How to Activate an eSIM on iPhone

iPhone eSIM activation takes under 2 minutes. You will need: a QR code from your eSIM provider (email), a Wi-Fi connection, and an eSIM-compatible iPhone (XS or later).

Activate via QR code (recommended)

1
Open Settings → Cellular → Add Cellular Plan (or "Add eSIM").
2
Tap "Use QR Code." Your camera opens.
3
Scan the QR code from your LTE.app confirmation email. Keep the phone steady and in good light.
4
Tap "Add Cellular Plan" when prompted.
5
Give the plan a label like "Japan eSIM" to distinguish it from your home SIM.
6
Choose whether this line should be used for calls, texts, or data. Select "Secondary" for a travel eSIM (your home SIM stays primary for calls).

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Cannot scan the QR? Try the manual entry method — tap "Enter Details Manually" and copy the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your email.

Activate manually (if QR scan fails)

1
Settings → Cellular → Add Cellular Plan → Enter Details Manually.
2
Copy the SM-DP+ Address from your LTE.app confirmation email and paste it.
3
Enter the Activation Code (also in the email).
4
Tap Next. The plan installs identically to the QR method.

Configure after installation

1
Enable data roaming on the eSIM: Settings → Cellular → tap your new eSIM → Data Roaming: ON.
2
Set the eSIM as your Cellular Data line: Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data → select your travel eSIM.
3
Keep your home SIM as the default for calls and messages.
4
Toggle airplane mode off/on to force carrier registration.

eSIM-only iPhones (no physical SIM slot)

iPhone 14 (US models), iPhone 15, and iPhone 16 worldwide have no physical SIM slot. On these devices, you manage everything through Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM. You can store up to 8 eSIM profiles and have 2 active simultaneously.

Having trouble? Smart Coach diagnoses automatically.

Open LTE.app and tap Smart Coach. It checks your APN settings, roaming state, and carrier connection automatically — even without mobile data.

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Frequently asked questions

How many eSIMs can I have on my iPhone?

iPhone 13 and later can store up to 8 eSIM profiles and have 2 active at once. iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12 can have multiple eSIMs stored but only 1 active eSIM at a time (plus 1 physical SIM).

Do I need to be in the destination country to activate the eSIM?

No. Most eSIM plans activate from anywhere. Install the plan at home, then enable the plan and turn on data roaming when you arrive at your destination.

My QR code says "Invalid QR." What should I do?

The QR may have already been scanned (each QR is single-use). Check Settings → Cellular — the plan may already be installed. If it is not there, contact LTE.app support for a replacement code.

Can I transfer an eSIM from one iPhone to another?

Yes, via iPhone-to-iPhone eSIM transfer during device setup. Go to Settings → Cellular → tap the eSIM → "Convert to eSIM" or during iPhone migration in Settings. Some carrier plans restrict transfer — check with LTE.app support.

Troubleshooting guides

🔧 eSIM Not Activating?🔧 eSIM QR Code Not Working?🔧 eSIM Stuck on "Activating..."?🔧 iPhone eSIM Not Working?

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