Two things have to be true:
- Your phone supports eSIM.
- Your phone is carrier-unlocked, so it accepts other networks' SIMs.
The 10-second test
Open your phone's dialler and type *#06#. If you see a number labelled EID, your phone supports eSIM.
Rough guide
iPhone XS or newer, Pixel 3 or newer, Galaxy S20 or newer, and most 2020+ flagships. It varies by model and by the country the phone was sold in, so check yours on the phone check page.
Unlocked?
A locked phone may install the eSIM but refuse to connect with it. To check:
- iPhone: Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock. "No SIM restrictions" means it's unlocked.
- Android: it varies by brand. The surest way is to ask your carrier, or try another network's SIM.
If you bought the phone outright, it's usually unlocked. If it came on a contract, ask your carrier.
Going to Australia? Your phone also needs VoLTE
Since 28 October 2024, Australian networks block phones that can't make emergency calls over 4G (VoLTE), and that includes visitors' phones. A blocked phone gets no mobile data with any SIM or eSIM, only Wi-Fi. Most recent iPhones, Pixels and Galaxys are fine. If your model is older or was sold for another region, check it supports VoLTE in Australia before you buy.
Bought one and your phone turns out not to support eSIM? You can install it on another eSIM phone, such as a travel companion's. If you try and it still can't be made to work, contact us: see the refund rule.