What phones support eSIM?+
Most smartphones released after 2019 support eSIM. This includes: iPhone XS and later (2018+), Samsung Galaxy S20 and later (2020+), Google Pixel 3 and later (2018+), and many other Android devices. Check our
device compatibility page for a complete list. Note that devices sold in China or with carrier locks may not support eSIM even if the hardware is present.
Can I use eSIM and physical SIM at the same time?+
Yes! This is one of the biggest advantages of eSIM for travelers. Dual SIM devices (which includes most modern smartphones) allow you to use both a physical SIM and eSIM simultaneously. The typical setup for nomads: keep your home country SIM for calls, texts, and 2FA codes, while using the eSIM for data. You can configure which SIM handles data in your phone settings.
How do I activate an eSIM?+
After purchasing a plan, you'll receive a QR code by email. On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add Cellular Plan → scan QR code. On Android: Settings → Network → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → scan QR code. The process takes about 2–5 minutes. We recommend installing on home Wi-Fi before traveling.
How fast is eSIM data in Europe?+
Most European eSIM plans use 4G LTE networks, providing speeds of 20–100 Mbps in urban areas. This is more than sufficient for video calls (Zoom, Teams), streaming (Netflix, YouTube), and general remote work. Some providers offer 5G in select cities. Rural areas may have slower speeds. For reference, a Zoom video call requires about 3 Mbps — well within LTE capabilities.
Can I use eSIM on a tablet or laptop?+
Yes, many tablets and some laptops support eSIM. Compatible tablets include iPad Pro (2018+), iPad Air (2019+), iPad mini (2019+), and select Surface and Lenovo models. Check the manufacturer's specifications for your specific device. Travel eSIM plans typically work on tablets as well as phones.
What happens when I run out of data?+
When you exhaust your data allowance, most providers either stop data service or throttle speeds significantly (typically to 128–256 kbps). You can usually top up through the provider's app or website without needing a new QR code. Some plans offer unlimited data with speed throttling after a threshold — useful for nomads who need constant connectivity.
Is eSIM safe and secure?+
Yes — eSIM is actually more secure than physical SIM cards. The eSIM chip uses hardware-level encryption and is permanently soldered to your device, making it impossible to physically steal or clone. Profile downloads are encrypted and cryptographically bound to your specific device. The GSMA (the industry body that sets eSIM standards) mandates strict security requirements for all certified eSIM providers.
Can I transfer my eSIM to a new phone?+
Not directly. eSIM profiles are cryptographically bound to the specific device they were installed on. To use the same plan on a new device, you need to contact your provider and request a new activation code for the new device. Some providers offer this for free; others charge a small fee. This is why saving your QR code screenshot is important.
Do I need internet to activate eSIM?+
Yes, you need an internet connection to download and activate the eSIM profile. This is why we strongly recommend activating before you travel, while connected to your home Wi-Fi. If you need to activate on arrival, airport Wi-Fi or a hotel connection will work fine.
How many eSIM profiles can I store?+
Storage capacity varies by device. iPhone typically stores 8–12 profiles. Google Pixel can store up to 15. Samsung varies by model (5–10). Only one eSIM can be active at a time (though some newer devices support two active eSIMs simultaneously). You can delete old profiles to free up space when needed.
Does eSIM work in non-EU European countries?+
Many European eSIM plans include non-EU countries like Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and the UK. Coverage varies by provider. Countries like Turkey, Ukraine, and the Western Balkans may require separate plans or may not be included. Always check the specific coverage list for your chosen plan before purchasing.
What if my eSIM stops working?+
First, try toggling Airplane Mode off and on to force a network reconnection. Check that Data Roaming is enabled and the eSIM is set as the default data line. If issues persist, contact your eSIM provider's support — most offer 24/7 chat support. As a backup, most providers can issue a new activation code if the profile becomes corrupted.