My QR code will not scan. What do I do?

Switch to manual entry. In Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM, tap "Enter Details Manually". Paste the activation URL from your email. Works the same way.

How many eSIMs can an iPhone hold?

iPhone 13 and later can store 8 eSIMs and use 2 at a time. iPhone XR/XS through 12 can store multiple but use only 2 simultaneously. The US iPhone 14 and later can use 2 eSIMs plus no physical SIM.

I see "No Service" after installing. What went wrong?

Most likely Data Roaming is off, or you're not yet in the coverage area. Toggle airplane mode once to force a reconnect. If you're still offline after landing in the destination country, check that cellular data is set to the travel line under Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data.

Can I delete the eSIM after my trip?

Yes. Settings → Cellular → tap the line → Remove eSIM. The plan's remaining data is lost if you remove the profile, so only do this after the trip.

Installation

How to install an eSIM on iPhone: the full walkthrough

The exact steps to install an eSIM on an iPhone, including the settings you must change for the travel profile to actually connect on landing.

Updated 2026-04-14

Key takeaway

"The single most common iPhone eSIM failure is Data Roaming being disabled on the new profile. Apple's default is OFF for safety — you must manually enable it per line."

iPhone has supported eSIM since the XR and XS in 2018. Every subsequent model works the same way, including the US-only iPhone 14 and later which are eSIM-only. The install process takes under a minute once you know the five settings that actually matter.

The one common mistake: forgetting to toggle Data Roaming ON for the travel eSIM line specifically while keeping it OFF on your home line. That single setting decides whether you are online or accidentally billed by your home carrier.

Step 1: scan the QR code

Open Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code. Point the camera at the QR sent to your email. Profile installation takes 20–40 seconds. You can also enter the activation URL manually if the QR isn't scannable (dim lighting, glare).

Step 2: label the line

iOS will prompt for a label — call it "Japan" or "Travel" or whatever helps you spot it in the dual-SIM menu. This does not affect routing, only readability.

Step 3: set your default line for iMessage and calls

Keep your home number as the default for iMessage, FaceTime, and calls. Your home line stays your public-facing number. This also ensures SMS 2FA codes keep arriving on your home number.

Step 4: set cellular data to the travel line

Under Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data, change the source to the travel eSIM. This is the critical step — without it, your phone will still use your home SIM for data and charge you for roaming.

Step 5: enable Data Roaming on the travel line only

Tap on the travel eSIM line → scroll to Data Roaming → toggle ON. Go back, tap on your home line → confirm Data Roaming is OFF. This split is the entire point of dual-SIM for travel.

Questions people actually ask.

Switch to manual entry. In Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM, tap "Enter Details Manually". Paste the activation URL from your email. Works the same way.
iPhone 13 and later can store 8 eSIMs and use 2 at a time. iPhone XR/XS through 12 can store multiple but use only 2 simultaneously. The US iPhone 14 and later can use 2 eSIMs plus no physical SIM.
Most likely Data Roaming is off, or you're not yet in the coverage area. Toggle airplane mode once to force a reconnect. If you're still offline after landing in the destination country, check that cellular data is set to the travel line under Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data.
Yes. Settings → Cellular → tap the line → Remove eSIM. The plan's remaining data is lost if you remove the profile, so only do this after the trip.

Keep reading.

Related guides

Installation

How to install an eSIM on Android: Pixel, Samsung, and the rest

The unified Android install plus vendor-specific differences.

Troubleshooting

eSIM not working? A systematic troubleshooting checklist

The ten causes of "no service" on a freshly-installed eSIM, in order of likelihood.

Technical

Dual SIM with eSIM: keeping your home number and travel data

The exact settings that make your phone work abroad without surprises.

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