How to Install an eSIM on iPhone: QR Code & Manual Method
Step-by-step guide to installing a travel eSIM on any iPhone model (XR and later). Covers QR code scanning, manual activation, and what to do if it doesn't work.
Installing an eSIM on iPhone takes under two minutes. The QR code method is the quickest — you simply scan the code from your confirmation email and follow the on-screen prompts.
Before you start
- Connect to Wi-Fi — eSIM installation requires an internet connection
- Make sure your iPhone is on iOS 13 or later (iOS 17.4+ recommended)
- Your iPhone must be carrier-unlocked — locked phones may not accept third-party eSIMs
- Have your QR code ready — either open the email on a different device, or use another screen to display it
Can't display QR on a second screen?
If you only have one device, use the Manual entry method below. Your confirmation email also contains the activation code (SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code) for manual entry.
QR code method (recommended)
Open Settings
Tap Settings on your iPhone home screen.
Tap Cellular (or Mobile Service)
On iOS 17+, this is listed as 'Cellular'. Older versions may show 'Mobile Data'.
Tap Add eSIM
You'll see options including 'Use QR Code'. Tap it.
Scan the QR code
Point your camera at the QR code in your confirmation email. Hold steady for a second — it scans automatically.
Tap Add Cellular Plan
A confirmation screen appears showing the plan details. Tap 'Add Cellular Plan' to confirm.
Label your eSIM
iOS will ask you to label the plan (e.g. 'Travel', 'Vyroam'). Choose any label that helps you identify it.
Set as data line
When asked which line to use for mobile data, select the new eSIM. Keep your home SIM active for calls and texts.
Manual entry method
Use this if you can't scan the QR code or if the camera scan fails.
Go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM
Follow the same path as above, but choose 'Enter Details Manually' instead of Use QR Code.
Enter the SM-DP+ Address
This is a long URL found in your confirmation email. Type it exactly as shown — one wrong character will cause the installation to fail.
Enter the Activation Code
A shorter code, also in your confirmation email. Enter it carefully — one wrong character and it will fail.
Confirm and complete
Tap Next and follow the on-screen steps to finish installation.
After installation
Once installed, go to Settings → Cellular and confirm the eSIM appears under your plans. Set it as the mobile data line. You'll also want to enable Data Roaming on the eSIM (it may be off by default) — counterintuitively, travel eSIMs require roaming to be enabled because the plan's 'home' is technically abroad.
Install before you travel
Do this at home over your own Wi-Fi. At the airport, Wi-Fi can be slow or require login steps. Your eSIM won't activate until your phone connects to a local network abroad — so there's no rush.
Troubleshooting
- Add eSIM option missing — your iPhone may be carrier-locked. Contact your home carrier to confirm.
- QR code won't scan — make sure there's enough light, hold steady, and try adjusting distance. Or use the manual method.
- Plan installed but no data — go to Settings → Cellular → your eSIM → enable Data Roaming.
- Error: 'SIM card already in use' — restart your iPhone and try again.
- 'Unable to complete' error — the QR code may already have been used (each code is single-use). Contact Vyroam support.
Get your eSIM QR code
Find a plan for your destination and receive your QR code by email in minutes.