How to Set Up and Activate an eSIM: The Complete Guide
Setting up an eSIM is easier than you'd think. On most phones it takes less than 5 minutes, and there's no physical SIM card to track down. In this guide, we'll walk through QR code setup, manual activation, and how to fix the most common hiccups along the way.
What Is an eSIM? A Quick Refresher
An eSIM is a digital SIM card built right into your phone. Instead of inserting a physical card, you scan a QR code or enter a setup code, and you're online. Enjoy eSIM offers plans in 190+ countries, and you can activate the plan you buy in seconds with a QR code. Want the full picture first? See how Enjoy eSIM works.
Before You Start: What You'll Need
Before you dive in, there are three things you'll need on hand:
- A compatible device: a phone, tablet, or smartwatch that supports eSIM. Not sure about yours? Check our list of eSIM-compatible devices.
- An active internet connection: you'll need Wi-Fi or mobile data during setup (not after).
- Your QR code or activation details: sent to your email when you purchase a plan with Enjoy eSIM.
💡 Tip: Your setup details arrive by email after purchase. Install your eSIM before you leave home, and your internet is ready before you even land.
Method 1: Set Up eSIM with a QR Code
This is the fastest and easiest option for most people. The general steps look like this (the flow is the same regardless of your phone brand):
- Open Settings and go to Cellular/Mobile Data.
- Tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan.
- Choose Use QR Code.
- Scan the QR code you received from Enjoy eSIM with your phone's camera.
- Follow the on-screen confirmation steps and give the plan a label (like "Travel eSIM").
- Once setup finishes, your phone automatically recognizes the new line.
Note: Menu names may look slightly different on iOS versus Android, but the flow is identical.
Method 2: Manual Setup
Can't scan the QR code, for example because it's showing on the same phone you're setting up? That's what manual setup is for.
Setup with an Activation Code
- Go to Settings > Cellular/Mobile Data > Add eSIM.
- Select Enter Details Manually.
- Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code sent by Enjoy eSIM.
- Confirm and wait for setup to finish.
This method comes in handy when you don't have the QR code on hand, or you're setting up from a different device.
📲 Ready to pick a plan? Browse eSIM plans by destination to find the right fit for your trip.
Activating Your eSIM and Turning On Data
Setup and activation aren't the same thing: setup installs the eSIM profile on your phone, while activation is what actually turns the line on. Most travelers handle this in two stages:
- Set up before you travel, activate on arrival: this way you're not burning through your plan's validity period early.
- To activate: select your new eSIM line in Settings, set it as your Mobile Data line, and enable Data Roaming if needed.
- APN settings: in most cases the APN is configured automatically, so no extra setup is needed. If you run into connection issues and your setup details include an APN value, double-check that it's entered correctly.
Enjoy eSIM also gives you real-time data tracking in the app, so you can keep an eye on your usage throughout your trip.
Common Setup Issues and Fixes
Here are a few things that can trip people up during setup, and how to fix them:
| Issue | Likely Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| QR code won't scan | Screen brightness too low, or the code is blurry | Turn up the brightness, or scan the code from another screen (like a laptop) |
| "eSIM already in use" error | The QR code has already been scanned once | Contact Enjoy eSIM support |
| No internet after setup | Mobile data or data roaming is turned off | Go to Settings and turn on mobile data and roaming for that eSIM line |
| "Device doesn't support eSIM" warning | Device is carrier-locked, or doesn't support eSIM | Check if your device is unlocked, and confirm it's on the compatibility list |
Still stuck? Work through these 10 activation fixes for iPhone and Android, or reach out to our support team, available 24/7.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does eSIM setup take?
QR code setup usually takes 2-5 minutes. Manual setup can take a little longer.
Do I need internet to set up an eSIM?
Yes, you'll need Wi-Fi or an existing mobile data connection during setup. After that, you won't need it.
Can I use the same QR code on more than one device?
No, each eSIM QR code is single-use and can only be installed on one device.
How do I know if my phone supports eSIM?
If you see an "Add eSIM" option under Settings > Cellular/Mobile Data, your device supports it. Still not sure? Check our list of compatible devices.
What if setup fails?
First, check your internet connection, then try scanning the QR code again. If it still doesn't work, reach out to our support team and they'll walk you through it step by step.