eSIM Data Plans

iPad eSIM: All you need to know

Find out how to use an eSIM on your iPad, including compatible devices and activation processes. Plus, explore travel eSIM plans for a reliable connection abroad.

Starting in 2018, eSIMs were added to some iPad devices, but there’s no special eSIM that works only on these devices, leaving the question of how to get an iPad eSIM and which devices are eSIM-compatible.

This short guide will tell you everything you need to know about using an eSIM for iPad, which devices are compatible, the installation process, and alternatives like a travel eSIM to get a reliable internet connection abroad.

In this article

Can an eSIM be used on an iPad?

Yes, some iPads support eSIM technology, but not all of them. An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a virtual SIM card built into your device. It works similarly to a SIM, allowing you to use mobile data by simply scanning a QR code to activate on your device.

Different iPad models can install an eSIM, which allows you to connect to a local mobile network in a few steps and is a great solution for traveling abroad.

Before learning how to set up an iPad eSIM, let’s talk about which devices are eSIM-compatible.

Which iPads are eSIM compatible?

These are the current iPads with eSIM functionality.:

iPad Pro 13-inch (M4)
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd to 6th generation)
iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
iPad Pro 11-inch (1st to 4th generation)
iPad Air 13-inch (M3)
iPad Air 11-inch (M3)
iPad Air 13-inch (M2)
iPad Air 11-inch (M2)
iPad Air (3rd to 5th generation)
iPad (A16)
iPad (7th to 10th generation)
iPad mini (A17 Pro)
iPad mini (5th and 6th generation)

Note: The iPad A16, iPad Pro M4, iPad Air M2, and iPad Mini A17 Pro are eSIM-only models.

How to set up an eSIM on iPad

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install an eSIM on iPad:

On iPadOS 17.5:
- Download the Holafly App on your iPad
- Log in to the email used to buy your eSIM
- Go to “My eSIMs” and select the eSIM you want to install
- Tap “Install and Activate” and choose the “Automatically” option
- Tap “Install and Activate” again and read the instructions
- Click “I Understand,” then tap “Continue and Allow”
- Tap “Continue” when the “Activate eSIM” message appears, and you’re done
With a QR code:
- Go to “Settings” and then “Cellular or Mobile Data”
- Tap on “Add a new plan” and choose the “Use QR Code” option
- Scan the QR code and tap “Continue” when the “Activate eSIM” appears
Using manual codes:
- Go to “Settings” and then “Cellular or Mobile Data”
- Tap on “Add a new plan” and choose the “Use QR code” option
- Select “Enter details manually,” then copy and paste the SM-DP Address and the Activation Code from your confirmation email
- Tap “Next” and then “Continue” when the “Activate eSIM” screen appears

Once you’re done adding the eSIM, you’ll see the “Cellular Setup Complete” message, meaning the eSIM was successfully installed.

To complete the process, tap “Done,” change the name of your iPad eSIM plan, and choose it as your default line to use your eSIM.

Stay connected abroad with an eSIM for iPad

If you want a high-speed, reliable internet connection on your iPad when traveling, Holafly is your best ally.

With coverage in over 200 destinations, eSIM plans including unlimited data, up to 1 GB of hotspot data, 24/7 customer support, and up to 5G data speeds, your iPad will have an internet connection at all times with a Holafly eSIM with plans costing as little as $1.55/day.

But if you’re looking for a more complete plan, relying on Holafly Plans is a secondary alternative to get an iPad eSIM. With the Unlimited Plan, you get unlimited data, unlimited hotspot data, a European phone number, coverage in over 170 destinations, for $64.90 a month.

Plans that may interest you

Julio Osuna

English Content Writer

I first started my content creation journey as a freelancer in 2019, before connecting with Holafly in 2021. At Holafly, my travel and tech interests come together in one place as I craft high-quality articles about the eSIM and related markets. My content aims to help travelers stay connected, wherever they are.

Read full bio