How to install an eSIM on iPhone

Before you begin

• Confirm that your exact iPhone model supports eSIM and is not locked to an incompatible carrier.
• Connect to reliable Wi-Fi and update iOS if an update is appropriate for your device.
• Keep the QR code or manual installation details available on another screen or in a secure place.
• Read the plan’s activation rule so you know whether installing or first connecting may start validity.
• Do not delete an existing SIM or eSIM; adding a travel line normally does not require it.

Add the eSIM

1. Open Settings, then choose Cellular or Mobile Data.
2. Select Add eSIM or a similarly named option.
3. Choose to use a QR code, then scan the code supplied for the plan.
4. If scanning is unavailable, look for an option to enter details manually and copy them exactly as provided.
5. Follow the iPhone prompts until the new mobile plan appears in Settings.
6. Give the line a clear label such as “Travel” or the destination name.

An installation code may be intended for one successful use. If the phone says it has already been used, do not repeatedly delete and rescan the profile; check whether the eSIM already appears under your mobile plans and use the support route if it does not.

Choose how your lines are used

iPhone may ask which line should handle calls, messages, and mobile data. For a data-only travel eSIM, keep your usual line selected for calls and messages if you need it, and select the travel eSIM for mobile data when you are ready to use the plan. Carrier charges can still apply to activity on your home line.

Review Allow Cellular Data Switching before travel. Leaving switching enabled may permit iPhone to use the other line for data in some circumstances. The best setting depends on your home carrier and whether you are willing to incur roaming charges.

When you reach the destination

1. Open the new line in Cellular or Mobile Data settings and make sure Turn On This Line is enabled.
2. Select the travel line for Cellular Data or Mobile Data.
3. Enable data roaming for the travel eSIM when the plan instructions require it.
4. Wait a few minutes for network registration, then test a webpage with Wi-Fi turned off.

Data roaming on the travel line is often required because the plan connects through partner networks. This does not mean you should also enable roaming on your home line. See the eSIM troubleshooting guide if service does not begin.

Do not remove the profile as a first fix

Switching the line off and back on, using airplane mode briefly, or restarting the phone is safer than deleting the profile. Some eSIMs cannot be reinstalled without provider assistance. Remove it only after the trip or when the plan instructions or support team confirm that deletion is appropriate.

Continue learning

• eSIM installation vs activation — Understand when to add a profile and when a travel plan may begin its validity period.
• How to troubleshoot an eSIM — Work through safe checks for installation, signal, mobile data, roaming, and APN issues.
• What is an eSIM? — Learn how an eSIM works, what it changes, and what to check before buying a travel plan.
• Explore eSIM destinations when you are ready to compare available travel plans.

Need help with a FlyoSIM plan?

Device menus and carrier behavior can vary. If these general steps do not resolve your issue, contact FlyoSIM support with your device model, destination, and order ID. For network and service limitations, read the coverage disclaimer.