How do I install an eSIM on my iPhone (iOS 15 or newer)?
Step-by-step instructions for adding an eSIM on iPhone
Installing an eSIM on your iPhone is straightforward. Follow these steps to activate your GitSim eSIM for travel data while keeping your regular number for calls and texts.
An eSIM is a digital SIM card you download to your phone—no plastic card to insert. Scan a QR code or enter an activation code and a new mobile plan is added to your device.
Data roaming means using mobile internet when you’re in another country. Turn data roaming ON for the GitSim eSIM (so it works abroad) and keep data roaming OFF for your original SIM (to avoid unexpected charges).
GitSim partners with local networks. Your status bar may show a local carrier name (not “GitSim”). That’s normal—your GitSim plan is still active.
Travel timeline
- Today — Install your eSIM
• Install your GitSim eSIM while on reliable Wi‑Fi.
• Seeing “No Service”, “Installing…”, or “Activating…” at home is normal. Most travel eSIMs only finish activating after you arrive. - Just before you travel
• Turn Data Roaming OFF on your Primary SIM.
• In Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data, choose GitSim for Cellular Data. - When you land
• Turn Airplane Mode OFF and wait a moment; you may need to restart once.
• In Settings → Cellular, ensure the GitSim line is ON.
• Turn ON Data Roaming for GitSim.
• Your data package is valid for 30 days after first use. - Need more data?
• Top up from your GitSim account or contact support for a quick add‑on.
- Back home / after your trip
• Switch Cellular Data back to your Primary line if you like.
• GitSim eSIMs are typically one‑time use; buy a new eSIM for your next trip.
• Keep the old eSIM disabled; delete only if support advises.
Before You Start
Make sure your iPhone:
- Is unlocked (not carrier-locked).
- Runs iOS 15 or newer.
- Supports eSIM (most models from iPhone XS / XR and newer do).
- Has internet access via Wi-Fi.
If you don’t see Add eSIM / Add Cellular Plan in Settings → Cellular, your model or carrier variant may not support eSIM, or it may be disabled. Check your exact model/carrier or contact support.
Step-by-Step Installation (iPhone • iOS 15+)
Step 1: Open Cellular Settings
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Go to Settings → Cellular (may be Mobile Data in some regions).
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Tap Add eSIM (older iOS may say Add Cellular Plan).
Step 2: Add Your eSIM
Option 1: Scan QR Code (Recommended)
- Tap Use QR Code (or simply open the Camera and scan).
- When Cellular Plan Detected appears, tap Continue → Add Cellular Plan to install.
Option 2: Enter Details Manually
If scanning isn’t possible:
- In Add eSIM, scroll and tap Enter Details Manually.
- Enter the SM-DP+ address, Activation code, and Confirmation code (if provided).
- Tap Next and then Add Cellular Plan when detected.
QR scanning is fastest. Use manual entry only if scanning isn’t possible.
At home, it’s normal to see “Activating…” or “No Service.” The eSIM usually completes activation once you reach your destination.
Step 3: Label the Line (for clarity)
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When prompted, pick a label like “Travel” or “GitSim.”
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You can rename later in Settings → Cellular → [GitSim] → Cellular Plan Label.
Step 4: Choose Which Line Does What
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In Settings → Cellular:
- Cellular Data: select Gitsim if you immediately want to use the eSIM. Choose your Primary if you want to use the eSIM later. You can switch anytime.
- Default Voice Line: keep your Primary if you want your usual number for calls/SMS.
- iMessage & FaceTime: usually keep on your Primary; switch if needed.
- Tap Cellular Data Options and turn ON Data Roaming for GitSim.
- Optional but recommended abroad: Turn OFF “Allow Cellular Data Switching.”
Step 5: Verify Lines & Roaming
- In Settings → Cellular, confirm the GitSim line toggle is ON.
- Tap your Primary line and ensure Data Roaming is OFF.
Verify Connectivity (when you land)
- Turn Airplane Mode OFF and wait a moment.
- You should see signal bars and possibly a local carrier name (GitSim’s partner).
- Turn off Wi-Fi and load a webpage to confirm mobile data works.
If it doesn’t connect after landing (quick fixes)
Try these in order:
- Restart your iPhone.
- Toggle Airplane Mode ON for ~10 seconds, then OFF.
- In Settings → Cellular, turn the GitSim line OFF and back ON.
- Confirm Cellular Data = GitSim, Data Roaming = ON for GitSim, Data Roaming = OFF for your Primary, and Allow Cellular Data Switching = OFF.
- Manual network selection:
- Settings → Cellular → Network Selection
- Turn Automatic = OFF, choose a listed local network. (If unsure, set back to Automatic after trying.)
- Still stuck? Contact GitSim support: https://www.gitsim.com/en/help-center
Do not delete the eSIM during your trip if it seems stuck. Most QR codes are single-use; deleting usually can’t be undone without a new code.
Tips for Dual SIM on iPhone
- You can keep both your Primary (calls/SMS) and GitSim (data) active.
- If you disable Allow Cellular Data Switching, data will stay on GitSim—even during calls on the other line (data may briefly pause during a call).
- Want zero chance of charges on your Primary line? Turn Data Roaming OFF on Primary (or temporarily disable the Primary line).
You’re all set!
Your GitSim eSIM is installed and ready to provide affordable data while traveling. Have a great trip!