In short: To install an eSIM on your iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM and scan the QR code that your carrier or PuraSim sends you by email. In less than five minutes, you'll have active data, without a physical card or roaming. You can prepare it from home and land with internet, stress-free.
The eSIM on iPhone has completely changed how we connect when traveling. No more searching for a SIM kiosk as soon as you land, struggling with the language at a phone store, or paying roaming fees that eat into your first day's budget. With an eSIM, you activate a data plan in seconds, from your phone, even before you board. This guide takes you step-by-step: checking if your iPhone is compatible, installing the profile with or without a QR code, configuring everything, and troubleshooting common errors. The goal is simple: that you arrive at your destination with coverage from the first minute.
What is an eSIM and why does it change the way you travel?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a chip that is already soldered inside your iPhone. Instead of inserting a plastic card into the tray, you download a digital "profile" that does exactly the same thing: it connects you to a mobile network. The difference is that you don't have to touch anything physical, you can't lose it, and you can have several stored at once.
For a traveler, this translates into three very specific advantages. First, you buy and activate the plan online, without relying on stores or opening hours. Second, you keep your Spanish SIM in to receive calls and SMS while data goes through the local eSIM. And third, you forget about classic roaming and its charges, which in some destinations outside the EU can exceed several euros per day. If you want to understand the technology in depth, we have a complete explanation on what an eSIM is and a direct comparison in eSIM vs roaming.
Which iPhones are compatible with eSIM?
Apple introduced the eSIM in 2018 with the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR. Since then, all main models support it. Before buying any plan, check your model in this reference table:
| iPhone Model | eSIM Compatible | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone XS / XS Max / XR | Yes | First generation with eSIM |
| iPhone 11 / 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max | Yes | Dual SIM (nano + eSIM) |
| iPhone SE (2nd gen, 2020) | Yes | Dual SIM |
| iPhone 12 / 12 mini / 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max | Yes | Dual SIM |
| iPhone 13 / 13 mini / 13 Pro / 13 Pro Max | Yes | Dual SIM, up to 2 active eSIMs |
| iPhone SE (3rd gen, 2022) | Yes | Dual SIM |
| iPhone 14 and 14 Pro (USA) | eSIM Only | No nano-SIM slot in USA models |
| iPhone 14 and 14 Pro (rest of the world) | Yes | Dual SIM with nano-SIM |
| iPhone 15 / 15 Plus / 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max | Yes | Up to 8 stored eSIMs |
| iPhone 16 / 16 Plus / 16 Pro / 16 Pro Max | Yes | Improved eSIM transfer |
Very important: verify that your iPhone is not carrier-locked. If you bought it second-hand or financed it with a contract, request unlocking before installing a third-party eSIM. You can check this in Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock: it should say "No SIM restrictions." If you have a different brand of mobile, check the complete list in eSIM compatible phones.
How to install an eSIM on iPhone with a QR code (step-by-step)
The QR method is the most common and fastest. You need the code that arrives by email after purchase. A tip before starting: open that email on a computer or tablet, because scanning the QR with the iPhone's own camera is more difficult than doing it from another screen.
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Tap Cellular (in some languages it appears as "Mobile Data").
- Select Add eSIM or Add Data Plan.
- Choose Use QR Code.
- Point the camera at the QR displayed on another screen. The iPhone detects it automatically.
- Tap Continue and give it a clear label, for example "PuraSim Europe".
- Decide which line will use data by default and which number will be shown when calling.
- Tap Done. The profile will be downloaded.
Remember that downloading the profile does not always mean that the plan is already consuming data: many travel plans start counting when they first connect to a network in the destination country. That's why you can install it comfortably from home without spending plan days. If you have doubts about the exact moment, we clarify it in activating the eSIM before or after traveling. Are you going to the continent? Take a look at the eSIM for Europe with coverage in dozens of countries.
How to activate an eSIM on iPhone without a QR code
You don't always need to scan anything. If you don't have a camera handy or the QR doesn't cooperate, there are two alternative ways to activate the eSIM on your iPhone.
Option A: enter data manually
- Go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM.
- Choose Enter Details Manually (at the very bottom).
- Enter the SM-DP+ address (the server) and the activation code provided by your carrier. Both come in the same email as the QR.
- Tap Next and follow the wizard to the end.
Option B: transfer an eSIM between iPhones
If you're getting a new iPhone and want to bring your main carrier's eSIM with you (note, this rarely works with travel eSIMs):
- Place both iPhones together during the new phone's setup.
- iOS detects the old device and offers to transfer the eSIM.
- Confirm on the old iPhone and wait a few minutes for it to complete.
Keep in mind that travel eSIMs, including PuraSim's, are usually linked to the device where they are activated and do not support transfer. The golden rule: always install it on the phone you are going to use it on.
Configure the eSIM as the data line on iPhone
Installing the profile is not enough. The iPhone needs you to explicitly tell it which line manages data, especially if you have Dual SIM active with your Spanish SIM and the travel eSIM at the same time.
- Open Settings → Cellular.
- Tap Default Voice Line (or "Preferred Line").
- Select the travel eSIM, for example "PuraSim Europe".
- Within that line, enable Data Roaming if the destination requires it. In a travel eSIM, this is normal and does not generate extra charges: the plan already includes this use.
- To avoid accidentally using your Spanish plan, go into your carrier's line and disable its Cellular Data while you are abroad.
On iPhone 15 and later, you can add a quick control to switch data lines without going into Settings every time. And if you want to share that data with your laptop or with whoever you're traveling with, see how to do it correctly in sharing internet via hotspot with the eSIM.
What almost no one tells you about eSIM on iPhone
Official tutorials stick to "scan the QR and you're done." These are the details that make the difference between a connected trip and an afternoon struggling with Settings:
- Your main SIM's roaming is the silent enemy. Even if you use a local eSIM, if you leave roaming active on your Spanish line, the iPhone can connect to it without warning and generate charges. Always disable it on your home line.
- Verification SMS still arrive on your usual number. A classic mistake is to completely deactivate the main SIM and be unable to receive bank or WhatsApp codes. Keep the SIM active for calls and SMS, but with data off. We detail this in SMS and verification codes with eSIM.
- Install at home, not at the airport. Downloading the profile requires internet. If you wait until you land without coverage, you won't be able to activate it. Install it using your home Wi-Fi and at your destination, you'll only need to turn it on.
- Save the original QR. Don't delete it after installing. If you reset your iPhone or change phones, you might need it again (and many codes can only be scanned once).
- Label each eSIM clearly. With several trips, you accumulate profiles. A clear name like "Japan May" prevents you from activating an old, exhausted travel plan.
- The APN usually configures itself, but not always. If you have signal but pages don't load, it's almost always the APN. Your provider will give you the correct value, and it can be entered in a minute.
Common problems when installing eSIM and how to solve them
Installation is simple, but occasionally something gets stuck. Here are the most common failures with their direct solutions.
"Cannot add data plan" error
This is usually due to a carrier-locked iPhone or a model without eSIM. Check Carrier Lock in Settings → General → About. If it says "Not Allowed," your carrier needs to unlock the device before you can proceed.
The QR code does not scan
This is almost always due to a QR code that's too small, poor lighting, or a code that has already been used. Open it on another screen at a larger size or print it. If you suspect it has already been scanned, ask your provider for a new code.
eSIM installed but no signal
Either the plan is not yet active (remember that many start when you arrive in the country) or the APN is incorrect. Verify the plan's start date. If it should be working, go to Settings → Cellular → [your eSIM] → Mobile Data Network and enter the APN provided by your carrier.
iOS asks to update before installing
Update to the latest available iOS version before proceeding. eSIM management improves with each version and you avoid strange failures during installation.
eSIM disappears after resetting iPhone
A factory reset deletes eSIMs. That's why it's good to save the original QR. If you no longer have it, contact your provider: in many cases, they can re-issue the profile or give you a new code.
If your case is not listed here, first check two things: that you have the latest version of iOS installed and that the plan is within its validity period. These are, by far, the two underlying causes behind most incidents during installation.
How much data do you need? Reference table by usage
One of the most frequently asked questions before buying is how many GB to contract. These are estimated daily consumptions to help you choose without running out or paying too much:
| Traveler Profile | Approximate Daily Usage | Suggested Plan (7 days) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic (maps + messaging) | 300 - 500 MB | 3 - 5 GB |
| Medium (social media + photos) | 500 MB - 1 GB | 5 - 10 GB |
| Intensive (streaming + video calls) | 1.5 - 2.5 GB | 15 - 20 GB or unlimited |
These are indicative figures: actual consumption depends on how much video you watch and whether you download offline maps before leaving (highly recommended). When in doubt, go slightly higher; topping up at your destination is always possible but more inconvenient. For Japan, for example, we have options from short plans to the Japan eSIM with plenty of data for the entire trip.
Frequently asked questions about eSIM on iPhone
Do I need Wi-Fi to activate the eSIM at my destination?
To download the profile, you do need internet, which is why it's best to install it at home with your Wi-Fi. Once installed, activation at the destination does not require an additional connection: when you turn on the line, the iPhone automatically connects to the local network of the country.
Can I have two active numbers at once with the eSIM?
Yes. With Dual SIM, you combine your physical Spanish SIM and a travel eSIM. Each line manages calls, messages, and data separately. On iPhone 15 and later, you can store up to eight eSIMs, although only two can be active at the same time.
How many eSIMs can I store on an iPhone?
You can store up to eight eSIM profiles, but only use two active lines simultaneously. On eSIM-only models (iPhone 14 in the US and iPhone 15 onwards in various markets), there is no physical slot for the nano-SIM.
Can the eSIM be transferred to another iPhone?
It depends on the provider. Most travel eSIMs, including PuraSim's, are linked to the device where they are activated and are not transferable. Always check the conditions before activating, and if you are going to change phones soon, activate it directly on the new one.
Can I use the same eSIM in multiple countries?
Yes, as long as the plan is regional or global. Regional plans cover several countries at no additional cost within their zone. Check the list of included countries before purchasing to ensure your itinerary fits.
What happens when the plan's data runs out?
The connection is cut off, or in some plans, it is reduced to a very low speed. You can top up from your provider's website or app without changing cards or installing anything new. Your Spanish SIM remains available in parallel for essentials.
Does the eSIM consume more battery?
Having Dual SIM active can slightly increase battery drain because the iPhone manages two radios. To optimize it, disable data for the line you are not currently using from Settings → Cellular.
Conclusion
Installing and activating an eSIM on iPhone is a quick process that can save you a lot of money on every trip. Whether you have an iPhone 13, an iPhone 15, or any compatible model since 2018, the path is practically the same: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → scan the QR. The key is preparation: install the profile from home, set it as the default data line, and disable roaming on your main SIM. With these three steps, you'll land with internet, no roaming, and no stress, ready to use the map as soon as you get off the plane.
