Frequently asked questions

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a cellular plan without having to use a physical SIM card. It is built into your device and can be programmed to connect to different mobile networks.

After purchasing an eSIM, you will receive a QR code. Go to your device settings, find the eSIM or cellular settings, and scan the QR code. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Most modern smartphones support eSIM, including iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, Google Pixel 3 and later, and many more. Check our compatible devices page for a full list.

Yes! We offer regional and global eSIM plans that work across multiple countries. Local plans are specific to one country, while regional plans cover entire regions like Europe or Asia.

If your eSIM supports top-ups, you can purchase additional data from your account dashboard. Go to My eSIMs, select the eSIM you want to top up, and choose a top-up package.

When your data runs out, you will no longer be able to use mobile data through the eSIM. You can purchase a top-up if available, or buy a new eSIM package.

As a general rule, eSIM purchases are final. A refund is only considered when your eSIM is completely unable to connect, the issue could not be fixed after troubleshooting with our support team, and you provide proof that the service is not working (such as screenshots of the error and your settings). Refunds are never issued if your device does not support eSIM or is carrier-locked, so always check our Compatible Devices page before buying. To request a refund, open a support ticket from your account dashboard. See our Refund Policy for full details.

No, most eSIM-compatible devices support dual SIM, meaning you can use both your physical SIM and eSIM simultaneously. You can choose which one to use for data.

Yes — in almost all cases you must switch on Data Roaming for your eSIM line, otherwise it will not connect. Your eSIM uses a local partner network at your destination, which technically counts as "roaming", so the setting has to be enabled. This will NOT trigger any roaming charges — your plan is prepaid and you only use the data you bought. Turn Data Roaming on for the eSIM line once you arrive at your destination.

Open Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data), tap your eSIM line (the label you gave it when installing), then turn on Data Roaming. If you do not see the toggle, make sure the line is switched on first. Do this after you land at your destination.

Open Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs, select your eSIM, and turn on Roaming (sometimes shown as "Data roaming"). On Samsung it is usually Settings > Connections > SIM manager, or Mobile networks > Data roaming. Menu names vary by brand, but the toggle is always under the eSIM's mobile-network options.

If you keep your home SIM in the phone too, tell iOS which line to use for the internet: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data, and choose your eSIM. To avoid accidental charges on your home plan, also turn off "Allow Cellular Data Switching". Your calls and texts can stay on your home number while data runs on the eSIM.

Open Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs (or Connections > SIM manager on Samsung). Under "Mobile data", choose your eSIM as the SIM used for data, and make sure Mobile data is turned on for that line. You can keep your physical SIM active for calls and texts while the eSIM handles data.

Delivery is instant. As soon as your payment is confirmed, your QR code and installation details are sent to your email and appear in your account dashboard. In rare cases a provider may take a few minutes; if you have not received your eSIM within 15 minutes, open a support ticket.

It depends on the plan's activation policy, which is shown on every product page. Most plans start counting validity when the eSIM first connects to a supported network at your destination. Some start at installation. Your data allowance is never consumed before the plan activates.

First check the basics: the eSIM line is turned on, Data Roaming is enabled for the eSIM line, and your eSIM is selected as the data line. Then restart your phone. If it still does not connect, try selecting a network manually in your mobile network settings and confirm the APN matches your installation instructions. If nothing works, open a support ticket with screenshots and our team will troubleshoot with you.

Most travel eSIMs are data-only and do not include a phone number. You can still call and message over the internet with WhatsApp, iMessage, FaceTime, Telegram, and similar apps. Plans that do include voice minutes or SMS clearly show the included amounts on the product page.

In most cases yes, you can share your eSIM data with other devices through your phone's personal hotspot. A small number of plans restrict tethering; when that is the case, it is noted on the product page.

Yes. Plans marked as unlimited are subject to the provider's Fair Usage Policy. Typically you get a daily amount of full-speed data, after which speeds are reduced until the next day. The exact policy is shown on the product page.

We accept major credit and debit cards, PayPal, and express wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay where available. You can also pay using your eSIM.site wallet credit or a gift card. Prices can be displayed in multiple currencies at checkout.

No. You can buy as a guest and receive your eSIM by email. Creating a free account (or claiming your guest order later with the same email) unlocks usage tracking, top-ups, loyalty rewards, and support tickets.

Yes. The easiest way is an eSIM.site gift card, which the recipient can redeem for any plan on the site. Gift cards are delivered by email with a personal message on the date you choose.

A few destinations legally require identity verification before an eSIM can be activated, and we occasionally verify identity to protect customers against payment fraud. When verification is needed, you will be guided through a secure upload. Your documents are handled according to our Privacy Policy and kept only as long as required.