If your eSIM is installed but you can't connect to the internet, several common issues could be causing the problem. This guide will walk you through the main reasons and troubleshooting steps to get your eSIM working.

Common Causes and Solutions

Here are some of the most frequent reasons why your eSIM might not be connecting to the internet:

1. Not in the eSIM Service Area: Many eSIMs are region-locked. For example, a USA eSIM will only connect once you are physically in the USA. If you install it before arriving, it won't work until you reach your destination.
2. Data Roaming Disabled: Data Roaming might be turned OFF for your eSIM. Most travel eSIMs require this.
3. Incorrect Data SIM Selected: Your device may not be set to use the new eSIM for mobile data.
4. Incorrect APN Settings: Some eSIMs, especially on Android, require manual configuration of the Access Point Name (APN). For GitSim eSIMs, the APN is always plus (all lowercase, no spaces), with username and password fields left empty.
5. Network Signal or Carrier Issues: Poor signal strength, temporary network outages, or specific carrier problems can prevent internet access.
6. Device Incompatibility: Your device might not be compatible with the specific eSIM or support all eSIM types. Check our device compatibility guide for more information.
7. Activation or Plan Issues: Double-check that your eSIM plan is active and hasn't expired. Activation can sometimes take a few minutes after installation.

Basic Troubleshooting Steps (All Devices)

Before diving into device-specific settings, try these general fixes:

• Toggle Airplane Mode: Turn Airplane Mode ON for about 30 seconds, then turn it OFF. This resets your device's network connections.
• Restart Your Device: A simple reboot can resolve many temporary connectivity glitches.
• Manually Select a Network: If automatic network selection isn't working, try choosing a network manually from your device's settings.
• Disconnect from Wi-Fi: Make sure you are not connected to Wi-Fi when testing your eSIM's mobile data.

iOS (iPhone/iPad) eSIM Troubleshooting

If you're using an iPhone or iPad, follow these steps:

1. Check Device Compatibility: Ensure your iPhone (XS and newer) or iPad (Pro, Air, & mini models from 2019+ with cellular) supports eSIM and is unlocked if using a different carrier from your primary one. You can verify this with our device compatibility list.
2. Confirm eSIM Activation: Go to Settings > Cellular. Check if your eSIM plan appears and is turned on. If not, try toggling the line off and on again.
3. Select eSIM for Data: In Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data, make sure your new eSIM is selected for mobile data use.
4. Enable Data Roaming: Go to Settings > Cellular > [Your eSIM Line] and turn Data Roaming ON. Many travel eSIMs require this even if you are not technically "roaming" in a traditional sense.
5. Verify Connection Status: After ensuring Wi-Fi is off (see Basic Troubleshooting), check that Cellular Data is ON. Wait a moment to see if LTE, 5G, or 3G appears in the status bar, then try browsing.
6. Update iOS: Go to Settings > General > Software Update. An outdated iOS version can sometimes cause compatibility issues.
7. Reset Network Settings: As a more advanced step, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone/iPad > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
   This will erase all saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords, VPN/APN settings, and cellular settings.
8. Remove Physical SIM (If Applicable): If you have a physical SIM installed, there might be a conflict. Try temporarily removing it, restart your device, and test the eSIM again.
9. Check for Error Messages: Look for messages like "No Service," "Invalid SIM," or "SIM Not Supported." These can indicate coverage, activation, or compatibility problems.

Android eSIM Troubleshooting

For Android devices, the steps can vary slightly by manufacturer, but here's a general guide:

1. Check Device Compatibility: Confirm your Android device supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Refer to our device compatibility guide if you're unsure.
2. Confirm eSIM Activation: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs (or Mobile Network). Verify that your eSIM profile is listed and active.
3. Select eSIM for Data: In Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs (or similar), set your eSIM as the preferred SIM for Mobile Data.
4. Enable Data Roaming: Find your eSIM settings (usually under Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > [Your eSIM]) and ensure Data Roaming is enabled.
5. Update APN Settings: This is a common fix for Android. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Access Point Names (APN).
   • Tap the + icon or menu to add a new APN.
   • Enter the APN details. For GitSim eSIMs, the Name can be anything (e.g., "GitSim") and the APN must be plus. Leave other fields like username and password blank.
   • Save the APN and select it.
     For GitSim eSIMs, the APN is always plus.
6. Verify Connection Status: After ensuring Wi-Fi is off (see Basic Troubleshooting), ensure Mobile Data is ON. Check for a connection indicator and try browsing.
7. Reset Network Settings: Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth. This will erase saved Wi-Fi passwords and Bluetooth pairings.

Understanding Data Roaming

Data roaming allows your phone to use mobile data on a network outside your primary carrier's coverage area. This is essential for most travel eSIMs, as they often connect to partner networks in your destination country. Enabling data roaming in your phone's settings for your eSIM is usually required to access the internet.