main Settings menu.
Step 3: Add Data Plan
Tap "Add Data Plan" (on iOS 16+) or "Add eSIM Plan" on older versions. The iPhone will open the camera to scan the QR.
Step 4: Scan the QR
Point the rear camera at the QR code from your PuraSIM email. Hold the phone steady about 15-20 cm from the QR. The iPhone will detect it automatically in 2-5 seconds.
Tip: If the QR appears on another phone's screen, it might be harder to scan. The easiest way is to open the confirmation email on a computer or print the QR.
Step 5: Confirm installation
A confirmation message will appear. Tap "Continue" and then "Add Data Plan". The iPhone will download the eSIM profile — the process takes 30-60 seconds.
Step 6: Name the line (optional but recommended)
The iPhone will ask you to name the new line. Type something clear like "PuraSIM Mexico" or "Travel Data" to easily identify it. Then tap "Continue".
Step 7: Set Default Data Line
The last step is important: the iPhone will ask which line to use for data. Select the PuraSIM eSIM line so that all data goes through the travel plan. Your Spanish SIM will remain active for calls and SMS.
If this does not happen automatically, go to Settings → Cellular Data → Cellular Data Line → select the eSIM.
When to activate the eSIM?
The eSIM is installed and activated at home, but the plan's data only works when you are in coverage at the destination. Upon arrival, the phone automatically connects to the local network. You just need to make sure the eSIM is set as the active data line (Step 7).
How to install an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy
These instructions apply to Samsung Galaxy S20 and later with One UI 3.0+:
Step 1: Settings → Connections
Open Settings and tap "Connections".
Step 2: SIM manager
Tap "SIM manager" (in older versions it may be called "SIM card management").
Step 3: Add mobile data plan
Tap "Add mobile data plan" or the "+" icon.
Step 4: Scan the QR code
Select "Scan carrier QR code". The Samsung will open the camera. Scan the QR from your PuraSIM email.
Step 5: Confirm and wait
Confirm installation. The Samsung will download the eSIM profile in 30-60 seconds. Once completed, the new line will appear in the SIM Manager.
Step 6: Activate eSIM as data line
In the SIM Manager, tap the newly installed eSIM line and select "Mobile data" to make it the default data line.
Make sure that mobile data is disabled for your Spanish SIM: tap on it and disable "Mobile data" for that line.
How to install an eSIM on Google Pixel
For Pixel 3 and later with Android 12+:
Step 1: Settings → Network & internet
Open Settings and tap "Network & internet".
Step 2: SIMs → Add SIM
Tap "SIMs" and then the "+" button to add a new one.
Step 3: Have a QR code?
When asked for the installation method, select "Have a QR code?".
Step 4: Scan
Point the camera at the QR. The Pixel will scan it automatically.
Step 5: Confirm and set up
Confirm the installation and wait 30-60 seconds. Once installed, go to Settings → Network & internet → SIMs and select the eSIM as the default data line.
How to install an eSIM on Motorola
For Motorola Edge, Razr models with eSIM support:
- Settings → Network & internet → Calls & SMS
- Tap the "+" icon to add a line
- Select "Download a SIM instead"
- Scan the QR when the camera appears
- Confirm and wait for the profile to download
- Set up the eSIM as the data line in Settings → Network
Dual SIM setup: using eSIM and Spanish SIM at the same time
The great advantage of having an eSIM is that you can have two active lines simultaneously: your Spanish number for calls/SMS and the PuraSIM eSIM for affordable data. Here's how to set up Dual SIM correctly:
On iPhone:
- Settings → Cellular Data → Cellular Data Line → select the PuraSIM eSIM
- On the same screen, verify that "Enable Data Roaming" is ON for the eSIM
- Settings → Cellular Data → tap your Spanish SIM → disable "Data Roaming" (to avoid accidental charges)
On Android:
- Settings → Connections → SIM manager
- Under "Mobile data", select the eSIM line
- For your Spanish SIM: disable "Mobile data" or "Data roaming"
What to do upon arrival at the destination
If you installed the eSIM at home (recommended), upon arrival at the destination the process is automatic:
- Disable airplane mode if you had it on during the flight
- The phone automatically searches for a network — it may take 30-60 seconds
- The local operator's name will appear in the signal bar
- If it doesn't connect: Settings → Cellular Data → verify that the eSIM is active and selected for data
- Try sending a WhatsApp or opening Google Maps to confirm it's working
How to delete or deactivate an eSIM when you return home
When you return from your trip, you don't need to delete the eSIM immediately. You can deactivate it and reactivate the data on your Spanish SIM:
- iPhone: Settings → Cellular Data → Cellular Data Line → select your Spanish SIM
- Android: Settings → SIM manager → Mobile data → select Spanish SIM
If you want to completely delete the eSIM profile: Settings → Cellular Data → tap the eSIM line → "Delete eSIM Plan". Attention: this is irreversible. The profile cannot be restored once deleted.
Frequently asked questions about eSIM installation
How long does the installation take?
Typically 3-5 minutes in total, including data line setup. The profile download itself takes 30-60 seconds with good WiFi.
Do I need an internet connection to install the eSIM?
Yes, you need WiFi. The installation downloads the profile from the provider's servers. Without WiFi, the installation cannot be completed.
Can I install the eSIM at the airport?
Yes, as long as you have WiFi access at the airport. But we recommend installing it at home calmly, without the rush of travel.
What if the QR is unreadable?
Make sure you have good lighting and that the camera has autofocus. If it still won't read it, print the QR on A4 paper — higher resolution helps. If the problem persists, contact PuraSIM to resend the QR.
Do I have to reinstall the eSIM every time I travel?
It depends on the plan. PuraSIM eSIM plans are prepaid for one trip. For the next trip, you buy a new plan and repeat the installation process, which will already be familiar and faster.
Can I install the eSIM even if my phone is locked to a carrier?
If your phone is locked to a carrier (common in subsidized contracts), it may not accept eSIM profiles from other carriers. Contact your carrier to request unlocking — it's usually free after the minimum contract period.
Summary: key steps to remember
- Install the eSIM before you leave, from home with WiFi
- The QR can only be used once and on one device
- Set the eSIM as the default data line (most commonly forgotten step)
- Disable data roaming on your Spanish SIM to avoid accidental charges
- Upon arrival: disable airplane mode and wait for it to connect — usually automatic
If you have any problems during installation, PuraSIM support is available via chat or email at hola@purasim.com.
