How to Install an eSIM on iPhone (Step-by-Step)

Installing a travel eSIM on an iPhone is quick — about two minutes — and you only do it once per trip. This guide walks through the exact taps, then shows how to make sure your data routes through the new eSIM and not your expensive home roaming.

Before you start

• Your iPhone must be carrier-unlocked and support eSIM (iPhone XR / XS and newer). Not sure? Run our compatibility check.
• You need a Wi-Fi or data connection to download the profile — install before you fly or on airport Wi-Fi.
• Have your Roameo QR code ready (it arrives by email within minutes of purchase). If you're reading this email on the iPhone, you can install without scanning — more on that below.

Step-by-step: install the eSIM

1. Open Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Service / Mobile Data depending on region).
2. Tap Add eSIM → Use QR Code.
3. Point the camera at your Roameo QR code and let it scan.
4. Tap Continue, then Add eSIM. iOS downloads and activates the travel profile.
5. When prompted, label the new line something clear like "Travel" or "Roameo" so you can tell it apart from your home line.

If the QR is on the same iPhone you're installing to, open Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code → Open Photos and select the saved QR image instead of scanning.

Step-by-step: set it as your data line

This is the part travelers miss — and it's what stops surprise roaming charges:

1. In Settings → Cellular, set Cellular Data to your new travel line.
2. Turn off "Allow Cellular Data Switching" so your iPhone can't quietly fall back to your home SIM's roaming.
3. Open the travel line's settings and turn Data Roaming ON for that line. (This is required — a travel eSIM technically "roams" onto the local network. It does not trigger home-carrier roaming fees.)
4. Leave your home line on for calls and texts if you still want your number reachable.

That's it. When you land, your iPhone connects to the local network automatically.

When should I do this?

Install the eSIM before your trip, while you have Wi-Fi. But only switch Data Roaming on for the travel line after you land — or keep your home line's roaming off so nothing bills before you arrive. The eSIM data clock typically starts when it first connects to the network in your destination.

Common iPhone eSIM issues (and fixes)

• "No service" after landing: Toggle Airplane Mode on and off, then confirm Data Roaming is ON for the travel line.
• QR won't scan: Use the "Enter Details Manually" option with the activation code from your Roameo email, or install from the saved photo.
• Data isn't working but you see signal: Make sure Cellular Data is pointed at the travel line, not your home SIM.
• Installed on the wrong line: You can relabel lines anytime in Settings → Cellular.

For more, see our full eSIM setup guide.

Frequently asked questions

Will installing a travel eSIM delete my home SIM?

No. The eSIM is added alongside your existing line. Your home number stays active for calls and texts.

Do I turn on Data Roaming?

Yes — for the travel line only. On a travel eSIM that simply means "connect to the local network." It does not charge your home carrier's roaming rates.

Can I install the eSIM and use it later?

Yes. Install anytime; the data allowance usually starts only when the eSIM first connects in your destination.

Get your iPhone eSIM

Choose a destination, get an instant QR, and follow the steps above. Browse Roameo destinations — popular picks include Japan.