How to register & install an eSIM (step by step)

5 min read · Actualizado September 16, 2026

You typically use an eSIM in the order "buy → install → turn on data roaming." There are three ways to install: (1) tap a link the provider gives you to install right away (one-click), (2) scan a QR code, or (3) enter the details manually. First check the product's start-of-validity conditions; if it's a product you can install ahead of time, it's convenient to install it on stable Wi-Fi before you leave and then turn it on locally.

Before installing

Check that your phone is eSIM-capable + the carrier lock (SIM lock) is removed
Stable Wi-Fi (needed to scan and download the profile)
The install QR code from the provider, or the manual-install details (SM-DP+ address and activation code)

Three ways to install

Install directly via link (one-click): if the provider gives an "install link," you can tap it on your phone to go straight to the install screen without a QR code (iPhone needs iOS 17.4 or later). Support varies by provider and device.
Scan a QR code: the most widely used method. Display the QR on another screen (a PC or another phone) and scan it from Settings.
Enter the details manually: when the link or QR won't work, enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code yourself.

Installing on iPhone (iOS)

On iOS 17.4 or later (iPhone XR/XS and later), tapping the install link the provider gives you goes straight to the install screen without a QR code. If there's no link: Settings → Cellular (Mobile Data) → Add eSIM → Use QR Code → scan the provider's QR code → add the line. After it's done, naming the line something distinct like "Travel" makes it easier to manage.

Installing on Galaxy (Android)

If the provider has an app, some devices install without a QR code via "Direct install" in the app. If there's no link or app: Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR code. Menu paths differ slightly by manufacturer and model (on Pixel it's Network & internet → SIMs → Add SIM → Set up eSIM). One-click link install on Android is supported differently depending on the device and version.

Turning it on after you arrive

Set the eSIM line you installed as the line for "mobile data"
Turn on data roaming for that line (needed to use the local network; charges go to the eSIM plan)
If it doesn't connect automatically, select the carrier (network) manually

Common mistakes

A QR code is usually single-use; scanning it on several devices can invalidate it
Whether activation is "on install" or "on connecting locally" differs by provider → check before buying
Deleting an eSIM often means you can't reinstall with the same QR code (don't delete it carelessly)

Preguntas frecuentes

Can I install without a QR code?

Yes. If the provider offers an "install link," you can tap it to install directly without a QR code. iPhone supports this on iOS 17.4 or later (iPhone XR/XS and later), and on Android you can use the provider app's "Direct install" or the one-click link on supported devices (it varies by device and version). If there's no link or it doesn't work, use QR scanning or manual entry.

Can I scan the QR code before I leave?

For most products it's safest to do the install (download the profile) ahead of time and turn on data use (activation) locally. That said, on some products the plan's validity starts from the time of purchase/install rather than activation, so check the provider's guidance.

What happens to my original number when I install an eSIM?

You leave your existing SIM (or eSIM) line as it is and add the travel eSIM as a second line. You can set it so that only data runs on the travel eSIM, while calls and texts come through on your existing number.

My QR code won't scan.

Turn up your screen brightness and try displaying the QR on another device's screen to scan it. If that still doesn't work, you can use the supported manual install (entering the SM-DP+ address and activation code yourself). If it says "already used," first check whether that eSIM is already installed on your phone, and if not, ask the provider to check.

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