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How to set up your eSIM

If you’re buying an eSIM from Holafly for your travels, setting up an eSIM could not be simpler. In this guide, we’ll explain how to set up your eSIM in as little as five minutes so you can enjoy internet connection abroad. Let’s get started: What do I need to know about eSIM before I […]

Updated: September 8, 2022

If you’re buying an eSIM from Holafly for your travels, setting up an eSIM could not be simpler. In this guide, we’ll explain how to set up your eSIM in as little as five minutes so you can enjoy internet connection abroad. Let’s get started:

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What do I need to know about eSIM before I start?

eSIM, short for “embedded SIM” is a virtual SIM card that provides mobile data. Because it’s a virtual product, there is no physical SIM card you need to place into your phone.

In fact, some manufacturers have already put the eSIM, a minuscule chip, inside their models. So how do you activate it? Well, just scan a QR code and you’ll have all the internet you need!

After you buy an eSIM from Holafly, you will receive a QR code in your emails. It is important to print this QR code or open it on a computer – this will make set-up easier.

When should I set up my eSIM?

The best time to set up your eSIM is just before you leave on your travels. You can do the set-up process from the comfort of your own home.

Remember that once you activate the eSIM, the number of days remaining on the plan will start to decrease. That’s why we recommend doing it just before you leave.

How to set up the eSIM?

Time needed: 5 minutes

  1. Make sure you have internet connection before you start

    Setting up an eSIM requires internet connection so make sure you have WiFi connection when you start this process.

  2. Add the new data plan

    Go to: Settings > Mobile Data > Add data plan. If you don’t see these options on your phone’s settings, this may be because of the type of phone you have. You can find out specific steps for your phone here.

  3. Scan the QR code

    Your phone should open the camera, so you can now scan the QR code to install the eSIM. You will receive the QR code to your email after purchasing an eSIM. It is easiest to have the QR code on a computer or printed out so that you can scan it with your phone. If you haven’t received the QR code, contact our customer support team and we can check if there has been a problem.

  4. Start the download

    Once you have scanned the QR code, you will be able to begin downloading the eSIM to your phone. Click confirm if prompted to begin downloading.

  5. Choose a name for the data plan

    You can now give your data plan a name to differentiate it from your other SIM card. We recommend calling it Holafly.

  6. Set up your eSIM for data only

    Choose the new data plan as the option for data only. This means that you can keep your original SIM for calls and SMS.

  7. Turn on mobile data and data roaming

    To activate your plan, you must ensure that you have turned on both Mobile Data and Data Roaming from your phone’s settings.

Let us help you set up eSIM on your phone

Did you know that Holafly offers specialist customer support for our customers? Just click the “How can we help button?” in the bottom right corner of a website. A member of our team will be there to help you if you have any problems.

You can access the chat service at any time, so if you have any problems with your eSIM you can get the help you need.

Set up an eSIM on my phone: guides for Apple, Google, Huawei and Motorola

Check out our other guides for your phone:

iPhone & iPad

Google Pixel

Huawei P40

Motorola Razr

Samsung Galaxy

Is my phone compatible with eSIM?

Your phone must be eSIM compatible. We recommend checking if your phone uses eSIM technology before you buy.

Fortunately, Holafly has a regularly updated list of eSIM compatible phones, so make sure to check it out here.

What can I do if my phone is not compatible with eSIM?

Holafly also offers physical SIM cards which are compatible with more devices. However, we can only deliver to Spain, France and Germany. If you live in one of those countries, check out what Holafly can offer here.

FAQs about setting up an eSIM

We’ve put together this list to give you the answers you need

How do I get the QR code?

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We will send the QR code to your email, just minutes after you buy a Holafly eSIM. There is no waiting around – the QR code will be with you immediately.

Can you scan the QR code with your phone camera?

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No. You must scan it from your phone’s settings. Follow the steps in the article to learn how to do this.

How do you activate the eSIM once it has been installed?

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Having scanned the QR code, there are two main things you must do to ensure that it works properly. Firstly, set it as the SIM card for mobile data on your phone’s settings. Secondly, make sure that mobile data and data roaming are turned on. You can do this from your phone’s settings.

When should I activate my eSIM

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You should not activate the eSIM until you are about to travel or already traveling. We recommend activating just before you leave for your destination or once you have arrived. Note that the process requires a WiFi connection, so it may be best to do it at home just before you travel.

What should I do if I have any problems setting up the device?

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You can talk to our customer support team from our website – just look for the “how can we help you button” in the bottom right. We’ll get back to you as soon as possible to resolve the problem.

Is my phone compatible with eSIM?

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Check if your smartphone is compatible here.

What is an eSIM?

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An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that can be installed directly into your smartphone or other mobile devices. It is an alternative to the physical, removable SIM card you’re used to.

We’ve put together this list to give you the answers you need

What is an eSIM?

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An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that can be installed directly into your smartphone or other mobile devices. It is an alternative to the physical, removable SIM card you’re used to.

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Brenda Beltrán

Brenda Beltrán

Content Manager

Hi, I'm Brenda Beltrán. I'm passionate about travel, technology, and video games. In 2019, I started my career as a journalist in entertainment and technology. Then, I discovered that content creation was my true calling. Now, at Holafly, I'm dedicated to sharing travel tips and experiences that will make your adventures unforgettable. ✈️ Hola, soy Brenda Beltrán, apasionada por los viajes, la tecnología y los videojuegos. Desde mis inicios en 2019 como periodista en entretenimiento y tecnología, descubrí que la creación de contenido era mi verdadera vocación. Hoy, en Holafly, me dedico a compartir consejos y experiencias de viaje para que cada una de tus aventuras sean memorables.✈️

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