What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card built into your device. Instead of swapping a plastic card, you install a profile with a QR code or a link and your phone connects to a local network. Our eSIM guide explains it in more detail.
Questions and answers
Frequently asked questions about eSIM and travel data
Below are the questions travellers ask most about eSIM, answered short and concrete, with links to the pages that go deeper.
What is an eSIM and how does it work?
The basics in plain language.
How does an eSIM work?
The eSIM profile holds the same data as a physical SIM, only in software. Once installed, your device automatically selects a partner network in the country you are in, so you browse on a local 4G or 5G network.
How do eSIMs work for international travel?
Buy the bundle for your destination before you leave, install the profile at home over wifi and switch mobile data to the eSIM after you land. Your own SIM stays active for calls and texts while the eSIM handles data, so you avoid roaming charges.
What is the difference between an eSIM and a SIM card?
A physical SIM has to be bought, swapped and stored. An eSIM is delivered online in minutes and can run alongside your existing SIM. You can keep several profiles and switch between destinations.
Do I get a phone number with my eSIM?
Our travel eSIM is a data plan without a phone number. Calls and texts keep running on your own SIM, and apps such as WhatsApp, Signal or FaceTime work over the eSIM data.
Compatibility: is my phone eSIM compatible?
The most common question before buying.
Which devices support eSIM?
iPhone XR, XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, recent Motorola, Oppo, Huawei and Honor models, cellular iPads and many 5G laptops. Our device page lists them all.
How do I check if my phone is eSIM compatible?
On iPhone open Settings, General, About and look for an EID number. On Android open Settings, About phone, Status, or dial *#06#. If an EID appears, your device supports eSIM.
Does an eSIM work on a carrier locked phone?
No. A locked device will not accept an extra profile. Ask your carrier to unlock it first, which is usually free once your contract has ended.
Can I use an eSIM on an iPad, tablet or smartwatch?
Yes on cellular iPads and many Android tablets. Smartwatches normally only accept a profile from your home carrier, so install a travel eSIM on your phone or tablet.
Can I store several eSIM profiles at once?
Yes. Modern devices store eight or more profiles, although usually only one eSIM is active alongside your physical SIM. Switching takes a few taps in settings.
Buying and preparing before departure
When to order, install and start.
Should I buy an eSIM before I travel?
That is the safest choice. Order a few days ahead, install the profile at home over wifi and only switch it on when you arrive, so you have data the moment you land.
Do I need to activate my eSIM before travel?
Install it beforehand, but do not activate it. For most bundles the validity starts the moment the profile first connects to a network in the destination area, so switch mobile data to the eSIM after landing.
How quickly do I receive my eSIM?
Usually within a few minutes. You receive an email with the QR code, a quick install button and the setup steps, and your order page shows the live status.
How much data do I need for a trip?
About 1 GB per week covers maps, chat and email. With social media and streaming, plan on 1 GB per day or pick an unlimited bundle with a daily full speed allowance.
How much does an eSIM for abroad cost?
It depends on the destination and the bundle. Every destination page shows the price per bundle including VAT with no hidden fees, and you pay up front so there are no surprises on your bill.
Activation and installation
Step by step on iPhone and Android.
How do I activate an eSIM on iPhone?
Open Settings, Cellular, Add eSIM and scan the QR code from your email, or use the quick install button so iOS starts the install for you. Then set Cellular Data to the new eSIM and turn on data roaming for that profile.
How do I activate an eSIM on Android?
Open Settings, Network and internet, SIMs, then choose Download a SIM or Add eSIM. Scan the QR code or paste the activation code, select the eSIM for mobile data and turn on roaming for that profile.
My eSIM will not connect, what should I do?
Check that data roaming is on for the eSIM profile, that the eSIM is selected for mobile data and that automatic network selection is on, then restart your device. If it persists, pick another partner network manually or email us.
Can I reuse the QR code or move the eSIM to another phone?
An eSIM profile can only be installed once. If you delete it or reset your device you need a new profile, so contact us before removing anything.
Can I top up when my data runs out?
Yes. While your eSIM is still valid you can add data to the same profile through the top-up link in your order email, with nothing to reinstall.
Usage, safety and cost while abroad
What to expect on the ground.
Are travel eSIMs safe?
Yes. An eSIM uses the same security standard as a physical SIM and the profile is encrypted inside your device's secure chip. You browse on regulated carrier networks, which is safer than open hotel or airport wifi.
Can I call and text with my eSIM?
Our bundles are data only. Calls and texts keep running on your own number, or through internet services such as WhatsApp, FaceTime, Signal and Teams, which work fine over the eSIM.
Can I share my eSIM as a hotspot?
For most destinations, yes. Each destination page states whether tethering is allowed per bundle. Keep in mind a hotspot uses your data much faster.
Will I still pay roaming charges with an eSIM?
No, as long as you use mobile data on the eSIM and disable data on your home SIM. Set mobile data explicitly to the eSIM profile and turn data roaming off for your home line.
Does an eSIM drain more battery?
Barely. Two active lines can use slightly more power because your device monitors two networks. Set your home line to airplane mode or texts only and the difference disappears.
How long is my eSIM valid?
Validity is listed per bundle, usually 7, 15, 30 or 180 days. The clock starts at the first network connection in the destination area, not at purchase.
Ready to travel?
Pick your destination, pay securely and receive your eSIM by email within minutes.
Question not answered here?
Email support@netcommobile.com or start a chat with our assistant. We usually reply within a few hours.