How to set up an eSIM on iPhone (iOS) with a QR code, by KnowRoaming on YouTube. 1 min 28 s.
- Video length
- 1 min 28 s
- Time to do it
- 10 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Check that your iPhone supports eSIM. Open Settings, tap Cellular (Mobile Service outside the US) and look for the Add eSIM option. If it is there, you can install one.
Set the eSIM up a day or two before you travel, while you are on Wi-Fi. Open the provider website on a computer so your iPhone stays free to scan the code.
Log in to your account on the provider website and find your QR code. It appears on the order confirmation screen and in your confirmation email.
Point your iPhone camera at the QR code and tap the link that appears. Or go to Settings, Cellular, Add eSIM, then Use QR Code.
Follow the on-screen prompts to finish. The eSIM is now installed on your phone but not yet in use.
If you only have your iPhone, save the QR code to Photos, press and hold it, then tap Add eSIM.
When you land, open Settings, Cellular (Mobile Service outside the US) and select your travel eSIM under SIMs. Switch on Turn On This Line, then switch on Data Roaming.
Go back, tap Cellular Data (Mobile Data outside the US) and pick your travel eSIM. Your regular number stays active for calls and texts.
Back home, select the travel eSIM under SIMs and switch off Turn On This Line. Then set Cellular Data back to your regular SIM. Do not delete the eSIM.
Tips and common mistakes
Switch the line off rather than deleting it when you get home, so it is ready for your next plan.
Turn on Data Roaming for the travel line only, and keep it off for your home line to avoid charges.
Menu names differ by region, so look for Mobile Service and Mobile Data if you do not see Cellular and Cellular Data.
Install the eSIM on Wi-Fi before you fly, since you may not have data on arrival to download it.
Questions
Do I need to remove my normal SIM?
No. The eSIM runs alongside your regular SIM, so your home number still works for calls and texts. Just choose which line handles mobile data.
Why does my iPhone not show Add eSIM?
Your phone may be older than an iPhone XS or SE 2020, or your carrier may have locked it. Ask your carrier to it, then try again.
Should I delete the eSIM after my trip?
No. Switch off Turn On This Line instead. The eSIM stays on the phone and you add a new plan to it for your next trip.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
