What is an eSIM and how does it work?
An eSIM is a digital SIM built directly into your device. It lets you connect to mobile networks without needing a physical SIM card. Simply download your eSIM, install it on your device, and you can connect wherever you go.
How does an eSIM work?
An eSIM works just like a traditional SIM card, but digitally. Once you activate your data plan, your device connects to an available local mobile network at your destination, giving you fast and reliable data with speeds of up to 5G. Your WhatsApp number, apps, and existing SIM can stay the same. Just make sure your device is eSIM-compatible before you get started.
Physical SIM vs eSIM
- No: Wait for delivery or pickup
- No: Remove and swap SIM cards
- No: One physical SIM per slot
- No: Change SIMs to switch plans
- No: Roaming bill surprises
- Yes: Delivered instantly
- Yes: No SIM swapping
- Yes: Store multiple plans
- Yes: Switch plans digitally
- Yes: Fixed upfront pricing
How to install your eSIM
Choose how you'd like to install it
Open your confirmation email on the phone you’ll travel with and tap Install eSIM.
Tap Install eSIM and follow the on-screen instructions.
That’s it! Your eSIM will connect automatically when you arrive at your destination.
Find your QR code in the confirmation email we sent you.
Press and hold the QR code to install it (iOS 17.4+), or scan it with your phone.
Tap “Add eSIM” and follow the on-screen instructions. Your data will activate automatically once you arrive.
Find your manual eSIM codes in the confirmation email we sent you.
Open Settings > Connections, then go to Mobile Network or SIM manager. Tap Add eSIM or Add Mobile Plan.
Tap Scan QR code > Enter details manually, enter your codes, and follow the on-screen instructions. Your eSIM will connect automatically when you arrive at your destination.
eSIM Benefits
eSIMs are shaping the future of connectivity. Here are the key benefits.
Avoid high roaming fees
Stay connected abroad without the high roaming charges. Choose a prepaid eSIM plan for your destination and know what you’re paying before you travel.
Instant delivery
No waiting around for a physical SIM. Your eSIM is delivered digitally after purchase, so you can get set up before your trip.
Only pay for what you need
Off to Greece for a week? Get a 7-day plan instead of monthly, and save your euros for an extra yiros.
Quick & easy to install
Install your eSIM in just a few minutes. There’s no physical SIM to insert or swap, and you can get everything ready directly from your phone.
Multiple profiles
You can store multiple virtual eSIMs on one device, making it easy to switch between different carriers and phone numbers.
No physical SIM to lose
Swapping tiny SIM cards can be a hassle, especially while you're on the move. An eSIM is built into your device, so there’s nothing to lose or have stolen.
SennaSim eSIMs for iOS and Android
iOS
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Compatibility
All iPhones from the iPhone XS onwards support eSIM technology. In the US, iPhone 14 and newer models are eSIM-only.
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Adoption
Apple is leading the transition to eSIM technology, with some newer iPhones removing the physical SIM entirely.
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Setup
Connect instantly with automatic installation on iOS 17.4+, or set up your eSIM using a QR code or manual codes.
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Multiple eSIMs
Store up to 8 eSIMs on your iPhone, with a maximum of 2 eSIMs active at the same time.
Android
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Compatibility
eSIM support varies by model across brands including Samsung, Google Pixel, Motorola, and Xiaomi. Check your specific device's compatibility.
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Adoption
eSIM adoption continues to grow across Android, although support can still vary between brands, models, and regions.
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Setup
Setup is simple, but the exact steps vary by brand. Look for “SIM Manager” on Samsung or “Network & Internet” on Google Pixel.
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Multiple eSIMs
Many high-end Android models support an eSIM alongside a physical SIM, while some allow two eSIMs to be active at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get an eSIM?
It’s simple!
Start by checking that your device supports eSIM technology. You can confirm this on our device compatibility page. Once you’re good to go:
- Pick your destination and browse the available eSIM plans.
- Select a plan that matches your trip length and data needs.
- Purchase your eSIM and receive your installation details instantly by email.
- Set up your eSIM using automatic installation, a QR code, or the provided manual codes.
- Leave your eSIM switched off until you arrive. Then simply turn it on and start using your data.
Does an eSIM change your phone number?
Whether an eSIM changes your phone number depends on the plan you choose. If your plan includes a phone number, you’ll have the option to activate it during installation. Don’t worry, we’ll guide you through this as part of the setup process.
Can I switch back and forth between SIM and eSIM?
Absolutely. If you have both a physical SIM and an eSIM installed, you can switch between them directly in your device settings. This lets you keep your physical SIM for your regular mobile plan while using a SennaSim eSIM when traveling.
What happens to my physical SIM after installing an eSIM?
Your physical SIM will continue to work after installing an eSIM, unless you deactivate it yourself. Whether it stays in your device or is removed, your physical SIM will remain inactive until you select it as your active plan in your device settings, such as when you return home from your trip.
How to activate an eSIM? (iOS and Android)
With SennaSim, activation is simple. Once your eSIM is installed, your data plan will begin when it connects to a supported network. We recommend keeping your eSIM turned off until you arrive at your destination, especially when using a regional plan.
For iPhone:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data, or Mobile Service).
- You will see your cellular plans. Your eSIM will be labeled as “SennaSim” “Secondary” or with the name you gave it.
- Tap the eSIM to open its options. Then, simply toggle the switch on or off.
For Android:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap on Connections, Network & Internet, or Mobile Networks.
- On some devices, you will see the eSIM listed here. If not, tap SIM Manager, Mobile Network, or Manage eSIM.
- Choose the eSIM labeled as “SennaSim” “Secondary” or with the name you gave it.
- Turn the eSIM on or off.
Remember to turn on the eSIM as soon as you land at your destination, and you will be connected to the closest local network.
Is an eSIM safer than a SIM?
Yes, in a few ways. Physical SIM cards can be damaged, lost, or stolen, particularly when swapping them while traveling. An eSIM is digital and built directly into your device, so there’s no physical card to damage, misplace, or have stolen unless, of course, someone steals the device itself.
Does an eSIM drain your phone battery?
No. eSIMs don’t drain your battery any more than physical SIM cards do. If you’ve noticed your device using more battery than usual, it’s likely being caused by other apps, settings, or features on your phone.
Does SennaSim give you a phone number?
Yes, depending on availability. Some destinations allow us to offer phone numbers as an optional add-on to your eSIM plan, letting you make calls and send SMS messages while abroad. We’d love to offer this everywhere, but local regulations and restrictions mean availability varies by country.
Is eSIM better than a SIM card?
In short, yes. eSIMs are built directly into your phone, removing the need to insert or swap tiny physical SIM cards. They make it easy to switch between providers and stay connected while traveling internationally. Without a physical SIM slot, manufacturers can also use that space for improvements like a larger battery or additional features.
More importantly for travelers, eSIMs are easier to purchase, often cheaper, and far more flexible when moving between countries.