Settings › Mobile Data › Add eSIM › Use QR Code — scan the code from your confirmation, label the line, and leave it switched off until you travel
You need Wi-Fi and the QR code from your order. The whole thing takes about two minutes, and it is best done at home rather than at the airport.
Installing
- Connect the iPhone to Wi-Fi
- Open Settings › Mobile Data (called Cellular in some regions)
- Tap Add eSIM, then Use QR Code
- Point the camera at the QR code from your confirmation eMail
- Tap Continue, then Add Mobile Data Plan
- Give the line a name you will recognise — the destination works well
- When asked which line to use, keep your home line for calls and messages
- For Mobile Data, choose the travel eSIM
If you are reading the confirmation on the same iPhone, there is nothing to scan: tap the install link in the eMail and iOS opens the same flow with the details already filled in.
Before You Fly
- Switch the travel line off until you arrive, so nothing tries to connect early
- Turn data roaming on for the travel line — Settings › Mobile Data › the travel line › Data Roaming
- Turn data roaming off for your home line, which is what prevents a roaming bill
- Leave Allow Mobile Data Switching off, or the phone may quietly use the home line
The two roaming settings do opposite jobs and are next to each other in the same menu. On for the travel eSIM, off for the home SIM — reversing them is the most common and most expensive mistake there is.
Installing does not start the plan. It waits at Pending until you land and connect at the destination — see When does My Purchased Plan Become Active?
