In this article
Learning how to set up eSIM is easier than most people expect — the whole process takes under five minutes and you can do it from home before you even pack your bags. Whether you are using an iPhone or an Android phone, this step-by-step guide covers everything from checking compatibility to activating your plan […]
Learning how to set up eSIM is easier than most people expect — the whole process takes under five minutes and you can do it from home before you even pack your bags. Whether you are using an iPhone or an Android phone, this step-by-step guide covers everything from checking compatibility to activating your plan the moment you land. If you have been putting off switching from a physical SIM card, this guide will show you exactly why eSIM is the smarter choice for travel in 2026.
Not sure whether eSIM is right for you? Read our first to understand the key differences before you buy.
Before you learn how to set up eSIM, confirm your device is compatible. The quickest method works on both iPhone and Android:
Open your phone dialer and type *#
Two numbers will appear on screen. Your IMEI is always there. If an EID number — a 32-digit code — also appears, your phone supports eSIM. No EID means no eSIM hardware.
Phones confirmed to support eSIM:
For the full official list of iPhone eSIM compatible models, see . For Android compatibility, covers Pixel devices in detail.
Go to and select your destination. WoWo Sim covers 196 countries — including popular travel destinations like Japan, Europe, Thailand, Turkey, and the USA.
How much data do you need?
Complete your purchase and check your email. You will receive a QR code within minutes — this is what activates your eSIM. Keep it safe and do not share it with anyone. Each QR code can only be scanned once.
Planning a specific destination? See our or our to pick the right plan size before you buy.
Make sure you are connected to Wi-Fi before starting.
Your eSIM is now installed and will appear under Cellular alongside your existing SIM.
Critical iPhone settings to check after installing:
Android menus vary slightly by manufacturer but the process is the same on all devices.
Samsung Galaxy phones:
Google Pixel phones:
OnePlus, Motorola, and other Android phones:
Look for Settings → Mobile Network → SIM Management → Add eSIM. The exact path varies but the option is always inside your network or SIM settings.
If you set up your eSIM at home before the trip, it will sit ready on your phone until you switch it on. When you arrive at your destination:
You are connected. No queues, no kiosks, no SIM card hunting on arrival.
QR code will not scan
Make sure you are in good lighting and hold the camera steady. Clean your camera lens. If scanning still fails, WoWo Sim also provides a manual activation code in your email — type this in instead of scanning.
eSIM installed but no data connection
This is the most common issue. Go back into settings and confirm two things: the eSIM is set as your mobile data line, and Data Roaming is switched ON for the eSIM. Both must be active for data to work abroad.
eSIM installed but very slow speeds
Toggle the eSIM off and back on in settings to force a reconnection to a stronger network tower. If speeds remain slow, check whether your plan has a fair-use speed cap after heavy use.
QR code already used error
Each QR code can only be scanned once. If you accidentally deleted the eSIM profile after scanning, contact WoWo Sim support — they can issue a new activation code for your plan.
eSIM not showing after scanning
Restart your phone and check Settings → Cellular. The profile sometimes takes 60 seconds to appear after scanning. If it still does not show after a restart, try the manual activation code from your email.
How to set up eSIM if I have never done it before?
Follow the steps in this guide. The process takes under five minutes on any compatible device. Buy your plan at wowosim.com, receive your QR code by email, go to your phone’s cellular settings, and scan the code. That is all there is to it.
Can I install the eSIM before I travel?
Yes — and it is strongly recommended. Installing at home on Wi-Fi is easier than trying to set it up at the airport. The eSIM sits inactive on your phone and activates automatically when you switch it on at your destination.
Will setting up an eSIM delete my existing SIM?
No. Your physical SIM stays in your phone and remains fully active. The eSIM is added as a second line. You keep your home number working the entire time.
Can I use the same eSIM on two phones?
No. Each eSIM QR code is linked to one specific device. If you switch phones, you will need a new plan. Contact WoWo Sim support if you need to transfer your plan to a new device.
How many eSIMs can I have on one phone?
iPhones support up to 8 eSIM profiles stored, with 2 active at the same time. Samsung Galaxy phones support up to 10 stored eSIM profiles. Only one eSIM can be used for data at any time.
Does eSIM work in every country?
WoWo Sim covers 196 countries. Check the coverage map at wowosim.com before buying to confirm your destination is included.
Now that you know how to set up eSIM, getting connected abroad is as simple as scanning a QR code. No airport queues, no SIM card swapping, no roaming charges on your home bill.
Get your travel eSIM at
More guides to help plan your trip:
