Help & FAQ

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built into your device. Instead of swapping a physical card, you scan a QR code or tap a link to install a data plan — usually in under a minute.

Most phones from the last few years support eSIM, including iPhone XS and later, Google Pixel 3a and later, and Samsung Galaxy S20 and later. Check your phone's settings under Mobile Data → Add eSIM (iPhone) or Settings → Network → SIM cards (Android). You'll also need an unlocked device — phones tied to a carrier may not accept eSIMs from other providers.

See the full list of eSIM-compatible phones and how to check yours in under a minute.

iPhone: Tap the "Install on iPhone" button in your confirmation email or on your dashboard, or go to Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM → Use QR Code and scan the code.

Android: Go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIM cards → Add eSIM and scan the QR code from your dashboard.

Tip: install the eSIM before you travel — you don't need mobile data to install it, just Wi-Fi.

Your data plan activates the first time your eSIM connects to a local network in your destination — not when you install it. So you can install it at home and it won't count down until you land.

No. An eSIM QR code can only be scanned and installed once. Once installed on a device, it is tied to that device.

You can purchase a top-up directly from your dashboard. Go to My eSIMs, find the relevant eSIM, and tap "Top Up".

A daily plan gives you a set amount of full-speed data every day. Once you've used it, data carries on at a lower speed until the day ends — it doesn't cut off — and the next day you get the full allowance again. Unused full-speed data doesn't carry over.

Each plan shows its lower speed before you buy. At 1 Mbps, maps, messaging, email and music work and video plays at low quality; at 384–512 Kbps, video struggles; below that, expect messages and email only.

Longer trips cost less per day. The destination page lists the per-day price at each trip length and shows the total for the number of days you choose.

Yes. Your eSIM provides a data-only connection. Your existing physical SIM stays active for calls and texts from your home number. Set your eSIM as the default for mobile data in your phone settings.

Prices are set in pounds sterling (GBP). If you choose GBP, euros, US dollars, Australian dollars or Canadian dollars in the currency menu, your card is charged in that currency, and the amount on the Pay button is exactly what we charge. Any other currency is shown for reference only: we charge GBP and your bank converts it at its own rate.

Check your spam folder first. If you still can't find it, go to your dashboard — your QR code is always available there. If you ordered without an account, use "Find an order by email" on the dashboard to retrieve it.

We offer a 180-day full refund on any eSIM that has never connected to a mobile network — even if it's already installed on your device. If your eSIM fails to provision at all, you get an automatic refund within minutes. The only case where we can't refund is if the eSIM has already made its first network connection (i.e. been used). See our Refund Policy for full details.

Message us on WhatsApp for the fastest reply, or email support@esimsalabim.com. You can also call or text +44 7927 992 487. We aim to respond within a few hours.