eSIM on iPhone: how to install and activate it step by step

The eSIM on iPhone has changed the way we travel. Gone are the days of searching for a SIM kiosk at the airport, paying exorbitant fees, or risking losing your local SIM. With an eSIM, you can activate a data plan in seconds, directly from your phone, even before boarding the plane.

This guide covers everything: from knowing if your iPhone is compatible to resolving the most common errors that appear during installation. If you want to connect as soon as you arrive at your destination without surprises, keep reading.

Which iPhones are compatible with eSIM?

Apple introduced eSIM compatibility in 2018 with the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR. Since then, all major models support it. Below is the complete list by generation:

Important: verify that your iPhone is not carrier-locked. If you bought it second-hand or with a contract, request unlocking before installing a third-party eSIM. You can check this in Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock.

For a complete list of devices from all brands, consult our guide to eSIM-compatible phones.

Step-by-step — How to install an eSIM on iPhone (with QR)

The QR code method is the most common and fastest. You will need the QR code that PuraSim (or your provider) will send you by email after purchase.

1. Open Settings on your iPhone.
2. Tap Cellular (in some languages it appears as "Mobile Data").
3. Select Add Cellular Plan or Add eSIM.
4. Choose Use QR Code.
5. Point the camera at the received QR code. The iPhone detects it automatically.
6. Confirm the installation by tapping Continue and assign a label (e.g., "PuraSim Europe").
7. Decide which line will use data by default and which number will show for calls.
8. Tap Done.

Going to Europe? Check out our selection of eSIMs for Europe with coverage in over 35 countries.

How to activate an eSIM on iPhone without a QR code

Some carriers allow eSIM activation without scanning a QR code. There are two alternative ways:

Option A: Manual activation code

1. Go to Settings → Cellular → Add Cellular Plan.
2. Select Enter Details Manually.
3. Enter the SM-DP+ Address (server address) and the Activation Code provided by your carrier.
4. Tap Next and follow the wizard.

Option B: eSIM transfer between iPhones

If you're upgrading your iPhone and want to transfer your primary carrier eSIM (not always available for travel eSIMs):

1. Place both iPhones together during the new device setup.
2. iOS detects the old iPhone and offers the option to transfer the eSIM.
3. Confirm on the old iPhone and wait for the transfer (it may take a few minutes).

Keep in mind that travel eSIMs like PuraSim's are usually linked to a device and do not support transfer. Always activate them on the device where you intend to use them.

How to set up an eSIM as a data plan on iPhone

Installing the eSIM does not guarantee that it will manage your data. You must explicitly tell your iPhone, especially if you have Dual SIM active.

1. Open Settings → Cellular.
2. Tap Default Voice Line (or "Preferred Line").
3. Select the travel eSIM (e.g., "PuraSim Europe").
4. Also activate Data Roaming within that line's settings if the destination requires it.
5. To ensure you don't consume data from your primary SIM, go to your carrier's card and temporarily deactivate Cellular Data on that line.

On iPhone 15 and later, you can add a quick control widget in the Control Center to change the active data line without going into Settings.

If you plan to travel to Asia, we have specific eSIM plans for Japan with unlimited data and instant activation.

Frequent problems when installing eSIM on iPhone and solutions

eSIM installation is straightforward, but sometimes errors occur. Here are the most common ones and how to resolve them:

Error: "Cannot Add Cellular Plan"

Cause: iPhone is carrier-locked or a model without eSIM.
Solution: Check in Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock. If it says "No SIM Restrictions," contact your carrier to unlock the device.

The QR code does not scan

Cause: QR too small on screen, poor lighting, or QR already used.
Solution: Print the QR or open it on another device at a larger size. If it has already been scanned, ask your provider for a new code.

eSIM installed but no signal

Cause: The plan is not yet active (some plans activate upon arrival in the destination country) or the APN is incorrect.
Solution: Verify the plan's activation date. If it should be active, go to Settings → Cellular → [your eSIM] → Mobile Data Network and enter the APN indicated by the provider.

iOS requests an update before installing

Solution: Update to the latest available iOS version before proceeding. eSIM management improves with each minor update.

The eSIM disappears after resetting the iPhone

Cause: When performing a factory reset, eSIMs are erased.
Solution: Contact your provider. In many cases, they can re-issue the eSIM or give you a new activation code.

For a more detailed diagnosis, consult our guide on common eSIM problems.

Questions before traveling — Everything you need to know

Do I need Wi-Fi to activate the eSIM at my destination?

It depends on the activation time. If you install the eSIM at home while you have Wi-Fi or mobile data, the profile download will complete without problems. Once the profile is installed, activation at the destination (when the plan begins its validity) does not require an additional connection: the iPhone automatically connects to the local network.

How many GB do I need for a one-week trip?

As a rough guide: offline maps + messaging + moderate social media use consume between 300 MB and 1 GB per day. For a week, a 5-10 GB plan perfectly covers most travelers. If you plan to stream video or video conference, consider 15-20 GB.

Can I use the eSIM in multiple countries?

Yes, if the plan is regional or global. PuraSim plans for Europe or Asia Pacific cover multiple countries at no additional cost. Always check the list of included countries before purchasing.

What happens when the eSIM data plan runs out?

When you consume all included data, the connection is cut off or, in some plans, reduced to very slow speeds (throttling). You can recharge from the provider's app or website without changing cards.

Does the eSIM consume additional battery?

Active Dual SIM use can slightly increase battery consumption because the iPhone manages two radios simultaneously. To optimize it, deactivate mobile data for the line you are not using at any given moment from Settings → Cellular.

Explore all our available plans at view all PuraSim eSIMs.

Conclusion

Installing and activating an eSIM on iPhone is a simple process that can save you dozens of euros on each trip. Whether you have an iPhone 14, an iPhone 15, or any compatible model since 2018, the procedure is practically identical: Settings → Cellular → Add Cellular Plan → scan QR.

The key is to prepare everything before you leave: install the eSIM from home, confirm that the line is configured as the default data line, and deactivate roaming on your primary SIM. With that, you will arrive at any destination with data from the first minute.

Frequently Asked Questions about eSIM on iPhone

Escrito por Marc González Sáez Fundador de PuraSim y especialista en eSIM y conectividad para viajeros. Lleva años ayudando a viajar conectado por todo el mundo sin pagar de más por el roaming, y prueba personalmente las eSIM en cada destino antes de recomendarlas.