How to Install an eSIM: Step-by-Step Guide for iPhone & Android
Installing an eSIM takes under 2 minutes. Follow our step-by-step guide for iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel — with troubleshooting tips.
Installing an eSIM is faster than setting up a new app. The entire process — from scanning the QR code to having an active connection — takes under two minutes. Here's exactly how to do it.
Before you start
- Your phone must be connected to Wi-Fi (your home network or any stable connection)
- Your phone must be unlocked (not carrier-locked to a single network)
- You need the QR code sent to your email after purchase
- Make sure your phone's software is up to date — older OS versions occasionally have eSIM installation bugs
Do this at home
Install the eSIM before you travel, not at the airport. You need Wi-Fi for installation, and doing it at home removes any time pressure. Your plan won't activate until you land.
Install on iPhone
Open Settings
Tap the Settings app on your iPhone home screen.
Go to Cellular / Mobile Data
On iOS 17+, this is labelled 'Cellular'. On older versions, it may say 'Mobile Data'.
Tap 'Add eSIM' or 'Add Mobile Plan'
You'll see this option near the top of the Cellular menu.
Scan the QR code
Hold your camera over the QR code in your Vyroam confirmation email. Your phone will recognise it automatically.
Confirm the plan details
Your phone will show the plan name. Tap 'Continue' to install.
Set as travel line
When prompted which line to use for data, select your Vyroam eSIM for 'Mobile Data'. Keep your existing SIM for calls and texts.
Install on Samsung Galaxy
Open Settings
Pull down the notification shade and tap the gear icon, or find Settings in your app drawer.
Go to Connections → SIM Manager
On some models this is under 'Network & Internet'.
Tap 'Add mobile plan' or '+ Add SIM'
Select 'Scan carrier QR code' when prompted.
Scan the QR code
Point your camera at the QR code in your confirmation email.
Confirm installation
Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm and activate.
Set data preference
In SIM Manager, set your Vyroam eSIM as the default for mobile data. Your physical SIM can remain active for calls.
Install on Google Pixel
Open Settings
Find Settings in your app drawer or pull down and tap the gear icon.
Go to Network & Internet → SIMs
Tap the '+' button to add a new SIM.
Choose 'Download a SIM instead'
This option appears if you already have a physical SIM inserted.
Scan the QR code
Your camera opens automatically. Point it at the QR code in your email.
Follow the prompts
Confirm the plan name and complete installation. The process takes about 30 seconds.
Activating your plan
After installation, your eSIM is installed but not yet active. Activation happens automatically when your phone connects to a supported network at your destination.
When you land and turn off airplane mode, your phone searches for local networks. When it finds one supported by your Vyroam plan, it connects and your data allowance begins. You don't need to do anything.
If you're on a connecting flight and you're not at your final destination yet, keep airplane mode on to avoid accidentally activating your plan early in the transit country.
Troubleshooting
- eSIM not showing after scan — restart your phone and check Settings → Cellular again
- QR code won't scan — try increasing your screen brightness, or enter the activation code manually (shown below the QR code)
- Connected but no internet — go to Settings → Cellular → your Vyroam eSIM, and make sure 'Data Roaming' is turned on
- Wrong APN settings — contact Vyroam support for the correct APN for your destination
- Plan shows 'active' but no data — toggle airplane mode off and on to force a network re-registration
Ready to install?
Purchase your plan and have the QR code in your inbox within seconds.