Which iPhones support eSIM?

iPhone XS, XS Max, XR and every newer model support eSIM, including all iPhone 11 through iPhone 17 models. iPhones sold in the US since iPhone 14 are eSIM-only. Most iPhones sold in mainland China lack eSIM; only the iPhone Air and iPhone 17e support it there.

Can I install an eSIM before my trip?

Yes, and you should. Install the eSIM on Wi-Fi at home, keep the line turned off or set to data-only, and it activates when it first connects to a network at your destination. nadanada eSIM validity starts on first connection, not at purchase.

Do I need internet to install an eSIM on iPhone?

Yes. Downloading the eSIM profile requires an internet connection, so install over Wi-Fi before you travel. Once installed, no further downloads are needed; the eSIM connects to local networks on arrival.

How do I keep my home number active while using a travel eSIM?

iPhones support dual SIM: keep your physical/home SIM enabled for calls and texts, and set the travel eSIM as your data line under Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data. Turn off Data Roaming on the home line to avoid roaming charges.

What if the QR code scan fails?

Use Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Enter Details Manually and type the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your confirmation page. Also check that you are on Wi-Fi, running a current iOS version, and that your iPhone is carrier-unlocked (Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock should say 'No SIM restrictions').

Can I reinstall an eSIM if I delete it?

That depends on the provider, because many eSIM profiles are single-install. With nadanada, keep your confirmation page bookmarked; if you run into trouble after deleting a profile, support can help you recover service for the remaining validity of your plan.

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

Installing an eSIM on an iPhone takes about two minutes. This guide covers all three installation methods and the settings that matter for travel.

Before you start

You need three things:

An eSIM-compatible iPhone. That means iPhone XS/XR or newer (every iPhone since 2018). US iPhones from the 14 series onward are eSIM-only.
An unlocked phone. Check Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock. It must say "No SIM restrictions." If it shows a carrier name, ask that carrier to unlock the phone before your trip.
A Wi-Fi connection, because the eSIM profile is a download and you need internet during installation.

Method 1: QR code (most common)

When you buy a nadanada eSIM you get a QR code on the confirmation page instantly, with no email and no account.

Open Settings > Cellular (on some iOS versions: Settings > Mobile Data)
Tap Add eSIM (or Add Cellular Plan)
Choose Use QR Code
Point the camera at the QR code. If the code is on the same phone, open the confirmation page and long-press the QR image, then tap Add eSIM from the preview
Tap Continue, then Add eSIM to confirm the download
Label the plan something useful like "Japan eSIM" when prompted

Method 2: Manual entry

If scanning fails, enter the details by hand:

Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM
Tap Enter Details Manually
Paste the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your confirmation page (leave the confirmation code field empty unless your provider gave you one)
Tap Next and wait for the profile to download

Method 3: Activation link

Some confirmations include a direct activation link. Tap it on your iPhone and it opens the install flow directly, so all you do is confirm and wait for the download.

Set up dual SIM correctly

After installation, iOS asks how to use the two lines. The travel-friendly setup:

Default line for calls/texts: your home SIM (so iMessage and SMS keep working)
Cellular data: the travel eSIM (Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data)
Data Roaming: ON for the travel eSIM (travel eSIMs work by roaming, and this does not cause extra charges on a prepaid plan), OFF for your home SIM (this does cause extra charges)

Before you fly

Install the eSIM at home on Wi-Fi, not at the destination airport
Keep the eSIM line enabled; it only starts counting validity when it connects at your destination
Screenshot your confirmation page so you can reinstall without internet
On arrival, if data does not start within a minute or two, toggle Airplane Mode on and off