What network speeds can I expect?
Most eSIMno plans connect at 4G/LTE or 5G speeds depending on local network availability and your device's capabilities. Speed varies by location, network congestion, and signal strength. In major cities and tourist areas, expect speeds comparable to local mobile carriers.
Will my home phone number receive calls while I use the eSIM?
Yes - if your home SIM stays installed and active, calls and SMS to your home number arrive normally. The eSIM only handles data; voice service stays on your home line. Just remember that incoming calls and texts to your home number while abroad may trigger roaming charges from your home carrier.
Can I switch the eSIM to a different phone after activation?
Generally no. Once an eSIM is activated on a device, it's tied to that device. If you switch phones, you'll need to install a new eSIM. Some carriers offer eSIM transfer features, but eSIMno plans don't currently support transfer between devices.
Do I need to deactivate my original SIM?
We recommend turning off cellular data and data roaming on your original SIM while abroad to avoid accidental roaming charges. You don't need to physically remove the SIM - just disable data and set the eSIM as your primary data line.
How fast does the eSIM activate after I switch off airplane mode?
Activation typically takes 10-30 seconds after airplane mode is switched off, depending on local network availability. In some cases it's nearly instant; in remote areas it may take a minute or two. If it doesn't connect within 5 minutes, restart your phone or check that data roaming is enabled.
Will the eSIM affect my phone's battery life?
Running two SIM lines (physical + eSIM) uses slightly more battery than one, since the phone monitors both networks. The difference is usually 5-10% over a full day. To minimize impact, disable the line you're not actively using or turn off cellular data on the inactive line.
How long is the validity of the Internet eSIM plans?
The validity of eSIM plans varies from 7 days to 90 days depending on the plan you choose. Lifetime options are also available for travelers who don't want their data to expire after a fixed period.
Can I buy an eSIM for someone else as a gift?
Yes. Purchase the eSIM with your own details, then forward your order confirmation email - or share the "Install eSIM" link from it - with the recipient so they can install it on their own phone (the email contains the QR code and the manual SM-DP+ / activation codes). Make sure their device is eSIM-compatible first - installation usually cannot be reversed once completed.
Should I enable data roaming for the eSIM?
Yes - you must enable data roaming for the eSIM line, even though there are no roaming charges. The eSIM connects to a local partner network and your phone treats this as roaming. Enable it: iPhone > Settings > Cellular > eSIMno line > Data Roaming ON; Android > Settings > Network > SIMs > eSIMno > Roaming ON. This setting only affects the eSIM, not your home SIM.
How do I delete an eSIM I no longer need?
On iPhone: Settings > Cellular > tap the eSIM line > Remove eSIM. On Android: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > tap the eSIM > Erase. Deleting the eSIM frees up a profile slot. Make sure you don't need it anymore - once deleted, you can't reinstall the same profile.
What should I do if I see a 'No network' message after activating my eSIM?
If you see a 'No network' message after activation, try these steps in order: (1) Toggle airplane mode on for 10 seconds, then off. (2) Confirm data roaming is enabled for the eSIM line. (3) Manually select a network in cellular settings. (4) Restart your phone. If the issue continues, contact eSIMno support via WhatsApp or email.
Will the eSIM work on my iPad?
Yes, if your iPad model supports eSIM. iPad Pro (3rd generation and later), iPad Air (3rd generation and later), iPad mini (5th generation and later), and standard iPad (7th generation and later with cellular) all support eSIM. Installation works the same way as on iPhone.
Is the eSIM connection secure?
eSIM connections are as secure as standard cellular connections - encrypted by the carrier network. For added security on public networks (cafes, airports), use a VPN. The eSIM profile itself is digitally signed and can't be cloned like a physical SIM.
Will my eSIM work in airports immediately after landing?
Yes - eSIMs typically connect within seconds of switching off airplane mode at the gate. Major airports have strong cellular coverage from local partner networks, so you'll have data before reaching baggage claim. No setup needed at arrival.
Can I keep my WhatsApp number while using an eSIM?
Yes. Your WhatsApp number stays linked to your home SIM, so all your chats, contacts, and groups remain unchanged. WhatsApp uses data (not the SIM line directly) for messages and calls, so it works seamlessly over your eSIMno data.
Can I extend my eSIM plan validity?
The validity of a package that is already running cannot be extended, but you can top up: a top-up adds a new package with its own data AND its own validity days. Packages run one at a time - the top-up waits in queue and activates automatically when your current package ends (data used up or days expired), and its own days start counting from that moment. In practice this keeps you connected longer, even though the current package's own end date does not move.
Does the eSIM work in rural areas and small towns?
Coverage depends on the partner network's reach in Internet. Major cities, tourist areas, and highways typically have strong 4G/5G coverage. Remote rural areas may have weaker signal or fall back to 3G. Download offline maps before heading off the beaten path.
Can I use the eSIM for my smartwatch?
Some smartwatches (Apple Watch Cellular, Samsung Galaxy Watch LTE) support eSIM, but they typically require a plan from your home carrier rather than a travel eSIM. eSIMno plans are designed for phones and tablets - check device compatibility before purchase if you intend to use a wearable.
What makes eSIMno different from other eSIM services?
eSIMno partners directly with local operators in over 200 countries, eliminating intermediaries. This direct relationship lets us offer competitive pricing, extensive coverage, and faster activation than resellers who route data through third parties.
Can I get a refund after purchase?
Refunds are not available once an eSIM has been installed or activated - install codes are one-time-use, so an installed eSIM is considered used even if no data has been consumed. If you have not installed your eSIM yet and want a refund, contact support within the refund window stated at checkout. We recommend reviewing plan details carefully before purchase to avoid any issues.
When should I set up my eSIM?
A Wi-Fi connection is required to install your eSIM, so we recommend setting it up before you leave home. Activation can happen later, either right before departure or after you land at your destination - but the initial QR scan needs Wi-Fi.
Can I make phone calls or send SMS?
eSIMno is a data-only service, so you can't make traditional voice calls or send SMS through the eSIM line. However, you can use messaging and calling apps over data - WhatsApp, iMessage, FaceTime, Telegram, Signal, and Google Meet all work normally.