An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built permanently into your device. Instead of inserting a physical SIM card, you download operator profiles over the internet. You can store multiple profiles and switch between them without touching any hardware.
A regular SIM is a removable plastic card you insert into your phone. An eSIM is permanently soldered to your device's circuit board and managed entirely through software. The key advantages: no physical swapping, multiple profiles stored simultaneously, and the ability to purchase and activate plans remotely.
Yes. European eSIM plans typically cover all EU/EEA member states plus Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland. Some plans also include the UK and Turkey. Coverage is generally excellent in cities and good in rural areas. Check our country coverage page for details.
After purchasing a plan, you receive a QR code by email. On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add Cellular Plan → scan QR code. On Android: Settings → Network → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → scan QR code. The process takes 2–5 minutes. Install on home Wi-Fi before traveling.
Yes, you need a Wi-Fi or cellular connection to download the eSIM profile. This is why we recommend activating before you travel, while on your home Wi-Fi. If you need to activate on arrival, airport or hotel Wi-Fi works fine.
Yes, and we strongly recommend it. Install the eSIM profile on your home Wi-Fi, but don't activate it (enable it) until you arrive at your destination. This way you avoid any activation issues and can start using data immediately upon landing.
iPhone XS and later (2018+), Samsung Galaxy S20 and later (2020+), Google Pixel 3 and later (2018+), and many other modern smartphones. See our full device list. Devices must also be carrier-unlocked.
Yes! Dual SIM devices (most modern phones) allow simultaneous use of a physical SIM and eSIM. Keep your home SIM for calls and texts; use eSIM for data. Configure which SIM handles data in your phone's SIM settings.
Yes, many tablets support eSIM: iPad Pro (2018+), iPad Air (2019+), iPad mini (2019+). Some Windows laptops (Surface Pro, select Lenovo ThinkPad models) also support eSIM. Check your device's specifications.
Most plans use 4G LTE, providing 20–100 Mbps in urban areas — sufficient for video calls, streaming, and remote work. Some providers offer 5G in select cities. Rural areas may be slower. A Zoom call requires ~3 Mbps; Netflix HD requires ~5 Mbps.
Service either stops or speeds are throttled (typically to 128–256 kbps). You can usually top up through your provider's app. Some plans offer unlimited data with speed throttling after a threshold.
1. Toggle Airplane Mode off and on. 2. Check Data Roaming is enabled. 3. Verify eSIM is set as default data. 4. Wait 2–3 minutes for network registration. 5. If still no service, contact your provider.
Ensure good lighting. Hold camera 15–20cm from the QR code. Try entering the activation code manually if your provider offers it. If using a screenshot, ensure the image is not compressed or blurry.
Factory resets typically delete eSIM profiles. Contact your provider for a new activation code. This is why saving your QR code screenshot is important. Some providers offer free re-issuance; others charge a small fee.