How to Install an eSIM on Your iPhone: Step-by-Step (2026)

Setting up an eSIM on your iPhone is quick and beginner-friendly. The whole thing takes about a minute on Wi-Fi. Here's exactly how to do it.

Before you start

• An eSIM-capable, unlocked iPhone (iPhone XS / XR or newer) or Samsung (S20, A54 or newer), Google Pixel (Pixel 4 or newer) or for others check our Compatibility page.
• A Wi-Fi connection (do this before you fly).
• Your eSIM QR code (we email it after your order, usually within a few minutes).

Step-by-step

1. Connect to Wi-Fi.
2. Open Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Service).
3. Tap Add eSIM → Use QR Code.
4. Point your camera at the QR code we sent you.
5. Follow the prompts to add the plan. Give it a clear label like "beamSIM Travel".

Set it as your data line

After installing, tell your iPhone to use the new plan for data:

• Go to Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data and select your beamSIM line.
• Keep your primary line for calls and texts so your normal number still works.
• Turn on Data Roaming for the beamSIM line only — this lets it connect to local networks abroad (you won't be charged roaming, because it's a local travel plan).

When does it activate?

Most travel plans start when you arrive and connect at your destination — not when you install. So you can set everything up at home and simply land online.

Quick troubleshooting

• No connection? Make sure Data Roaming is on for the beamSIM line and that it's selected for Cellular Data.
• Wrong line for data? Re-check the Cellular Data setting.
• Still stuck? Email our team from the help center — we aim to reply within 48 hours.

That's it. For a full walkthrough of buying and activating, see how beamSIM works.