iPhone setup guide

How to install and activate your travel eSIM on iPhone

Use this checklist with the installation details for your own order. Adding an eSIM profile, starting plan validity and connecting to mobile data are separate steps. Your selected plan determines when validity begins.

  • 6 steps
  • Reviewed 17 October 2026
  • Support if you get stuck

Keep your eSIM installed. Do not delete it or share its QR code. Contact support before retrying an installation that reports an already-used code.

  1. Step 1: Check the exact iPhone and your plan

    Confirm eSIM support for your exact model and regional variant, and that your phone is network-unlocked. Read the selected plan’s activation terms before installing: do not assume every plan waits until arrival to start.

  2. Step 2: Find your installation details

    Use reliable Wi-Fi. Open the fulfilment email or your order details and keep the supplied QR code available on another screen if needed. Keep this code private. If your order provides an installation link, follow its instructions instead.

  3. Step 3: Add the eSIM profile

    Open Settings, then Mobile Service, Cellular or Mobile Data, and choose Add eSIM. Use the supplied QR code and follow the phone’s prompts. Menu names vary with iOS and region.

  4. Step 4: Use manual details if supplied

    If you cannot scan the code, choose the manual entry option and copy the SM-DP+ address and activation code exactly from your own installation details. Only enter a confirmation code if your order supplies one. Ask support if these details are missing; do not guess them.

  5. Step 5: Select the travel data line

    Label the new line so you can recognise it. At the time specified in the plan instructions, turn that line on and select it for mobile data. Follow the plan’s data-roaming instructions. Disable data roaming on your home line if you want to avoid its roaming data charges, and check automatic mobile data switching.

  6. Step 6: Check the connection at your destination

    Confirm that you are in a covered destination and that the plan is valid with data remaining. These plans supply data rather than a local telephone number or ordinary voice minutes and SMS. Your home carrier may still charge for calls or messages. If data does not work, follow the no-data checklist below.

What next?

Device manufacturer guidance

Check the manufacturer’s current instructions if the menus on your phone differ.

More setup help

Find your order in your accountGet help with your orderRead refund conditions

Reviewed 17 October 2026. General setup guidance; your selected product’s instructions and activation conditions take priority.