Quick guide

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital SIM card that is already integrated into your phone. Instead of inserting a plastic card, you download a data plan by scanning a QR code. It's the easiest way to have internet when you travel, without roaming and without changing your number.

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An eSIM, the digital SIM that lives inside your phone
In plain English

A digital SIM, without cards

The "e" in eSIM stands for embedded. It's a small chip already soldered inside your phone: you can't see it, touch it, or lose it. Instead of a physical card, your phone downloads a profile with the operator's data, and that profile is what you activate with the QR.

Live inside your phoneAn integrated digital chip: it's activated with a QR code and works just like a normal SIM.
Do not remove your current SIM cardYour number, your calls, and your WhatsApp remain the same. The eSIM is added only as a data line.
Multiple saves at onceYou can have multiple eSIMs installed and switch between them in seconds, ideal for traveling through multiple countries.
The eSIM is a digital SIM integrated into the mobile phone.
How it's used

How does a travel eSIM work?

It works in three steps. One: you choose your destination and a data plan, pay, and receive a QR code by email in less than 1 minute. Two: you scan it from your phone settings to install the eSIM, preferably at home with Wi-Fi.

Three: upon arriving at your destination, activate the data line and start browsing local networks. The days of your plan start counting from the first use at the destination, so you can install it days before traveling with peace of mind.

See the step-by-step guide →
You receive your eSIM's QR code by email and scan it
eSIM vs. Physical SIM

Why change?

  PuraSim eSIM Local physical SIM
Get it instantly, online
No queues or airport shops
Activation with a QR code
Keep your number and WhatsApp
Top up and add data online
Coverage in 218 destinations
Hotspot included
Impossible to lose
24/7 human support
Is my phone compatible? →
Frequent questions

All clear on eSIMs

An eSIM is a digital SIM integrated into your mobile that replaces the physical card. It allows you to have a data plan without changing cards: you activate it with a QR code and it's perfect for traveling with internet without paying roaming, keeping your usual number.
A regular SIM is a plastic card you insert and remove, while an eSIM is a built-in chip you download via software. The eSIM can't be lost, lets you have several lines at once and activates online in minutes, without going to a store.
Yes, they're different names for the same thing. "Virtual SIM", "eSIM card" or "eSIM" all refer to that digital SIM installed with a QR. At PuraSim we sell prepaid data eSIMs for travel, with no contract and no commitment.
Our travel eSIMs are prepaid: you pay once for the GB and days you need, with no monthly fees or commitment. When they run out, you can top up or buy another plan from the website in seconds.;Do I lose my number when using an eSIM?
Yes, you need WiFi or data to download the profile when you scan the QR. That's why we recommend installing it at home before you travel. Then, at your destination, you just turn on the data and you're online.
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Travelers enjoying their PuraSim eSIM

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More on eSIMs and Travel eSIMs

All About eSIMs: What They Are, How They Work, and Which Phones Support Them

A eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone that has changed the way you connect when traveling. Here we answer the most common questions about eSIMs and travel eSIMs: which phones support them, how much they cost, how to install them, and how they differ from a physical SIM or traditional SIM card.

Which phones have eSIM?

Almost all phones from 2018 onwards support eSIM: iPhone XS, XR and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, Google Pixel 3+, many recent Xiaomi and Motorola models, and over 500 other models. The phone must be unlocked, without carrier restrictions.

How do I know if my phone is compatible?

Dial *#06# on the keypad: if a 32-digit EID code appears, your mobile supports eSIM. You can also check in the settings, looking for the "Add eSIM" or "Mobile plan" option.

How much does a travel eSIM cost?

It depends on the destination and the GB, but PuraSim plans start from just a few cents a day and most travelers spend much less than with roaming. There are plans by country, by region (Europe, Asia, Latin America), and global plans.

Does eSIM use more battery?

Not noticeably. An eSIM consumes practically the same as a physical SIM. If you have Dual SIM with two active lines, you might notice a slightly higher consumption, but it's minimal.

Can I transfer my eSIM to another phone?

The eSIM is tied to the device where you install it. If you change phones, the easiest way is to install a new plan on the new phone. Therefore, it's best to scan the QR code on the phone you'll be traveling with.

Does the eSIM work without WiFi coverage at the destination?

Yes. Once installed and activated, the eSIM uses local mobile networks (4G/5G) and doesn't need WiFi. You only need a connection (WiFi or data) at the moment of installing the profile with the QR code.