Setup

eSIM installation guide

Install before you fly

Install the eSIM at home, on Wi-Fi, before you leave. For every plan we currently sell, the validity countdown only starts when your phone first connects to a mobile network in the destination — not when you install. So installing days in advance is safe, as long as you keep the ElloSim line turned off until you land. (If a plan ever shows the "Activates at installation" badge, treat that one as the exception and install it only when you're close to your trip.)

iPhone (iOS 17 and newer)

  1. Open the email from ElloSim on a different screen (laptop, tablet, or print it).
  2. On your iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code.
  3. Scan the QR code from your email. Tap Continue, then Add eSIM.
  4. Label it "Travel" or your destination so it's easy to find later.
  5. Set your primary line for calls / iMessage / FaceTime to your home SIM.
  6. Set Cellular Data to the new ElloSim line only after you land (or leave it on your home SIM until then to avoid accidental roaming).
  7. Turn ON Data Roaming for the ElloSim line — this is required for it to connect to local networks. It does not mean you'll be charged roaming.

Samsung Galaxy

  1. Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM.
  2. Tap Scan QR code from service provider and scan the code from your email.
  3. Confirm Add. Give the line a nickname like "Travel".
  4. Under Mobile data, select the ElloSim line after landing.
  5. Tap the ElloSim line → enable Data roaming.

Google Pixel

  1. Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Download a SIM instead.
  2. Tap Next, then scan the QR code from your email.
  3. Confirm Download. Name the line "Travel".
  4. After landing, set Mobile data to the ElloSim line and enable Roaming.

When you land

  1. Switch on your phone (turn Airplane mode off).
  2. In Cellular / Mobile data, select the ElloSim line for data.
  3. Make sure Data roaming is ON for the ElloSim line.
  4. Wait 1–2 minutes for the phone to register. You should see a carrier name in the status bar.

Troubleshooting

  • No signal after 5 minutes: toggle Airplane mode off and on once. Then restart the phone.
  • "Could not activate cellular plan": you are not connected to Wi-Fi or cellular. Connect to Wi-Fi and try again.
  • QR code already used: each QR code can only be installed once. Email support@ellosim.com and we'll help.
  • Slow speeds: in Cellular settings, set Voice & Data to 5G Auto (or 4G/LTE).

Still stuck? Contact support — we reply within one business day, usually much sooner.