Troubleshooting
eSIM installed but no data / no internet
4 min read · Updated September 13, 2026
When the signal bars show but the internet won't work, the cause is commonly ① the data line isn't set to the eSIM, ② data roaming is off, or ③ an APN settings problem. Check your remaining data, validity period, and supported network too, in the order below.
Check in order
- 1) Set the line used for data to the travel eSIM (if it's set to your existing SIM, no data will flow)
- 2) Turn on data roaming for that eSIM line — needed to use the local network (charges are billed to your eSIM plan)
- 3) Turn airplane mode on for 10 seconds and off again, or reboot
- 4) If the network won't select automatically, select the local carrier manually
- 5) If it still won't work, enter the APN with the value the provider gives
Where to check on iPhone
Settings → Cellular (Mobile Data) → under the Cellular Data line, select the travel eSIM → that line → turn on Data Roaming. The APN is checked/entered under "Cellular Data Network."
Where to check on Galaxy
Settings → Connections → in Data usage or SIM manager, set the mobile data line to the eSIM → turn on Data Roaming. The APN is set under "Mobile networks → Access Point Names (APN)."
FAQ
Won't turning on data roaming cause a huge bill?
What matters is which line you use for data. If you set the travel eSIM as your data line, "data roaming" here isn't a carrier roaming charge but the setting that lets the eSIM attach to the local network, and charges are billed to the eSIM plan you prepaid. Note that some products support auto top-up/renewal, so check for that, and keep data roaming off on your existing SIM line.
What is an APN?
It's the setting your phone uses to connect to the data network. It's usually detected automatically; enter a provided value only when the provider has given you manual settings (avoid entering arbitrary values). On iPhone, the APN menu may not appear depending on carrier settings.
I did everything and it still doesn't work.
Try switching the network manually and check whether the eSIM line is actually activated. Some products activate "on connecting locally." If it still won't work, contact the provider with your ICCID.