How to install an eSIM on iPhone and Android (60-second guide)

Installing a travel eSIM takes about a minute. The steps below work for any provider; screenshots vary slightly by phone model and OS version.

iPhone

Open Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code, and point the camera at the QR you received after purchase. Label the line ("Travel" works), keep your home SIM as default for calls, and set the new eSIM as your Cellular Data line when you land. Turn on Data Roaming for the eSIM line — with a local-network eSIM this does not incur roaming charges.

Android

Open Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → Add eSIM (wording varies: on Samsung it is Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM). Scan the QR code, confirm the download, then choose the eSIM for mobile data when you arrive. Enable data roaming for that SIM — same as on iPhone, it is safe with a travel eSIM.

Three mistakes to avoid

First: a QR code installs only once — do not delete the eSIM profile "to reinstall it later." Second: install at home on Wi-Fi, not at baggage claim on airport Wi-Fi. Third: validity starts at first connection to a local network, so installing early does not burn your days.