About eSIM

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:

• Uninterrupted Connectivity: Connect to local networks wherever you travel.
• Dodge Roaming Fees: Avoid those hefty international charges.
• No Contracts: Enjoy the pay-as-you-go freedom without being tied down.
• Affordable Plans: Purchase a prepaid data plan for as little as £3.
• Quick Setup: Install and activate your plan in under five minutes.
• Activate Now or Later: Buy now and activate your eSIM right away or wait until your departure day. 
• Great for Travelers: Easily manage multiple eSIM profiles for different countries and regions.
• Private & Secure: You can lose a SIM card. You can’t lose an eSIM.
• No Extra Hardware: Say goodbye to fiddly trays and those hard-to-find ejector tools.

 There’s a couple of ways to get an eSIM: 

1. Visit our homepage and select your destination. We offer Local, Regional, and Global plans. Choose the right plan for you and follow the checkout steps. 
2. Alternatively, you can download our app, select your plan, and complete the checkout process there.

You’ll need to check the plan description to confirm whether calls and texts are included.

Some plans come with a phone number that allows you to make and receive calls and send SMS messages.*

Other eSIMs are data-only, which means you can still make calls and send messages using data apps such as WhatsApp, FaceTime, or social media platforms.

*Please note: If you purchase a plan from Orange, you will be always be assigned a French phone number starting with +33.

An easy way to verify if you phone is unlocked is by using a SIM Card or eSIM from another network and seeing if you can make a call or connect to the internet. If the phone works, it's unlocked!

• If you are unable to do this, follow the instructions below and watch our how-to guides for your device.

• If you cannot verify your unlock status via the methods below, you need to contact your existing network provider to check your unlock status.

   

iPhone:

1. Go to Settings.

2. Tap on General, then About.

3. Scroll down to the Network Provider Lock section.

4. If it says "No SIM restrictions" your phone is unlocked.

Android:

1. Go to Settings.

2. Tap on About phone or System.

3. Look for "SIM Status" option

4. If it says "Unlocked" or "Network unlocked" status your phone is unlocked.

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.

But to double check, follow the steps below:

iPhone:

Go to Settings - Cellular or Mobile Service - If the "Add eSIM" option is displayed, your iPhone supports eSIM. 

Alternatively, go to Settings - General - About - If you see a 15 digit IMEI number where it says Available SIM

Android:

Go to Settings - Connections - Sim Manager - If the "Add eSIM" or "Add carrier" option is displayed, your phone supports eSIM. 

Alternatively, dial *#06#, if you see an EID number (not a MEID number), your phone supports eSIM.

Network unlocked 

You should also check that your phone is unlocked with your current Network provider. Check this quick guide for more information about this. 

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!

To convert your SIM card to an eSIM, you’ll need to reach out to your network operator. They can help you make the switch smoothly.

Absolutely — eSIMs offer robust security features similar to traditional SIM cards. And since they aren’t physically removable, they're even more secure. Once installed, your eSIM can't be moved to another device. Just be careful not to share your eSIM details with others unless you intend to give them access to your plan.

Unfortunately, we cannot transfer your existing number to one of our eSIMs. 

But your network operator might be able to help you transfer/move your existing phone number. Please contact them directly.

To purchase an eSIM for use in multiple countries, we recommend exploring the eSIM offers available in our Regional and Global categories. One plan can provide coverage for up to 150 countries. Please visit our homepage.