Reviews

Changi Recommends eSIM not working? Here’s how to fix it

Changi Recommends eSIM not working? Here’s a quick guide to help you fix setup errors and connectivity issues step-by-step.

If your Changi Recommends eSIM is not working, most issues can be resolved with a few quick steps on your phone. Whether you’re facing activation errors, no signal, or data not working, the solution often lies in your phone’s settings.

In this guide, you’ll find step-by-step fixes for Changi eSIM issues on both iPhone and Android, along with tips on how to activate your plan correctly.

We’ll also explain when it might make sense to switch to a more reliable alternative like Holafly eSIM with unlimited data.

In this article

Why is your Changi Recommends eSIM not working?

If your Changi Recommends eSIM isn’t working, here are some of the most common issues to check first:

Your device doesn’t support eSIM: Not all smartphones are eSIM-compatible. Check that your device supports eSIM and is unlocked from any carrier restrictions.
The eSIM wasn’t installed correctly: If the setup was interrupted, your eSIM profile might be incomplete or unusable.
The data plan has expired or activation is delayed: Changi eSIMs are prepaid with fixed validity. If your plan has expired or activation is pending, the eSIM won’t connect.
The eSIM is installed but not activated: Installing the eSIM doesn’t always activate the data plan. Some Changi Recommends plans require manual activation steps post-installation.
Mobile data or roaming is turned off: If either Mobile Data or Data Roaming (in case you are out of Singapore) is disabled in your phone settings, the eSIM won’t be able to access the internet.
The local network isn’t connecting automatically: Phones may fail to auto-connect to the correct local partner network.
There’s no supported network in your country: If Changi Recommends doesn’t have roaming agreements in your current destination, your eSIM will not connect at all.
There’s a temporary network outage: Local carrier maintenance or service interruptions can cause brief or location-based connection issues, independent of your eSIM.
The APN settings are incorrect: An incorrect or outdated Access Point Name (APN) can block data access, even if the eSIM appears connected.

How to fix Changi Recommends eSIM issues

Once you’ve identified the likely cause, the next step is to apply the right fix, which can vary slightly depending on your device. Here’s how to resolve the most common Changi Recommends eSIM issues, with simple, device-specific instructions.

Follow the steps below if you are an iPhone user:

Restart your iPhone: This can refresh your connection, especially after eSIM installation.
Turn on mobile data (and roaming if abroad): Go to Settings > Mobile Data (or Cellular) > Mobile Data (or Cellular Data) Options and make sure Data Roaming is enabled if you’re outside Singapore.
Reset your APN settings: Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Network, then scroll down and tap Reset Settings.
Select a network manually: Navigate to Settings > Mobile Network > Network Selection, turn off “Automatic,” and choose a supported local network.
Remove and reinstall the eSIM: Go to Settings > Mobile Data, tap the Changi eSIM profile, and select Remove Plan. Then reinstall using your QR code, or request a new code if the old one can’t be reused.

Try these quick steps to toggle your data roaming on your iPhone.

For Android users (Samsung and others):

Restart your phone: A simple reboot often resolves connection or activation issues.
Enable mobile data (and roaming if abroad): Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks, and turn on Data Roaming if you’re outside Singapore.
Reset your APN settings: Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Access Point Names, tap the menu icon, and select Reset to default.
Select a network manually: Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Operators, disable automatic selection, and choose a local carrier.
Delete and reinstall the eSIM: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager, delete the eSIM, and reinstall it using the original QR code, or request a new code if the old one can’t be reused.

How to check or activate your Changi Recommends eSIM

If your Changi Recommends eSIM isn’t connecting, it may not be activated yet. You can check your plan status on the official website or by reviewing your confirmation email.

Here’s how to activate or check your Changi Recommends eSIM:

Scan the QR code included in your confirmation email.
Install the eSIM profile on a compatible, unlocked device.
Set or reset the APN settings based on Changi’s instructions.
Allow up to 30 minutes for activation, and restart your phone if needed.

If you’re still unable to connect, Changi offers support via email (call@changirecommends.com.sg), WhatsApp, and their customer hotline. Response times may vary depending on availability.

Looking for a smoother setup? Holafly eSIM offers instant activation, unlimited data, and round-the-clock support, ideal for travellers who need reliable connectivity abroad.

Still facing issues? Stay connected effortlessly with Holafly eSIM

Your Changi Recommends eSIM still isn’t working after trying all the steps? It might be time to switch to a provider you can rely on.

The Holafly eSIM, which offers unlimited data, is built for travellers who don’t want to deal with activation delays, roaming fees, or complex setup steps. Just scan, connect, and go; it really is that seamless.

You can choose from a Daily eSIM plan starting from SGD $8.00/day, perfect for short getaways or business trips. Or opt in for a monthly Holafly Plans eSIM subscription, starting at USD $49.90/month, ideal for longer stays, digital nomads, or remote workers

All Holafly eSIMs include:

Unlimited mobile data with high-speed 5G access
Transparent pricing, no roaming fees or hidden charges
Coverage in 170+ countries, including top destinations across Asia
Instant activation via QR code
24/7 multilingual support for any issues, anytime
Hotspot and tethering support

Don’t let connection issues slow you down. Switch to Holafly eSIM and travel with data that just simply works.

Disclaimer: The data in this article is accurate as of November 5th, 2025, and is subject to change.

Plans that may interest you

Violet Lee

SEO Content Specialist

Formerly a travel journalist turned marketing copywriter, I found my way back to the travel world with Holafly—my dream company that made remote work possible. My motto? “Dream big and make it happen.” I’m passionate about writing, exploring the world, and staying active through walking, running, swimming, and hiking. I also love learning, reflecting, and connecting with inspiring minds.

Read full bio