Frequently Asked Questions
Stuck? We've got you covered
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital version of the traditional physical SIM card. Unlike a SIM card, an eSIM is built into your device and can be activated electronically without needing to insert anything. An eSIM performs the exact same functions of connecting to a mobile network for voice calls, text messages, and mobile data.
Can I use my home number SIM after installing an eSIM?
Yes, you can still use your home number SIM after installing a second eSIM. You can even use both SIMs at the same time, your home number SIM for calls and texts, and the second eSIM for data roaming when you travel.
Learn about Dual SIMs in our blog.
How many eSIMs can I have?
eSIMs, being digital, allow you to install multiple plans on your phone without the physical limitation of a sim card. The number of eSIMs you can store and activate is device-specific.
For iPhones, you can install five or more eSIMs on an iOS device, with two being active simultaneously. Your iPhone can be set up with two phone numbers for voice calls and messages, using one mobile data network at a time. However, this can vary based on the iPhone model, location, and network provider.
For Android devices like Samsung, Google, Huawei, etc., the number of installable and active eSIMs varies. Typically, you can have five to seven eSIMs installed, with one active at a time.
Learn about Dual SIMs in our blog.
Can I use an eSIM if my phone is locked?
Unfortunately an eSIM can only be installed on an unlocked device. If your device is locked, please contact your telco provider to understand the terms for unlocking your phone. Once your device is unlocked, you’ll be able to install and activate an eSIM.
Learn all the ways to check if your phone is unlocked.
Is my phone eSIM compatible?
Most phones manufactured since 2018 are eSIM-compatible. However, this can vary based on your location and telco. To keep things simple, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of eSIM-compatible devices.
You can check if your smartphone is eSIM compatible here.
Is data speed slower with eSIM?
Neither eSIM nor physical SIM card has a direct impact on network speed. Data speed depends on coverage, congestion, or prioritisation of the local telco provider.
Is eSIM a security risk?
eSIMs are a big step up in phone security. They’re built into your device, so they can’t be tampered with. You can also add a PIN to your eSIM for extra safety. If you lose your phone, you can remotely erase the eSIM to stop anyone else from using it.
Does eSIM drain the battery?
No, an eSIM doesn’t use any more battery than a regular SIM when using mobile data. However, if you are using your eSIM (or SIM) to share a personal hotspot this will use more battery.
Why do you need an eSIM for overseas travel?
eSIMs make staying connected while travelling easier and worry-free, who doesn't want that? With mobile data abroad, you can use your apps to call, message, find local spots, and share your trip with friends and family back home. Plus, you can store multiple eSIMs on your phone. This is great if you’re visiting many places in one trip or travel often.
When should I buy and install an eSIM for travel?
You should buy an eSIM before your trip, because it’s easier to install at home or work where you have a stable internet connection. Plus, if you install your eSIM before you go, it will connect to the local network as soon as you arrive, so you can start exploring right away.
Can I install my eSIM now, and activate it at a later date?
Yes, you can install your eSim after you purchase it. BUT activation only occurs when you arrive at your destination.
Upon arrival, check your phone settings to make sure your eSimmer travel eSIM is turned ON and is the only data source. Your eSIM will automatically activate to the assigned overseas network. (Don't try to activate your travel eSIM while you’re still at home, because it won't be able to connect).
Learn about Roaming Settings in our blog.
Should I turn data roaming ON?
Yes, at your destination you should turn your eSimmer eSim data roaming ON. Data roaming lets your phone use the internet and mobile data while travelling. To check your data roaming settings, follow these steps:
- Go to your phone Settings > Mobile
- Ensure your eSimmer eSIM is ON, with Data Roaming ON.
- If your home SIM is active, turn OFF Data Roaming.
Your eSimmer eSIM will automatically activate to the assigned overseas network.
Learn about Roaming Settings in our blog.
Should I take out my SIM card when travelling?
No, it is not necessary to remove your physical SIM card. To avoid extra charges from your home telco, simply don't answer calls and turn data roaming OFF on your home SIM card.
Learn about Roaming Settings in our blog.
Can I make and receive phone calls and messages with a data-only eSIM?
While data-only eSIMs don't come with a phone number, your family and friends can stay in touch by calling or sending messages via data based apps such as Whatsapp, Viber, Snapchat, Messenger, Skype, iMessage etc. Staying connected is easy with your eSimmer eSIM.
Read our blog to learn all the ways to call & text with a travel eSIM.
Can I receive SMS texts while travelling overseas?
Good news! Most telco providers in your home country don't charge for incoming SMS texts, even when you're travelling internationally. This means you can keep your home number SIM active and receive important SMS texts like bank verifications, even without purchasing an international roaming pack from your home telco.
What if I run out of data or days on my eSIM plan?
All our eSimmer eSIMs have a GB data limit and last for either 10 or 30 days. If you use up all your data before the days are over, your eSIM card will stop and you will not have internet. Also, when the days are over, your eSIM will stop.
Does an eSIM change your home phone number?
No, an eSIM does not change your home phone number. In fact, it adds a second SIM to your phone, allowing you to maintain two active SIMs. Many travellers prefer to keep their home phone number for WiFi calling and receiving SMS, while a secondary eSIM works simultaneously for data roaming.
Learn about Dual SIMs in our blog.
Will I be able to access my emails, maps and other apps with an eSIM?
Yes, with a travel eSIM from eSimmer, you can continue to utilise your phone’s features just the same as you would at home. This includes communication apps such as Gmail, iMessage, Facetime, and Facebook Messenger, these all run on data. Additionally, navigation apps like Google Maps also run on data. With your travel eSIM data pack activated, you’ll be able to use all these apps without any issues.
Can I use a travel eSIM with other non-mobile devices?
Yes, you can absolutely use our eSimmer eSIMs with newer iPads and tablet models.
You can check if your iPad and tablet model is eSIM compatible here.
Can I share data with other devices using my eSIM?
Yes. Turn your phone into a Wi-Fi hotspot to share data from your eSimmer eSIM. Just make sure your eSimmer eSIM is the only data source.
What if something goes wrong with my eSIM?
If your eSIM data plan suddenly stops working, first ensure you’re in an area with mobile network coverage. If your signal strength is strong and your eSIM data still isn’t working, try restarting your device. If the issue persists, set your eSIM profile as the primary SIM in your device settings. If you’re still experiencing issues, when you have wifi don’t hesitate to email - support@esimmer.com. We’re here to help!
How can I check if my phone is locked to my telco?
There are a few simple ways to determine whether or not your phone is locked. For starters, if you purchased your phone outright, then it will be unlocked. However, if you’re paying for your phone on a plan or are within a minimum contract period with a specific telco, your phone may be locked. The easiest way to confirm is to contact your telco directly and just ask them.
Read our blog to learn all the ways to check if your phone is unlocked.
Why can't I install my eSIM?
We’re sorry to hear you’re having trouble installing your new travel eSIM. Here are a few things to check:
- Is your device compatible with eSIM?
- Does your device have the latest operating system installed?
- Are you currently connected to Wi-Fi or data? (A data connection is required for downloading and installing your eSIM.)
- Have you followed our step-by-step eSIM installation guides for your specific device?
If you’ve answered “Yes” to all these questions and are still facing issues. Please don’t hesitate to email - support@esimmer.com. We’re here to help!
Why is my eSIM stuck on activating?
Rest assured that if your travel eSIM is stuck on "activating" or displays the pop-up message "activation failure," there is no need to worry. Your eSIM has been fully installed and the activation process will be finalised once you reach your travel destination and connect to the assigned overseas network.
If you have any concerns or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to email - support@esimmer.com. We’re here to help!
How can I remove an eSIM from my device?
If you are planning to sell, trade in, or give away your device, there are few simple steps to erase your eSIM, based on your device type.
For iPhone users, to erase your eSIM:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap either Cellular or Mobile Data.
- Tap the plan that you want to erase.
- Tap Delete eSIM.
For Android users, to erase your eSIM:
- Go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager.
- Select a plan on eSIM that you want to remove.
- Toggle the switch to disable the eSIM.
- Tap Remove.
Don't erase your travel eSIM as a troubleshooting step unless directed by our eSimmer support staff.
I deleted or lost the QR code of my eSIM, what to do?
If you’ve lost or deleted your eSIM QR code, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Please email - support@esimmer.com - and we’ll promptly resend the code to you. We're always here to help!