How to Activate Your eSIM: The Simple Guide
You've just purchased your eSIM plan and wondering how to activate it? No worries. Activating an eSIM is much simpler than it seems. In just a few minutes, you'll be connected and ready to enjoy your trip.
This guide walks you through every step. Whether you have an iPhone or an Android, we explain everything clearly.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
An eSIM is a digital SIM card built directly into your phone. Unlike a traditional SIM card, there's nothing to physically insert. Everything happens in just a few clicks.
Why is it practical?
- You activate your plan from home
- You switch carriers without any physical handling
- You manage multiple lines on a single device
- Ideal when travelling internationally
Activation generally takes less than 5 minutes. Let's get started.
Before You Begin: Essential Checks
Is Your Phone Compatible?
Most recent smartphones support eSIM. Here's how to check quickly:
On iPhone: Settings > Cellular Data > If you see "Add a Data Plan", you're good to go
On Android: Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > If the eSIM option appears, you're compatible
Compatible devices: iPhone XS and later models, Google Pixel 3 and above, Samsung Galaxy S20 and recent versions, as well as most high-end smartphones released after 2019.
Is Your Phone Unlocked?
Make sure your phone isn't locked to a carrier. An unlocked phone can accept any eSIM. If you bought your phone directly from a carrier, check with them.
What You'll Need
To activate your Roamance eSIM, you will need:
- ✓ A stable Wi-Fi connection
- ✓ The QR code received by email after your purchase
- ✓ A few minutes of your time
Practical tip: Keep the email containing your QR code open on another device (computer, tablet) or print it out. You'll need it to scan from your phone.
How to Activate Your eSIM: Step-by-Step Guide
On iPhone
Activation on iPhone is quick and intuitive. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Access Settings — Open Settings > Cellular Data (or Mobile Data)
Step 2: Add Your Plan — Tap Add a Data Plan
Step 3: Scan the QR Code — Use your iPhone's camera to scan the QR code you received by email. Your phone will automatically detect the eSIM profile.
If scanning doesn't work, you can enter the details manually: tap Enter Details Manually and enter the information provided in your email.
Step 4: Configure Your Plan — Give your plan a name (for example: "eSIM Japan" or "Roamance Europe"). Choose which line to use by default for calls, SMS, and data.
Step 5: Activate Your eSIM — Follow the on-screen instructions. Your iPhone may ask you to restart. That's normal, let it do so.
Step 6: Test Your Connection — Once activated, test by browsing the internet or sending a message. Everything should work instantly.
iPhone tip: You can keep your main SIM card active and use your eSIM only for data. Handy for receiving your regular calls while enjoying a cheaper local data plan.
On Android
Activation on Android varies slightly depending on the brand, but the principle remains the same.
Step 1: Access Network Settings — Open Settings > Connections (or Network & Internet depending on your model)
Step 2: Add a Mobile Network — Tap SIM Card Manager > Add a Mobile Plan (or Add an eSIM)
Step 3: Scan the QR Code — Select Scan QR Code and point your camera at the code received by email. If scanning doesn't work, choose Enter Manually and enter the information provided in your confirmation email.
Step 4: Confirm Installation — Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the eSIM profile installation.
Step 5: Activate Your eSIM — Once installed, activate your new plan from the SIM card manager. You can choose which line to use for data, calls, and SMS.
Step 6: Check the Connection — Test your connection by opening your browser or an app. You should be connected immediately.
Android note: Menus may vary depending on the brand (Samsung, Google Pixel, Xiaomi, etc.). If you can't find the option, search for "eSIM" in the settings search bar.
Managing and Switching Between Your eSIM Profiles
Once your eSIM is activated, you can easily switch between multiple profiles if you've installed several.
How to Switch Between Profiles?
On iPhone: Settings > Cellular Data > Select the plan you want to activate
On Android: Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > Enable/Disable the desired profile
Travelling to Multiple Countries?
If you've installed multiple eSIMs (one for Europe, one for Asia, for example), you can activate or deactivate them as needed. No need to reinstall everything.
Want to Keep Your Main Number Active?
Keep your physical SIM to receive your regular calls and SMS. Use your Roamance eSIM only for data. The best of both worlds.
Troubleshooting: Quick Solutions
Experiencing difficulty during activation? Here are solutions to the most common problems.
The QR Code Won't Scan
- Make sure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection
- Increase the screen brightness if scanning from another device
- Try manually entering the information
- Check that your camera has access permission
The eSIM Won't Activate
- Is your phone unlocked?
- Are you connected to Wi-Fi?
- Is your operating system up to date?
- Have you restarted your phone after installation?
No Connection After Activation
Troubleshooting steps:
- 1. Turn mobile data off and back on
- 2. Check that the eSIM is set as the default data line
- 3. Restart your device
- 4. Check that you are in a covered area
The Message "eSIM Already Used" Appears
Each eSIM can only be activated once. If you've already installed this profile on another device or after a reset, contact our support team. We will provide you with a new QR code.
Need help? Our support team is available 6 days/7 from 8am to 8pm to assist you. Contact us via the Roamance app or by email.
Tips for a Successful Activation
✓ Activate Before You Leave
Don't wait until you're at the airport or in transit. Activate your eSIM comfortably from home. You can then turn it on as soon as you arrive at your destination.
✓ Keep Your QR Code
Take a screenshot or save the email containing your QR code. If you need to reinstall your eSIM, you'll need it.
✓ Update Your System
Make sure your phone is running the latest version of its operating system. Updates often fix bugs related to eSIM.
✓ Test Before You Travel
Once activated, test your eSIM to make sure everything works. Check the data connection, make a test call if your plan includes calls.
You're Ready to Activate Your eSIM
Activating an eSIM is not complicated at all. By following this guide, you'll be connected in just a few minutes. No more searching for a phone shop when you arrive abroad. No more stress with SIM cards to swap.
With Roamance, you manage your connection with complete ease. Buy your plan, scan your QR code, and enjoy. It's that simple.
Ready to activate your eSIM?