Setting up an eSIM on your iPhone is straightforward, but the exact steps vary slightly depending on your iPhone model and iOS version. This guide covers every compatible iPhone from the iPhone XS (the first to support eSIM) through the latest iPhone 16 series, so you can follow along regardless of which model you own.
Before you begin, confirm your iPhone supports eSIM. All iPhones from the iPhone XS onwards have eSIM capability, including the iPhone XR, iPhone 11 series, iPhone 12 series, iPhone 13 series, iPhone 14 series, iPhone 15 series, and iPhone 16 series. In the US, iPhone 14 and later models are eSIM-only with no physical SIM tray at all. To double-check, go to Settings > General > About and look for an available eSIM slot, or check that your IMEI2 or EID field is populated.
Step 1: Purchase your eSIM plan. Visit Hypr eSIM and select the data plan for your destination. After checkout, you'll receive a QR code via email. Keep this email accessible on another device (a laptop, tablet, or a friend's phone) because you'll need to scan the QR code with your iPhone's camera. Step 2: Open Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) > Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan. Your iPhone will activate the camera for QR code scanning. Point it at the QR code from your email. Step 3: Your iPhone will detect the eSIM profile and prompt you to confirm. Tap 'Continue' and then 'Add Cellular Plan.'
Step 4: Label your new plan. iOS will ask you to label the eSIM (e.g., 'Travel' or 'Japan Data'). This helps you distinguish it from your primary SIM. Step 5: Choose your default line settings. You can set your primary SIM for calls and texts, and your new eSIM for cellular data. This is the ideal setup for travel — your home number stays active for iMessage and calls, while all data routes through your affordable eSIM plan.
Step 6: Enable Data Roaming for the eSIM line. This is the step most people miss. Go to Settings > Cellular > tap your new eSIM plan > toggle on Data Roaming. Despite the name, this simply allows the eSIM to connect to networks abroad — you won't incur roaming charges because you've already paid for data through your eSIM plan. Without this toggle, your eSIM will show signal bars but won't actually transfer data.
If you have an iPhone running iOS 16 or later, you may also see the option to transfer an eSIM from another device or set one up during the initial phone setup wizard. For travel eSIMs like Hypr eSIM, the QR code method described above is the most reliable approach. The entire process takes under three minutes, and once installed, you can toggle the eSIM on or off from Settings > Cellular without needing to reinstall it.
Pro tip: install your travel eSIM a day or two before your trip, while you're still connected to home Wi-Fi. This gives you time to verify the installation was successful and troubleshoot if needed. When you arrive at your destination, simply make sure the eSIM line is enabled and Data Roaming is on — you'll connect to the local network within seconds of leaving airplane mode.