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Install & activate an eSIM on iPhone

If you haven’t already, first buy an eSIM and go to My eSIMs on our website. Your purchased plan will appear there.

When you click your plan, you’ll see the Activation Instructions window. This includes:

  • A QR code
  • Manual install details (with copy buttons)
  • An Activate button (may not work on all devices)
  • A Share button (works with your browser’s share options)
  • A button to Start the step-by-step guide

Step 1: Choose your install method

  1. Scan the QR code — On your iPhone: go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code. Point your iPhone camera at the QR shown on your laptop or another device.
  2. Use the Activate button (may not work on all devices) — Clicking this tries to pass the activation details directly to iOS. If it fails, use the QR code or manual entry.
  3. Use the Share button — On mobile: opens your browser’s share sheet (AirDrop, Messages, Mail, etc.). On desktop: lets you copy or download the QR code to send to another device.
  4. Enter details manually — From the QR screen on your iPhone, tap Enter Details Manually. Copy/paste the SM-DP+ address and activation code from the website into the fields.

Step 2: Complete installation

  1. After scanning/entering details, follow the iOS prompts.
  2. Tap Continue when asked to add the plan.
  3. Wait for activation (usually under 1 minute).
  4. Tap Done.

The new eSIM now appears in Settings → Cellular → Cellular Plans.

Step 3: Set up your eSIM

  1. In Settings → Cellular, tap the new plan.
  2. Rename it under Cellular Plan Label (e.g., Jordan eSIM).
  3. Under Cellular Data, choose your travel eSIM when abroad.
  4. Turn Data Roaming ON for the travel eSIM.
  5. Turn Data Roaming OFF for your primary SIM to avoid charges.

Important notes

  • Plan duration: The countdown (e.g., 7 days) starts once the eSIM is installed and activated on the network.
  • Keep iCloud on your primary SIM: Do not switch Apple ID/iCloud to the eSIM.
  • Dual SIM use: Your main SIM can still handle calls/iMessage/2FA, while the eSIM provides travel data.

Troubleshooting

  • No data? Check Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data and make sure your travel eSIM is selected.
  • Restart your iPhone.
  • Try re‑scanning the QR or re‑entering details manually.
  • Still stuck? Use the Help (?) → Get Help link on our site and provide your Order ID, device model, and iOS version.

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