eSIM Not Working? Here’s How to Fix It

eSIMs for travel are rapidly gaining popularity among frequent travelers, thanks to their unmatched convenience and affordability. Yet, as with any technology, occasional issues can arise. If you’ve just purchased an eSIM and are experiencing connectivity challenges, the following steps will guide you through troubleshooting your eSIM.

1. Double check that your eSIM is properly installed

Begin by ensuring your eSIM has been correctly installed and activated on your device. To verify installation, open your device settings. On Android, navigate to SIM Manager; on iOS, go to the ‘Mobile Service’ section within your settings. Look for your eSIM in the list of available SIMs. If it appears there, your eSIM has been successfully installed. If you notice a ‘No Number’ label, there’s no need for concern—this is common for data-only eSIMs that do not include voice or text services.

2. Check your device’s mobile data settings and confirm that your eSIM is activated

Once you’ve confirmed your eSIM is installed, review your device settings to ensure your travel eSIM is selected for mobile data. Make sure Data Roaming is enabled for the active eSIM. For iOS users, verify that Data Switching is turned off.

Next, confirm your eSIM has been activated. Activation methods can differ—some eSIMs activate automatically when connected to a network, while others require manual activation.

If your eSIM needs manual activation, double check that you have completed this step. For eSIM4Travel customers, you can confirm your eSIM’s activation status by visiting the My eSIMs section on your account page.

3. Reset your phone's settings

If your eSIM is installed and activated but you’re still unable to connect to the cellular network, try a few quick resets. Just as you might restart your computer to resolve an unexpected issue, similar steps can help with eSIM connectivity.

Try the following:

- Turn “Data Roaming” off, then on again.

- Switch “Airplane Mode” on and off.

- Toggle your eSIM off and back on.

- Restart your phone.

Avoid deleting your eSIM. Unlike a physical SIM card, eSIM profiles are not transferable between devices, and the installation QR code can be used only once. If you delete your eSIM, you won’t be able to reinstall it.

4. Take a look at your APN details

If restarting your phone hasn’t resolved the issue, review the APN settings for your eSIM.

An APN (Access Point Name) is the gateway that your mobile device uses to connect to the internet through your cellular network. It acts like a set of instructions that tells your device how to access data services from your mobile provider.

In order to check the APN settings, open your device settings, navigate to your eSIM profile, and make sure the APN details match those provided in your installation kit.

5. Finally, our Customer Support team is always ready to assist you

If you continue to experience connectivity issues after completing these troubleshooting steps, please reach out to our customer support team. 

Stay connected wherever your go 

eSIM4Travel provides data plans for over 200 countries, offering flexible options to suit your itinerary—whether you’re visiting a single country or traveling across multiple destinations. Regional plans make it easy to stay connected as you move between countries, with data starting at just $1/GB.

You can view the supported networks for each plan directly on our website and apps, allowing you to confidently choose a plan that fits your needs. 

If you need more data, simply purchase an add-on to your existing pack and continue enjoying uninterrupted connectivity with your current eSIM.