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Think of an eSIM as the digital version of a traditional plastic SIM card. Instead of a physical card, you can download eSIM software directly to your phone and connect to local mobile networks almost anywhere in the world. It's not only more convenient but also environmentally friendly.
All you need to do is download the Sim Local app, activate a plan, and you're good to go. It's that simple!
It’s important to have uninterrupted smartphone connectivity, especially when travelling abroad. Here’s why more people are making the switch to eSIM:
To find out if your phone is unlocked, the best first step is to reach out to your network provider. They can confirm this for you and help unlock your phone if needed. Keep in mind, it might depend on your specific network agreement and any terms and conditions they have.
If you can’t reach your provider, this guide will show you how to check if your phone is unlocked. And this guide will tell you which smartphones are eSIM compatible.
iPhone:
Android:
If you have a newer Apple, Samsung, or Google smartphone, chances are you can use an eSIM. For example, if you have iPhone 11, Samsung Fold S21, and Google Pixel 3—or anything newer—your device is probably eSIM capable.
If you're still not sure, you can always check the manufacturer's website or take a look at our easy-to-follow guide.
And you should also check that your phone is unlocked with your current provider. Check this quick guide for more information about this.
iPhone:
Android:
Yes. One of the great things about eSIMs is the flexibility they offer. You can have multiple plans on your phone and switch between them instantly based on where you are and which plan you need. Some devices support a dual-eSIM setup, but usually, you can't use more than two at once.
It's best to check your device manufacturer's guidelines for specific details.
Please note: Some devices have a limit on how many eSIMs you can store at any one time, typically between 6-10. You might need to remove an old eSIM profile to add a new one.
Yes, you can use both your physical SIM and your eSIM in the same device. You’ll be able to choose which one to use for data, calls, and texts depending on your selected plan. It's all about what works best for you!
We recommend downloading and installing your eSIM just before you travel and while connected to Wi-Fi. (Perhaps the airport while you’re waiting to board your flight?)
Since activation rules vary slightly between operators, please check your plan before you travel to know when your eSIM's validity period begins and ends. This will help you make the most of your trip.
There are two ways to download an eSIM via QR code to your iPhone or cellular iPad.
1. Via the Camera App
Open the Camera app and point your camera towards your eSIM QR code.
A yellow prompt will appear on your screen. Tap this and follow the instructions to install your eSIM.
2. Via Settings
1. Go to Settings.
2. Select Cellular or Mobile Data (also known as Mobile Service).
3. Select Add eSIM (also known as Add Cellular Plan, Add Data Plan).
4. Select Use QR Code, and scan this plan.
iOS 17 (and onwards):
Scan the Screenshot or Image
If you are using iOS 17, you can also scan a screenshot of your QR code:
Via Settings
1. Go to Settings.
2. Select Cellular or Mobile Data (also known as Mobile Service)
3. Go to Add eSIM (also known as Add Cellular Plan, Add Data Plan)
4. Select Use QR Code, and then Open Photos.
5. Select the screenshot of the QR code in your Camera Roll.
On iOS 17.4:
1. Open the email with your activation instructions, or view it in your browser.
2. Tap and hold the QR code, and select the Add eSIM option that appears.
Read our full Apple eSIM Activation Guide.
It's easy to install an eSIM manually to your iPhone or cellular iPad. Simply enter the download codes provided with your plan:
1. Go to Settings.
2. Select Cellular or Mobile Data (also known as Mobile Service).
3. Select Add eSIM (also known as Add Cellular Plan, Add Data Plan).
4. Select Use QR Code, and then Enter Details Manually.
5. Copy and paste the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code provided with your plan details.
Read our full Apple eSIM Activation Guide.
There are three ways to download an eSIM via QR code to your eSIM-enabled Samsung device:
1. Via the Camera app
Open the Camera app and point your camera towards your eSIM QR code.
A prompt will appear on your screen. Tap this and follow the instructions to install your eSIM.
2. Via Settings
1. Go to Settings.
2. Go to Connections, then Add mobile plan. This may also be called SIM manager.
3. Select Add eSIM, then Scan QR Code. Scan your QR code.
3. Newer Samsung models can scan the screenshot or image
If you are using the latest version of One UI, you can also scan a screenshot of this code:
1. Go to Settings.
2. Go to Connections, then Add mobile plan. This may also be called SIM manager.
3. Select Add eSIM, then Scan QR Code. Select the image icon and select the screenshot of your QR code.
1. Go to Settings.
2. Go to Connections, then Add mobile plan. This may also be called SIM manager.
3. Select Add eSIM, then Scan QR Code.
4. Select Enter activation code, then copy and paste the codes provided.
Read our full Samsung eSIM Activation Guide.
There are two ways you can download an eSIM via QR code to your Android device.
Via the Camera App
Open the Camera app and point your camera at the eSIM QR code.
A prompt will appear on your screen. Tap this and follow the instructions to install your eSIM.
Via Settings
1. Go to Settings.
2. Select Network & Internet, then click the plus sign (+) beside Mobile Network. (also known as SIMs).
3. Select Connect to mobile network, then Download a SIM instead?.
4. Select Use a different network, and scan your QR code.
Read our full Android eSIM Activation Guide.
Yes, absolutely. One of the advantages of eSIMs is that you can have several plans on your phone at any time and switch between them instantly depending on where you are and the plan you wish to use.
Please note: Some devices will limit the number of eSIMs you can store on your phone at any one time and you may need to remove an old eSIM to use a new one.
Yes, your eSIM is associated with your phone rather than your operator plan or phone number.
To double check if the eSIM is activated correctly on your Android device, please follow the steps below:
📌 Please note: These instructions may vary slightly by device or Android version.
To double check if the eSIM is activated correctly on your iOS, please see the instructions below:
1. Go to Settings > Mobile Data (or Cellular).
2. Check if your eSIM is listed and active. It may be labeled as "Secondary", ''Travel'' or something similar.
3. Ensure the eSIM is selected as your default option for Mobile data/ Cellular.
4. Double check if data Roaming is turned ON for the eSIM.
Your order number is available on your receipt. If you bought an eSIM, we have sent a receipt to the email address provided during the sale. Search for an email from noreply@simlocal.com with the subject Order Confirmation. Please make sure to check your Spam folder too.
Unfortunately not, once you have downloaded your plan, it will last for the amount of days described on your plan details.
Sim Local accepts:
- Visa (including Visa PrePaid, Visa Premium Deferred Debit)
- Mastercard (including all cards associated with Mastercard (i.e Maestro)
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
All credit/debit card transactions on simlocal.com are processed securely by Stripe, to keep your information safe.
Sim Local is the global leader in travel SIM card and eSIM retail. We’ve already connected 5 million travellers, and we’re just getting started.
We don’t provide delivery of physical SIM cards. To buy a physical SIM card you need to visit one of our stores or vending machines located in many airports around the world. Alternatively, you can buy an online eSIM on our website and start using it instantly.
Yes, we sell physical SIM cards at our stores, vending machines and partners stores. Please check all of our locations here.
We don’t provide delivery of physical SIM cards. To buy a physical SIM card you need to visit one of our stores or vending machines located in many airports around the world. Alternatively, you can buy an online eSIM on our website and start using it instantly.
At Sim Local, we offer a range of eSIM plans with coverage in over 200 destinations worldwide.
📌 Important:
Coverage and roaming availability vary depending on the specific plan and destination.
Please carefully review the plan details and destination list before purchase to ensure your chosen destination is included.
Afghanistan
Aland Islands
Africa
Albania
Algeria
American Samoa
Andorra
Anguilla
Antigua and Barbuda
Argentina
Armenia
Aruba
Asia
Australia
Austria
Azerbaijan
Azores
Bahamas
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Barbados
Belarus
Belgium
Belize
Benin
Bermuda
Bhutan
Bolivia
Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, Saba
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Botswana
Brazil
British Virgin Islands
Brunei
Bulgaria
Burkina Faso
Cambodia
Cameroon
Canada
Canary Island
Cape Verde
Caribbean
Cayman Islands
Central African Republic
Chad
Chile
China
Christmas Island
Colombia
Congo
Cook Islands
Costa Rica
Côte d'Ivoire
Croatia
Cuba
Curacao
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Djibouti
Dominica
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
Egypt
El Salvador
Equatorial Guinea
Estonia
Ethiopia
Europe
Faroe Islands
Fiji
Finland
France
French Guiana
French Polynesia
Gabon
Gambia
Georgia
Germany
Ghana
Gibraltar
Global
Greece
Greenland
Grenada
Guadeloupe
Guam
Guatemala
Guernsey
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Guyana
Haiti
Honduras
Hong Kong
Hungary
Iceland
India
Indonesia
Iran
Iraq
Ireland
Isle of Man
Israel
Italy
Jamaica
Japan
Jersey
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Kiribati
Kosovo
Kuwait
Kyrgyzstan
Laos
Latvia
Lebanon
Lesotho
Liberia
Libya
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macao
Madagascar
Madeira
Malawi
Malaysia
Maldives
Mali
Malta
Marie-Galante
Martinique
Mauritius
Mayotte
Mexico
Moldova
Monaco
Mongolia
Montenegro
Montserrat
Morocco
Mozambique
Myanmar
Nauru
Nepal
Netherlands
Netherlands Antilles
New Zealand
Nicaragua
Niger
Nigeria
North America
North Macedonia
Norway
Oman
Pakistan
Palau
Panama
Papua New Guinea
Paraguay
Peru
Philippines
Poland
Portugal
Puerto Rico
Qatar
Reunion
Romania
Russia
Rwanda
Saint Barthélemy
Sint Eustatius
Saint Helena
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Lucia
Saint Martin
Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Samoa
San Marino
Saudi Arabia
Senegal
Serbia
Serbia And Montenegro
Seychelles
Sierra Leone
Singapore
Sint Maarten
Slovakia
Slovenia
Solomon Islands
South Africa
South America
South Korea
Spain
Sri Lanka
State of Palestine
Sudan
South Sudan
Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands
Suriname
Swaziland
Sweden
Switzerland
Taiwan
Tajikistan
Tanzania
Thailand
Timor - Leste
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
Togo
Tonga
Trinidad and Tobago
Tunisia
Turkey
Turks and Caicos Islands
U.S. Virgin Islands
Uganda
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
UK
United States
US
USA
Uruguay
Uzbekistan
Vanuatu
Vatican City
Venezuela
Vietnam
Western Sahara
Yemen
Yes, we have shops in London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Madrid, Brussels, Vienna and Athens International airports. We also have vending machines and partner stores in many other airports around the world.
If you are currently in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and are experiencing difficulties accessing the Sim Local website or mobile application, please note that this is not due to a technical issue. Access to international eSIM providers such as Sim Local may be restricted by local regulations.
Major telecommunications operators in the UAE — including Etisalat and Du — may limit access to foreign eSIM platforms in order to promote their own roaming services. As a result, users in the UAE may be unable to reach our services.
What Can You Do?
To ensure uninterrupted service, we recommend the following:
Download and Install Before Arrival
We strongly advise purchasing and installing your eSIM prior to entering the UAE. Once you arrive, access to our website and app may be blocked, and eSIM activation may not be possible.
Use Airport Wi-Fi or a VPN (If Available)
Some travellers have successfully accessed our services using airport Wi-Fi before entering the city. Others have used virtual private networks (VPNs) while in the UAE; however, results may vary.
Contact Our Customer Support Team
If you require assistance, our support team is available to help you before your journey using this form. Alternatively, get help via our chat widget. Whether you’re traveling to Dubai, Doha, or Dublin, we are committed to keeping you connected.
Are you using ‘Sign in with Apple’ (SIWA)?
If you used ‘Sign in with Apple’ to create your Sim Local account, you had the option to share your personal email address or use ‘Hide My Email’ to keep it private.
When you choose ‘Hide My Email’ during account creation:
To reset your password, please sign in using this email address. There are three ways to find this email address:
1. Log in to Sim Local via Apple Sign In:
2. Check your Apple ID settings on your phone:
3. Use iCloud.com:
These methods will help you retrieve the email Apple generated for Sim Local, which can be used to reset your password.
We are sorry to hear you have experienced an error trying to purchase from one of our vending machines.
Please access this form and send us a copy of your receipt if you have one. We will get back to you as soon as possible.
If you don’t have a receipt, please include all the below information, in order for us to assist you as quickly as possible:
- Time of purchase -
- Date of purchase -
- Machine name or number -
- Airport Location -
- Terminal number or name -
- Method of payment (If paid by card please provide last 4 digits of BOTH physical & virtual card. If paid by cash please confirm the exact notes entered into the machine)
(Virtual card details can be found by opening the Wallet App on your mobile device > Click on the Virtual Card > More Card details)
- Value (total amount paid) -
- SIM network & bundle you were trying to purchase/purchased -
- Any supporting images if available
If you try to install an eSIM but you are not yet in the destination country, it will not be able to complete activation, as it cannot connect to the destination’s local network.
However, if your eSIM is installed on your device, you do not need to complete activation until you arrive. Once you arrive at your destination, your eSIM will connect to the local network. You can start browsing the internet, checking your messages, and accessing your favourite apps.
You can double check if your eSIM is activated using this link How to Check if eSIM is activated
If you are still having issues, please contact our Customer Support team using this form, providing your order number, the plan you purchased and screenshots of any screens that show issues.
Alternatively, get help via our chat widget.
There may be a few causes for this:
Are you trying to use your eSIM in your home country?
If you have bought a plan for another destination, it may not work successfully until you are in your destination country.
Have you turned on 'Data Roaming'?
You may not have Data Roaming enabled for your eSIM. You can do this via your eSIM settings on iPhone and Android devices or by going to Connections > Mobile Network settings on Samsung. (Connections may also be called SIM Manager).
Have you set your eSIM to use data?
In your eSIM settings, make sure that the eSIM is switched on, data settings are enabled, and that Data Roaming is enabled.
If the above steps do not help, please try resetting your network settings:
If you are still having issues with your eSIM, please change your APN Settings. Check the instructions in this article.
If none of these work, please contact our Customer Support team using this form, providing your order number, the plan you purchased and screenshots of any screens that show issues.
Alternatively, get help via our chat widget by typing speak to an agent.
You can choose Manual activation. Please go to your eSIM details on My eSIM for more instructions.
Read our activation guides (Download Manually).
You may wish to turn your eSIM off when you return home or on a trip. If you have data and the eSIM is still valid, you can switch it back on when needed.
On IOS:
- Go to settings.
- Select 'Cellular' or 'Mobile data'.
- Select the eSIM line and turn off.
On Android:
- Go to Settings.
- Select 'Connections'.
- Select Mobile Network.
- Turn off the eSIM.
If your eSIM is active but you're not getting internet, the Access Point Name (APN) settings might be the missing puzzle piece.🧩
Think of the APN as the set of instructions your phone uses to connect to the internet via your mobile provider. If it’s not set up right, your data just won’t flow. No TikTok, no maps, no nothing.
Sometimes your phone gets this info automatically. But you might need to enter the APN manually. Don’t worry — it’s easier than it sounds!
That’s it — no need to restart!
📌 Please note: These instructions may vary slightly by device or Android version.
Still stuck? Don’t panic — we’ve got your back. Just check the APN details from your eSIM provider below, or drop us a message. 📩
💡 Unsure about your eSIM provider? You can easily check your plan details on our website to confirm which network you’re using - click here
eSIM Provider | Network Logo | iOS | Android |
---|---|---|---|
Smartroam |
APN: mobiledata Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
Name: Manx APN: mobiledata Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
|
Smartroam |
APN: internet Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
Name: Manx APN: internet Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
|
Digicel |
APN: web.digiceljamaica.com Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
Name: Digicel APN: web.digiceljamaica.com Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
|
EE |
APN: everywhere Username: eesecure Password: secure |
Name: EE APN: everywhere Username: eesecure Password: secure |
|
Lycamobile |
APN: data.lycamobile.co.uk Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
Name: lycamobile APN: data.lycamobile.co.uk Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
|
Orange FR |
APN: Orange Username: orange Password: orange |
Name: Orange France APN: Orange Username: orange Password: orange |
|
Three |
APN: three.co.uk Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
Name: Three APN: three.co.uk Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
|
eSim Choice |
APN: globaldata Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
Name: flexiroam APN: globaldata Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
|
AU |
APN: au.au-net.ne.jp Username: (leave blank) Password: au |
Name: LTE Net APN: au.au-net.ne.jp Username: (leave blank) Password: au |
|
DTAC |
APN: www.dtac.co.th Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
Name: DTAC Internet APN: www.dtac.co.th Username: (leave blank) Password: (leave blank) |
If your eSIM is data-only, don't panic! You can still keep in touch with friends and family.
Here are three ways to make phone calls with a data-only eSIM:
1. Use an Internet-Based Calling App
The best way to make a phone call with a data-only eSIM is with an internet-based calling app like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Skype.
These free services allow you to place and receive calls over the internet. They help you avoid costly roaming charges by using your eSIM data for connection.
Most of these apps will automatically sync your contacts, making it easy to stay connected with your friends and family, however the person you are calling must also have the app downloaded.
It’s a good idea to download one of these options before you start your trip and share it with your friends and family, so they know how to reach you.
2. Make Calls via Social Media
Facebook Messenger and Instagram DMs both have calling features.
You will need to ensure that your contacts also use this method of connection but please ensure data roaming is switched off for your primary SIM line to avoid extra charges.
3. Use Your Primary Number
You can continue to use your primary SIM line for voice and text when you travel.
However, this will use your home plan (not your eSIM data plan), and roaming fees may apply.
It's a good idea to first check in with your carrier about their roaming rates to avoid large bills when you return!
To use your primary line to place calls, you'll need to turn it on and enable it for calls and/or texts (you can do this in your phone settings).
Your phone will continue to use your eSIM to access data and switch to your home line when you want to place a call.
To remove an eSIM from your device, click into:
- Travel line (settings > mobile data) and at the bottom there is a button, to `Delete eSIM’.
- When you click this, you will get a pop-up message stating the eSIM will be deleted from your phone, however your mobile data plan will not be cancelled. It will also advise you to contact your network provider to obtain a new eSIM or cancel your plan.
- If you’re happy to delete the eSIM, press `Delete eSIM’.
- A final warning message will appear to ensure you definitely want to remove the eSIM as this can’t be undone. If you still want to delete the eSIM, press `Delete eSIM’.
To set a data usage limit:
1. Open your phone's Settings app.
2. Tap Network & Internet.
3. Next to your carrier, tap Settings.
4. Tap Data warning & limit.
5. If it's not already on, turn on Set data limit. Read the on-screen message and tap Ok.
6. Tap Data limit.
7. Enter a number.
8. Tap Set.
To amend the eSIM plan label you will be required to click into the eSIM you wish to change the name of and go to 'Mobile Plan Label'. Once you have clicked in to the eSIM, you will see a list of Mobile Plan Label options available to you to select from. You may select a plan label or you may create a custom label using the field displayed at the bottom of the screen.