How to Install & Activate eSIM on an iPhone?

How to Install an eSIM on Your iPhone

Installing an eSIM on your iPhone is straightforward and can be done via QR Code, manual entry, or using an app. Below is a comprehensive guide that covers each method to help you set up your eSIM easily.

Ensure your iPhone supports eSIM (refer to Device Compatibility section) and that it is unlocked or displays "No SIM restrictions" under Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock.

Installation Methods

1. Install via QR Code

Using the Same iPhone:

If the QR code is saved on your iPhone:

Save or screenshot the QR code to your Photos.
Go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) > Add eSIM (or Add Cellular Plan).
Tap Use QR Code > Open Photos.
Select the saved QR code image. Your iPhone will scan it and begin installation.
Follow the on-screen instructions until installation is complete.

Using Another Device:

If the QR code is on a paper or another device:

Open Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) > Add eSIM.
Tap Use QR Code.
Scan the QR code.
Follow prompts until the eSIM line shows as installed and active.

2. Manual Installation

If you received configuration details (e.g., SM-DP+ address and Activation Code):

Open Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) > Add Cellular Plan.
Tap Enter Details Manually.
Enter the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code provided in your email or instructions. Leave the Confirmation Code blank if it’s not required.
Follow on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

3. Automatic Installation via the Nomad App

Open the Nomad App.
Select your eSIM and tap Add eSIM to Your Phone.
Follow the in-app instructions to complete the installation.
After installation, make sure Data Roaming is enabled to use your eSIM globally.

Post-Installation Steps

Check your installed eSIM by going to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data). The new plan should be listed under your available lines.
Confirm the ICCID under Settings > General > About > ICCID to ensure it matches the eSIM details provided.
- To verify, open Settings on your iPhone, tap General > About, and locate the ICCID. Compare it with the ICCID provided in your eSIM purchase details or Nomad app. A match confirms the eSIM is installed.
Label your eSIM for easier management (e.g., “Travel,” “Work”).
- If labels are unclear or duplicated, use the ICCID to identify the correct eSIM. Rename the eSIM for clarity by tapping the eSIM line and editing its label, e.g., "Nomad."
Ensure Data Roaming is turned on.
Set the eSIM as your default line in Settings > Cellular > Default Line.

Advanced Troubleshooting for eSIM Activation

Internet Connection Required: Ensure you’re connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data during installation.
Cannot Scan QR Code: Ensure the QR code is visible and clear. If the eSIM shows as already installed, locate it under Settings > Cellular, turn it ON, and enable Data Roaming.
Enable the eSIM Line: Go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) and turn on the eSIM line.
Restart Your Device: Restart your iPhone to refresh the settings.
Remove Unused eSIMs: Delete old or unused eSIM profiles to free up space and reinstall the new eSIM.
Old Device Conflict: Remove the eSIM from older devices via Settings > Cellular > Remove eSIM, and restart them before retrying activation.
Network Issues: Reset the network settings via Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
Settings Check: Disable "Limit IP Address" in Settings > Mobile Data Options to prevent data interference.
APN Configuration: Configure the APN under Cellular > Mobile Data Network as specified in the activation guide or refer to this help page article: APN Settings.
eSIM Labels and Placement: Newly installed eSIMs typically appear at the bottom of the list in Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data). Scroll to the end of the list to locate them. Devices often auto-assign generic labels like "Primary," "Secondary," "Travel," or "Business," which can cause confusion but do not affect functionality.

For additional help, contact Nomad Support directly for troubleshooting. Provide screenshots of errors and the eSIM ICCID if contacting support about activation issues.