How to set up eSIM on iPhone
This guide walks through the standard eSIM setup flow on Apple iPhones. The same steps work whether you bought a local prepaid plan or a travel eSIM. For your exact model, jump to its dedicated guide below.
What you need
- iPhone XR or newer (eSIM hardware)
- iOS 16 or later
- Wi-Fi or other internet connection during activation
- QR code, activation code, or LPA string from your eSIM provider
Step-by-step
- 1
Open Settings → Cellular
Tap the Settings app on your iPhone, then tap Cellular (called Mobile Data in some regions).
- 2
Tap Add eSIM
Tap "Add eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan" at the top of the Cellular screen. iPhone 14 and later in the US prompt you here on first setup.
- 3
Scan QR code or enter details
Point the camera at the QR code from your provider. If you have an activation code instead, tap "Enter Details Manually" and paste the SM-DP+ address + activation code.
- 4
Label your line
Give the new line a name like "Travel" or "Work" — this is the label you'll see when switching which line uses data or sends iMessages.
- 5
Choose default lines
Pick which line handles calls, iMessage, and cellular data. You can change these anytime in Settings → Cellular. Enable Data Roaming on the eSIM line for travel plans.
Common pitfalls
"Cannot add cellular plan" or activation hangs at "Activating…"
Fix: Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network, reboot the iPhone, and retry. If the QR code was consumed, request a fresh activation code from your provider.
See provider-specific help →No data after install — line shows signal but apps can't reach the internet
Fix: Settings → Cellular → tap the new line → enable Data Roaming. Then Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data → switch to the eSIM line.
See provider-specific help →QR code says "already redeemed"
Fix: The code is single-use. Check whether the eSIM was already installed on another device, then contact your provider for a fresh code.
See provider-specific help →
Device-specific guides
For exact menu paths and screenshots, follow the guide for your specific model.
- Apple iPhone 16(2024)
- Apple iPhone 16 Plus(2024)
- Apple iPhone 16 Pro(2024)
- Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max(2024)
- Apple iPad Air 13-inch (M2, Cellular)(2024)
- Apple iPad Pro M4 11-inch (Cellular)(2024)
- Apple iPad mini (7th gen, A17 Pro, Cellular)(2024)
- Apple Apple Watch Series 10 (Cellular)(2024)
- Apple iPhone 15(2023)
- Apple iPhone 15 Plus(2023)
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Last updated May 11, 2026