How to install an eSIM on iPhone
Follow the safe iPhone setup flow: add the eSIM, choose it for mobile data, and avoid activating the plan too early.
You bought an eSIM and need to add it to an iPhone without losing access to your primary SIM or starting the travel plan at the wrong moment.
Open Settings, add the eSIM from the QR code or activation details, keep your primary SIM for calls, and switch mobile data to the travel eSIM when you are ready to use it.
- Connect your iPhone to stable Wi-Fi and keep the Skyalo QR code or manual activation details open on another screen.
- Open Settings, tap Cellular or Mobile Service, then tap Add eSIM.
- Scan the QR code. If scanning is not possible, choose Enter Details Manually and copy the activation information exactly.
- Label the new line as Travel, Skyalo, or the destination name so it is easy to recognize later.
- Your iPhone is eSIM-compatible and carrier-unlocked.
- You have iOS updated enough to support Add eSIM.
- The QR code has not already been used on another device.
- Do not delete an installed eSIM unless support confirms it is safe. Many eSIM profiles cannot be installed again after deletion.
- If you are installing before departure, leave mobile data on your primary SIM until you arrive.
Step-by-step fix
4 min read
- 1
Connect your iPhone to stable Wi-Fi and keep the Skyalo QR code or manual activation details open on another screen.
- 2
Open Settings, tap Cellular or Mobile Service, then tap Add eSIM.
- 3
Scan the QR code. If scanning is not possible, choose Enter Details Manually and copy the activation information exactly.
- 4
Label the new line as Travel, Skyalo, or the destination name so it is easy to recognize later.
- 5
Keep your primary line enabled for calls and SMS if you still need your regular number.
- 6
Choose the Skyalo eSIM for mobile data when you are in the destination country or when the plan instructions say it can be activated.
- 7
Turn on Data Roaming for the Skyalo eSIM if the installation instructions mention roaming-based data access.
- Your iPhone is eSIM-compatible and carrier-unlocked.
- You have iOS updated enough to support Add eSIM.
- The QR code has not already been used on another device.
- You are connected to Wi-Fi during installation.
- Do not delete an installed eSIM unless support confirms it is safe. Many eSIM profiles cannot be installed again after deletion.
- If you are installing before departure, leave mobile data on your primary SIM until you arrive.
- You are connected to Wi-Fi during installation.
- If you are installing before departure, leave mobile data on your primary SIM until you arrive.