How to Install an eSIM on iPhone: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Installing an eSIM on an iPhone is usually a quick process that takes only a few minutes. There is no physical SIM card to insert and no need to visit a mobile phone shop. Once you have purchased a plan, you can add the eSIM digitally using a QR code, a direct installation link or manual activation details.

The installation itself is simple, but a few settings matter. Your iPhone must support eSIM, it should be unlocked, and the new line must be selected correctly for mobile data. Travel eSIMs also normally require Data Roaming to be enabled after you arrive at your destination.

This guide explains how to install an eSIM on an iPhone, configure a MobiSIM travel plan and solve the most common installation problems.

What Is an eSIM on iPhone?

An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your iPhone. It performs the same basic function as a physical SIM card, but the mobile plan is downloaded directly to the device instead of being stored on a removable plastic card.

With an eSIM-compatible iPhone, you can add a travel data plan without removing your regular SIM. This makes it possible to keep your usual number available for calls and messages while using a separate eSIM for mobile data abroad.

Apple says compatible iPhones can store eight or more eSIM profiles. Supported models can also use two active eSIMs at the same time, although an iPhone uses only one cellular data network at a time.

If you would like to understand the technology in more detail, read MobiSIM’s guide to what an eSIM is and how it works⁠.

Which iPhones Support eSIM?

Apple introduced eSIM support with the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR. Most newer iPhone models also support the technology.

The iPhone X, iPhone 8 and earlier models do not support eSIM.

Compatibility can vary according to the country where the iPhone was purchased. Certain models sold in mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao have different SIM configurations, so the model name alone does not always confirm eSIM support.

The simplest way to check is to open Settings, select Cellular or Mobile Data and look for the Add eSIM option. You can also open Settings, tap General, select About and look for an EID number. The presence of an EID normally confirms that the device contains eSIM hardware.

Before buying a plan, check your exact model using MobiSIM’s regularly updated list of eSIM-compatible devices⁠.

Check Whether Your iPhone Is Unlocked

An iPhone can support eSIM technology and still be unable to use a travel eSIM if it is locked to another mobile operator.

To check its status, open Settings, tap General and then select About. Scroll down until you find Carrier Lock. If the device displays “No SIM Restrictions,” the iPhone is unlocked and should be able to use an eSIM from another provider.

If a carrier name or restriction appears, contact the operator that originally sold or financed the phone. Only that operator can confirm whether the device is eligible to be unlocked.

MobiSIM cannot remove a carrier lock. For a more detailed explanation, read Can You Use a Travel eSIM on a Locked Phone?⁠.

What You Need Before Installing an eSIM

Before beginning, connect the iPhone to a stable Wi-Fi network or another reliable internet connection. The phone needs internet access to securely download the eSIM profile.

Make sure the device is updated to a recent version of iOS and that you have the iPhone passcode available. You will also need the QR code, direct installation link or manual activation details supplied with your plan.

If your QR code is displayed on the same iPhone, you may be able to tap and hold it to begin installation on iOS 17.4 or later. Otherwise, open the QR code on a computer, tablet or another phone so that your iPhone can scan it.

Treat the QR code as private activation information. Do not publish it, forward it unnecessarily or share it on social media.

How to Purchase a MobiSIM eSIM for iPhone

Visit the MobiSIM eSIM marketplace⁠ and search for your destination. Compare the available plans according to coverage, data allowance, validity period and supported network technology.

After completing the purchase, the installation information will be made available digitally. Depending on the selected plan and device, you may receive a QR code, manual activation details or a simplified installation option.

Check the activation conditions before installing. Many travel eSIMs begin their validity only when they first connect to a supported network at the destination, but activation policies can vary between plans.

Installing before departure is generally recommended because it gives you time to check the device settings while you still have a dependable internet connection. MobiSIM explains the timing in more detail in Should You Install Your eSIM Before or After You Travel?⁠.

How to Install an eSIM on iPhone Using a QR Code

The QR code method is one of the most common ways to install an eSIM on an iPhone.

First, display the QR code on another phone, computer, tablet or printed page. Make sure it is clear and fully visible.

On your iPhone, open Settings and tap Cellular, Mobile Data or Mobile Service. The exact name can differ according to your language and region.

Tap Add eSIM and choose Use QR Code. Point the iPhone camera at the QR code supplied with your MobiSIM plan.

When the plan is detected, tap Continue. Review the information displayed on the screen and select Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan to confirm the installation.

Keep the phone connected to the internet while the profile is downloaded. Do not close Settings or restart the device until the installation is complete.

Once the profile appears under your cellular plans, the eSIM has been added to your iPhone. It may still show “Activating,” “No Service” or a similar status if you are not yet inside the plan’s supported coverage area. This does not necessarily indicate an installation problem.

How to Install an eSIM From a QR Code on the Same iPhone

If the MobiSIM QR code is open in a supported email application or browser on the same iPhone, you may not need a second screen.

On iOS 17.4 or later, tap and hold the QR code. When the menu appears, choose Add eSIM and follow the onscreen instructions.

Tap Continue, review the plan and confirm the installation.

If the Add eSIM option does not appear, save or open the QR code on another device and use the standard scanning method. You can also install the plan manually if your order includes an SM-DP+ address and activation code.

Apple documents the available activation methods in its official guide on setting up an eSIM on iPhone⁠.

How to Install a MobiSIM eSIM With One Click

Some MobiSIM plans and compatible devices support a simplified installation process.

Open the MobiSIM installation option provided with your order on the iPhone where you want to use the eSIM. Tap the installation button and allow the link to open the iPhone’s cellular settings.

When the “Activate New eSIM” message appears, tap Allow and then Continue. Follow the instructions displayed by iOS until the plan has been added.

Do not open the installation link on a different phone unless that is the device where you intend to use the eSIM.

Availability of one-click installation depends on the selected plan, device and installation method provided with the order.

How to Install an eSIM Manually on iPhone

Manual installation is useful when the QR code cannot be scanned but the plan includes an SM-DP+ address and activation code.

Open Settings and select Cellular, Mobile Data or Mobile Service. Tap Add eSIM and choose Use QR Code.

At the bottom of the QR code screen, tap Enter Details Manually. Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code exactly as provided. If a confirmation code is included, enter it only when the iPhone requests it.

Tap Next or Continue and wait for the profile to download. Once installation is complete, the new eSIM will appear among your cellular plans.

Do not add spaces, change capitalisation or copy punctuation that is not part of the activation information. A small typing error can prevent the profile from being found.

How to Configure Your MobiSIM eSIM After Installation

After adding the eSIM, your iPhone will ask how you want to use the new line. These choices are important, particularly when you want to keep your regular number active during the trip.

Give the new plan a clear label such as “MobiSIM” or “Travel Data.” A recognisable label makes it easier to distinguish it from your primary line later.

Keep your regular number as the default voice line if you want to continue using it for traditional calls and SMS messages. Your home operator’s international charges may still apply when that line is used abroad.

When the iPhone asks which line should provide Cellular Data, select MobiSIM. This directs internet traffic through the travel eSIM rather than through your home mobile plan.

If Allow Cellular Data Switching is displayed, turn it off unless you intentionally want the iPhone to switch between the two lines. Disabling it helps prevent the primary SIM from being used unexpectedly when the travel eSIM has a weak signal.

Your iMessage and FaceTime settings can normally remain associated with your regular number. Using a travel eSIM for data does not automatically change your Apple Account, iMessage number or WhatsApp account.

How to Activate a MobiSIM eSIM at Your Destination

Installation and activation are not always the same event. Installing an eSIM downloads the profile to the iPhone. The plan may activate later, often when it first connects to a supported network.

After arriving at your destination, open Settings and select Cellular or Mobile Data. Tap the MobiSIM line and make sure Turn On This Line is enabled.

Return to Cellular Data and confirm that MobiSIM is selected as the data line.

Open the MobiSIM line again, select Cellular Data Options and turn on Data Roaming. Most international travel eSIMs need this setting because they provide service through supported partner networks.

Enabling Data Roaming for the MobiSIM line does not automatically enable it for your primary SIM. Keep roaming disabled on the home line unless you intentionally want to use your regular operator’s roaming service.

Your eSIM should connect automatically to a supported network. This may take a few minutes after landing. If it does not connect, switch Airplane Mode on for approximately 30 seconds, switch it off and allow the iPhone to search again.

To understand why this setting is required, read Why Does an eSIM Require Data Roaming?⁠.

Can You Keep Your Physical SIM Active?

Yes. An eSIM-compatible iPhone can usually keep a physical SIM and an eSIM active at the same time. Newer models also support Dual eSIM.

This means your primary number can remain available for calls and SMS while MobiSIM supplies mobile data. The iPhone still uses only one cellular data network at a time, so you must select the MobiSIM line under Cellular Data.

Keeping the home line active can be useful for receiving verification messages. However, calls and SMS remain subject to the prices and roaming policy of your primary operator.

If you do not need the home line during the trip, you can temporarily disable it in Settings without removing the physical SIM or deleting its eSIM profile.

Will WhatsApp Keep Your Normal Number?

Installing a MobiSIM travel eSIM does not automatically change the number registered with WhatsApp.

WhatsApp can continue using your existing number while its internet connection comes from the MobiSIM data plan. If the application asks whether you want to change your number, decline unless you genuinely intend to move the account to another telephone number.

The same principle applies to many internet-based messaging and calling applications. A data-only eSIM supplies internet access even when it does not include a traditional phone number, voice calls or SMS.

Read MobiSIM’s complete guide to using WhatsApp with a travel eSIM⁠ for more information.

What to Do if Your iPhone Cannot Install the eSIM

If the iPhone does not display Add eSIM, verify that the model supports eSIM and check whether the device was produced for a region with different SIM restrictions.

If the QR code is not detected, increase the screen brightness on the device displaying it and make sure the entire code is visible. Alternatively, open Settings, select Add eSIM and scan it from there instead of using an unrelated QR scanner application.

An “Unable to Complete Cellular Setup” message can appear when the internet connection is unstable, the device is carrier-locked or the activation code has already been used.

Restart the iPhone, reconnect to stable Wi-Fi and try again only if you are certain the profile was not installed. Before rescanning, check Settings under Cellular or Mobile Data. The eSIM may already be listed even if the installation screen closed unexpectedly.

If the profile is present, do not attempt to install the same QR code again.

What if the eSIM Is Stuck on Activating?

A travel eSIM may remain on “Activating” when the iPhone is outside the package’s supported destination. The profile has been installed, but it cannot complete network registration until it reaches a compatible network.

In this situation, keep the eSIM installed and wait until arrival. Do not delete it simply because it does not have service in your home country.

If you are already at the destination, confirm that the line is turned on, selected for cellular data and allowed to use Data Roaming. Restart the device or briefly use Airplane Mode to trigger a new network search.

Network selection should normally remain on Automatic. If the eSIM still cannot connect, review the plan details to identify supported operators and try selecting one manually.

What if the eSIM Has Signal but No Internet?

Signal bars show that the iPhone has registered on a mobile network, but they do not always confirm that cellular data is configured correctly.

Open Settings and confirm that MobiSIM is selected under Cellular Data. Then open the MobiSIM line, enter Cellular Data Options and verify that Data Roaming is enabled.

If your plan includes specific APN information, check that it has been entered exactly as supplied. Some plans configure the APN automatically, while others require manual entry.

After making changes, switch Airplane Mode on and off or restart the iPhone. Give the device a few minutes to establish a fresh data session.

Can You Delete and Reinstall an eSIM on iPhone?

Do not delete your MobiSIM eSIM while installing it, waiting for activation or troubleshooting a connection.

Many travel eSIM QR codes are designed for one installation only. After the profile has been downloaded, the same code may no longer work. Deleting the eSIM can therefore permanently remove access to the purchased plan.

An eSIM should normally remain installed until the data has been used or the plan has expired. You can turn the line off temporarily without deleting it.

If you accidentally remove an active eSIM, contact MobiSIM support with your order information. Reinstallation or replacement cannot be guaranteed and depends on the conditions of the specific plan.

How to Remove an eSIM After Your Trip

Once the plan has expired and you are certain that it is no longer needed, open Settings and select Cellular or Mobile Data. Tap the MobiSIM line and choose Delete eSIM or Remove Cellular Plan.

Confirm the removal when prompted. Then make sure your primary SIM is turned on and selected again for cellular data.

Deleting an expired travel eSIM does not affect your primary line. However, the removed travel profile normally cannot be recovered using its original QR code.

Why Install a MobiSIM eSIM on Your iPhone?

A travel eSIM allows you to arrange mobile data before leaving home and connect without searching for a SIM card shop after landing.

MobiSIM offers country-specific, regional and global travel eSIM plans⁠ covering more than 200 destinations. Plans are delivered digitally, and eligible iPhone users can benefit from simplified installation options.

You can choose a package based on your destination, travel duration and expected data usage. MobiSIM customers also receive 15% cashback on every purchase, which can be used toward future plans.

Once the correct MobiSIM plan is installed and configured, your iPhone can use mobile data for maps, transport applications, accommodation bookings, email, WhatsApp and other travel services without replacing your regular SIM card.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to install an eSIM on an iPhone?

Installation usually takes only a few minutes when the iPhone is compatible, unlocked and connected to stable Wi-Fi. Network activation may take longer if you have not yet arrived at the supported destination.

Can I install an eSIM without Wi-Fi?

A reliable internet connection is normally required to download the eSIM profile. Apple notes that some eSIM-only iPhone models can activate without Wi-Fi in certain countries and regions, but connecting to Wi-Fi before installation remains the safest approach.

Can I scan an eSIM QR code from the same iPhone?

On iOS 17.4 or later, you may be able to tap and hold a QR code displayed in a supported email application or browser and select Add eSIM. If that option does not appear, display the code on another device.

Does the iPhone X support eSIM?

No. eSIM support begins with the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR. The iPhone X does not contain eSIM support.

Does installing an eSIM change my phone number?

Installing a data-only travel eSIM does not change your primary number. Your regular SIM can remain active for calls and messages while the eSIM provides mobile data.

Should Data Roaming be on for a travel eSIM?

Most travel eSIMs require Data Roaming because they connect through supported partner networks. Enable it for the travel eSIM and keep it disabled for your primary line unless you want to use your home operator’s roaming service.

Can I use two eSIMs at the same time on an iPhone?

iPhone 13 models and later support Dual SIM with two active eSIMs. Earlier compatible models can generally use a physical SIM and an eSIM together. Regional and carrier restrictions may apply.

Why does my eSIM say “No Service” before my trip?

A travel eSIM may not find a supported network until you arrive at its covered destination. If the profile is visible in Settings, keep it installed and follow the activation instructions after arrival.

Can I reuse the same QR code after deleting the eSIM?

Many travel eSIM QR codes can be installed only once. Do not delete the profile until the plan has expired or been fully used.

When should I install my MobiSIM eSIM?

It is generally best to install it before travelling while you have stable Wi-Fi. Check the activation conditions of your plan and turn the line on according to the instructions provided with your order.